Since Vietnam's ‘doi moi' policy of reform in 1986, its subsequent acceptance into World Trade Organisation (WTO) and establishment of Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) with the US , the country has seen a quantum leap in its relations with the world – and a huge jump in international trade. Early government estimates indicate that exports have risen almost 20 per cent year-on-year from January to July 2007, and foreign direct investment (FDI) jumped 74 per cent to US$3.9 bil in the first six months of 2007. GDP growth is expected to be 8.2 to 8.5 per cent in 2007, and will reach 8.6 per cent in 2008.
The future looks bright for Vietnam. Regarded by tourists as an emerging new destination that is exotic and mysterious, the travel and tourism sector is set to become a significant contributor to the country's GDP. In 2007, this sector is expected to generate US$12.195 bil of economic activity or 11.2 per cent of GDP, and generate 3.52 mil jobs, which is equivalent to nine per cent of total employment. Travel and tourism is forecast to grow by 10.5 per cent from 2006, and by 7.8 per cent per annum in real terms between 2008 and 2017.
Weather
Hanoi , and the north of Vietnam , has distinct winter and summer seasons. Winter, from November to April, is generally cool and wet, with an average temperature of 19 ° C (66° F). The hot summer, which spans May to October, has an average temperature of 30° C (86° C).
Language
Mainly Vietnamese, with some French, Russian and Chinese. English is used at major corporations and key places of interest.
Time Difference
GMT +7
Visa
There are various kinds of visas for foreigners entering Vietnam. Visa-on-arrival is available at the airport and it can also be obtained at the Vietnamese embassies or consulates in your country. It is recommendable to get your visa before entering the country.
* Most ASEAN countries like Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Philippines, Korea and Japan are allowed visa-free entry for up to 30 days without having to apply for an entry visa. Please check with your nearest Vietnamese embassies or consulates.
Customs
On arrival, one must complete the white arrival-departure card. Visitors must declare foreign currency in excess of US$7,000. It is prohibited to import and export anti-government literature.
Currency
Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND), although the US dollar is widely accepted in bigger establishments. Major credit cards are acceptable in most hotels, restaurants and tourist establishments.
Hanoi is a great place to shop, especially if you enjoy picking up items to decorate the home. Lovely lacquer ware, paintings, woodcarvings, handicrafts, ceramics and handwoven fabrics make lovely ornaments or wall hangings, and silverware, jewellery and antiques are relatively inexpensive. Made-to-measure apparel is affordable and of high quality. Fabrics include Vietnamese, Cambodian or Thai silk, as well as imported materials from Europe, Egypt and India.
Gratuity
A 5% service charge is added to the bill, tipping is up to one's preferences.
Business Hours
Banks and government offices: Monday to Friday, 7.30am/8.00am to 5.00pm/5.30pm
Offices: Monday to Friday, 7.30am/8.00am to 5.00pm/5.30pm
Saturday, 7.30am/8.00am to 1.00pm
Shops (hours may vary): Generally open from 8.30am to 10.00pm every day
Eating Out
The ubiquitous Vietnamese pho (noodles) is a healthy and delicious staple for the locals. Made of the freshest ingredients including meat and bean sprouts, the noodles are served in soup with a dash of aromatic (some say pungent) nuoc mam (fish sauce). Other typical Vietnamese dishes are spring rolls, goi ngo sen (salad made with lotus stems, shrimps and peanuts) and other vegetarian food. International cuisine is available at hotels and restaurants.
Telephone Network
Country dialing code: 84
Hanoi area code: 4
Mobile Phones : Network providers available in Hanoi are Vinaphone, Mobifone, Viettel, HT Mobile, S-Fone and City Phone.
Public Phones: Coins are not accepted in Hanoi's public phones. Only phonecards are acceptable; they can be purchased with value of VND30,000 - VND500,000.
Health
There are a few international standard clinics and hospitals available. It is advisable to seek medical advice about vaccinations/inoculations from your family doctor before travelling, especially if you intend to go off the beaten track to explore the provinces.
Electricity
Voltage is 220V AC, although 110V AC is sometimes used in rural areas.
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