Part of our Vietnam guide.
4 places and guides from our Vietnam coverage, gathered into one page.
Related travel guides: What Is The Cost Of A Tourist Visa To Vietnam, Passport Safety and Travel Documents, and Practical Tips For China.
Traveling To Vietnam With A US Passport
You need a visa to enter Vietnam with a US passport, unless you are transiting or visiting Phú Quốc for up to 30 days. US citizens can apply for an e-visa (valid for up to 90 days, single entry) at the official Vietnam e-visa portal, or get a visa on arrival if flying into Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, or Cam Ranh. Your passport must have at least six months of validity beyond your intended departure date from Vietnam. Carry a printed copy of your visa approval letter and entry/exit form when you arrive.
Phnom Penh To Chau Doc By Boat - Visa, Hotel And Guide
The boat from Phnom Penh to Chau Doc takes about 5–6 hours along the Mekong River, with departures usually in the early morning. You will need a Cambodian exit stamp and a Vietnamese entry visa (US passport holders should have an e-visa or visa on arrival arranged beforehand). Most boats include a stop at the floating villages near the border and a simple lunch. Hotels in Chau Doc range from budget guesthouses to mid-range riverside options; booking ahead is wise during peak season (November–April). A local guide can arrange the boat ticket, handle the border paperwork, and provide commentary on the Mekong Delta communities.
Renewing A Vietnamese Passport In The USA
To renew a Vietnamese passport in the USA, you must submit a completed application form, your current Vietnamese passport, a copy of your US visa or green card, and a passport photo (4x6 cm, white background). The fee is $25 (USD) for adults and $18 (USD) for children under 14, payable by money order to the “Vietnamese Embassy” or “Vietnamese Consulate.” Mail the package to the consular section of the Vietnamese Embassy in Washington, D.C., or to the nearest Vietnamese Consulate General (in Houston, San Francisco, New York, or Los Angeles). Processing takes 2–4 weeks; expedited service is not available. Your new passport will be valid for 10 years (adults) or 5 years (children under 14).
Is Vietnam Safe for Tourists?
Vietnam is generally safe for tourists, but common scams include overcharging for taxis (especially at airports and train stations) and “friendly” strangers inviting you for a drink that turns into a huge bill. Petty theft, like bag snatching on motorbikes, happens in crowded areas of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Keep your valuables in a money belt or a bag worn across your body, and avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit streets. For outdoor activities, check weather conditions before hiking — trails can become slippery during rain. If you are wondering how much to tip a tour guide in Vietnam, a typical amount is $5–$10 per day for a private guide, or 10–15% of the tour cost for group tours. For specific gear, see our advice on what to pack for a Vietnam trip in October, which includes a light rain jacket and mosquito repellent.
