A contrarian’s best bet: Vietnam

A few tips to get you going

Passports
Get your visa in advance. Most U.S. travelers obtain a single-entry visa, available for $25 from the Vietnam embassy in Washington D.C.

Currency
The official unit of currency is the dong, but most businesses and shopkeepers accept the U.S. dollar; in fact, most shops and restaurants list prices in U.S. dollars. ATM machines are widely available and major credit cards are widely accepted.

Business hours
Most businesses are open between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., although many close for a midday break between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Restaurants and museums usually remain open all day but many museums are closed on Monday.

Air travel
United Airlines has direct service to Vietnam from the United States, while many other carriers offer service through code-share agreements. I flew Vietnam Airlines in Business Class between Hanoi and Saigon and found the service to rival most long-haul international services. The modern fleet offered lay-back seats with on-demand movies, delectable meals and friendly service.

Traveling by car
A luxury car and driver can be hired for about $40 per day — a steal compared to the rate I was quoted a week later in Barcelona, where it would cost me $240 for just three hours.

Reading
I’m not a big fan of guidebooks, but I found National Geographic Traveler’s new Vietnam guidebook to be indispensable. The suggested walk in the Old Quarter of Hanoi was especially rewarding.

Tour operators
A knowledgeable and reputable guide can lead you in the right direction and save you thousands of dollars. One operator guiding visitors for years with an insider’s edge is Trails of Indochina.

This month, Vietnam hosts the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit, and its tourism industry will be in high gear. In fact, Vietnam’s days as one of Asia’s best-kept secrets may soon be over. For travelers seeking a glimpse of a dreamy world that has yet to be overrun with McDonald’s franchises — now is the best time to go.

Joel Widzer is an expert on loyalty and frequent flier programs. He is the author of "The Penny Pincher's Passport to Luxury Travel," a guidebook on traveling in high style at budget-friendly prices. E-mail him or visit his Web site.

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