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Essential Preparations

Essential Preparations

Vietnam

Chronological Planning

A timely approach to your travel arrangements.

Advance Planning Stages

From visa acquisition to health precautions.

01

+ Months Out

Visa & Passport

Research visa conditions and passport validity (6+ months).

Flight Bookings

Book international flights early for better prices and availability.

Health Consult

Visit a doctor for recommended vaccinations and preventative medications.

02

Month Out

Domestic Travel

Book domestic flights to Lien Khuong Airport (DLI) or long-distance bus tickets.

Accommodation

Secure hotels, guesthouses, or homestays; popular places fill up quickly.

Itinerary & Tours

Outline daily activities, attractions, day trips, and specific tours.

03

Week Out

Confirmations

Double-check flight, accommodation, and tour bookings.

Packing & Docs

Gather all documents, electronics, health & wellness items. Pack layers.

Money & Transfers

Exchange initial local currency. Arrange airport/bus station transfers.

Advance Booking

Secure arrangements well in advance.

Important Reservations

  • Flights (international and domestic).
  • Popular hotels and resorts.
  • Specific tours (e.g., canyoning, Easy Rider).
  • Bookings advised, notably in high season.

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarize yourself with the destination.

Cultural Readiness

  • Read about Dalat's history and culture.
  • Understand local etiquette.
  • Learn common scams or safety concerns.
  • Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases.

Home Preparation

Ready your home before your departure.

Household Tasks

  • Arrange for pet care.
  • Suspend mail delivery.
  • Pay recurring bills.
  • Secure your home (doors, windows).

Information Sharing

  • Notify trusted family/friends.
  • Share your itinerary.
  • Provide emergency contacts.
  • Inform neighbors of your absence.

Digital Safekeeping

  • Gather digital/physical copies of documents.
  • Passport, visa, travel insurance (World Nomads).
  • Store copies separately and on a cloud.
  • Exchange initial local currency.

Bank Notification

Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates and destinations. This helps prevent fraud alerts or card suspensions.

Arrival Checklist

These steps assist a smooth transition upon arriving in Dalat.

First Actions

  • 01
    Clear Immigration:

    Have passport, visa (or e-visa/approval letter), and entry forms ready.

  • 02
    Collect Luggage:

    Retrieve your checked bags from the carousel.

  • 03
    Find Currency:

    Withdraw or exchange some VND for immediate expenses.

Transport & Connectivity

  • Transportation:

    From Lien Khuong Airport, choose airport bus, licensed taxi, or Grab.

  • Local SIM:

    Purchase a local SIM card (e.g., Viettel) at the airport or in the city.

  • Currency:

    Exchange enough cash for immediate needs upon arrival (transport, first meal).

Orientation & Transfers

Initial Orientation

Use pre-arranged transfer or Grab to accommodation. Obtain a physical map from your hotel.

Locate nearby ATMs, pharmacies, convenience stores, and good local eateries.

Money & Basics

Purchase bottled water, as tap water is not potable.

Find local eateries near your stay.

Seamless Transfers

From main bus station, a short Grab ride to your hotel.

Arrange airport transfer in advance for convenience.

Planning Ahead

Confirm airport/bus station transfers in Dalat. Arrange your transport from Lien Khuong Airport or the bus station to your accommodation.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure to ensure a stress-free exit from Dalat and Vietnam.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs a day or two before departure.
  • Inquire about shipping services at the Dalat General Post Office.
  • Be aware of home country customs regulations.
  • Check rules for agricultural products, food, or antiques.

VAT Refunds & Timing

  • Vietnam has a VAT refund scheme for foreign tourists on certain goods.
  • Typically processed at major international airports.
  • Confirm flight or bus departure times the day before.
  • Allow sufficient time for travel to the airport/station.

Final Checks

Last-minute confirmations for your onward journey.

Return Documents

  • Ensure all necessary documents for onward journey.Passport, tickets, visas.
  • Reconfirm your next flight, bus, or train schedule.Check times.
  • Pack liquids according to airline regulations.Carry-on luggage.
  • Secure any valuables for travel.Peace of mind.

Preparing for Departure

  • Arrange airport or bus station transfer in advance.
  • Factor in potential traffic for travel time.
  • Allow time for check-in procedures.
  • Plan the quickest route to your departure point.

Carry-On Essentials

Pack a small bag of essentials in your carry-on for the first night.

This includes a change of clothes, toiletries, and medications, in case your checked luggage experiences delays. Consider Eagle Creek for efficient packing organizers.