VIETNAM
enjoy a 'Beer Hoi' at a road side bar. It's cheap, refreshing and a great way to meet the locals.
Shopping Vietnam is known for its handicrafts, including lacquerware, mother-of-pearl inlay,
ceramics, jewellery, bamboo silk goods, products, intricately carved
statues and paintings. In Hanoi, two popular areas are Hang Gai Street and Hang Bong Street which stock embroidered tablecloths, greeting cards with traditional hand-painted silk covers, water puppets, clothing and antiques. In Saigon, Ben Thanh Market is a good place for shopping. (Vendors will willingly bargain but as a courtesy, do not ask the price of something unless you want to buy it.) Dong Khoi Street is an arts and crafts tourist bazaar.
Currency The currency is the Vietnamese dong.
The US dollar acts as a second currency and is readily accepted everywhere. Most gold and jewellery stores will exchange foreign currency and usually have better rates than the hotels. Given the low wages of most of the population, tipping is always greatly appreciated.
Climate Vietnam has three climatic zones with temperatures ranging from 22˚C to 27˚C. In the north, the best time to visit is between October and March. Central Vietnam is protected by the Hai Van Pass Mountains and travelling is recommended year-round. In the south, there are two seasons—dry and rainy.
March, April and May are the hottest months. Lightweight clothing is sufficient for the south all year round but warmer clothing is needed during winter (November through April) in the north and in the highlands.
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