Vietnam is a major travel destination and since being named the safest country in Asia, travel to Vietnam is quite simple.

Airplane: There are several airports in Vietnam with Tan Son Nhat (currently being completely rebuilt) being one of the busiest airports in SE Asia. There are also other international airports in Hanoi and Danang. Vietnam Airlines, the country's most well known air carrier has recently signed agreements to co-share with major airlines in the USA, Germany, France and elsewhere and is actually a rather good airline which is big on customer service. The in flight food is quite good, especially in business and first class.

Boat: There have been in recent years more and more commercial cruises available and one can make stops at various points along the way for sightseeing and shopping excursions (from Saigon to Vungtau and up the cost in the Danang area). Once in the country, try and make the effort to take the hydrofoil from Saigon to Vungtau. It's a wonderful way to travel in the country and the sights you will see will leave a solid and lasting impression of the country's many sights along the waterfront.

Train: Like other places in Asia, train travel leaves much to be desired in Vietnam. The trains are by and large slow and old, in need of renovation. The Vietnam government has made plans to address these issues but for now, trains are not a preferred way of travel.

Roadways: The highways in Vietnam are in various stages of rebuilding and these are projects that should last well into the future as the country continues its progress. For now you must resort to a car that has a driver but you can easily rent a motorbike and set out for days of incredible exploration at your leisure and see many smaller towns along the road. While it's still a bit behind the times, it's actually an easier drive than in many other parts of Asia.

HOTEL REQUIREMENTS

Most hotels in Vietnam require that your passport be kept with the reception during your stay If you are paranoid about leaving your passport with hotel staff, bring (as you may not find a photocopy machine nearby) a photocopy of the original and hand that over. Most hotels will accept photocopies as passport substitutes. On the other hand, it may be safer to leave your travel documents with the hotel reception.

There is an abundance of all types of hotels throughout the country from very simple rooms for as little as 10 USD per night to 5 star 5 diamond hotels and resorts.