Located in Ho Chi Minh City, FITO Museum explores the history of traditional Vietnamese medicine through medicinal ingredients, preparation tools, historical documents and reconstructed medical spaces. Set inside an atmospheric wooden building, this private museum offers an accessible introduction to how traditional remedies were studied, prepared, stored and documented in Vietnam. It is particularly suited to travellers interested in medicinal plants, old pharmacies, traditional craftsmanship and cultural attractions beyond the city’s most familiar landmarks.

Hanoi in February is usually mild, but the weather can change noticeably from one week to the next. A sunny afternoon may feel perfect for walking, while damp air, wind or a short cold front can make the same temperature feel surprisingly chilly. February is a good time to visit if you care more about culture, local food and exploring the city than guaranteed sunshine. The main concerns are not heavy rain, but grey skies, light drizzle, occasional cold spells and possible service changes if your trip overlaps with Tet.

Being invited to a funeral in Vietnam can feel intimidating, especially when the mourning clothes, music and rituals are unfamiliar. The most important thing to remember is simple: foreign guests are not expected to understand every custom. Dress modestly, offer a brief expression of sympathy and follow the family’s lead. Do not assume that every guest must wear black, that every funeral follows Buddhist traditions or that the same rules apply throughout Vietnam. Most of this guide focuses on customs associated with the Kinh, Vietnam’s ethnic majority, because these are the practices travelers are most likely to encounter. Funeral traditions can still vary considerably according to family background, religion, region and ethnic community.

Hanoi weather in January is cool, relatively dry and often cloudier than many first-time visitors expect. Daytime temperatures usually reach around 20–21°C (68–70°F), but damp air, light drizzle and winter winds can make it feel colder, especially on motorbike rides or evening walks. This guide explains what January weather in Hanoi actually feels like, what to wear, how to plan your sightseeing, and what to expect if your trip also includes Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh or the northern mountains.

Few celebrations reveal the spirit of Laos as vividly as Boun Awk Phansa in Luang Prabang. Each October, the old royal capital glows with candlelit temples, colorful lanterns and magnificent fire boats parading through its historic streets before reaching the Mekong. For a few special days, local families, monks and communities come together, offering travelers a memorable glimpse into the city’s riverside atmosphere and deeply rooted spiritual traditions.

Booking a flight to Vietnam may seem straightforward at first. In practice, the choice involves much more than comparing two prices on a screen. A nonstop flight is usually the easiest option, but it may not be available from your nearest airport. A connecting itinerary can cost less or offer better departure times, although a long layover, limited baggage allowance or separate tickets can quickly reduce that advantage. The international flights also shape the rest of your journey. Arriving in Hanoi and leaving from Ho Chi Minh City, for example, can save you from crossing the country twice. Choosing the wrong gateway may mean adding another domestic flight, an airport transfer and part of an extra travel day. Our Vietnam airport guide explains which gateway best suits each region. This guide brings together the routes, airlines, journey times and fares we most often discuss with travelers planning a trip to Vietnam in 2026.