Enquire here about travel to Vietnam for life changing dental and cosmetic surgery procedures. Dental & Cosmetic Surgery Enquiry Thank you for your interest in trusted dental and cosmetic surgery services in Vietnam. Complete the form below so we can connect you directly with Worldwide Dental & Cosmetic Hospital, our long-term partner in Ho Chi Minh City. There’s no extra charge for using our referral service — you pay the same hospital prices, with the added benefit of our support and optional travel coordination. Personal Information Full Name Age Email Phone/WhatsApp Gender Country of Residence Preferred travel month / dates Are these dates flexible? Y/N Dental Treatment Enquiry Crowns / Bridges Implants Teeth Whitening Full Smile Makeover Veneers Fillings / Restorations Extractions Other (describe below) Dental notes (previous work, goals, etc) Cosmetic Surgery Enquiry Facial Enhancements Eyes (eyelid lift, double eyelid) Face (full facelift, mini-lift, contouring) Neck (lift, tightening, fat removal) Nose (rhinoplasty, reshaping Body Contouring Stomach (tummy tuck, contouring) Liposuction Skin tightening / rejuvenation Arm, thigh and butt lift Preferred time for treatment / travel Prefered time for treatment / travel 1 - 3 months 3-6 months 6 - 12 months Just exploring options Budget range (optional) Travel and Accommodation I would like help arranging flights, accommodation and private tours during my stay I will make my own travel arrangements Consultation Support Kelley McCarthy, our experienced Medical & Beauty Consultant, is available for direct consultations to help you decide on treatment options and timing. Would you like a Zoom consult with Kelley? Would you like a Zoom call with Kelley? Yes please Not at this stage Additional notes or questions Consent and Disclaimer (please tick) in agreement REQUIRED I understand that What About Vietnam acts solely as an introduction and customer service agent, referring my enquiry to Worldwide Dental & Cosmetic Hospital for professional consultation and services. I consent to my name, email address, and enquiry details being shared securely with Worldwide Dental & Cosmetic Hospital for the purpose of contacting me directly about my enquiry. I understand that What About Vietnam is not responsible for any medical or surgical outcomes, as all consultations, procedures, and after-care are managed directly by the clinic. What About Vietnam receives a small affiliate referral fee that does not affect the price I pay to the hospital. I consent to being contacted by What About Vietnam or Worldwide Dental & Cosmetic Hospital regarding my enquiry. Privacy: We take your personal details seriously. We only share your name, email and enquiry details with Worldwide Dental & Cosmetic Hospital for the purposes of responding to your request. We do not sell or share your data with other parties. Once submitted, your enquiry will be forwarded to Worldwide Dental & Cosmetic Hospital, who will contact you directly to discuss options and next steps. I have read and agree to the Terms and Conditions Submit Enquiry Thanks for submitting!

Life changing Dental and Cosmetic surgery now affordable in Vietnam. No matter how big, small or complex your surgery requirement is, this hospital has the experts you are looking for in dental and cosmetic surgery. Kerry checking out Worldwide Hospital Kelley explains visually a dental procedure Saigon City (HCMC) Highlights World renowned Dental & Cosmetic Surgery -in Vietnam Life changing Dental and cosmetic surgery now affordable in Vietnam through 'What About Vietnam'. Contact u s for a fully customised consultation and quotation - See seperate form to enquire Enquire Now to receive 5% discount Click Here Why put off Major Dental or Cosmetic Treatments because they are just too expensive in your own country? Worldwide offer superior dental quality - we know and trust from our own experience. What Abou t Vietnam Medical Travel is your Customer Service agent to world class advanced elective dental surgery in Vietnam. Our focus for 2025 onwards will be in the area of Dental and Cosmetic surgery, so make sure you talk to Kelley at What About Vietnam about her experiences and advice. See what's available and get your quotation with our full support at NO extra cost. Why not talk to someone who has direct experience with our partner Worldwide Dental & Cosmetic Surgery Hospital F ind out what is possible! Let us provide you with the wealth of our experience with Worldwide. The dedicated team at Worldwide Dental & Cosmetic Surgery Hospital has restored the smiles of over 100,000 patients from around the world, consistently achieving remarkable success in all dental treatments. Discover a new world of dental excellence at Worldwide Beauty Hospital . Join us on a journey to enhance your beauty and boost your confidence. Explore the vibrant culture of Vietnam in a holiday w hile receiving world-class care. Your radiant smile begins here. Click here to complete enquiry form Packages can include:- Airport pick up and return Complete consultation with our own team and doctors All levels of accommodation Concierge services during entire stay Why not turn your treatment into a holiday? 3* to 5* travel options A diverse range of experiences can be designed around your treatment Pre-surgery and post surgery celebratory dinners Optional pre-surgery sight-seeing tours Optional extended post-surgery stay and sight-seeing tours Why not consider a beauty treatment as a holiday and a chance to come home a new person? Packages can include:- Vietnam Domestic airfares Airport pick up Complete consultation with our own team Luxury accommodation Concierge services during entire stay Why not turn your treatment into a holiday? 3* to 5* travel options A diverse range of experiences can be designed around your treatment Pre-surgery and post surgery celebratory dinners Optional pre-surgery sight-seeing tours Optional extended Post-Surgery stay and sight-seeing tours Get in touch with our Australian Experience Manager- Kelley McCarthy. Ask for a quotation as direct comparison to your current quotation Discuss options Ask for advice on how to travel and possibly extend stay Discuss travel experiences for companions travelling with you Have us arrange a direct consultation with the Doctor Why not get a comparison quotation on your dental treatment - We think you will be pleasantly surprised !! Crowns and Bridges Root Canals Wisdom Teeth Removal Inplants Teeth Whitening

Vietnam travel planning & itinerary design: accommodation advice, budgeted to your specs, transportation, food and dining and cultural activities. What About Vietnam Travel Services Travel Services Travel Services Travel Services Travel Services 1/11 Kerry Newsome Kelley McCarthy Welcome to What About Vietnam's Travel Services Through the success of my What About Vietnam podcast — and with travel thriving across Vietnam — I’m thrilled to offer a full suite of personalised travel planning and booking services, in partnership with my trusted Vietnam-based Destination Management Company (DMC). As someone who has spent over a decade exploring every corner of Vietnam — from bustling Saigon to the quiet rice terraces of the north — I bring genuine insider knowledge to every itinerary I design. My role is to help you experience your Vietnam, your way. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, with friends, or in a private group, I offer end-to-end travel services, including: Domestic flights and local travel modes ie bus, train and private car Luxury and boutique and eco friendly accommodation bookings Private tours and transfers with professional English-speaking guides Special interest travel such as wellness, culinary, adventure, and cultural immersion experiences Tailored extensions to destinations like Cambodia and Laos 24/7 in-country support from my Vietnam-based travel team Working through my licensed DMC ensures your trip runs smoothly from start to finish, with all arrangements handled locally by professionals who understand Vietnam inside and out. Together, we curate travel experiences that are safe, seamless, and deeply memorable — designed exclusively around your interests, timing, and comfort. If you’re ready to explore Vietnam beyond the brochure, I’d love to help you design your perfect journey. Request a quotation HERE.

Dalat is a pretty escape to a cooler climate with an abundance of colour and sites to see Nestled in the cool Central Highlands of Vietnam, Dalat is a city that feels like perpetual spring.  Long celebrated as the “City of Flowers” , it enchants visitors with misty mornings, rolling pine forests, and an ever-changing palette of blooms that flourish thanks to its temperate climate. From vast hydrangea fields and sunflower valleys to the iconic Dalat Flower Gardens and colorful roadside markets, the city is alive with natural beauty year-round. Beyond the flowers, Dalat has also become a hub for eco-tourism, strawberry farms, and fresh produce markets, making it a perfect blend of nature, culture, and flavor. Adding to its charm is the biennial Dalat Flower Festival , one of Vietnam’s most spectacular cultural events. Held every two years (the next one is scheduled for late 2025), the festival transforms the city into a giant living gallery, with dazzling floral displays, street parades, art shows, and performances that draw visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re exploring manicured gardens, wandering through rustic flower villages, or sipping artichoke tea at a hillside café, Dalat offers a refreshing escape from Vietnam’s bustling cities—especially at this time of year when cooler evenings and late-summer harvests make the city particularly inviting. In our latest Podcast talking with Vicki Thai, we delve into some of the most memorable elements of her stay in Dalat. You can check out the whole Episode here A little bit about The Everlastings that Kerry and Vicki discuss on the podcast. The "Everlasting flowers", scientifically known as Helichrysum bracteatum, are a remarkable and cherished botanical feature of Vietnam's natural landscape. These unique flowers are commonly referred to as "everlastings" due to their ability to retain their vibrant colors, shape, and texture even after they have been harvested and dried. This exceptional trait has made them popular choices for various decorative and ornamental purposes, including flower arrangements, crafts, and even herbal remedies. If you have never been to Dalat you will notice some very distinguishable differences about the city, in comparison to the rest of Vietnam. A stay here is made extra special if you have time to check out some of the lovely displays of flowers in and around the city and in many of the gardens that adorn hotels and local establishments. In the podcast Vicki refers to Dalat's unique climate, with its cool temperatures and ample rainfall, it provides an ideal environment for a diverse range of flowers to flourish. As a result, the city has earned its moniker as the "City of Flowers" in Vietnam. Visitors can expect to encounter an array of both native and imported flowers, creating a breathtaking symphony of colors and fragrances that captivate the senses. However, it may be the "mist" that accompanies some days while you visit that may give it some of its magical charm. Prime Locations to Admire Flowers Dalat Flower Park Valley of Love Dalat Market What you can hope to see in Dalat Dalat Flower Park A visit to the Dalat Flower Park is a must for anyone looking to be enveloped in a sea of blossoms. The park boasts an extensive collection of flowers, including roses, hydrangeas, and orchids. Each season brings a different set of blooms, ensuring that there's always something new and captivating to see. The biennial Dalat Flower Festival , typically held in December, transforms the park into a living canvas of floral artistry and is a highlight that draws visitors from across Vietnam and abroad. Valley of Love Beyond its romantic reputation, the Valley of Love is also a botanical wonderland. Among the rolling hills and tranquil lakes, visitors can discover a variety of vibrant flowers, from colorful pansies to delicate daisies. The lush landscapes make this destination perfect for a leisurely stroll, a swan-boat ride, or even a picnic while soaking in the fresh mountain air. Dalat Market For a taste of local life and an opportunity to bring some of Dalat's floral charm back home, a visit to Dalat Market is essential. Stalls brim with fresh-cut flowers, potted plants, artichokes, strawberries, and locally made jams. Handcrafted floral arrangements and dried flower souvenirs make for perfect keepsakes or gifts. Hydrangea Fields Dalat is famed for its sprawling hydrangea fields that burst into endless shades of blue and purple. These fields, often located just outside the city, have become Instagram hotspots where visitors can walk among towering blooms that seem to stretch as far as the eye can see. Sunny Sunflower Gardens During certain months (usually around late summer and early autumn), Dalat’s sunflower gardens come to life. These bright, cheerful fields make for an unforgettable photo opportunity and showcase a different side of the city’s floral diversity. Cu Lan Village Located about 20km from Dalat, Cu Lan Village is a blend of flower gardens, pine forests, and a recreated traditional ethnic village. It offers cultural experiences alongside its natural beauty, making it a lovely day trip. The Clay Tunnel (Clay Sculpture Village) While not purely floral, this quirky attraction includes beautifully landscaped flower gardens alongside intricate clay sculptures depicting Dalat’s history, culture, and iconic landmarks. It’s both artistic and Instagram-worthy. Pongour & Elephant Waterfalls For those wanting to balance flowers with natural wonders, Dalat’s surrounding waterfalls are breathtaking. Often surrounded by lush flora, these cascading falls add another layer to the region’s romantic, nature-filled atmosphere. I particularly loved the Pobgour waterfalls as you could reach out and touch the water from an easy vantage point. The Best Time to Visit Dalat's flowers are a year-round spectacle, with different seasons showcasing varying blooms. However, to make the most of your floral adventure, consider planning your visit during these key times: Spring (January to March): During this time, the city comes alive with vibrant colors as various flowers, including peach blossoms and cherry blossoms, bloom. The Tet Festival (Lunar New Year) adds to the festive atmosphere, making it an ideal time to experience the city's culture and flowers. Summer (April to June): As temperatures rise, a plethora of exotic and tropical flowers come into full bloom, including roses, hydrangeas, and orchids. The Dalat Flower Festival, typically held in December every other year, is a grand celebration of the city's floral beauty. Autumn (September to November): The autumn months bring a sense of tranquility to Dalat's landscapes. Marigolds, chrysanthemums, and dahlias dominate the scenery, providing a soothing palette of warm hues. Find out more about this amazing city from the podcast with the lovely Vicki Thai - https://www.whataboutvietnam.com/series-5/episode-3/heritage-and-discovery-in-saigon-the-mekong-delta-and-dalat

Vietnam’s Best Cities for Shopping: My Top 3 Picks Vietnam isn’t just a feast for the senses with its food, landscapes, and culture — it’s also a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re into luxury malls, artisanal crafts, or budget-friendly markets, there’s a corner of Vietnam ready to tempt your wallet. After years of travel and countless shopping bags later, here’s my personal picks for the best cities in Vietnam to shop your heart out. 1. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – The Ultimate Shopping Playground As this is my story, I get to vote as per my own personal shopping experiences in Vietnam over the past decade or so. Therefore.....I have to vote Saigon No 1. If there’s a city in Vietnam that knows how to cater to every kind of shopper, it’s Saigon. From glitzy malls to gritty markets, this place hums with retail energy at every corner. PRO TIP  – Allow plenty of time, as you will soon get swooped up in the dizziness of it, and your day will be gone before you know it! Plus what I am featuring here, is just the tip of the iceberg. Where to shop in Saigon: Ben Thanh Market  – A true Saigon icon. It’s bustling, chaotic, and requires some serious bargaining skills. Come here for souvenirs, local snacks, and a dose of market madness. Over time I have noticed this market to become quite aggressive in its bargaining, so be prepared for high level negotiating. Saigon Square  – Across from Saigon Centre, this indoor market is cleaner and more navigable than Ben Thanh but still offers great deals on fashion and accessories. This is a favourite as for a few more dollars over Ben Thanh you still can get a bargain but its less hard core bargaining and a little bit more air free. Taka Plaza & Central Market Food Court  – Newer and air-conditioned, these underground markets make for a more chilled shopping experience. Grab a bite and browse in comfort. Perfect for a super hot or wet day. I found these markets to be open aired and while not over stocked I have bought some super bags and fun things for kids. Vincom Centre & Diamond Plaza  – For those who prefer air-con and international brands, these malls offer everything from Zara to Louis Vuitton. This is another western style plaza, with a variety including H & M, and for me then an easy access to the katinat building opposite H&M; where you can climb stairs to heavenly coffee at Cong Café and boutiques featuring vintage and artisan fashion. JExit H&M and just cross the road and you are there. The Café Apartment & The Playground (District 1)  – Tucked-away boutique gems. Head to The Playground for edgy local designers or explore the quirky “Café Apartment” building where each floor reveals funky shops and cafés (including a classic Cong Café). A great book shop next door as well. Saigon Kitsch  – Looking for Vietnam-themed homewares or cute gifts? This Instagram-favourite shop has you covered. More than one level, so keep climbing for more “kitsch”. Diamond Plaza – High end brands mainly, but spacious and deserves a wander. I expect it will expand in the future. Mekong Quilts  – Handmade quilts, accessories, and home décor, all supporting local artisans in rural Vietnam. Thao Dien, District 2  – A world of its own. This expat-friendly enclave is home to indie fashion stores, yoga studios, art galleries, and serene cafés. Go by Grab or even by ferry if you want to enjoy a different view of Saigon. You might like to check this local guide out - https://www.livinginvietnam.com/exploring-thao-dien-a-guide-to-saigons-trendiest-neighborhood   Why did I give Saigon the crown ?  Basically because of its - variety, convenience, and style. There’s truly something for everyone — from bargain hunters to boutique lovers. 2. Hanoi – Where Tradition Meets the Artisans of the Future No 2 - Has to be Hanoi - but maybe NOT for the reasons you think. Hanoi's Old Quarter is legendary for its maze-like streets packed with textiles, crafts, and souvenirs. The city combines history with an evolving fashion and café scene that continues to surprise. And while I do go in search of shopping here, just so I can say I have experienced it, I get so lost in other aspects of the city, to be honest, it is not my top priority here. However, I have bought some beautiful pieces here in silk, jewellery, homewares and beautiful pen sets from Tanmy Design.(See below) Remember as you read this; these are MY personal favourites. What to shop for: Personally I think SILK, HANDCRAFTS, ART and VINTAGE Silk scarves and dresses – Google Silk Street, old fashioned embroidery, and hand-painted ceramics Vietnamese art ( Check out S4-E12 for  Contemporary Art Gallery) You need to book appointment with Suzanne Lecht at Art Vietnam Gallery as it is also her home. Amazing! Tailored clothing at affordable prices - Mostly high end brands. Check out their newest Lotte Shopping mall. ( see pic below) I think it needs a bit of personality? Did I say that??? Design - traditional, high end, young and artisan local designers, especially some ones located near the Cathedral. For others most worthy - Chula and Tanmy Design Vintage goods - Collective Memory and upcycled fashion in boutiques near Tay Ho and the French Quarter. Tay Ho I think is the place to watch in the future. Wander into the weekend night markets or duck into Dong Xuan Market for a sensory overload. Hanoi’s charm lies in its street-by-street surprises and its deeply rooted craftsmanship. However amongst all of that is a lot of what I call "bits and bobs", junky type things, cheap trinkets and souvenirs. A personal favourite is Future Traditions  – A place you can find indigenous textiles, Hanoi style. Future Traditions creates stylish clothing and jewellery by working with Vietnam’s ethnic minority textile producers and traditional craftspeople. It’s the kind of place you can buy “one offs”. Arrange an appointment through their FB page. 3. Hoi An – Tailor-Made Heaven Hoi An might be smaller, but when it comes to tailoring, this UNESCO-listed town punches way above its weight. With over 400 tailor shops, this is the place to get a custom suit, dress, or even shoes made — all within 24–48 hours. I personally don’t ever think of anywhere else for tailoring in Vietnam. But choose wisely. Beyond tailoring, Hoi An has grown into a charming boutique town and thats why I didn't choose an image of a tailor to speak about this town for its shopping prowess. Hoi An is becoming a Vintage, eclectic, homewares and traditional arts town. Beyond tailoring, Hoi An is morphing into more than just tailoring. I think its the perfect town to broaden its scope of uniqueness in:- Artisanal homewares Handmade leather goods Eco-conscious brands and organic beauty products Bamboo products Refillables jewellery Lanterns, of course! I could provide a long list of places to visit, but half the fun is stumbling upon your own finds in the township and in the small alleys. However, one shout out is for Lac Viet Jewellery where I have had some gorgeous pieces made in silver and gold at amazing prices and genuine quality. Mention my name and Kim Yen Nguyen Thi will take good care of you. Hoi An is an ever evolving Old Town. If you have been to this town previoulsy you will notice the crowds and the shift in perspective. Its a town trying to keep up with domestic travellers and well as the ever increasing international market. Its the place to muse, to take advantage of the tailors there, but do your homework. I know reviews are helpful but they are not always reliable. While I have always used Shop 41 in the Fabric Markets which are still wonderful, but they are now focused on a very young market, and no time for me. Sad I know, but I have many treasured items in my wardrobe to be thankful for over the years. So, I am back on the look out. Stay tuned! Oh, and the night market is one of the most photogenic in the country — so plan a wander through at the end of your evening amongst the ever-increasing buzzing crowds.   Final Thoughts Whether you’re on the hunt for designer threads, a bespoke blazer, or the perfect ceramic bowl, Vietnam offers a dynamic shopping experience. Each city brings its own flair, and if you ask me — Saigon is still the queen of retail therapy, so make time in this city if SHOPPING is your thing. Want a savvy local to help you haggle like a pro or uncover hidden gems beyond the usual tourist track? Book a Buddy through our trusted network and use the What About Vietnam code KERRYVN5 for a special rate. Whether you’re bargain hunting or searching for something unique, your Buddy knows exactly where to look — and how to get the best deal.   Pack light and bring an extra bag — you’ll be glad you did. Written by Kerry Newsome

To travel, to experience and learn: that is to live.” – Tenzing Norgay One of the most asked questions I get from travellers is - When is the best time to visit Vietnam.? The answer isn't a simple one. Vietnam being a long skinny country with a shoreline of 3,200Kms, weather can vary significantly from North to South. I hope you will find this guide useful in your trip planning. January: January is the ideal time to consider cooler weather pursuits in Vietnam. In the northern region, particularly the famous Sapa town, located in Lao Cai province. Sapa is known for its stunning rice terraces, which are at their most beautiful during the winter months. The weather is chilly, making it perfect for trekking and exploring the local hill tribes. If you head to these locations make sure you are rugged up as it can snow in Sapa and roads can be drizzly. It is advisable to get some advice on best things to do prior to booking for this area. The south is your best bet for warmer weather but it too can have more frequent wet days but much warmer than the north and still with medium to high levels of humidity.I know from experience visiting another northern area called Ba be Lake, it was freezing cold. However, with puffer jackets and warm under clothing it meant we had the pristine lake and the caves to ourselves, and the beautiful cherry blossoms were just starting to break through. Less tourists and more chance for local interaction. February: February is a good time to visit Vietnam's central region. I mention this as somewhere between late January and mid February Vietnamese celebrate TET. This is a celebration that is waited for all year. You will find the ancient city of Hoi An becomes a sea of colour with flowers and fruit tree sellers lining the streets in the lead up. Combine that with the colourful lanterns and it’s a joyous time to be there. The weather is mild making it perfect for exploring the city's historic sites, such as the Old Town, the Japanese Covered Bridge, and the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture. The city is also known for its beautiful beaches, which as the month ages are warming up for swimming. Earlier in the month it may still be long sleeve weather and not warm enough to make the dive into the ocean or pool. But a week later this can change. You just never know in Vietnam. Kerry in February in Ba be lake - Vietnam March: March is the ideal time to visit Vietnam's central and southern regions, and further afield, the famous Mekong Delta. The weather is warm and humid, making it perfect for exploring the region's famous floating markets, such as Cai Rang and Phong Dien. The region is also known for its beautiful landscapes, including rice paddies and coconut groves. Hoi An is especially nice in the central region, and one of my favourite times of the year for mooching through the old town and finding new hidden gems in the alleys. Drinking coffee, people watching, sipping a cocktail at Happy Hour and chatting with locals. Basing yourself in Hoi An is a good plan as from here there are many activities and day trips to enjoy, that still mean you are back in time for twilight by the Thu Bon river. Hoi An - The Thu Bon river at twilight Photo Credit - Thomas Levine Photography - Photo Hoi An - March April: April is a great time to visit Vietnam's central highlands, particularly the city of Dalat. The weather is cool and dry, making it perfect for exploring the city's many waterfalls, such as Pongour ( a beautiful waterfall you can reach so close your hands can touch the falls) and Datanla. Kerry at Pongour Falls Dalat February The city is also known for its beautiful gardens and flower farms, such as the Valley of Love and the Dalat Flower Garden. A quaint and particularly European style city you will see and feel an atmosphere of fresh flowers, fruits and rolling hills. This is also an opportune time to head to Phong Nha and go caving, motorbike riding through the hills, trekking and soaking up the small town community of Phong Nha with locals.If you would like to know more about visiting Phong Nha I suggest you contact Phong Nha Farmstay and visit the podcast I did with Ben Mitchell a great Aussie bloke who has been living there for many years now and will give you the local knowledge you need. May: May is a great time to visit Vietnam's northern region, particularly the famous Ha Long Bay. The weather is warm and humid, making it perfect for exploring the bay's many limestone islands and caves. The bay is also known for its small beaches and opportunities for swimming and sunbathing. Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay are a must if you visit Vietnam around this time. The limestone mountains jutting from the mesmeric coloured water will be a lifelong memory not just stored on your phone camera. The central and south are hot and very popular for those wanting to soak up the sun at any famous beach cities like Danang, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc Island and Mui Ne. March to May are ideal for other places in the north like Ha Giang. June: June is a great time to visit Vietnam's central region, particularly the city of Hue. The weather is HOT and humid, making it perfect for exploring the city's many historic sites. It is the hottest time of the year so be prepared with lighter clothing and sunscreen. This month really makes it safe to head to most places along the 3,200 shoreline as long as you like it VERY hot during the day with the odd downpour. July: July is a great time to visit Vietnam's southern region, particularly the city of Nha Trang. The weather is warm and humid, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing at the city's many beaches. Nha Trang is also known for its many water activities, such as snorkelling and scuba diving, and its famous cable car ride to Vinpearl Island featuring a veritable Disneyland of experiences for kids. Across most of Vietnam it is HOT, so if that’s how you like it, then it’s your time. August: August is a great time to visit Vietnam's northern region, particularly the city of Hanoi. The weather is hot and humid, making it perfect for exploring the city's many historic sites, such as the Old Quarter, the Temple of Literature, and Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum. The city is also known for its delicious street food, which can be enjoyed at the many night markets. Early morning by the lake is delightful as the air is at its coolest, and you will see people dancing, exercising, running, and doing Tai Chi. Further in the north the weather is conducive to explore the mountainous regions due to panoramic views of the rice fields, but if it rains in places like Ha Giang it can be wonderful one minute, but drizzly and wet and slippery the other. August and September are recommended as good times to go, but please see note below for further information. Photo credit Jack Taylor - Ninh Binh Episode - https://www.whataboutvietnam.com/series-4/episode-16/ninh-binh---the-mystical-rival-to-halong-bay September: September is my favourite overall Vietnam time of year to visit most places in Vietnam. I call it a “safe bet! It’s a great time to visit Vietnam's central region, particularly the city of Da Nang and Hoi An. The weather is warm and mostly dry, making it perfect for exploring the city's many historic sites, such as the Marble Mountains and the My Son World cultural heritage Temples . The city is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as My Khe Beach, and its many water activities, such as jet skiing and parasailing. Further afield Hoi An has An Bang beach and because the weather is a little milder it makes you feel like getting out more during the day. The nights are delightful and it’s a fun thing to do, to go strolling along the beach alleys to find the best local bars to listen to music and eat the local catch from the day. An Bang Beach September October: Is a great month for the south. The rainy weather is starting to dominate in the central and northern region, which can ruin any type of fun adventure. Or if you love the rain like I do, it can make it a whole lot more fun. Important to note: It is Typhoon season and sometimes the power of these can be highly destructive and can definitely ruin any holiday and although the locals are used to them, they take them seriously and buckle down. I have stayed in the central region in October before and had no issues, but weather is becoming more and more unpredictable. November: November is not a great time to visit Vietnam's central region, as it becomes very dull and rainy. Hoi An has been known to flood many times. However, it can be a good time to visit the city of Hue. The weather is cooler and it can make for the perfect time for exploring the city's many historic sites, such as the Imperial City and the Hue Royal Palace. The city is also known for its beautiful landscapes, such as the Perfume River and the surrounding countryside, which are perfect for cycling or motorbike tours.It may be the perfect time to visit a wellbeing retreat close to hue called Alba Wellness Retreat and Spa. I can vouch for a visit as the experiences are NOT weather dependent and you will walk away after the Yoga, massages, Onsen and meditation feeling like a new person. Check out our special offer here and the podcast I did with the GM Hylton Lipkin here. The north is becoming a lot cooler, verging on cold. However, that just means you can choose to do more indoor activities, like shopping, visiting museums, dining out and for those adventurers on good days, it makes for a good time to visit areas like Ninh Binh. December: December is the time of year where you can expect people "rugging" up in the north! It can make a nice time to visit Vietnam's northern region, particularly the city of Hanoi. The weather is cold, making it perfect for daytime pursuits such as exploring the city's many historic sites, such as the Old Quarter, the Temple of Literature, and Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum. The city is also known for its delicious street food, which can be enjoyed at the many night markets. It's also a perfect time to attend the famous Hanoi's New Year Countdown at Hoan Kiem lake. Further north it is getting super cold, so unless that is what you want to experience I would suggest avoiding, till it warms up. It can snow in Sapa at this time, but not enough to ski and very drizzly. The south will offer you more options as it is warmer, but generally it can be wet. The city has a vibrancy and you will soon find out that rain doesn’t deter the Vietnamese from doing too much. So don’t let it stop you either! Off the beaten track For those harder to get places in the north like Mai Chau, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Ban Goc Waterfalls etc, locals say the best time is around March to May or September and October. These regions take over 6 – 8 hours to reach by bus, or car from Hanoi, and once you arrive in the region of Ha Giang for example, it takes at least 4 days to do the whole loop. Meaning you are driving 8-9 hours per day. For trip planning in these areas I urge you do lots of homework to curate the kind of experience you want to have there. You can’t really expect a Travel Agent in your own country to understand or appreciate the nuances of weather in these regions, unless they specialise in Vietnam travel. The images you see on social pages are on all the perfect days. No one is posting on Instagram the days when the roads are so misty you cannot see 50 yds in front of you, or the roads are choked with traffic. They say to have these amazing experiences you have to have time, patience and pick the right operators to do them with. Suggestions for respected operators in Sapa and close regions - http://www.ethosspirit.com/ - Please check out the Episode I did with Phil Hoolihan talking about Sapa and how managing expectations for tours in these regions is important. You can go here to listen. For regions like Ha Giang I got to interview Tom Stone and he likewise knows the area well and his team can offer up some local knowledge to help you plan the kind of experience you want. His team’s best contact is through facebook here https://www.facebook.com/flipsidevietnam/ The interview and transcript I did is here. Disclaimer: It has to be said that with global warming the weather is becoming harder and harder to predict. Please use this article as a guide only. What was once is no longer something you can set your calender to. The suggestions made in this article are from personal experience and talking with locals in the regions and cities suggested to visit, but it is by no means going to be perfect. TIP for travellers: Facebook is a great tool for communication with operators in Vietnam. If you have plans that could be affected negatively by weather, I strongly suggest you check in with the operator via their Facebook page or reach out to a Travel group, or venue in the region as they will give you the most up to date information at the time. Written by – Kerry Newsome 2025 “To travel, to experience and learn: that is to live.” – Tenzing Norgay