Haiphong Travel Hacks. Money Saving, Time Saving, Local Secrets

Money-Saving Strategies

Make your budget last longer in Haiphong with these smart approaches.

Free Activities & Attractions

Stroll around Tam Bac Lake.
Visit pagodas and temples (donations welcome).
Walk through local markets.
Window shop at colonial buildings.

Happy Hours & Dining

Inquire locally about deals.
Look for expat-friendly establishments.
Seek budget-friendly local eateries.
Ask for daily specials.

Transportation Savings

Use GrabBike for solo journeys.
Utilize local buses for inner-city travel.
Take train or express bus for inter-city travel.
These options are more economical than flights.

Accommodation Alternatives

Stay in hostels or guesthouses for budget options.
Consider homestays on Cat Ba for a local experience.
Seek value accommodations.
Explore options outside the main tourist zones.

Time-Saving Tips

Efficient planning maximizes your sightseeing and minimizes waiting.

Skip-the-Line & Timing

Queues are rare at Haiphong attractions.
Purchase Cat Ba ferry tickets online for peak days.
Arrive early for popular ferries.
Visit attractions early morning or late afternoon.

Express Transportation

Express Bus: Haiphong to Hanoi is faster than train.
Hydrofoil/Speedboat: Ben Binh to Cat Ba Town is quicker than ferry.
Choose direct routes.
Group attractions by proximity for efficient routing.

Pre-Booking Recommendations

Accommodation: Especially for high season or holidays.
Domestic flights: For travel between major cities.
Overnight cruises: Booking Lan Ha Bay/Halong Bay cruises.
Train tickets: For popular routes or sleeper berths.

General Time Management

Utilize navigation apps like Google Maps.
Plan flexible itineraries.
Keep devices charged.
Factor in breaks and relaxation.

Local Insights

Understand Haiphong's unofficial rules and social norms for a smoother experience.

Common Tourist Mistakes

Not bargaining politely at local markets.
Ignoring extreme vigilance needed when crossing streets.
Only eating Western food; you miss local cuisine.
Drinking tap water; stick to bottled or purified.

Local Customs

Remove shoes when entering homes or temples.
Avoid pointing with a finger; use an open hand.
Pass and receive items with two hands, especially with elders.
Ask permission before taking photos of people.

Unofficial Rules

Motorbike honking: often a warning, not aggression.
Personal space: less emphasis in crowded areas.
Traffic flow: expect less rigid lane adherence.
Bargaining is common in local markets.

Phrases that Impress Locals

"Cảm ơn" (thank you)
"Ngon quá!" (delicious!)
"Chào bạn" (hello friend)
Attempt numbers for bargaining.

Traveler-Specific Advice

Tailor your strategies for different group sizes, ensuring everyone enjoys their Haiphong experience.

Solo Traveler Safety & Social

Haiphong is generally safe; take standard precautions.
Use Grab for secure transport.
Stay in hostels on Cat Ba Island to meet others.
Engage with locals at street food stalls.

Family-Friendly Adaptations

Look for hotels with pools.
Vietnamese food is fresh; many dishes are mild for kids.
Enjoy Cat Co beaches, easy walks, and gentle boat tours.
Bring familiar snacks, medication, and entertainment.

Managing Group Logistics

Book accommodations with enough rooms in advance.
Consider hiring a private van for group transport.
Book group tours to benefit from economies of scale.
Communicate needs to hotels and operators.

Accessibility Considerations

Pre-plan and communicate specific needs.
Private transport often provides the best solution.
Be aware of uneven pavements in older areas.
Contact providers directly for detailed accessibility info.

Important Note

Always verify information with local sources as travel conditions can change. Stay flexible.

Haiphong Travel Essentials

A smooth journey to Haiphong begins with understanding aspects of travel preparedness and local interactions.

Strategic Planning

Effective preparation makes your trip smoother, from visas to accommodations.

Smooth Logistics

Consider transport options and booking ahead to streamline your journey.

Immersive Experience

Engage with local culture and daily life for memorable interactions.

General Travel Wisdom

Smart Packing & Flexibility

Packing smart for varying conditions.
Staying flexible with plans.
Being open-minded to new experiences.

Cultural Connection

Embracing unexpected moments.
Learning basic local phrases.
Connecting with locals through genuine interaction.

Local Etiquette Reminder

Always be mindful of local customs, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with elders.

Haiphong Travel Hacks