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GENERAL According to archaeological discoveries made at Do Mountain, it is believed that life in Vietnam began as far back as 300,000 years ago. Officially, the history of Vietnam stretches back 4,000 years when it was founded by the Hung Kings. It was then named Van Lang. When speaking about the history of Vietnam, it is important to note the large role played by the French in Vietnam. It began in 1858, when the French took over Danang in southern Vietnam. Over time, more and more territory was won over by the French. It wasn't until 1954, when the French surrendered to the Viet Minh, ending the French Indochina War that the French colonial control in Vietnam ended. The immediate image in the minds of most people at the mention of Vietnam is that of the war fought against the United States almost thirty years ago. Most people think of the country only in terms of the American conflict in Indochina. The war ended nearly thirty years ago, and today, despite lingering signs of past American involvement, the situation in Vietnam is markedly different. People have finally begun to look at the country from another perspective, now that travelers and tourists from the West are being welcomed into what was once a forbidden country. It may take a bit more effort and tenacity to plan an excursion into Vietnam than it would for another Southeast Asian country, but Vietnam has much to offer in terms of culture and sights. The countries economy is recovering quickly and growing every year. Vietnam is a safe and secure destination travel environment. It is a good choice for a holiday, during these security conscience times we are now living. FACTS Population: About 78 Million People Holidays Time: +7:00, Vietnam is 11 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time and 14 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time. |
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WEATHER Ho Chi Minh City is tropical, and has two seasons: dry and wet. The
rainy season begins around April. By July, the city experiences at least
one rain a day. The rain appears usually in the late afternoon and clears
by evening. We attempt to schedule our tee times early in the morning,
which allows a comfortable golf day, not in the midday sun and the potential
rain visit. By November, the rain begins to lessen.The driest months
are Nov-March, when the weather is quite comfortable. Evenings at this
time of year can be cool and pleasant. April to October is hot and humid.
The average annual temperature is 81degrees F. |
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PEOPLE AND CULTURE The vast majority of the population is Vietnamese with minute percentages
of Chinese. The Vietnamese culture originated on the delta of the Red
River and the Ma River where the Vietnamese people cultivated paddy
fields. They led a simple farming life in small villages, usually living
around a communal house. Today the people living in the countryside
follow this lifestyle. The Vietnamese people are influenced by Confucianism,
in particular the principle of respect for their elders. The people
are generally warm and friendly, and surprisingly, the Vietnamese bear
little if any resentment or bitterness toward Americans. The country
is booming with international trade and new business opportunities. |
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HELPFUL HINTS Beware of pickpockets. Keep your ID and passport in a safe place and carry only photocopies of those items. Remove your shoes before entering Buddhist pagodas. Small donations placed in the boxes found in temples are appreciated. It is acceptable to keep your shoes on within Chinese pagodas. There are also quite a few Catholic churches in the South of the country. Wear modest clothes (sleeves and long pants) when visiting all these places. Never let the soles of your feet face other people or any sacred monument, such as a statue of Buddha. Also, never pat people on the top of their heads or beckon them by crooking your finger at them. |
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5. CURRENCY The Dong (VND) is the official currency in Vietnam. Bank notes currently in circulation are in denominations of 200 / 500 / 1,000 / 2,000 / 5,000 / 10,000 / 20,000 / 50,000 and 100,000 Dong The U.S. dollar is more or less a second currency in Vietnam. Other foreign currencies are not readily accepted. A large supply of US$1, US$5 and US$10 are almost essential for small expenses and for hotel bills. U.S. money is so common that change will frequently be given in dollars. You may bring in an unlimited amount of foreign currency as long as it is declared on the forms provided by customs officers. Foreign currency can be exchanged for dong at your hotel or at a number of official currency exchange counters. Yes ATM's in HCMC and Hanoi, more everyday, your Visa cash card good
like in US for purchases, entertainment meals. Cash draws from ATM in
dong, not dollars |
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COMMUNICATIONS International Phones with data ports, at the major Hotels in Hanoi-HCMC, Mobile phones - World Phones work here, Mobile phones rented through us, can keep you in touch with other guests and have an emergency link back home 24-7.We can rent you a mobile for around $100 for your visit. Cheap Phone communication using telephones at most Post Offices for international phone calling, also having overseas party call back very cost-effective. Business centers at all hotels have internet access and e-mail service. This is a good alternative to hauling around your lap top. Our staff all have mobiles for emergency communication. We can make those numbers available on request. |
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PASSPORT & VISA INFO You need a valid passport and a visa to enter Vietnam. You cannot obtain one on arrival. Visas are easy and quick to get from either the Vietnam Embassy or Consulate in your city. Vietnam Embassy and Consulates:
Here is a link to the Vietnamese Embassy website in the USA. They have
visa application forms available to download on the site and contact
details for your convenience: HEALTH There are now very few health hazards in Vietnam for the short-stay traveler. It is always a good idea to have all your normal vaccinations up to date before you go abroad and check with your doctor for other traveler health information. Please make sure that your health insurance is up-to-date and covers
you for travel to Vietnam. |
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