Travel Tips
Electric power: Electric current in Vietnam is 220 Volts.
Water supply: Tap water in urban areas in Vietnam is chlorinated, but it is recommended that it should be boiled before drinking.
Money: The currency issued by the Vietnam State Bank is the dong (abbreviated "d" or VND) which is used unformly throughout the country. Bank notes in denominations of 200d to 500,000d are presently in circulation. The exchange rate is approximately 16,000d = US$1. At present certain travelers' cheques such as Amercian Express and credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are accepted in cities.
Language: Vietnamese is the official language of Vietnam. Foreign language learning, particularly English, is currently in vogue among young people in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Da Nang and other cities. Tourist guides can speak English, French, Russian, Chinese and Japanese.
Postal service: A regular international post service is available. In addition there are some new, special services: Express Mail Service (EMS). The domestic EMS ensures that letters and small parcels are delivered within 24-48 hours. International EMS has relations with nearly 30 countries world-wide, with a delivery time ranging from 2 to 10 days. Air mail and small parcels must however be subject to additional charges. Express money transfer is also available; money is delivered to the receiver within 24 hours.
Telecommunications: Long-distance and international direct-dial calling is available throughout the country. Fax machines are quickly proliferating in Vietnam; public and registered fax machines are available in hotels, business and public offices. Internet access is available at most hotels and Internet cafes.
Television and Radio: Vietnam Television (VTV) broadcasts three channels (VTV1, VTV2 and VTV3) throughout the country and VTV4 for overseas Vietnamese. VTV will have eight channels by 2010. International channels such as CNN are available in most hotels equiped with sattelite dishes or TV cables. Voice of Vietnam Radio broadcasts throughout the country; all provinces and cities have their own radio stations as well.
