Vietnam, a Southeast Asian gem, is rapidly gaining popularity among Indian travelers. With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delectable cuisine, it’s no wonder why. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam from Mumbai in 2024 /2025, booking a tour package can be a hassle-free and enjoyable experience. This guide will provide you with all the essential information to make your trip a memorable one.

Best Season to Visit Vietnam

The best time to visit Vietnam depends on your preferences and interests. Here’s a brief overview:

• Spring (March-May): This is a great time to visit the northern regions of Vietnam, such as Sapa and Hanoi, to witness the blooming rice terraces and enjoy pleasant weather.
• Summer (June-August): This is the peak tourist season, with hot and humid weather throughout the country. However, it’s also the best time to visit the central coast for beach activities and festivals.
• Autumn (September-November): This is a pleasant season with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. It’s a great time to visit the northern and central regions.
• Winter (December-February): This is the coldest season in Vietnam, with temperatures dropping significantly in the northern regions. However, it’s also a great time to visit the southern regions, such as Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Flight Options from Mumbai to Vietnam

There are two primary flight options available from Mumbai to Vietnam:

Direct Flights

• Mumbai to Hanoi: This route is generally cheaper than Mumbai to Ho Chi Minh City.
• Mumbai to Ho Chi Minh City: While slightly more expensive, this route offers direct access to the southern region of Vietnam.

One-Stop Flights via Singapore

This is a popular option for travelers who prefer a stopover in Singapore.

Airline Options

• Indigo and Vietjet: These low-cost airlines offer budget-friendly fares but may have less convenient flight timings. Always check if baggage is included in your ticket when booking with these airlines.
• Vietnam Airlines and Thai Airways: These airlines are slightly more expensive but offer several benefits, including:
  • Ideal flight timings
  • In-flight meals
  • Included baggage allowance
  • Reduced risk of flight rescheduling

Tip: Consider your preferences and budget when choosing an airline. If you prioritize cost, low-cost airlines might be the best option. However, if you value convenience and comfort, a full-service airline could be a better fit.

How to Choose a Travel Company for Vietnam Tour

Reputation and Reviews

• Google Reviews: Check for customer feedback and ratings on Google.
• Social Media: Explore the company’s Instagram and Facebook pages for photos, testimonials, and engagement with customers.

Experience and Local Connections

• Past Experience: Look for a company with a proven track record in organizing Vietnam tours.
• Local Contacts: A company with strong local connections can ensure smooth operations and provide authentic experiences.

Customized Itinerary

• Interests and Preferences: The itinerary should align with your preferences, whether you’re interested in adventure, culture, or relaxation.
• Travel Style and Age Group: Consider your group’s travel style (fast-paced or leisurely) and the age range of participants.
• Authentic Experiences: A well-designed itinerary should provide genuine experiences and avoid rushed “touch and go” visits.

Comprehensive Pricing

• Comparison: Compare prices from multiple travel companies in Mumbai.
• Quality of Services: Don’t solely focus on price. Consider the quality of accommodations, transportation, activities, and the expertise of the tour guide.

Exceptional Customer Service

• Responsiveness: Choose a company with a dedicated and responsive customer service team.
• Support: A responsive team can address any issues or concerns promptly, especially when traveling abroad with language barriers and limited connectivity.

By considering these factors, you can select a Vietnam tour package that meets your expectations and ensures a memorable and hassle-free experience.

Vietnamese Operators vs Indian Operators

Pricing

• Vietnamese Operators: Charge in USD, resulting in a 4% currency exchange fee when using an Indian bank card. This fee is typically charged within 10 days of the transaction.
• Indian Operators: Charge in INR, eliminating currency exchange fees and providing convenience for Indian travelers.

Accountability and Accessibility

• Vietnamese Operators: May be difficult to hold accountable in case of issues, as they often lack Indian offices.
• Indian Operators: Have a physical presence in India, allowing travelers to visit their office and ensure the company’s legitimacy and service quality.

Communication and Cultural Understanding

• Vietnamese Operators: May have language barriers and cultural differences that can impact communication with Indian travelers.
• Indian Operators: Are well-versed in the expectations and preferences of Indian travelers, thanks to their knowledge of the local language and culture.

Cost Comparison

• Vietnamese Operators: May be slightly cheaper due to their extensive network of local operators.
• Indian Operators: May be slightly more expensive due to their focus on working with reputable local operators, ensuring quality and reliability.

Ultimately, the choice between a Vietnamese operator and an Indian operator depends on your priorities. If you prioritize cost and are comfortable with potential language barriers and limited accountability, a Vietnamese operator might be suitable. However, if convenience, cultural understanding, and accountability are important to you, an Indian operator may be a better choice.

Approximate Budget for Vietnam Tour Packages

The cost of a Vietnam tour package from Mumbai can vary significantly depending on several factors:

• Duration of the trip: Longer trips generally cost more.
• Time of year: Peak tourist seasons (June-August) may have higher prices.
• Accommodation: The type of accommodation (luxury hotels, budget guesthouses) affects the cost.
• Activities: Included activities such as trekking, cruises, and cooking classes can add to the budget.

Here’s a general breakdown of approximate costs for different itinerary durations, including flights and visa fees:

6 Nights (Hanoi – Danang): INR 30,000 per person
7 Nights (Hanoi – Sapa – Danang): INR 40,000 per person
8 Nights (Hanoi – Danang – Ho Chi Minh): INR 45,000 per person
9 Nights (Hanoi – Sapa – Danang – Ho Chi Minh): INR 50,000 per person
10 Nights (Hanoi – Danang – Ho Chi Minh – Phu Quoc): INR 65,000 per person
11 Nights (Hanoi – Sapa – Danang – Ho Chi Minh – Phu Quoc): INR 75,000 per person

Flight Costs:

• Return Flights from Mumbai to Ho Chi Minh: Approximately INR 30,000 – INR 35,000 per person.
• Internal Flights in Vietnam: Around INR 6,000 – INR 10,000 per person.

Visa Costs:

Vietnam Visa costs approximately INR 2,900 per person.

Vietnam Tour Packages