Family travel in Vietnam

Dealing with family life can sometimes be challenging; even a trip to the local supermarket can end up being a nightmare. So if you have ever considered travelling as far as Vietnam with younger members of the family in tow, you may have quickly changed your mind. Long flights, language barriers, lower levels of hygiene and different food may have made you reconsider.

However, family travel can be incredibly rewarding, and it is always entertaining to see the world through a smaller pair of eyes. Children can benefit greatly from travel, and learning about a different culture.

If you decide to travel with your children on board, you first need to make sure all their vaccinations are up to date. Pack a lot of insect repellent (suitable for little ones) as there isn’t a vaccine to stop Dengue fever and some other tropical diseases carried by mosquitoes.

Most families travelling in Vietnam prefer to fly between destinations, in order to avoid the overcrowded, sweaty public transport options. However, some trains are quite comfortable, especially in the north.

Larger resorts tend to be more child-friendly. Often with special children’s pools, play areas and menus. Even the smallest guesthouses usually have babysitting service. Parents are often surprised how well their children can adapt to a new culture, usually faster than the parents themselves.

It is a good idea to warn your child that locals may try to talk, touch or take photos of them. It can seem a bit much at times, but it is all just an innocent fascination with the West.