Climate:
North Vietnam has Southern Mediterranean type climate. South Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate.

Local Time:
GMT +7

Currency:
The Vietnamese currency is the Dong (VND). Notes are available in paper denominations of 500,000; 100,000; 50,000; 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 1,000, 500, and 200 VND, and also in metal denomination of 5,000; 2,000; 1,000; 500; and 200 VND.

Exchange:
Travellers cheques are accepted at most banks. Hotels sometimes charge a commission. Cash dollars in good condition are accepted in many places, so small denominations are useful to carry. The exchange rate can fluctuate considerably. Remaining Vietnamese currency can be exchanged for US dollars at the exchange bureau at the airport.

Credit cards:
Most major hotels and big restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi accept Visa and MasterCard.

Business hours:
Most shops, banks and businesses open from 8am to 4 or 5pm with a 1-2 hour lunch break

Electricity supply:
220V, 50Hz / 110V, 50Hz

Tipping:
Tipping is not customary in Vietnam, but is appreciated. A 5-10% tip for a meal in a good restaurant may equal a day's wages.

Nightlife:
There are numerous discos and karaoke bars. As in most places, it is preferable to explore in the company of a long-term resident, to avoid the traditional rip-offs.

Photography:
Print film is widely sold, but risks having been badly stored, so best buy from reputable photo dealers rather than street vendors. Slide film is available only in large cities. Photo-processing shops are everywhere with one hour processing facilities.