FAQs

Question

Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam?

Answer

You'll need a passport valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates, with at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps. Most nationalities require a visa, which can be obtained through Vietnam's official e-Visa website. We recommend applying 1–2 weeks before departure (though you can apply up to one year in advance) once your flights and accommodations are confirmed. Beginning July 1, 2026, all travelers entering Vietnam are also required to complete a health declaration within seven days before arrival. If you're flying into Tan Son Nhat airport, you’ll also need to complete a pre-arrival form within 72 hours of arrival. For more information and links to key website, look under "Travel."

Question

Where should I stay?

Answer

AN LAM RETREATS SAIGON RIVER We fell in love with our venue because An Lam feels like a hidden oasis just outside the bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, and we can't wait to share this special place with you. We'll be staying there from Thursday, August 6 through Sunday, August 9. Guests staying at the resort can enjoy the pool, Jungle Spa, and Sen Restaurant, and An Lam's wonderful staff can assist with airport transfers and other arrangements. DISTRICT 1, HO CHI MINH CITY If An Lam is full or you'd prefer to stay downtown, we recommend District 1. Wink Saigon Centre is a modern, high-tech lifestyle hotel located near the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Rates generally range from $68–160 USD/night and the hotel is just minutes from the boat dock. Muong Thanh Grand Saigon Centre offers larger rooms and a more traditional full-service experience. Rates range from $112–144 USD/night and it is conveniently located near many of the city's major landmarks. For more details about each hotel, look under "Travel." If you're unsure which option best fits your travel style, we're happy to help!

Question

How do I get to An Lam Retreats?

Answer

BY BOAT One of our favorite ways to arrive! An Lam operates complimentary boats from Bach Dang Pier in District 1, opposite the Tran Hung Dao Monument. Saigon Waterbus Station Bach Dang Pier - Me Linh Square 10B Ton Duc Thang Street, Ben Nghe Ward District 1, Ho Chi Minh City Bach Dang → An Lam 10:00 AM • 12:00 PM • 2:00 PM • 6:00 PM An Lam → Bach Dang 9:30 AM • 11:30 AM • 1:30 PM • 5:30 PM BY CAR The drive from District 1 takes approximately one hour. We recommend downloading Grab, Vietnam's equivalent of Uber or Lyft, for getting around Ho Chi Minh City. Please reach out if you need help coordinating transportation from the airport.

Question

Is Ho Chi Minh City safe?

Answer

Absolutely! Ho Chi Minh City is vibrant, welcoming, and easy to navigate. As with any major city, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings and keep phones and valuables secure in crowded areas. Most guests will be staying in the central districts, where travelers generally feel very comfortable.

Question

What health precautions should I take?

Answer

We recommend consulting your doctor at least four weeks before departure and staying up to date on routine vaccinations. If you're planning to venture beyond the city into more rural parts of Vietnam or Southeast Asia, additional precautions may be appropriate.

Question

Is the water safe to drink?

Answer

Stick to bottled or filtered water. Tap water is not recommended for drinking. Vietnam's food scene is one of the great joys of visiting, from street food stalls to world-class restaurants. Most travelers adjust quickly, but frequent hand washing and a little caution with raw foods go a long way.

Question

Should I extend my trip?

Answer

If you have the time, we highly recommend it! You may want to consider flying into (or out of) northern Vietnam through Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in the capital city of Hanoi and making your way south. Must-see sights in the North include the UNESCO World Heritage site Ha Long Bay, the mountainous landscapes of Sapa and Ha Giang, and the breathtaking scenery of Ninh Binh, where you can enjoy peaceful boat rides and visit beautifully crafted temples and pagodas. Central Vietnam, where Yen’s father’s side is from, is also incredibly beautiful. Da Nang International Airport (DAD), the country’s third major airport, provides easy access to Hoi An, a historic trading port known for its lantern-lit streets, markets, and traditional arts and Da Nang, famous for its stunning beaches and world-class resorts. For those who want to fully immerse themselves in all Vietnam has to offer, iconic sights such as the Dragon Bridge, Marble Mountains, and Ba Na Hills are well worth a visit.

Question

Who should I contact if I have questions?

Answer

Please don't hesitate to reach out to us or our wedding planner, Y Nhu at ynhu@gonweddingplanner.com or +84 707 00 4509 on WhatsApp. Whether you have questions about flights, hotels, dietary restrictions, packing, or planning a longer trip through Vietnam, we're happy to help however we can!