John Buckley Apr 20, 2025 17 min read
Vietnam Travel Guide
Self-Guided Trekking, Island Travel & DIY Routes in the North and SouthThis Vietnam travel guide pulls together firsthand insights from multiple trips across the country, including a 2025 route from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, Sapa, and Phu Quoc.
I focused on self-guided trekking, independent logistics, and figuring things out without booking packaged tours.
From mountain trails in Sapa to beach time in Phu Quoc, everything here reflects what worked, what didn’t, and what I would adjust next time.
🏔️ Sapa & Northern Vietnam Trekking
These Sapa guides focus on trekking independently, navigating Fansipan, and handling logistics without a packaged tour. Everything here comes from walking the trails myself and figuring out the system firsthand.
John Buckley
I grew up in Vail, Colorado — home to some of the best skiing in the U.S. — but I’ve spent the past 15+ years living and working in South Korea as an English teacher and outdoor adventurer.
From skiing deep powder in Japan to trekking in the Himalayas and hiking in Korea, I’ve explored much of Asia with a backpack, a plan, and an open mind.
Through Colorado Saram, I share travel guides, gear tips, and firsthand advice to help you plan unforgettable outdoor adventures across Asia and beyond.
👉 Follow me on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube, or join the free Facebook group for outdoor travel tips, stories, and inspiration.
Read more about my journey →
🚤 Ha Long Bay & Cat Ba
Ha Long Bay is one of the most visited places in Vietnam, but there are different ways to approach it. Day trip, overnight cruise, or base yourself on Cat Ba and explore from there.
This section compares those options and breaks down what I experienced on the water.
🌴 Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc was a change of pace after the mountains. Beaches, motorbike exploring, and timing the trip around seasonal weather patterns shaped the experience.
These guides focus on when to go, how long to stay, and how to structure a five-day visit without overcomplicating it.
🧭 Vietnam Travel Logistics
Some details apply across the country. Getting from Hanoi to Sapa, staying connected with an eSIM, and understanding how transport a works on the ground all shaped the trip.
Essential Vietnam Travel Info
Time in Vietnam:
Indochina Time (ICT)
Currency in Vietnam:
Vietnamese đồng ( VND)
USD $1.00 = ₫25,700
* Subject to fluctuation
