When is the Best Time to Visit Dong Hoi?
The ideal time to visit is from April to August when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities and exploring the nearby caves.
Transportation Tips
A. Getting to Vietnam
Vietnam has several international airports, with the main ones being Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi (North Vietnam), Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City (South Vietnam), and Da Nang International Airport in Da Nang (Central Vietnam). Your choice should depend on your itinerary and final destination within Vietnam.
B. How to get to Dong Hoi
Dong Hoi is well-connected to other major cities in Vietnam by rail, highway, and domestic flights. Check out this section of our guide on Getting to Dong Hoi.
C. How to get around in Dong Hoi
- Walking Along the Promenade: Dong Hoi has a beautiful promenade that is perfect for leisurely walks. It’s a great way to explore the city, especially the scenery along the Nhat Le River.
- Golf Carts for City Tours: Some eco-friendly tours offer golf cart rides around the city. This can be a fun and environmentally friendly way to see the sights.
- Hire Taxis: Taxis are readily available and can be a convenient option for covering longer distances within the city or for those who prefer to avoid driving themselves.
- Rent a Motorbike or Bicycle: Renting a motorbike or bicycle is popular for many tourists. It offers flexibility and the opportunity to explore at your own pace. Just follow local traffic regulations and always wear a helmet when riding a motorbike.
Before You Go: Visa, Currency, Timezone, Voltage, ATMs, Credit Cards, Internet, SIM Cards, Tips
- Visa: Check visa requirements based on your nationality. Find out more about getting a Vietnam Visa before you visit Dong Hoi.
- Timezone: Vietnam is in the Indochina Time Zone (ICT), UTC+7.
- Voltage: The standard voltage is 220V, and the outlets usually accept three different plugs: A, C, and F. If you are from Europe, Japan, or the Americas, your plugs will work fine. Otherwise, you’ll need an adapter. Note that many Vietnamese outlets do not have a third hole for grounding, and so can only accept two-pronged plugs.
- Internet: Most hotels, cafes, and even restaurants in Dong Hoi offer free Wi-Fi; Wi-Fi plans are so cheap in Vietnam that almost all businesses have one. But it’s easy, inexpensive, and well worth buying a local SIM card with a data package at the airport upon arrival.
- SIM Cards: You can easily purchase SIM cards for data and calls at the airport or local stores. Note that you’ll need to provide your passport to get a SIM. Viettel, Mobifone, and VinaPhone are the best mobile networks for Dong Hoi and most parts of Vietnam.
- Currency: Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND). VND only comes in bills (no coins), and 1 USD equals about 24,000 VND (commonly abbreviated as 24k). Some shops catering to tourists may accept USD, but most only take VND.
- Credit Cards: Visa and MasterCard are commonly accepted at large businesses like hotels, indoor restaurants, or upscale shopping venues, but smaller enterprises usually only take cash.
- ATMs: The center of Dong Hoi has many ATMs, most of which accept foreign cards. Make sure to notify your bank before you travel to Vietnam to avoid blocked ATM transactions.
- Tipping: Vietnam is not a tipping culture, so a tip is not expected. A tip is a good way to bring a smile to someone’s face, though. Note that cab drivers and tour guides often rely on some tipping, so it’s a good idea to tip them.
Understanding Culture & Customs In Dong Hoi
Fewer locals speak English than in other popular tourist destinations, so be prepared, patient, friendly, and have Google Translate ready. Like anywhere in Vietnam, you should familiarize yourself with general Vietnamese etiquette before traveling.
