Getting Around

FLIGHTS :
If you intend to visit only a few cities in Vietnam, flying is the most convenient way to travel. Vietnam Airlines flies to places like Phu Quoc Island and Rach Gia that are difficult to reach by other means. The major problem with flying is reserving a seat. It is essential to book flights early especially on popular routes. Internal flights are reliable but can be infrequent to the less popular destinations. Vietnam Airlines and Pacific Airlines are the two carriers that operate domestic routes. Prices are fixed by the National aviation Authority. Foreigners pay approximately double the price locals pay for the same tickets.

TRAINS :
There is a regular train service between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and most cities in between. Many people like to travel the length of the country by this means. Tickets allow passengers to break their journey at the major regional cities like Hue, Da Nang and Nha Trang. The trip from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City takes between 36 and 48 hours non-stop, depending on which service is used. Passengers can book a sleeping compartment, soft seat, or economy class.

BUSES :
Vietnam has a regular bus service that connects even the remotest areas of the country. it is very cheap but the emphasis is on economy not comfort with people having to squeeze into seats comparable to those found in kindergartens. No point in buying two tickets to secure extra space.as seating is allocated to all available space. Nevertheless, buses are a great way to meet the locals.

TAXIS :
In the major cities the easiest method of transport are taxis. Most are relatively new models of car and are air-conditioned. Prices are very cheap and most trips within a city cost between USD2 and USD%. Contrast this with the price of a cyclo trip(about the same), and except for the novelty of the transport, taxis provide a better service. Tourism authorities advise tourists not to take cyclos at night.

HONDA OM :
On any street corner in Vietnam, we can find men with motorcycles willing to carry you anywhere. This mode of transport it known as "Honda Om" or Honda embrace. It is usually cheap and reliable although the fare should be negotiated before commencing the journey. The biggest problem is explaining the destination to the driver because pronunciation is everything in Vietnamese. Carry a pen and paper or a map.