@John Cumner asked a good question about tipping expectations in Vietnam. In general, tipping is not at all expected. Local people and expats do not tip for routine things like having a meal or even drinking at a bar. The only exception is if you hire some service, for example hiring a driver for an extended period or booking a tour guide. In this case feel free to tip if the guide provided a good experience.

Hi I'm just wondering what is the better travel card to use .I'm using the wise travel card to exchange and withdraw money but I've heard mixed reviews on it what are other people using?

1. Cash is King: Always have cash on hand. ATMs and banks are plentiful, but many places still prefer cash. 2. Credit Cards: While credit cards are accepted at larger establishments, they're not always reliable. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid issues. 3. Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets. Don’t be afraid negotiate a fair price. 4. Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Vietnam. It's unnecessary and often confusing for locals. 5. Beggars: Avoid giving money to street kids. Older folks who are struggling will often sell small things like chewing gum and cotton buds on the streets it is ok to give 10-20k. Support local businesses when possible. 6. Coffee: Vietnamese coffee is typically strong and bitter. Ask for "khong Duong" for less or no sugar if you like it black. Remember VN coffee has double the caffeine of Arabica coffee. 7. Grab App: Download the Grab app for convenient taxi services. It's like Uber or Lyft. 8. Google Maps: Download offline maps for navigation, especially in areas with limited internet. 9. SIM Card: Purchase a local SIM card for affordable data and coverage. Viettel is a reliable option. 10. Flights: Domestic flights are affordable and frequent. Vietnam Airlines is generally preferred, while VietJet is budget-friendly but less reliable. 11. Trains and Buses: For shorter distances, consider trains or buses. Book through Bookaway for convenience. 12. Tet Holiday: Avoid traveling during the Tet holiday (Lunar New Year) as everything shuts down. 13. Visas: Check visa requirements for your nationality. E-visas are available for many countries. 14. Motorbikes: Renting motorbikes is a popular way to explore Vietnam, but be cautious and avoid major cities. 15. Vietnamese food - there’s so much more than Banh Mi and Pho. Try as many dishes as possible even if you have no idea what it is. 16. Vegan/Vegetarian - less than options but available everywhere. Look for “chay” means vegetarian. 17.  Water - never drink the water from the tap. But most places will serve bottled water and cook with filtered water so you don’t need to worry about getting sick. Ice is always filtered water. 18. Beer - commonly served warm. You can ask for a glass with ice. This is how local people drink beer. 19. Travel Insurance - buy it in case of an emergency. You will be a lot less stressed while traveling. 20. Pharmacy - “Nha Thuoc” - these are everywhere and sell cheap medicine for pain, nausea, etc. 21. Safety - In general, Vietnam is very safe. Don’t walk around drunk at night or act like an idiot and you will be fine. 22. Dress - You can dress very casual without being disrespectful. Shorts, sandals, t-shirts all fine in public. Only when visiting temples/pagodas should you wear pants and sleeves. Try to only wear bathing suits when near the beach. 23. Language - Vietnamese is very difficult to learn, but knowing just a few basic phrases will go a long way and the locals will love you for it. 24. Weather - varies a lot in different regions of the country. Just be aware it could be hot and sunny somewhere but if you fly do a different part of the country it can be cold/rainy for example. Clothes are incredible cheap so you can easily pick up a jacket/pants at a local market. 25. Go Slow! - Vietnam has so many places to see so you’re not going to see everything in one trip. Don’t try to pack in too much. Just pick a few places and enjoy your time there.