MileHacker Logo
My Son Travel Tips

My Son Travel Tips

Central Vietnam Vietnam Travel Guide

Mobile Connectivity

Local SIM cards are easily purchased at airports or mobile phone stores. Your passport is needed for registration.

Providers & Options

  • Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone are major operators. Viettel generally has a good coverage.
  • Various affordable internet plans exist, including short-term tourist SIMs.
  • Consider Airalo for eSIM options.

Internet Access

Wi-Fi is widely available in Vietnam and typically reliable.

Wi-Fi & Hotspots

Language & Translation

Vietnamese is the official language. English is common in tourist areas.

Translation Tools

  • Google Translate: Download the version for offline use Vietnamese language pack.
  • A small physical Vietnamese phrasebook is useful for simple greetings.
  • Learn Vietnamese with Rosetta Stone.

Postal Services

Vietnam Post (Bưu điện Việt Nam) operates nationwide. Post offices are available in The City of lanterns plus The Metropolis of bridges.

Services Available

  • Send postcards to friends and family.
  • Parcel shipping is a reliable service for international deliveries.
  • Locate a post office in major urban areas for your needs.

Important Phrases

Basic Greetings

  • Hello: Xin chào (sin chow)
  • Yes: Vâng (vung - northern), Dạ (yah - southern)
  • No: Không (khom)
  • Pardon me: Xin lỗi (sin loy)

Useful Phrases

  • How much?: Bao nhiêu? (bow nyoo)
  • Too expensive: Mắc quá (mack wah)
  • Water: Nước (nook)
  • Check please: Tính tiền (tin tee-en)

Language Note

Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases shows respect and deepens interactions.

Business Hours & Schedules

Government Offices

Typically Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM - 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM.

Banks & ATMs

Banks typically Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM. Some open Saturday mornings. ATMs are widely available 24/7.

Shops & Restaurants

Souvenir shops open 8-9 AM to late evening. Local shops may close midday. Restaurants vary, opening for lunch and dinner.

Public Holidays

Major holidays can impact business hours and crowd levels. Plan travel accordingly.

Dates

  • Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year): Late Jan/Feb. Many businesses close for a week.
  • Reunification Day (April 30th) & International Labor Day (May 1STst): Visitor numbers are expected.
  • Foundation Day (September 2nd): Expect closures and domestic traveler crowds.

Seasonal Considerations

Seasonal weather patterns might affect certain activities and services.

Weather & Activities

  • Peak wet season (September-November): Some outdoor activities may be cancelled due to heavy rain.
  • Always check local conditions and forecasts before excursions.
  • My Son Sanctuary hours: 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

Traveler Services

Airport Services

Banking & ATMs

  • Atms are located in Hoi An and Da Nang.
  • Always use ATMs at reputable banks or in secure locations.
  • An ATM is near My Son's main parking area.

Operational Planning

Check business hours and holiday schedules prior to your visit, especially for specific attractions or services.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Cultural understanding is an important part of a respectful journey.

General Conduct

Simple gestures and suitable behavior can show respect.

Social Norms

  • A simple "Xin chào" (hello) is polite. A small bow or nod is appreciated.
  • Conservative attire is generally appreciated, especially at religious sites.
  • Ask permission before taking close-up photos of local people.

Dining & Tipping

Observe local dining customs and understand practices regarding gratuities.

Mealtime Customs

  • Tipping is not traditional but appreciated in tourist areas.
  • Do not stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice.
  • Enjoy local street food for real encounters.

Religious Site Etiquette

Show deep respect when visiting temples, pagodas, and historical sites.

Behavior at Sacred Sites

  • Remove shoes when entering certain areas of pagodas or temples.
  • Dress modestly; shoulders and knees uncovered.
  • Talk softly and maintain a respectful demeanor.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Awareness of cultural sensitivities can prevent misunderstandings.

Things to Avoid

  • Do not point with your finger; use an open hand.
  • Do not touch people'the leader ofs.
  • Avoid public displays of affection.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Societal Norms

  • Vietnam is generally a conservative society.
  • Public displays of affection are rare.
  • Traditional roles persist, but gender equality is improving.

LGBTQ+ Travel

  • Homosexuality is not illegal; same-sex marriage is not recognized.
  • Public attitudes are becoming more open in larger cities.
  • Subtlety is advisable in rural or conservative areas.

Accessibility Information

Infrastructure Limitations

  • My Son sanctuary Sanctuary: Limited accessibility. Routes are bumpy, unpaved, and have steps.
  • The City of lanterns Ancient Town: Narrow, sometimes cobbled streets and steps are challenging.
  • Private car with driver is with the most flexibility transport. Public buses are generally not accessible.

Services & Resources

  • Few specific services for the visually or hearing impaired.
  • Specific local resources for accessible tourism in My Son are limited.
  • Research specific hotel accessibility before booking.

Mindful Travel

A respectful approach to the customs of the area and traditions enriches your travel and cultural activities.

← Previous
Day Trips from My Son
← Back to Central Vietnam
Next →
Sustainable Travel in My Son

Next Up: Sustainable Travel in My Son. Eco-Friendly, Responsible Tourism, Conservation

Continue to Sustainable Travel in My Son