“I Wish I’d Known Earlier”: U.S. Tourist Reflects on 4 Travel Mistakes in Vietnam

After nearly three weeks traveling from south to north across Vietnam, American traveler Gentry Hale says the country left a powerful impression—but also a few regrets.

From bustling cities to limestone seascapes, Hale explored destinations including Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hanoi, and Ha Long Bay.

She praised Vietnam’s spectacular landscapes, rich cuisine, and friendly locals, describing experiences such as kayaking among limestone karsts in Ha Long Bay and strolling lantern-lit streets in Hoi An as unforgettable.

But looking back, Hale says several planning mistakes made parts of her trip harder than they needed to be.

1. Not Learning Enough About Local Culture

Before arriving, Hale focused mainly on researching famous attractions and food.

What she didn’t spend enough time studying was local etiquette and daily customs.

For example, she was surprised to learn that pointing with a single finger can sometimes be considered impolite in Vietnam, where people often gesture with an open hand instead.

She also realized that learning a few Vietnamese phrases—such as “xin chào” (hello) or “cảm ơn” (thank you)—would have made communication much easier.

“Many locals seemed genuinely happy when I tried speaking Vietnamese,” she said.

2. Packing Too Many Destinations Into the Itinerary

Hale initially believed that three weeks was plenty of time to visit many parts of Vietnam.

But once she started traveling between cities, she realized distances can be more demanding than they appear on a map.

Long journeys—especially by train—often took many hours or even most of a day.

One overnight train journey lasted around 16 hours, cutting into the time she could spend exploring destinations.

If she returns, Hale says she would visit fewer places and stay longer in each one.

3. Underestimating Vietnam’s Weather Differences

Vietnam’s regional climate differences also caught her off guard.

Her trip began in Ho Chi Minh City in October, where the heat and humidity felt like a sauna, she said.

Later in Hanoi, the weather became cooler and rainy, creating a completely different travel experience.

After several days of sightseeing and trekking, Hale realized she should have packed:

• More breathable clothing

• Quick-dry travel outfits

• Flexible layers for changing weather

4. Feeling Awkward About Bargaining

Hale said she loved exploring local markets and artisan shops, buying items such as:

• Tailored clothing in Hoi An

• Handmade leather goods in Hanoi

• Street food across different cities

However, she initially felt uncomfortable bargaining.

In the United States, negotiating prices is rare in everyday shopping.

But in Vietnam’s markets, she later discovered that bargaining is often expected and widely accepted.

“If I had understood that earlier, I could have saved quite a bit of money,” she said.

A Trip Still Worth Taking

Despite these lessons, Hale says Vietnam remains one of her favorite travel experiences.

For future travelers, her advice is simple:

• Learn a little about local culture

• Plan fewer destinations

• Prepare for diverse climates

• Don’t be afraid to bargain in markets

With better preparation, she believes visitors can enjoy an even richer and more relaxed journey through Vietnam.