Emergency Vietnam Visa: How to Get a Last-Minute Entry to Vietnam

Vietnam is a country rich in cultural diversity, and nowhere is this more evident than in its border cities. These unique destinations, often overlooked by tourists, sit at the crossroads of different civilizations, where Vietnamese traditions blend seamlessly with influences from China, Cambodia, and Laos. From the bustling trade hubs to the historical landmarks, these cities offer an extraordinary mix of flavors, architecture, and traditions. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, here’s why Mong Cai, Lao Cai, and Ha Tien should be on your Vietnam travel list.  1. Mong Cai: Where Vietnam Meets ChinaLocated in Quang Ninh Province, Mong Cai is Vietnam’s northernmost city, directly bordering China’s Guangxi province. This strategic location has made Mong Cai a major trading hub, where Chinese and Vietnamese influences intertwine in everyday life.Cultural Fusion: Walk through Mong Cai Market, where merchants from both countries sell everything from Chinese teas to Vietnamese seafood specialties. The vibrant mix of languages, street signs in both Chinese and Vietnamese, and the blend of traditional clothing styles make this city an intriguing cultural melting pot.Culinary Highlights: Enjoy Vietnamese-style dim sum, fresh seafood, and Mong Cai’s famous Ngan clam dishes—a local delicacy often cooked in Chinese-style hotpots.Must-See Spots: Take a break at Tra Co Beach, a peaceful escape from the city’s commercial hustle, or visit Ka Long Bridge, a symbol of Vietnam-China connectivity.  2. Lao Cai: The Gateway to the HighlandsFamous for being the transit city to Sapa, Lao Cai is more than just a stopover. This city sits near the Chinese border and serves as a cultural crossroads, home to various ethnic minorities and a thriving trade scene with China’s Yunnan Province.Ethnic Diversity: While in Lao Cai, you’ll encounter a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and ethnic minority groups like the H’Mong, Dao, and Tay. Their traditions, colorful markets, and distinctive clothing styles make this city a fascinating place to explore.Local Markets: Visit Coc Leu Market, where you’ll find authentic Yunnan-style hotpot, rare medicinal herbs, and handcrafted items from local hill tribes.Historical Significance: The Lao Cai International Border Gate is one of Vietnam’s busiest border crossings, connecting it directly to China’s Hekou City. The bridge that links the two countries is a symbol of the region’s intertwined history and trade.  3. Ha Tien: Vietnam’s Cambodian-Influenced Coastal CityDown in the southwest, Ha Tien sits on the border with Cambodia, offering a fascinating mix of Vietnamese, Khmer, and Chinese heritage. With its scenic coastline and historical depth, this city is a true hidden gem.Khmer Influence: Many locals in Ha Tien are of Khmer descent, and you can see Cambodian architectural elements in Tam Bao Pagoda and Mac Cuu Mausoleum, a historical site dedicated to a Chinese merchant who played a major role in shaping Ha Tien’s identity.Unique Cuisine: Try Bun Num Bo Choc, a Khmer-style noodle soup with fermented fish broth, or Ha Tien’s take on Vietnamese-Cambodian-style grilled beef skewers.Natural Beauty: Explore Hon Chong Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and fascinating rock formations, or hike up Da Dung Mountain, which is wrapped in legends of hidden treasures and ancient civilizations. Vietnam’s border cities are more than just transit points—they are vibrant cultural landscapes shaped by history, migration, and trade. From Mong Cai’s bustling markets to Lao Cai’s ethnic diversity and Ha Tien’s Khmer influences, each city tells a unique story of cultural fusion. If you want to see Vietnam from a different perspective, these destinations will offer a journey beyond the typical tourist trails. 

Da Nang's Department of Tourism, in collaboration with Vietnam Airlines and 12 leading travel companies, has officially launched a shared booth at SATTE 2025, South Asia’s premier travel and tourism exhibition. The event, held at the Yashobhoomi India International Convention and Expo Centre in New Delhi from February 19-21, aims to strengthen Da Nang’s position in the fast-growing Indian travel market.Speaking at the booth’s opening, Vietnamese Ambassador to India, Nguyen Thanh Hai, reaffirmed his support for deepening socio-economic ties between Vietnam and India, particularly in tourism. This marks the third consecutive year that Da Nang’s Department of Tourism has participated in SATTE, underscoring its commitment to attracting Indian travelers. Da Nang: A Rising Destination for Indian TouristsIndia currently ranks 4th among Da Nang’s top international visitor markets, highlighting the city’s increasing appeal. Huynh Thi Huong Lan, Deputy Director of the Da Nang Tourism Promotion Centre, emphasized that India is a priority market in the city's post-pandemic tourism recovery strategy. She expressed optimism that SATTE 2025 will further boost Da Nang’s visibility and foster strong partnerships with Indian travel agencies.At the event, Da Nang is actively promoting its MICE tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), golf tourism, and destination weddings, all of which align with the preferences of Indian travelers. Additional marketing campaigns will further enhance Da Nang’s image as a must-visit destination for Indian tourists.  Record-Breaking Indian Tourist Arrivals in Da NangDa Nang welcomed over 222,000 Indian visitors in 2024, accounting for 5.3% of all international arrivals and nearly 50% of all Indian travelers to Vietnam. Notably, Indian visitor numbers have surged 13.5 times compared to 2019, highlighting the market’s exponential growth.Vietnam Airlines Expands Routes to IndiaVietnam Airlines, a key partner in promoting travel between the two countries, has been operating 14 weekly flights between Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City and New Delhi/Mumbai since 2022, with seat occupancy consistently exceeding 80%. To meet rising demand, the airline is set to introduce two new direct routes connecting Hanoi with Bangalore and Hyderabad in 2025. Additionally, Vietnam Airlines plans to deploy wide-body aircraft on the Mumbai–Hanoi route, enhancing connectivity for business and leisure travelers.SATTE 2025: Strengthening Vietnam-India Tourism RelationsWith over 1,800 exhibitors and 1,000 international buyers from 120 countries, SATTE 2025 is expected to attract 50,000 visitors, reinforcing its reputation as South Asia’s largest travel trade show. Da Nang’s participation highlights its ambition to become a premier destination for Indian travelers, strengthening tourism ties between Vietnam and India.

Among the top famous and long-established tour companies and operators, Visit Vietnam Tours boasts one of the country’s youngest and best travel agencies.  Visit Vietnam Tours is based in Ho Chi Minh City and has a sales office in Bengaluru, India. Our expert team provides tailored and comprehensive tour packages using the latest technological advancements to make your trip memorable. We are here to cater to all travelers, from adventure seekers and nature lovers to historical/cultural enthusiasts, foodies, and beach bums.  You can choose from a wide selection of attentively pre-designed itineraries to discover every corner of Vietnam. If you want to enjoy a unique tour, we will customize all experiences.  Visit Vietnam Tours’ best services Private and group tours We offer available day tours, short, mid-length, and long trips from 2 to 16 days. Explore Vietnam’s magnificent landscapes, glorious history, and unique cuisine from the North to the South. Meet our friendly people and immerse yourself in the exceptional local culture. Vietnam’s rich and extraordinary culture always amazes travelers, even if they are Vietnamese. So, it will be a waste if you miss it.  The top tourist destinations include Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Sapa, Danang, Hue, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Phan Thiet, Da Lat, Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, and more. Our group tours are suitable for guests of all ages and include experiences and activities that highlight the best features of each place and region.   In addition, you will be surprised by the incredibly affordable prices of our packages. Day trips cost from only $30 to less than $100. Meanwhile, group tour prices vary from $150 to $1,600, depending on your itinerary, trip duration, activities, etc.  Adventurous toursLet us take you to Vietnam’s off-the-beaten-path land, pristine waters, hidden falls, and exotic caves. Prepare yourself and experience the thrill of adventure. There are various activities to increase your adrenaline, such as paragliding, hiking, rock climbing, ziplining, kayaking, snorkeling, jet skiing, flyboarding, etc. Bicycle and camping tours by Visit Vietnam Tours are also popular among adventure seekers.  The best places to try adventurous trips in Vietnam are the Northwestern mountainous area (Ha Giang, Sapa, Mai Chau, etc.), Quang Binh, Nha Trang, Danang, Da Lat, and more.  You won’t have to worry about safety when traveling with Vietnam’s best travel agency. We make sure to arrange and collaborate with reputable and trustworthy partners to create the most unforgettable experience.   Tailor-made toursDo you want to be unique? Would you like your journey in Vietnam to be customized? Our Vietnamese expert team knows several unusual things to do, places to visit, and dishes to eat. Contact and discuss with Visit Vietnam Tours, Vietnam’s best travel agency, for a trip tailored to your preferences, demands, and budget. What makes Visit Vietnam Tours the best travel agency?  A caring and supportive expert team Visit Vietnam Tours proudly has experts with an in-depth understanding of the tourism industry and an enthusiastic attitude. We are dedicated and confident to offer you a joyful Vietnam trip. Whenever a problem appears, we can handle and solve it with poise, professionalism, and care to keep you at ease.  An extensive range of services By joining our package tours, you can completely rest assured about every service from visa, flight, and transportation to accommodation, dining, and recreation. Our tour prices cover an air-conditioned vehicle, rooms at 3- to 5-star hotels and luxury resorts, meals and drinks, an energetic English-speaking local guide, activities, entrance fees, and more. Some include Vietnam visas and air tickets. Personal expenses, tips for drivers and guides, travel insurance, and more are excluded. Feel free to talk to Visit Vietnam Tours to optimize all services to your needs and interests.   Reasonable tailored and comprehensive tour packages Bespoke experience at a reasonable price, why not? If you choose Visit Vietnam Tours, one of the best travel agencies in Vietnam, you can show off your unique and charismatic self through a tailor-made tour. Whether you love adventure, history, local culture, food, or nature, Vietnam can cater to everything and surely we’ve got you covered.  Technological advancements Technology is an indispensable part of making Visit Vietnam Tours one of the country’s best travel agencies, enabling us to manage things efficiently and logically. Plus, we have our technique specialist team who is a great help in providing a seamless and grand experience to customers.  Besides Visit Vietnam Tours, other best and most reliable travel agencies in Vietnam can be listed such as Vietravel, Ben Thanh Tourist, Saigon Tourist, Vietnamtourism - Hanoi, Dat Viet Tour, etc. If you want to explore Son Doong, the world’s largest natural cave located in Quang Binh, reach out to Oxalis Adventure. This is currently the only tour operator to be licensed to organize adventurous tours in Son Doong with limited participants. To conclude, unique tailor-made tours, affordable costs, and an attentive expert team are the notable highlights you can see at Visit Vietnam Tours. Drop us a message and plan your upcoming enjoyable trip to Vietnam. 

Are you dreaming of a romantic escape this Valentine's Day? Vietnam offers an enchanting mix of cultural wonders, breathtaking natural landscapes, and intimate experiences perfect for couples. From Hanoi’s charming streets to a magical Halong Bay cruise, let this itinerary take you on a journey filled with love and adventure. Hanoi: The Heart of RomanceBegin your journey in Hanoi, Vietnam’s poetic and vibrant capital. Stroll through the historic Old Quarter, where centuries-old streets exude charm and nostalgia. Hand in hand, explore the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, where legends of love and valor intersect. For a more intimate moment, visit Truc Bach Lake, a peaceful oasis away from the city's bustle. End your evening in a cozy colonial-style café or enjoy a candlelit dinner in one of Hanoi’s finest restaurants, soaking in the city's romantic ambiance.  Halong Bay: A Love Story on the WaterKeywords: Halong Bay cruise, Vietnam Valentine's DaySet sail on a luxurious Halong Bay cruise, where dramatic limestone karsts rise from emerald waters, creating a mesmerizing setting for romance. A private junk boat offers an intimate experience, complete with gourmet dining, sunset cocktails, and breathtaking sunrise views. Whether watching the sun dip below the horizon or enjoying a moonlit night on the deck, Halong Bay sets the perfect stage for unforgettable moments together. Trang An: The Halong Bay on LandKeywords: Halong Bay on land, romantic trip to VietnamFor another stunning natural wonder, visit Trang An, also known as “Halong Bay on land.” A serene boat ride through winding rivers, hidden caves, and lush limestone peaks transports you into a fairytale-like landscape. Stop by the Bich Dong Pagoda, where scenes from the romantic film Indochine were filmed, adding a cinematic touch to your love story.  The Mandarin Road: A Journey Through Vietnam’s HistoryFollow the legendary Mandarin Road as you explore Hue, the former royal capital of Vietnam. Walk through the grand Imperial City, admire the poetic Perfume River, and visit ancient emperors’ tombs, each telling a story of love and legacy. Continue your journey along the Hai Van Pass, known as the “Cloud Pass,” offering panoramic views of the coastline.Arrive in Hoi An, the most romantic town in Vietnam. Wander its lantern-lit streets, cross the iconic Japanese Bridge, and enjoy an evening boat ride along the Thu Bon River. With its dreamy ambiance and rich history, Hoi An is a destination made for couples. The Mekong Delta: A Love Story on the WaterwaysStep into the world of Marguerite Duras’ The Lover as you journey through the Mekong Delta. Visit floating markets, where vibrant boats overflow with fresh tropical fruits, and explore quaint villages surrounded by lush orchards. Stop by Sa Dec, home to the legendary house that inspired Duras' novel, and relive a tale of forbidden love in the heart of Indochina. Phu Quoc: A Romantic Beach EscapeEnd your romantic getaway on Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam’s tropical paradise. Lounge on pristine white sand beaches, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, and enjoy candlelit dinners by the sea. Whether you're snorkeling in crystal-clear waters or simply basking in the island’s tranquility, Phu Quoc offers the perfect ending to your Valentine's Day trip.  Celebrate Love in VietnamVietnam is a land of passion, history, and breathtaking scenery—making it the ideal destination for a romantic Valentine’s Day. Whether exploring ancient cities, sailing on tranquil waters, or unwinding on a secluded beach, this journey promises unforgettable memories for you and your loved one.Plan your Valentine’s Day in Vietnam and experience a love story like no other! 

Vietnam welcomed a record-breaking 2.1 million international visitors in January 2025, marking its highest-ever monthly foreign arrivals, according to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism. This milestone surpasses the pre-pandemic peak of January 2020, when the country received 2 million visitors during its tourism boom.                                  China Reclaims Top Spot as Vietnam’s Largest Tourist MarketChina led the surge in arrivals, contributing 575,000 visitors and making up 27.7% of the total international tourists. The resurgence of Chinese tourism is attributed to strengthened bilateral ties and enhanced travel connectivity.Following China, South Korea ranked second with over 417,000 tourists, while Cambodia, the United States, Taiwan, Japan, Australia, India, Malaysia, and Thailand rounded out the top ten source markets. Massive Growth in Key Markets Driving Vietnam’s Tourism Boom Several major markets saw impressive year-on-year growth in January 2025:Chinese visitors surged by 137.4%, fueling Vietnam’s tourism rebound.Cambodia recorded a staggering 168.6% increase, showing strong regional interest.The United States saw a 22.3% rise, reflecting growing demand from North American travelers.European tourism remained strong, thanks to Vietnam’s unilateral visa waiver policy. Vietnam’s Tourism Industry Thrives Amid Asia’s Slower RecoveryDespite a gradual tourism recovery across Asia, Vietnam is leading the way with aggressive tourism strategies, visa facilitation, and enhanced flight connectivity. The record-breaking 2.1 million arrivals in January 2025 highlight the country’s emergence as a top global travel destination.With this momentum, Vietnam’s tourism sector is poised for continued growth in 2025, solidifying its place among the most sought-after destinations in Southeast Asia.