Money and Costs
One of the persistent concerns for independent travelers is budgeting for their trip. The good news is that living and traveling in Vietnam remains relatively affordable. A five-star hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, for instance, now costs about the same as a three-star hotel in major cities like New York or Toronto. Generally, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are more expensive than smaller cities such as Hue or Hoi An, and significantly pricier than rural areas.
Accommodation
Your accommodation expenses can vary greatly depending on the level of luxury you desire. You can find a hostel dorm bed for as little as $7 per night, while a luxurious five-star resort in Hoi An, such as the renowned Nam Hai, can cost upwards of $700. The quality of accommodations varies, but overall, it tends to provide excellent value for money.
Photo: myzondubai.com
Food
“The cheaper the food, the better it is,” says an expat living in Hanoi. Believe it or not, street food is an integral part of Vietnamese culture that you cannot afford to miss. A filling bowl of Pho costs around 25,000 VND at local spots and approximately 75,000 VND at higher-end restaurants. A set menu at an upscale restaurant will range from $15 to $40, depending on the venue and the chef’s reputation. For budget travelers, you'll be pleased to know it is possible to manage a day’s meals on as little as $10.
Photo: Internet
Transportation
For getting around the city, you have several options: taxis, xe oms (motorcycle taxis), walking, or city buses. Taxi fares can vary but generally do not exceed 18,000 VND per km (approximately $0.75)—making taxis the more expensive choice. For travel between cities or provinces, you can choose between flights, open tour buses, or trains. The flight from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City costs around $120 one way, but you can often hunt for better deals. Buses and trains are typically about half the price.
Photo: Internet
Museum Entrance Fees
Most museums and art galleries charge less than $3 for entrance. There are no discounts for students with valid IDs or for seniors. Depending on the site, children under 12 can often enter for free.
Photo: hiddenhoian.com
Entertainment
The most luxurious 3D movie ticket will typically cost you around $8, which is still well below Western prices. For music events, ticket prices vary based on the venue: a concert at the Hanoi Opera House can range from $12 to $35, while performances at smaller venues may only require the cost of drinks. If you plan on enjoying a night out, it’s advisable to avoid carrying large sums of money to guard against theft. A cocktail will generally cost you no more than $6.
* Note: 1 USD = approximately 24,600 VND
Photo: giveitanudge.com
Related readings
What $1 can buy in Vietnam
Budget Tip: Never Pay Full Price
If you are a foreign tourist, you would surely encounter one of the most problematic issues of global tourism – two tiers of pricing.
Budget Tip: Try Local Drinks
When it comes to drinking, Vietnamese coffee rules, in terms of both taste and price! It is strongly recommended that you try Vietnamese coffee, which costs less than $1 in most places.
Budget Tip: Eat Street Food
This tip is great for those possessing a quality stomach and wanting to save extra bucks.
