With 12 years of experience living in Hanoi and having authored 10 travel guides on Vietnam, travel writer Joshua Zukas, writing for Business Insider, points out seven common mistakes international tourists often make when visiting Vietnam for the first time.

1. Trying to see all of Vietnam in one trip

Many travelers assume that Vietnam is a small country and can be fully explored in just one or two weeks. In reality, Vietnam is comparable in size to Japan or Italy, and traveling between major cities can take an entire day.

Zukas advises focusing on a specific region instead of trying to "conquer" the entire country in one visit. This allows for deeper and more meaningful experiences.

2. Letting bad weather ruin the mood

Vietnam’s climate can be unpredictable. Northern highlands get chilly in the winter (December–January), the Mekong Delta becomes uncomfortably hot at the end of the dry season (March–April), and Central Vietnam is frequently hit by typhoons during autumn (September–November).

Rather than feeling frustrated by unexpected weather, travelers should plan ahead, stay flexible, and embrace changing conditions as part of the adventure.

3. Following trendy travel lists online

During peak season, flocking to popular destinations can lead to overcrowding, which not only diminishes personal enjoyment but also places strain on local communities.

Zukas suggests that the most memorable experiences often come from choosing places that align with your interests, rather than blindly following social media “must-see” lists.

4. Trusting influencers too much

Some tourists become disappointed when their real-life experience doesn't match what they saw in videos posted by influencers.

“The algorithm rewards glamour and drama, not accuracy,” says Zukas. He recommends following content creators who actually live in Vietnam, as they tend to offer more authentic and practical insights.

5. Skipping street food

Due to hygiene concerns, some visitors avoid street food and opt for internationalized dishes at tourist restaurants instead.

However, Zukas insists that the essence of Vietnamese cuisine is found in small, specialized eateries: from bun and pho to Hanoi's delicate banh cuon or the countless ways fresh shellfish is prepared in Ho Chi Minh City.

6. Not using a local SIM card

Many tourists rely solely on Wi-Fi, but mobile data in Vietnam is both affordable and reliable. For around $10 (roughly 260,000 VND), visitors can easily buy a SIM card at phone shops or via eSIM apps, making it far easier to navigate and stay connected.

7. Ignoring travel guidebooks

In an era saturated with unverified online reviews and anonymous articles, well-researched guidebooks remain valuable.

Drawing on long-term study and personal experience, printed guides offer clearer insights into Vietnam’s culture and people, helping travelers connect on a deeper level.

Do An