Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide

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• Visa & Entry for Netherlands citizens: Dutch passport holders can enter Vietnam visa-free for stays up to 45 days (as of August 2023). Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date. No pre-arrival forms or ETA required. Keep proof of onward travel handy. For stays longer than 45 days, apply for an e-visa online at evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn ($25 USD, 3-day processing). Always check https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn for the most current requirements before departure.
• Transportation: Download Grab app (Southeast Asia's Uber) for safe, affordable rides. Motorbike taxis (xe om) are cheapest but negotiate price first. Crossing streets looks chaotic but walk slowly and steadily—traffic flows around you. Rent a motorbike only if you're experienced; traffic is intense.
• Money matters: Vietnam is largely cash-based. ATMs are everywhere but withdraw large amounts to minimize fees (most ATMs charge 30,000-50,000 VND per transaction). Notify your bank before traveling. Tipping isn't expected but appreciated—round up or add 5-10% at nicer restaurants. Bargain at markets but not in shops with fixed prices.
• Best photography times: Golden hour (5:30-7 AM and 5-6:30 PM) offers magical light and fewer crowds. Ben Thanh Market, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and rooftop bars at sunset are must-shoots. Always ask permission before photographing locals, especially at markets and temples.
• Meeting other travelers: Stay in District 1 (backpacker area) for easy socializing. Join free walking tours, food tours, or pub crawls to meet people. Apps like Meetup and Couchsurfing have active HCMC groups. Bui Vien Street is the social hub—grab a beer at a street-side bar and conversations happen naturally.
• Food safety: Eat where locals eat—busy places with high turnover are safest. Street food is generally safe and delicious. Drink only bottled or filtered water. Try local specialties: pho, banh mi, bun cha, and ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk). Food tours are excellent for first-timers.
• Weather preparation: HCMC is hot and humid year-round (25-35°C). Pack light, breathable clothes. Rainy season (May-November) brings daily afternoon downpours—carry a compact umbrella or poncho. Sunscreen and hat essential. Most indoor spaces have strong AC, so bring a light layer. Dry season (December-April) is slightly cooler and best for visiting.

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