Airlines: Vietnam Airlines and
Pacific Airlines operate domestic flights to all major
cities. Trains: There is a rail network,
but trains are slow and not recommended for longer distances.
Buses: The road system is good,
and there is a comprehensive bus service, but this tends
to be slow, and sometimes unreliable. Taxis: Metered taxis are available
in Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City. Check that the meter is operating
before setting off. Cyclos: The ubiquitous 3-wheeled
bicycle-rickshaw. Passengers sit in front and driver peddles
behind. Hanoi versions are wider than in Ho Chi Minh and
can take two persons. Good sightseeing vehicle, though,
inevitably, many scary near-collisions. Agree fare in
advance - if any doubts, write it down. Hanoi cyclo drivers
speak very little English. A map is often essential for
giving directions. Motor Bike Taxi: Costs the same
or a little higher than a cyclo. Bicycle Rental: Inexpensive and
a very good way to get around. Deposit usually required.
Available from cafes or guesthouses. Check brakes & tyres
before you sign up. Motorbike Rental: Don't, unless
you are an experienced rider. Passport usually required
as security deposit. Don't rent unless the contract agreement
is in English and all conditions are clear. Check brakes,
tyres, and fuel before you go.
Hanoi Airport:
Noi
Bai Airport is about 35 km or 45 minutes north of
Hanoi. A minibus charges US$4 per person to downtown but
may involve a circular tour of several hotels. Official
airport taxis currently charge a flat rate of US$15 to
town and US$20 from town to airport.
Ho Chi Minh
Airport:
Tan
Son Nhat Airport is 7 kilometres or 20 minutes from
town. A metered cab outside the airport area costs US$5.
The airport taxi desk charges US$25. An airport "Skybus"
operates to and from the Vietnamese Airlines office in
town, and costs US$2 per head.
Airport tax:
US$10 for International flights and 20,000 dong for
domestic flights
For more information on domestic air travel in Vietnam
- click here
-
Car hire:
Self drive not yet common, but cars with drivers are convenient,
easily arranged, and with numerous options, including
minivans.
This is the Official Website for the promotion
of tourism in the Greater Mekong Subregion. This site is produced
by ETC Asia on behalf of the Tourism Working Group of the Greater
Mekong Subregion Economic Cooperation Programme.
