Local Knowledge

Taxis

From the airport taxis cost about US$16, although it’s less than US$10 in the other direction. Once in Nha Trang they, along with cyclos (three-wheeled pedicabs) and xe oms (motorbike taxis) are plentiful, but ask the driver to turn on the meter or at least negotiate the fare before you head off.

Tipping culture

Tipping is a relatively new phenomenon in Vietnam thanks to the arrival of mass tourism. If you’re happy with the service, consider leaving an extra 10 per cent.

Siesta and fiesta

Banks and government agencies take a little break during the day, so tend to ply their trade 8am to 11.30am and 1pm to 4pm, plus Saturday mornings. Shops usually keep longer hours 8am to 8pm. Restaurants are open until around 10pm. A handful of bars will stagger beyond the midnight hour.

Packing tips

Mrs Smith, you need to bring lots of flowing dresses to compete with the ao dais on show in Nha Trang. The Vietnamese have a proverb that their female national dress covers everything but hides nothing, so don’t be afraid to be a little provocative. Mr Smith, no such worries for you – pack your Gap slacks and relax.

Recommended reads

A Rumor of War by Philip Caputo is one of the best-written memoirs to emerge from the American War in Vietnam. For something to make you laugh, seek out a copy of Phaic Tan: Sunstroke on a Shoestring by Santo Cilauro, Tom Gleisner and Rob Sitch. A spoof guidebook to a composite country in south-east Asia – read it and weep with mirth.

Cuisine

Travelling through Vietnam overloads the senses, and that continues when you eat here. Delicate flavours, subtle aromas and fresh ingredients combine to make a journey through the country a gastronomic adventure.

Regional specialities

Nha Trang is the seafood capital of Vietnam, with a huge fishing fleet visible in the river estuary nestled beneath the Po Nagar Cham Towers. Lobster farms provide fresh tails daily. Whether bubbling in a hotpot or grilled on the beach, fruits de mer should top your list of indulgences.

Currency

Vietnamese dong (d) or US dollar.

Time zone

GMT +7 hours.

Dialling codes

Country code for Vietnam +84; Nha Trang: (0)54.

Do go/don't go

Nha Trang has some of the best weather to be found along Vietnam’s coastline. Officially the rains dampen the party from October to December, but in recent years they have been fairly light.