Welcome delegates to Ho Chi Minh City, the most dynamic economic, cultural and medical center in Vietnam. Below is some useful information for your trip.
Currency and payment
The currency is Vietnam Dong (VND, VND). Reference exchange rate is about 26,000 VND = 1 USD.
International cards Visa, Mastercard, JCB are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, shopping centers and supermarkets. Small stalls, traditional markets and motorbike taxis usually only accept cash.
You can exchange foreign currency at banks, airports or licensed exchange counters. ATMs are everywhere in the city.
Payment by QR code is very popular.
Practical information
Voltage: 220V, frequency 50Hz. Common sockets are types A, C (flat or round pins). International guests should bring a universal converter.
Time zone: GMT+7 (ICT). Vietnam does not apply summer time.
Language: Vietnamese. English is used at hotels, airports and tourist areas.
Tipping: not required. Many high-end hotels and restaurants add a service charge (5–10%) to the bill. You can tip more if you are satisfied with the service.
Climate
The end of October is the end of the rainy season in the city. Ho Chi Minh. Daytime temperatures are about 25–33°C, humidity is high, and there are often short showers in the evening. You should bring light, airy clothing and an umbrella or lightweight raincoat. The conference room has air conditioning, so bring a light jacket.
Working hours
Banking: Monday – Friday, around 8:00 – 16:30. Some branches open on Saturday mornings.
Shopping malls: around 9:30 – 10:00 pm daily.
Convenience stores: many stores open 24/7.
Ben Thanh Market: daytime until around 6:00 pm, then there is a night market around around.
Emergency phone number
Service Police call number 113 Fire – Rescue 114 Medical emergency 115 Ho Chi Minh City public service switchboard 1022
Travel
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is located in the inner city, about 7–8 km from the center of old District 1. Taking a taxi or car takes 20–40 minutes depending on peak hours. Terminal T3 serves domestic flights.
Taxis and technology vehicles: Grab, Be, Xanh SM and Vinasun, Mai Linh taxis are all popular. Use the app to know the price before going.
Airport bus: lines 109 and 152 run to the city center.
Metro No. 1 (Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien): The city's first metro and elevated train line, convenient to visit the central and eastern areas.
Suggestive sights Italy
old trade statues, many specialties and souvenirs.
War Remnants Museum and Ho Chi Minh City History Museum.
Bach Dang Wharf and Saigon River Cruise: see the city at night.
Landmark 81: observatory on the tallest building Vietnam.
Xeo, spring rolls and iced milk coffee. Street food is very rich. Choose a restaurant that is crowded and hygienic.
Mobile network and Internet
Tourist SIM and eSIM (Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone) are sold at the counter in the arrival hall of Tan Son Nhat airport. When purchasing, you need to present your passport.
Most hotels, cafes and restaurants have free Wi-Fi.
Visa (for international delegates)
Vietnam issues electronic visas (e-visa) to citizens of all countries, for a maximum period of 90 days. You register at the official portal evisa.gov.vn.
Citizens of some countries are exempt from visa for a certain period of time.
You should check current regulations before departure.
Notes on safety All
Hold your phone and handbag carefully when walking on the sidewalk, avoid snatching things.
Be careful when crossing the street because of heavy motorbike traffic. Go slowly, steadily and observe.
Use bottled water.
Travel insurance
The Organizing Committee recommends that delegates purchase travel insurance before arriving. The Organizing Committee is not responsible for any loss, damage, injury, accident, delay or inconvenience arising while attending the Conference and staying in the City.