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Hey Kiwis! Planning a trip to Vietnam? Keen to get some dental work done while you’re there?
Vietnam’s becoming a bit of a hotspot for dental tourism, offering top-notch treatment at prices that won’t break the bank. This is thanks to great work by the dental industry and supportive government policies.
According to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, Vietnam expects around 19 million visitors this year. Around 300,000 of those will come for medical treatment, which will bring in about $2 billion. Dental work is a big part of that.
Ho Chi Minh City is a real hub, with around 40% of Vietnam’s 2,000+ dental clinics. With so many choices, finding the right clinic for quality, affordable care can be tricky.
That’s where we come in! We’ve put together some special packages just for our Kiwi mates. This handy guide will help you plan your dental treatment with us in Ho Chi Minh City. We’ll make sure everything runs smoothly.
1. Travel documents
Passport
Make sure your passport’s valid for at least six months after you plan to leave Vietnam. You’ll also need at least one blank visa page (not including the endorsement pages). Double-check your passport’s expiry date before you travel – it’s crucial! If you’re not sure it’ll be valid long enough, it’s a good idea to get a new one sorted before you go.
Visa
You’ll need a visa to enter Vietnam. The easiest way is usually to apply for an e-visa online for either tourism or business. If it’s approved, you can stay for up to 90 days with multiple entries.
Keep in mind that entry and exit rules can change quickly, so it’s always a good idea to check with your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for the latest info.
When you apply for your visa, make absolutely sure all the details are spot on. Before you travel, double-check that everything on your visa matches your passport’s details exactly, including your full name and date of birth. Even small mistakes can cause problems – you could end up paying extra fees, being refused boarding, or even denied entry when you arrive. Fixing visa errors at check-in or upon arrival can also be surprisingly expensive.
Airticket
Air New Zealand used to fly directly between Auckland and Ho Chi Minh City, but these direct flights are no longer available. If you’re looking for cheaper options, consider flights with a layover in cities like those in Australia, Singapore, Bangkok, Malaysia, Hong Kong, or Taipei, using budget airlines.
From most Australian capital cities, VietJet Air offers affordable direct flights to Vietnam. If you’re lucky enough to snag a great deal, VietJet sometimes offers “zero-dollar” fares to Vietnam though these will still have some surcharges. Even with those added costs, a VietJet return ticket can sometimes be found for as little as $300 AUD. It’s best to book well in advance. For help finding these deals, check with your local travel agent or our partner.
You can also find good deals with budget carriers like Jetstar or Scoot from New Zealand to Vietnam.
Accommodation
Finding a Place to Stay
While booking accommodation isn’t required for your visa application, it’s a good idea to secure a place to stay before you arrive in Ho Chi Minh City.
The city offers a wide range of options to suit all budgets, from clean and affordable two-star hotels for a few dozen NZD per night, all the way up to luxury hotels and residences costing several hundred NZD.
Booking your stay
You can book your accommodation directly through online travel agencies (OTAs) like Agoda, Booking.com, or others. These platforms offer a wide variety of options, reviews, and competitive prices.
Need help choosing a location?
If you’d like a hand finding a hotel in a convenient location near Elite Dental Center, just let our friendly staff know! They’re happy to assist you.
2. The best seasons to visit Vietnam
Peak travel times in Vietnam are during the winter, which lasts from December to the Lunar New Year—called Tet in Vietnam—between January and February, and the summer breaks in from June to September. These periods align with school holidays in New Zealand, so expect higher demand and airfares due to increased tourist numbers and returning Vietnamese expats.
If you prefer to avoid high humidity and heavy rain, it’s best to avoid the wet season from May to November, as these conditions can affect travel plans and outdoor activities. The dry season offers the best weather for exploring South Vietnam.
For a good balance of culture and sightseeing, a 7-10 day trip is recommended. This allows you to travel from south to north, visiting popular destinations like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Ha Long Bay. A two-week trip will give you even more time to explore.
For a more extended stay required by your dental treatment plan, Elite Dental Center and our partner can help you plan your itinerary.
3. Arriving in Vietnam
Money declaration
When entering or exiting Vietnam, you’re required to declare any foreign currency exceeding US$5,000, in cash or traveler’s cheques, and any amount of Vietnamese dong greater than 15 million. Carrying undeclared amounts of currency or gold could result in confiscation, fines, and legal action.
Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available in major Vietnamese cities. It’s a good idea to check with your bank before traveling to confirm that your ATM (eftpos) card will work in Vietnam.
Some travelers find it convenient to use a separate debit or credit account specifically for their Vietnam trip. They transfer a set amount of money into this account for daily expenses and replenish it as needed.
Airport pickup
Once you’ve landed in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll need to find a way to your final destination. You can hire a taxi, book a cheaper Grab ride, or use the airport transfer services provided at the airport or by the hotel, which cost more. Or Elite Dental Care, and our partner can take care of that by picking you up at the airport.
4. Staying safe in Vietnam: Essential tips
Protect your valuables
It’s best not to carry all your valuables with you at all times. Keep important documents, large sums of cash, and expensive items secure in your hotel or accommodation.
Be aware of common scams
Unfortunately, scams do occur in Vietnam. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers and unusually cheap offers, and always confirm prices before agreeing to services like taxis or cyclo rides. Research common scams beforehand to be better prepared.
Food and drink safety
Be aware of where and what you eat and drink. Choose reputable restaurants and ensure your food is cooked thoroughly. Drink bottled water, and avoid ice unless you’re sure it’s made from purified water.
Relax and enjoy your trip!
While it’s essential to be aware and take precautions, don’t let the fear of scams or other issues ruin your experience. You can have a fantastic and safe trip to Vietnam with some common sense and awareness.
5. Exploring Vietnam
You’ve arrived in Vietnam – fantastic! Now it’s time to explore. This section offers some helpful tips and advice to help you navigate your way around and make the most of your Vietnamese adventure.
Culture shock
It is common when travelling to a country as culturally rich as Vietnam. As a Kiwi, you might find yourself experiencing some initial culture shock, from the bustling streets and lively markets to the seemingly chaotic traffic. Embracing these differences with an open mind is key to fully enjoying your time in this fascinating country. Hiring a local tour guide can also be incredibly helpful, providing valuable insights and local knowledge you might not otherwise discover.
Language and Communication
Vietnamese is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases, like “xin chào” (hello), “cảm ơn” (thank you), and “bao nhiêu” (how much), can greatly enhance your experience and is sure to be appreciated by locals.
Getting around
Ho Chi Minh is Vietnam’s most significant metropolitan area and has the most convenient transport system, making it easy to get around. Here are some popular options:
Motorbikes
Motorbikes are the most common form of transport in Vietnam. You can rent one to explore cities or take longer trips between destinations.
Public transportation
Buses offer a more budget-friendly way to travel, though they can be crowded and less comfortable.
Ho Chi Minh City’s first metro line, Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien, recently opened. This line runs northeast for about 20 kilometres from Ben Thanh Central Market to Suoi Tien Theme Park. It’s free for the first month of operation and will be a cheap and convenient option for commuters afterwards.
Private car
Hiring a private vehicle with a driver provides a more comfortable and convenient option, especially for longer journeys or exploring more remote areas.
Grab, Be, and other ride-hailing apps offer you quite efficient but cheaper modes of transportation.
Local cuisine
Vietnamese cuisine is a definite highlight of any trip to Vietnam. From bustling street food stalls to elegant restaurants, you’ll find many delicious dishes to try. Here are a few must-tries:
– Pho: This iconic noodle soup is a national favourite. It features a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and a medley of herbs and spices.
– Banh mi: This tasty, French-inspired baguette sandwich contains savoury meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.
– Bun cha: Enjoy grilled pork with vermicelli noodles and a delicious dipping sauce.
– Banh xeo: Try this savoury, crispy pancake filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts.
Ho Chi Minh City is experiencing a growing fine dining scene, highlighted by Anan Saigon, the first and only restaurant in the city to receive a Michelin star as of late 2024. Chef Peter Cuong Franklin elevates traditional Vietnamese street food into a sophisticated dining experience using fresh local ingredients and French culinary techniques, showcasing the city’s emergence as a culinary hotspot with authentic flavors and innovation.
You can also find a few notable “Michelin Selected” spots in Ho Chi Minh City, each offering a unique culinary experience:
– Hoa Túc offers authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist. It emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking methods, delivering a refined yet approachable dining experience.
– Vietnam House is located in a beautifully restored colonial building, delivering a sophisticated take on classic Vietnamese dishes. The elegant ambience and attentive service complement the high-quality cuisine.
– The Monkey Gallery Dining serves a contemporary European dining experience with artistic flair. The menu features innovative dishes with creative presentations in a stylish setting.
– Å by T.U.N.G caters an innovative and modern approach to Vietnamese cuisine, focusing on seasonal ingredients and creative techniques. It’s an excellent option for those seeking a more adventurous culinary experience.
6. Tips for a smooth trip
In order to have a smooth and memorable journey to Vietnam, here are a few extra things to keep in mind before you go:
Pack light: Given the hot and humid climate, it’s best to pack light and breathable clothing.
Bargain wisely: Bargaining is common in Vietnam, but always do so respectfully and with a smile.
Stay hydrated: The Vietnamese weather can be hot, so drink plenty of water.
Respect the culture: It’s essential to respect the local culture and customs when visiting any country.
7. Elite Dental Center – your reliable partner for dental care
Dr. Tran Hung Lam, the director of Elite Dental Center, highlights that the clinic is fully accredited and delivers top-quality dental treatments comparable to those in other Asian destinations like Thailand and India but at 20–30% lower costs.
The clinic boasts a team of over 30 highly skilled dental professionals who have undergone extensive training at prestigious institutions both nationally and internationally. These include top-tier facilities in Europe, America, Japan, and South Korea. Each specialist is committed to achieving outstanding outcomes within their specific areas of expertise.
Elite Dental Center offers a wide array of services, such as general dentistry, orthodontics (braces), dental implants, cosmetic restoration, minor surgeries, and pediatric dentistry.
Elite Dental Center operates three modern clinics located in prime areas of Ho Chi Minh City: two in District 3 and one in the new suburb of Thu Thiem. These clinics are conveniently situated to provide easy access to accommodations, transportation, local cuisine, and entertainment.
Some Australian tourists travel from Down Under to Elite Dental Centre to receive world-class dental care.
For example, twin brothers John and Richard Garstones, who came from the remote town of Derby in Western Australia. After their treatment at Elite Dental Centre in Ho Chi Minh City, they returned home with bright smiles and increased confidence.
We also have patients who traveled from Europe for exceptional dental care. That is the case of Rio Rene from Bordeau, France. Two years ago, Rene made the journey from Bordeaux to Ho Chi Minh City to consult with a French-trained doctor at Elite Dental Centre regarding a full-arch implant.
