MileHacker Logo
Best Time to Visit My Son

Best Time to Visit My Son

Central Vietnam Vietnam Travel Guide

Climate Patterns

Dry Season (February to August): This period has high temperatures and not much moisture in the air, with minimal rainfall. February to April present the most pleasant weather, with temperatures from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making outdoor exploration comfortable. May to August are the hottest months, often exceeding 35°C (95°F), with rising humidity.

Wet Season (September to January): This season brings heavy rain and higher humidity. September to November see the heaviest rainfall, with potential for typhoons. December to January are cooler and still wet, but rainfall typically lessens. Temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), with overcast days and occasional showers.

Ideal Conditions

  • February to April: Optimal weather, sunny skies, comfortable temperatures.
  • Golden Hours: Early morning or late afternoon for best photography light.
  • Comfortable Walking: February to April, or cooler December-January days.
  • Lush Landscape: Benefit of rainy periods for greenery.

High, Shoulder, and Low Season Overview

High season (February to April) has optimal weather but also further things tourists. Shoulder season (May-August, December-January) offers fewer crowds but either intense heat or rain. Low season (September to November) has the fewest tourists but a high risk of heavy rain and typhoons.

Low Season

September to November

Pros

Significantly fewer tourists, potentially lower prices for tours and accommodation. Lush, green landscapes.

Cons

High risk of heavy rain, typhoons, and flooding. High humidity. Plans can change quickly due to weather.

Shoulder Season

May-August, December-January

Pros

May-August has fewer crowds. Dec-Jan has cooler temperatures, potentially fewer crowds than peak. Lush landscapes during rainy periods.

Cons

May-August can be uncomfortably hot. Dec-Jan brings significant rainfall, making paths slippery. Some excursions might change itineraries.

High Season

February to April

Pros

Optimal weather conditions. Sunny skies and comfortable temperatures for exploring. Air feels fresh, blue skies for photos.

Cons

Higher number of visitors. Larger crowds at My Son. Potentially increased prices for tours and accommodation in The City of lanterns/Da Nang. Popular photo spots might require patience.

Special Weather Considerations

Monsoon Risks

My Son is in a region prone to seasonal monsoons, specifically from September to November. Typhoons can occur in this timeframe, leading to rapid flooding and disruption of services. Monitoring weather forecasts closely is important if traveling during these months.

Heat Awareness

Extreme heat needs to be considered from May to August. Staying hydrated and applying sun protection in this timeframe is recommended.

Ideal Timing for Activities

  • Site Exploration:

    Early morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM) in the dry period (February-April). This prevents crowds and midday heat. The light is softer.

  • Photography:

    The "magic hours" of early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photos, with long shadows creating dramatic effects.

  • Comfortable Walking:

    February to April, or cooler days in December-January, are ideal for extended walking around the site. Mild temperatures make exploration pleasant.

  • Avoidance:

    Midday exploration during May to August is not advisable due to intense heat.

  • Rain Gear:

    During the wet season, waterproof clothing will make your visit more comfortable.

Weather Warnings

  • Heavy rain and typhoons can cause severe flooding and travel disruption from September to November.
  • Intense heat from May to August can pose health risks; prioritize hydration and shade.
  • Always monitor weather forecasts closely for timely updates.

Seasonal Planning

Your preferred travel time directly impacts your time at My Son, from comfort to crowd levels.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Entry to Vietnam generally includes visa procedures. Review current regulations well before your trip.

Visa Options

Most foreign nationals require a visa for Vietnam. Several application methods are available.

Main Visa Types

  • E-visa: Most convenient, single entry up to 90 days for citizens of certain countries. Apply on the web through the official Vietnam Immigration Department portal or IVisa or VisaHQ.
  • Visa on Arrival (VOA) / Letter of Approval: Get an approval letter online from a certified travel agency Before arrival. Present at designated international airports. Not for overland border crossings.
  • Traditional Visa: Obtain in advance from a Vietnamese embassy or consulate. For longer stays or multiple entries.
  • Visa Exemptions: Some nationalities are exempt for short stays (e.g., 15-45 days). Verify current regulations with your local Vietnamese embassy.

Required Documentation

Gather these papers for smooth entry.

Documents

  • Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your departure date, with at least two blank pages.
  • Visa Approval: Printed copy of e-visa or approval letter. A digital copy on your phone or cloud storage is also recommended.
  • Passport Photos: Typically two recent passport-sized photos (4x6 cm) for VOA/traditional visas. E-visa applications require digital upload.
  • Return/Onward Ticket: While not always strictly checked, having proof of onward travel accessible is wise.

Entry Fees and Procedures

My Son Sanctuary Entrance Fee

  • As of early 2024, the entrance fee is 150,000 VND per person.
  • This fee includes access to the Cham Gallery within the site.
  • Often includes a traditional Cham dance performance. Check the schedule upon arrival.
  • No special permits are typically needed for general tourism at My Son.

Immigration Process

  • Upon arrival at an international airport, proceed to immigration counters.
  • Present your passport and e-visa or visa approval letter.
  • Biometric data, like fingerprints, may be collected.
  • Ensure all entering and leaving stamps are correctly applied to your passport before leaving the counter. Review these stamps carefully.

Health-Related Entry Information

  • There are no routine mandatory health-related entry requirements for Vietnam, like specific vaccinations or health certificates, for general tourism.
  • Standard international travel health advice applies, meaning your routine vaccinations should be up-to-date.
  • Consult a medical professional for recommended vaccinations tailored to your travel profile.
  • No yellow fever vaccination certificate is generally needed unless arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Important Considerations

Always check the most current regulations as they can change without prior notice.

Check Official Sources

  • Consult the official website of the Vietnamese Immigration Department.
  • Reach out to the Vietnamese embassy or a consulate in your home nation.
  • Travel agencies can offer up-to-date information.
  • Always seek details from licensed government websites.

Preparation Timeline

  • Begin visa applications several weeks before your trip.
  • Allow extra time for processing, notably during busy times.
  • Gather all required documents in advance.
  • Keep digital copies of all useful documents.

Pre-Travel Check

Confirm all visa and entry procedures are complete before making travel plans. Regulations are can be altered.

Budgeting & Costs

My Son sanctuary is typically visited as a day trip from Hoi An or Da Nang. The costs below focus on My Son elements and general daily expenses when based in Hoi An or The City of bridges.

Currency & Exchange

The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Notes come in various denominations from 1,000 to 500,000 VND. Coins are rarely used.

Atms are easy to find in major cities like The City of bridges and The City of lanterns. Large banks (Vietcombank, Agribank, BIDV) and international banks (HSBC, Citibank) operate ATMs. Exchange rates at banks or reputable gold shops (especially in Hoi An) generally surpass those in airports or hotels. USD and EUR are easily exchanged.

Payment Methods

  • Cash: Chosen for smaller purchases, street food, local markets, and more compact businesses.
  • Credit Cards: Accepted at most hotels, mid-range to high-end restaurants, and larger shops in tourist areas.
  • Carry a mix of cash and card for convenience.
$

Budget Traveler

For those seeking to explore My Son sanctuary economically, daily costs are kept low by choosing getting around locallyation and food.

Total My Son sanctuary sanctuary Day: 350,000 - 600,000 VND (~$14 - $24 USD)

Meals (street food/local eateries): 100,000 - 200,000 VIETNAMESE dong

$$

Mid-Range Traveler

This budget allows for organized tours and mid-tier dining, balancing the price and comfort.

Total My Son Day: 700,000 - 1,200,000 VND (~$28 - $48 USD)

Transportation (organized half-day tour): 300,000 - 600,000 VND

$$$

Luxury Traveler

Opt for private transfers plus local experts, indulging in fine dining and exclusive experiences.

Total My Son Day: 2,000,000 - 4,000,000+ VND (~$80 - $160+ USD)

Private car with driver: 800,000 - 1,500,000 VND

Price Ranges for Specific Items

Category Item Price Range (VND)
Accommodations (per night) Budget (Hostels/Guesthouses) 150,000 - 350,000 VND ($6 - $14 USD)
Mid-Range (Boutique Hotels/Resorts) 500,000 - 1,500,000 VIETNAMESE dong ($20 - $60 USD)
Luxury (High-end Resorts/Hotels) 2,000,000 - 5,000,000+ VND ($80 - $200+ USD)

Meals

  • Street Food/Local Stalls20,000 - 70,000 VND per dish
  • Mid-Range Restaurants100,000 - 300,1 per dish
  • Fine Dining500,000 - 2,000,000+ VND per meal
  • Water/Snacks (daily)20,000 - 50,000 VIETNAMESE dong

Transportation to My Son Round Trip from Hoi An

  • Local Bus40,000 - 80,000 VND
  • Shared Mini-van/Tour Bus100,000 - 200,000 VND
  • Motorbike Rental (daily)100,000 - 150,000 VND (plus fuel)
  • Private Taxi/Car500,000 - 800,000 VIETNAMESE dong

Local Transportation Hoi An/Da Nang

  • Bicycle/Scooter rental or short Grab rides50,000 - 150,000 VIETNAMESE dong
  • Grab/Taxi/Private Car150,000 - 300,000 VND

Attractions & My Son Entrance

  • My Son Sanctuary Entrance Fee150,000 VIETNAMESE dong
  • Other Attractions (General)100,000 - 200,000 VIETNAMESE dong
  • Private Guide at My Son500,000 - 1,000,000 VND

Tipping Culture and Expectations

Restaurants (local eateries)Not expected
Restaurants (mid-high end)5-10% appreciated (if service not included)
Tour Guides50,000 - 100,1 per person (half-day tour)
Drivers20,000 - 50,000 VIETNAMESE dong (for good service)
Hotel Staff10,000 - 20,1 (porters/housekeepers)
Taxis/GrabRounding up the fare is common

Money-Saving Strategies for My Son

  • Transportation: Use the municipal bus to the My Son junction, then a single motorbike taxi or walk.
  • Food: Eat street food or at local eateries in Hoi An/The City of bridges prior to or following your visit; My Son area food is pricier.
  • Tours: Book a tour that features transport but not a guide, then hire a guide at My Son sanctuary if preferred.
  • Water: Bring your own Reusable water bottle and refill it to economize and reduce waste.
  • Local Currency: Carry small denominations of VND for cash payments.

Health & Safety Considerations

Prepare for common concerns and learn how to access services.

Recommended Vaccinations

  • Routine Vaccinations:

    Ensure all routine immunizations (measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, chickenpox, polio, flu) are up-to-date.

  • Hepatitis A & B:

    Highly recommended due to risk from contaminated food/water (Hepatitis A) and blood/body fluid exposure (Hepatitis B).

  • Typhoid, An Illness spread by mosquitoes in asia, Rabies:

    Recommended for most travelers, especially those visiting rural areas or on longer trips. Consult a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip.

Common Health Concerns & Prevention

Prevention is to a wholesome trip.

Traveler'indigestion: Eat hot, cooked food. Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid ice if unsure of its source.

A Mosquito-borne tropical disease: Use strong Insect repellent containing DEET. Put on long-sleeved shirts and pants, notably early in the morning and evening. This mosquito-borne illness is prevalent.

Overheating/Stroke: Stay hydrated. Wear light clothing. Seek shade. Limit strenuous activity during midday. Sunburn: Use Broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF, wear a Wide-brimmed hat, and Sunglasses.

Healthcare and Emergency Services

  • 1
    Hospitals:

    In major cities like Da Nang and The City of lanterns, find public and private hospitals. Private international clinics (e.g., Family Medical Practice, Vinmec in The City of bridges) offer higher standards of care, often with English-speaking staff, but are more expensive.

  • 2
    Pharmacies:

    Widely available in towns, but quality varies. Bring required prescription medications with a doctor's note.

  • 3
    Emergency Services:

    Dial 115 for medical emergencies. Response times and quality vary outside major cities.

Crime & Safety Concerns

My Son Sanctuary is relatively safe. Petty crime can occur in tourist areas of Hoi An and Da Nang.

Theft & Scams

  • Pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in crowded areas. Keep valuables secure.
  • Be wary of snatch-and-grab attempts from passing motorbikes.
  • Common scams include inflated taxi fares; use reputable companies (Mai Linh, Vinasun) or ride-sharing apps (Grab).

Motorbike Safety

  • If renting a motorbike, ensure appropriate insurance and experience.
  • Traffic can be chaotic.
  • Always wear a Helmet.

Drinking Water & Food Hygiene

Maintaining hygiene is to avoiding common travel ailments.

Drinking Water

Tap water is not safe to drink. Consume only Bottled water. Ensure seals are unbroken. Lots of accommodations have refill stations. Consider a Water purification bottle.

Food Hygiene

Be wary of street food. Opt for stalls with high turnover where food is cooked fresh. Avoid raw vegetables (unless peeled/from reputable sources) and unpasteurized dairy.

Check Seals

When purchasing bottled water, check the seal for any signs of tampering.

Natural Disaster Risks

Typhoons and Flooding

  • Risk Period:September to November
  • Impact:Severe flooding, landslides, travel disruption
  • Location:Central Coast, including My Son sanctuary sanctuary area
  • Action:Monitor weather forecasts closely

Travel Insurance & Emergency Contacts

  • Travel Insurance:World Nomads, SafetyWing, Insubuy
  • Emergency Services:Police: 113, Fire: 114, Ambulance: 115
  • Flight Compensation:AirHelp
  • Personal Contacts:Embassy, Insurance Provider, Local Contacts

Stay Safe

Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. It should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost belongings. Keep emergency contact information readily available.