Central Vietnam, Vietnam
Dry Season (February to August): This period has high temperatures and low humidity, with minimal rainfall. February to April offer 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 rainfall 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.
High season (February to April) presents optimal weather but also more 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.
September to November
Significantly fewer tourists, potentially lower prices for tours and accommodation. Lush, green landscapes.
High risk of heavy rain, typhoons, and flooding. High humidity. Plans can change quickly due to weather.
May-August, December-January
May-August has fewer crowds. Dec-Jan has cooler temperatures, potentially fewer crowds than peak. Lush landscapes during rainy periods.
May-August can be uncomfortably hot. Dec-Jan brings significant rainfall, making paths slippery. Some tours might change itineraries.
February to April
Optimal weather conditions. Sunny skies and comfortable temperatures for exploring. Air feels fresh, blue skies for photos.
Higher tourist numbers. Larger crowds at My Son. Potentially increased prices for tours and accommodation in Hoi An/Da Nang. Popular photo spots might require patience.
My Son is in a region prone to seasonal monsoons, specifically from September to November. Typhoons can occur during this period, leading to flash floods and disruption of services. Monitoring weather forecasts closely is important if traveling during these months.
Extreme heat is a consideration from May to August. Staying hydrated and applying sun protection during this period is recommended.
Early morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM) during the dry season (February-April). This avoids crowds and midday heat. The light is softer.
The "golden hours" of early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photos, with long shadows creating dramatic effects.
February to April, or cooler days in December-January, are ideal for extended walking around the site. Mild temperatures make exploration pleasant.
Midday exploration during May to August is not advisable due to intense heat.
During the wet season, waterproof gear will make your visit more comfortable.
Entry to Vietnam generally includes visa procedures. Review current regulations well before your trip.
Most foreign nationals require a visa for Vietnam. Several application methods are available.
Gather these documents for smooth entry.
Always verify the most current regulations as they can change without prior notice.
My Son 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 Da Nang.
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 widely available in major cities like Da Nang and Hoi An. Major 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 at airports or hotels. USD and EUR are easily exchanged.
For those seeking to explore My Son economically, daily costs are kept low by opting for local transportation and food.
Total My Son Day: 350,000 - 600,000 VND (~$14 - $24 USD)
Meals (street food/local eateries): 100,000 - 200,000 VND
This budget allows for organized tours and mid-tier dining, balancing cost 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
Opt for private transfers and guides, 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
| 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 VND ($20 - $60 USD) | |
| Luxury (High-end Resorts/Hotels) | 2,000,000 - 5,000,000+ VND ($80 - $200+ USD) |
Prepare for common concerns and learn how to access services.
Ensure all routine immunizations (measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, chickenpox, polio, flu) are up-to-date.
Highly recommended due to risk from contaminated food/water (Hepatitis A) and blood/body fluid exposure (Hepatitis B).
Recommended for most travelers, especially those visiting rural areas or on longer trips. Consult a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip.
Prevention is to a healthy trip.
Traveler's Diarrhea: Eat hot, cooked food. Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid ice if unsure of its source.
Dengue Fever: Use strong Insect repellent containing DEET. Wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk. This mosquito-borne illness is prevalent.
Heat Exhaustion/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.
In major cities like Da Nang and Hoi An, find public and private hospitals. Private international clinics (e.g., Family Medical Practice, Vinmec in Da Nang) offer higher standards of care, often with English-speaking staff, but are more expensive.
Widely available in towns, but quality varies. Bring required prescription medications with a doctor's note.
Dial 115 for medical emergencies. Response times and quality vary outside major cities.
My Son Sanctuary is relatively safe. Petty crime can occur in tourist areas of Hoi An and Da Nang.
Maintaining hygiene is to avoiding common travel ailments.
Tap water is not safe to drink. Consume only Bottled water. Ensure seals are unbroken. Many hotels offer refill stations. Consider a Water purification bottle.
Be cautious with street food. Opt for stalls with high turnover where food is cooked fresh. Avoid raw vegetables (unless peeled/from reputable sources) and unpasteurized dairy.
When purchasing bottled water, check the seal for any signs of tampering.
