Winter in Vietnam starts from December to the end of February. During this time, Hanoi and the Northern provinces in Vietnam reveal its unique beauty. Mountainous areas such as Ha Giang, Moc Chau, Sapa are all covered by the blanket of snow, bring these landscape a beautiful European look.
In this post, we would like to point out interesting places and things to do when you stay in Vietnam in winter.
Sapa
Although Sapa is beautiful all year round, visiting this province in winter will provide visitor a striking and unique experience compared to the rest of the year. Because the temperature drops below zero, every scenery is covered in thick layer of mist that make them become more surreal and mysterious.
Dotted in the gloomy weather is colorful traditional custom of local people, the atmosphere therefore, becoming more vibrant and cheerful.
Little girl is having fun with snowball
There are several activities to do on a typically cold day in Sapa, in Vietnam in winter such as: making snow man, throwing snow balls at each other, gathering around the fire at night, etc.
Sitting around the fire at night to enjoy the culture of ethnic people
Moc Chau
Winter in Moc Chau in Vietnam in winter is also the blooming time of buckwheat flowers. The endless white and red color of these flowers is featured in green background of forest and tree hills. Besides, there are 12 ethnic groups live in this plateau, their unique features harmoniously mix with each other creating a multi-cultural and vibrant area.
Moreover, Tet holiday of H’mong people comes 1 month before that of the Kinh. Therefore, if you come to Moc Chau at this time, you will have the chance to immerse yourself into traditional culture of H’mong people.
Childlike spirit with blossoming plum tree in Mai Chau area
Joy in a common foggy morning
Vietnam Visa requirements for US citizens
As a US’s citizen, you are required to apply for Vietnam visa before entering this country. Currently, there are 2 ways of applying a visa to Vietnam:
- Applying at Vietnam Embassy in United States
This is the traditional way to apply for Vietnam visa, you will need to show up in person at the nearest Embassy. There are currently 2 offices of Vietnam Embassies in the US: one in Washington DC, another in San Francisco.
Embassy of Vietnam in Washington DC, United States
- Address: 1233, 20th St., NW, Suite 400, Washington DC, 20036, USA
- Tel: (1-202) 861 073
- Fax: (1-202) 861 0917
Consulate General of Vietnam in San Francisco, United States
- Address: 1700 California St, Suite 430 San Francisco, CA 94109
- Tel: (1415) 922 1577
- Fax: (1415) 922 1577
- Applying for Vietnam Visa on Arrival
If you plan to visit Vietnam by air, VOA is highly recommended thanks to its convenience and cost-savings. To apply for VOA, firstly, you are required to complete an online application form including your full name, date of birth, date of entry/exit, number of applicants, etc. Then, you will receive a visa approval letter after making payment. Finally, you will get your visa stamped at international airports you arrived at. This method is considered as the most convenient and simple way for US citizen to get Vietnam Visa!
