Vietnam is increasingly popular on the Gap Year circuit. We can see why – home to 8 UNESCO sites, a beautiful coastline of beaches and bays and vibrant cities. In addition, it’s cheap and has amazing food and scenery. Here’s our list of the pros and cons of a visit.
Pros:
Fascinating culture and history.
Imperial cities, ruined temples and natural wonders.
Amazing beaches, plus the Mekong Delta and Halong Bay.
Budget accommodation and hostel network.
Delicious, cheap food and very cheap beer.
Cons:
It’s difficult to work unless you’re on a volunteer scheme, but helping in a school is offered by several companies.
Vietnam is long and thin country, so internal travel distances are significant.
Bag snatching and pick pocketing is common.
There’s high pollution in the cities.
Healthcare is often below Western standards.
Solo female travellers need to take care as harassment and assault is a possibility.
Avoid taxi scams and take care on and around motor bikes.