Destination Guide

When to travel to Vietnam

Posted on 14/04/2020 by Sai Gon Web Co., Ltd

14
Apr

Vietnam’s tropical monsoon climate plays a significant role in determining the best time to visit the country. From May to September, the south and south-western monsoons lash the region, bringing rain to the west-facing slopes and the two deltas, while the northern monsoon picks up moisture over the Tonkin Gulf and carries it along the eastern side of the central highlands, between October and April. Given the variations that could take place due to differences in latitude and altitude, one can only feel puzzled as to which season is best to travel to Vietnam. This guide will provide an in-depth overview of the weather in the country, as well as provide information about the high-tourist and off-seasons, so you can make an informed decision, whether you are coming here to spend some quality time with the family or your partner or have fun and party with your friends.

The Climate Per Region

Southern Vietnam

The dry season here lasts from December through late April or early May. Then, it starts to rain, which is dosed as brief downpours in the afternoon hours; and rain continues to be a familiar pattern until November, sometimes cutting off remote villages and making transport more complicated. However, this is hardly off-putting as the temperatures seldom drop below 20^oC, so it is quite pleasurable being around and exploring the southern areas at this time of the year. For maximum sunshine and warm weather, coming between March and May will give you up to 40^oC to enjoy the sun, the seas, and the sugary sandy shores. As for the central highlands, they also follow the same climate conditions, but do expect cooler temperatures, especially after sunset and deep into the night.

Central Coast

The northeast monsoon reverses the rainfall patterns along the central coast. In the far northern part of the central coast (around Had Nang and Hue), the rains last from September to February but if you move more towards the heart of the coast you skip a good 2-month rainfall (around Nha Trang) as the wet season usually starts in November and lasts about 2 months until December. So spring is probably the best season to visit these areas. Now, the northern stretches of the central coast have relatively shorter rainy seasons while their summers are dry and hot. Again, the temperatures are close to 30^oC (or even higher) from June to August, which makes a trip to the surrounding hills and mountains a pleasant escape.

Northern Vietnam

If you visit the northern part of the country, expect sunny and warm weather from October to December. Afterward, the landscape changes, bringing cold and persistent mist that can linger on for several days. From March and onwards the temperatures start rising again, peaking between May and August, when they can climb to 40^oC. For less heat and more comfortable days and nights, Hanoi is an excellent option as the temps there range in the 30^oC neighbourhood. For even cooler experiences, the northern mountains comprise a superb getaway (during the winter, it may snow a bit here too, which is pleasant enough for a winter vacation). Note, though, that the summer in the northern parts of the country also comes with heavy downpours that often cause the delta area to flood. So, if one had to make a decision based solely on the weather conditions in Vietnam, they would probably choose to visit the country either during spring or autumn, when the seasons are more favourable. However, the complicated weather picture does not leave much room for sound recommendations. At the end of the day, it is what you want to experience coming here.

Beaches in Vietnam

One of the reasons travellers, families, couples, students, and groups of friends alike, choose Vietnam for their holidays is the beautiful beaches with the sandy shores and crystal clear waters. The great thing about Vietnam is that there are beaches for every season, from Southern to Central Vietnam down to the east coast. When exactly you visit the country (if coming here to enjoy the shores, of course) basically depends on which beach(es) you want to visit. The beaches of the south do boast warm temps year-round (about 30^oC) but if you had to pick a season, better steer clear from September-January (monsoon season) visits because occasional typhoons hit the southern regions. Phu Quoc, on the other hand, experiences wet season from June to September so any time before or after that is ideal for a relaxing time by the beach. Most of the tourists prefer to fly to Pearl Island around February, though, when they admit enjoying the shores much more than any other season due to the great weather. The same applies to Mui Ne in regards to the wet season, although its microclimate includes less rain. Autumn and winter is an excellent time to savour kitesurfing and other water sports. Finally, Con Dao is humid and hot almost throughout the year, with a wet season that stretches from the month of May to late autumn (November). Lastly, the central coastline around Hoi An and Danang is a much welcoming place with year-round warm weather and temps peaking at 38^oC between July and August. If you like it hot, go towards the end of the dry season. For milder temps, better visit around January. Rainfall increases after August and until November while there are high chances an occasional typhoon hits the area during this season.

Tourist Seasons

Tourism-wise, the high-season is between October and April, roughly speaking, while the summertime is mostly a rainy season (from May to September). Nevertheless, there are different low and high seasons for different travellers, depending on their country of origin. For example, the majority of western visitors prefer to fly to the country outside the low season months, which, by the way, is high-season for short-haul and domestic Asian and Vietnamese visitors. But, if you are after the most cost-effective accommodation rates and a chance away from rubbing shoulders with flocks of tourists, the low season will serve you well, provided you are okay with the sticky hot weather and rainfall. At this time of the year, travel agencies and hotels offer, probably, their lowest rates and also launch special promotional campaign perks that you could benefit from. Besides, most places are not that busy during low-season, which can be a deal maker or breaker, depending on whether you are after a vibrant night scene or more relaxed holidays. Finally, the heat is manageable and the rare (usually short-lived) afternoon rainstorms may even feel romantic. For more “noise” and a party feel (also more crowds), the high season (for Westerners, that is) will please you much if you are ready to pay the heftier price tag.

Important Dates to Bear in Mind

During festivities, holidays, and other important dates in the Vietnamese calendar, things could change significantly around here and create an unexpected high season, which will demand more organising and pre-booking on your side. Some of these holidays to take note of are:

Tet – It marks the beginning of the New Year in Vietnam (usually falls between January and mid-February) and is, as one would expect, one of the most important celebrations of the nation. Expect large crowds flooding the streets and having fun, and a wide range of local festivities to take place at this time. The celebrations could last up to 7 days!
Hung Kings Temple Festival – Celebrated on the 10^th day of the 3^rd lunar month or early April, it sees crowds gathering at the Hung Temple to honour the first emperors and the traditional founders of the country. Processions start at the foot of the Nghia Lin Mountain and continue until people reach the Hung Temple, some 150 steps to the top of the hill while stopping at every temple along their way. If you fancy the idea of becoming part of a local spiritual ritual, this is an excellent time to visit Vietnam.
Vietnam’s National Day – This celebration takes place on the 2^nd of September and signifies the Vietnamese’s independence from France. You will see it celebrated with grandeur, including parades (the Ba Dinh Square march in Hanoi is the most significant one), fireworks, and many more activities.
Reunification Day (Ngay Thong Nhat) – This national holiday (aka Liberation Day or Victory Day) is typically commemorated on the 30^th of every April (if it falls on a weekend, it is transferred on the Monday after it) and is a remembrance of the 1975 fall of Saigon and marks the end of the Vietnam war. You will most likely see many Vietnamese visiting attractions and beaches at this time, as it is either preceded or followed by May Day, which allows for extended holidays for the locals.
May Day or International Labour Day – A public holiday falling on the 1^st of May, as in many countries over the globe, and is usually combined with Reunification Day, creating further day offs for the Vietnamese; hence, increasing traffic volume and crowds in popular hot spots.

What to Consider About the Festivities

During the celebrations mentioned above, there may be a shortage in international and/or domestic train and plane tickets, as well as limited availability in hotel rooms, especially in luxury resorts, and reduced food supplies at shores. Therefore, if you wish to live the thrill and immense in the local flair of national traditions and celebration, better come prepared (i.e., pre-book your plane tickets and hotel room).

Best Time to Visit Popular Vietnam Hubs

If you are planning to see the whole country, you will need to take into consideration its huge regional diversity (it is over 1,000km in length, after all), which will probably complicate things. But, deciding on the most suitable time to visit Vietnam is much less complicated if you know which cities or villages you want to include in your itinerary. Vietnam is an exceptional year-round tourist destination for those that make the right calls! Here is a small guide to help you be prepared as to what to expect, when, and where.

Sapa

Sapa’s climate is quite seasonal as is the weather in the mountains of northern Vietnam. The temps do not usually go above 30^oC in the summertime (humidity between 75%-90% peaking July-August), but it could be freezing in winter. The best time to come here is May and April to have nice, warm and dry weather of, for cooler climes, October and November.

Hanoi

Humidity and heat distinguish summer in Hanoi (May to September) while the average temperature is around 32^oC, which is manageable, especially considering the rejuvenating short downpours of heavy rain, which generally come in the evenings. Nevertheless, this is the time of the year with the most sunshine hours. Winters bring clouds, fog and cold (17^oC average) so better come October or November when it is much warmer (around 21^oC) with lots of sunshine and little rain.

Halong Bay

The visibility here is often reduced due to the mist but definitely adds a mystical ambiance. The skies are blue, and the weather is warm from March to May. It gets even more temperate (and wetter, at the same time) from May to November, with some light afternoon showers that are more than welcome. The winters are rather cold so better not visit from December to February if you are not a fan of wintry weather. Therefore, autumn and spring are definitely the best picks.

Saigon

The closer we move to the equator, the warmer the temperatures throughout the year. Saigon offers balmy days and a pleasant tropical climate marked by dry and wet season (May-November). However, it is highly unlikely travel will ever be affected by the afternoon downpours here.

Phu Quoc Island

Most of the rainfall comes between July and September in Phu Quoc Island and the clearer, sunnier skies are most often viewed between November and March. Consistent warm temperatures and a low humidity level (average at 27.5^oC) are what you can expect during the dry season when you can freely enjoy the sub, swim, snorkel or go sightseeing, bird-watching or camping. Just make sure you pre-book your hotel, as the island gets packed with tourists and locals, especially the luxury resorts at Duong Dong, such as La Veranda, during public holidays, national celebrations, and not only. Traveling to Vietnam is an adventure on its own. Once you have decided how you want to experience it, things will find their way when the time comes to determine when is the best time to travel here. Soon, you will join the millions of travellers who say that any time is a good time to visit Vietnam!

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Phu Quoc Accommodation

From luxury beach resorts to no-frills guest houses, there’s a bed for every budget on Phu Quoc. Please note that hotels in Phu Quoc tend to be 10-20% more expensive than comparable stays on the mainland. LUXURY La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc – MGallery Designed as a French mansion from the 1920s, this award-winning 5-star Phu Quoc resort by the sea boasts of 70 intimate rooms set on a wide stretch of sandy beach. A member of the prestigious MGallery Hotel Collection, the resort features dark wood, period-inspired furnishings, high ceilings and mosaic tiles, along with a beautiful swimming pool with ocean views, and three restaurants and Bars. Price for one night in this posh resort is $295. Tips: There are a few works under construction nearby the resort. If you want to stay at La Veranda around this time, choose a villa situated near the reception or restaurant to stay away from noise. The JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa On Khem Beach on Phu Quoc’s southeastern coast, this Bill Bensley- designed resort offers 244 rooms and suites, most with bay views. The on-site restaurants serve up international and Chinese fare, as well as a beachside grill, French deli and American-style bar. The lowest price for one night at JW Marriott is $341. Tips: Higher floor is recommended for perfect sea view Vinpearl Phu Quoc Resort and Golf Well-situated in Ganh Dau, Vinpearl Phu Quoc Resort and Golf is an ideal point of departure for your excursions in this beautiful island. There are rooms for any types of tourists with 5 family suites, 170 deluxe rooms with stunning ocean view, 199 deluxe garden rooms, 16 senior suites with garden view and 12 senior rooms with ocean view. Each deluxe room is 42m2-sized, well furnitured and furnished. Suites are more spacious with 80-84m2 size. Price for one night at Vinpearl ranges from $115 to $1,075 depending on room types. Tips: Villas are ideal for anyone traveling with friends or family. Choose a villa facing the beach front to savour the beauty of sunrise and sunset. If you book a room, odd room numbers are rooms with oceanview. Salinda Resort With 121 rooms, suites and villas, each with private balcony, this resort on Long Beach features a spa managed by Guru Spa Thailand, outdoor infinity pool, karaoke rooms and a Kid’s Club. Tourists can book a room on common booking apps such as booking.com, agoda.com or directly on the website of Salinda Resort with the price of $222/night. Tips: There are connecting rooms option if you are traveling with kids and/or in groups. Higher-floor ocean-view rooms are highly recommended for best sea and sunset views. Novotel Phu Quoc Resort Located on Long Beach, this modern hotel has six room categories, three restaurants, two bars, two large swimming pools, two tennis courts, a fitness centre and a Kid’s Club. The lowest price for one night at Novotel Phu Quoc Resort is $111. Tips: Beachfront villas and bungalows are worth experiencing. The resort offers free pick up by bus at the airport, call the receptionist before your coming. BUDGET TO MID-RANGE Sol Beach House Phu Quoc With 284 rooms in three hotel buildings, this new hotel boasts a free-form pool with sea views, two restaurants, three bars and daily activities including jogging, yoga, swimming and cycling, all on Long Beach. The rate of staying starts from $94 Tips: tourists should choose rooms on the 3rd floor or above for full sea-view Daisy Resort A 6-minute walk from Duong Dong Beach, this 3-star hillside hotel offers good value for money. Guests enjoy simple, air-conditioned bungalow accommodations, free Wi-Fi access, an outdoor pool, fitness centre and free parking. Price for Daisy Resort is from $66 Tips: Higher rooms/villas/bungalows offer better views of ocean yet prepare to walk up a hill Bauhinia Resort Located 300 meters from Long Beach, this budget resort features air- conditioned rooms with flat-screen TV and pool or garden views, an outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi. The price starts from $45/night Tips: Be aware of steps if you go out at night as the alley up to the resort is quite dark for night walks.

Phu Quoc Events & Traditions

Like special events everywhere in Vietnam, the local festival days based on the lunar calender falling on August 27th at Nguyen Trung Truc Temple, 19th at Dinh Ba Ong Lang and 15th and 16th at the Water General’s Tomb. Tourists should never wear short dresses, skirts, and sleeveless shirts when visiting temples in Vietnam in general as it is considered offense to the traditional spirit. Nguyen Trung Truc Festival This festival has been held annually since 1996, when the Nguyen Trung Truc Temple was built in the commune. The festival plays an important role in the local life to preserve and promote the traditional and cultural values of the nation, to honor the merits of the predecessors who sacrificed for the national cause against foreign invaders. The organization of the festival also reflects the tradition of Vietnamese, and helps educate the present and future generations on Revolutionary tradition… From the 27th of August on the lunar calendar every year, there are many people from all over the island, including tourists who go to the temple of Nguyen Trung Truc in Ganh Dau commune, 40km far from the center of Phu Quoc to attend the festival. The ceremony is solemnly held to ensure the traditional ritual of the nation. The festival, main part of the whole, mainly organized with theatrical programs and outdoor games to reflect the history and image of Nguyen Trung Truc the hero. Dinh Ba Ong Lang Festival Dinh Ba Ong Lang is located 7km from Duong Dong town center, about 1km from the road to Dinh Ba. The number of visitors to Dinh Ba festival is growing in recent years. According to the local people, Dinh Ba Ong Lang reflects the belief of people on the island in Mrs. Kim Giao, wife of the national hero Nguyen Trung Truc, that she will bring good health and happiness for the people on the island. Every year, on the 18th and 19th of the first lunar month, people come to this palace to incense, and pray for safety and favourable weather. Couples also come here to wish for a lifetime of staying together. Nghing Ong Festival History: The festival is the worship of whales associated with the custom of worshiping fish which is very popular from Ngang Pass back to Ha Tien and Phu Quoc Island. It is the biggest fish festival of fishermen. That “fish” is a sacred creature and a savior to fishermen in the sea. This has become a common belief among fishermen in these localities. In each locality, the festival takes place at a different time. Ceremony part: Along the way of the parade, fishermen arrange offerings and incense. There are hundreds of small and big boats with splendid decor to escort “Ông”. Small boats are used to carry thousands of guests and locals attending the procession. Sacrifice part: Solemn ceremony after the ceremony parts with many rituals. All of them are held at the tomb of Water General. Festival part: Before the festival, hundreds of fishing boats decorated with flags and flowers anchored on the river. During the festival, fishermen often invite each other, including guests to eat together, have fun, and talk.

Phu Quoc Island Wellness and Beauty

Phu Quoc is a wonderful island to pamper yourself in! On the island, there is an array of wellness centers and spas that unwind your weariness and bad mood. One of the highest-rated spas on the island is Le Spa, a boutique day spa, at Le Veranda Resort Phu Quoc. Completely rebuilt in November 2017, the brand new boutique spa occupies its own two-story building in a lush garden setting, featuring a covered yoga deck and 3 traditional French colonial treatment rooms, all with a refined French colonial ambiance. A full body scrub will flush toxins, hydrate, refresh your body, increase blood flow to your skin to help it rejuvenate. Then massage therapies from Swedish, Thai, to Vietnamese will help you relax and revive from head to toe. Not only adults but also kids can enjoy the body treatments. At La Veranda, a special treatment is designed to help children aged 4-12 relax their body and prevent hyperactivity. Mild and gentle virgin coconut oil is used to avoid possibilities of skin allergy. The light massage will give your kids physical and emotional pampering that they enjoy. Ladies may be also keen on beauty care for skin, face, body, and nail. Extra courses for dry, acne and sensitive skins are on offer to help enhance blood circulation, alleviates excess skin surface cells, prevent the growth of acne, and balance the level of your skin. Waxing treatments and nail care are also popular choices of female tourists coming to Le Spa. Three special treatments that are highly recommended are La Veranda Neuromuscular Treatment, King Gia Long Royal Warrior Treatment, and Anti-Stress Jet Lag Treatment. La Veranda Neuromuscular Treatment An intensely therapeutic deep tissue massage using the masseuse’s body weight with acupressure to aid in pain management as old injuries, trapped nerves or chronic pain is nursed back to full strength by flushing lactic acid and other metabolic waste from your muscles, allowing more oxygen-rich and nutrient- filled blood to flow in. Expect a deep and thoroughly relaxing massage. It relieves chronic muscle pains, restores proper alignment, and increases flexibility in problem areas and chronic spinal pain. A highly specialized and customized massage treatment including 4 to 5 sessions is recommended with each visit lasting between 2-4 hours using organic massage oils. King Gia Long Royal Warrior Treatment The 3.5-hour treatment costs 4,030,000 VND but worths the money. In the past, before becoming the first emperor of Vietnam, Gia Long often came to Phu Quoc Island to rest and recharge between battles. Crafted for the highly stressed individual, this luxurious Royal Treatment pays homage to one of Vietnam’s greatest warriors. Re-charge with 3-steps starting with a detoxifying scrub, followed by a customized deep-tissue massage with for back and muscle pains complemented with Vietnamese cupping to release trapped energies. End with an anti-aging facial to protect skin against oxidation. Anti-Stress Jet Lag Treatment This jet lag treatment is an ideal Welcome Ritual. A treatment comprising of full body work concentrating on back, neck, shoulder and foot reflexology to soothe the body and promote circulation after a long tiring flight. A soothing warm welcome to start your stay. Consider These Information When Booking At La Veranda’s Le Spa: – Advance bookings are highly recommended to ensure your preferred time and treatment is available. – Arriving 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment will allow you time to fill in a consultation card and discuss any concerns you may have with spa consultants. – Guests are asked to refrain from using mobile phones within the spa. Valuables and jewelry are best kept in your room’s safety box. – Pregnancy: Inform the masseuse/therapist if you are pregnant so that the spa consultants can guide you in choosing treatments suitable for this special time. – Health: Inform the therapist any health conditions, allergies or injuries, which may affect your treatment experience. – Gentlemen are advised to shave prior to all facial treatments to ensure a maximum result. – Cancellation: Four hours notice is required should you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. A 50% charge will apply for cancellations of less than four hours notice and a 100% charge will apply for cancellations with no notice. – All treatments include services charge and applicable government tax. Aside from treatments you can book, Le Spa also offers wellness classes and activities including morning yoga by the sea, Vietnamese massage workshops, neuro-balancing analysis and private yoga sessions. All treatments make use of artisanal, organic products which are also available for purchase, allowing guests to take the wellness glow home with them. Other Options To Consider With tranquil beaches, salubrious sea air and year-round sun, Phu Quoc is truly the ideal Wellness and Beauty destination. Aside from La Veranda, there are numerous spas and salons range from inexpensive itinerant providers on the beach to high-end, world-class spas found in other luxury 5-star hotels. Sitting on the beach, you’re likely to be approached by ladies offering on-the-spot massages and other services including mani / pedis and even hair removal. In most cases, these women are minimally trained with poor quality accessories, so it’s a case of you get what you pay for. Day spas in Duong Dong include: Galina Spa (Tran Hung Dao Street, tel: 0915571007) offers a unique mud bath experience although the accompanying massage gets mixed reviews. Tranquility Spa (118/2 Tran Hung Dao Street) gets good customer feedback for their massages performed in a very basic home-like atmosphere. Phu Quoc Day Spa (100/3 Tran Hung Dao Street) is viewed as a good alternative to the beachside massages. The quality of the massages can be hit-or-miss depending on the staff. For a premium spa experience, another option is the recently opened Chanterelle Spa at JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay has wow factor for its whimsical décor by acclaimed designer Bill Bensley. The spa offers Ayurvedic treatments, wraps and facials among its services, but expect to pay premium prices. The resort is located on the southeast part of the island, a prohibitive USD25 round-trip taxi ride from Duong Dong.