Vietnam

For the majority of the time whilst on mainland Vietnam I used hostelworld to research and book my dormitory accommodation.  Of the many Asian countries I have travelled to I found hostels in Vietnam to be the cheapest with a nights stay sometimes as low as £2per person.  Wherever possible I stayed in the hostel chain; Vietnam Backpackers Hostel, always reliably sociable, clean and great location, typically around £4. VBH also offer a huge range of tours from trekking in Sapa to Hanoi’s best street food.  I booked my tour of Ha Long Bay through VBH, an unforgettable 3 days on an exclusive private island in Ha Long Bay, one of the natural seven wonders of the world.  Not for the budget traveller but picture open air beach bungalows and boat parties for approximately £200.

Again Vietnam offers some of the cheapest in Asia, all without lacking in taste or variety. I regularly miss the simple pleasure of pulling up a stool to enjoy a Tiger Beer and a bowl of Pho in chaotic Hanoi for almost always less than £1.  All over the country you can find ‘Highlands Cafe’ the perfect spot for an Ice cold frappe and a Banh Mi, think Asian take on Subway’s ‘Meatball Marinara’.  Street food markets, like most South East Asian countries are a huge thing, from local delicacies like stuffed quail eggs and Vietnamese spring rolls to Instagram worthy Ice Cream rolls and Nutella crepes.  Where there is a major river, for example the Mekong Delta in the south, expect to find floating markets that will satisfy all your fresh fruit and vegetable desires.

Vietnam is home to some of the most organised tourist transport in Asia.  All coaches that I used had fully reclining beds and aircon, they were always on time and easy to book through hostel reception desks, who regularly organised pick ups at no extra cost.  Motorbikes and scooters are a very popular choice for getting around, day excursions and for completing routes such as the High Van Pass/ High Gian Loop.  These can be booked for approximately £4/5 per day.  However be aware of the expensive fees if damaged, I speak from an unfortunate experience, only drive if competent and have ample experience in busy cities and rough terrain.  Alternatively renting a driver for the day can be quicker, safer and often just as cheap if you are splitting the costs between a group.  Don’t underestimate the size of Vietnam, if you are restricted on time, domestic flights can be found between most major cities for as little as £20 if booked in advance.