Fly into Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi. All included airport transfers are timed around HAN arrivals and departures, so booking flights in and out of Hanoi keeps your logistics simple.

The trip runs March 14–20, 2027. The first official activity kicks off in Hanoi on March 14th at approximately 5:30pm, so we recommend arriving that morning or the day before to settle in and adjust to the time change. The tour wraps up in Hanoi after breakfast on the final morning, with an included transfer back to HAN timed to your departure flight.

Generally, yes. Same-sex relationships and same-sex sexual activity are legal in Vietnam, and the country is considered one of the more progressive destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers in Southeast Asia - Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City both have annual VietPride events.

Still, Vietnam remains socially conservative outside the big cities, same-sex marriage still isn't legally recognized, and there are no nationwide anti-discrimination protections. Most travelers find it a comfortable, low-hassle destination, especially as part of a group trip. At SideQuests Travel, we only offer tours through LGBTQ+ friendly and enthusiastic tour operators.

Hanoi's gay nightlife scene is smaller and more low-key than Ho Chi Minh City's, but it's there… a handful of gay bars, LGBTQ+ friendly cafés, and a growing presence around the Old Quarter. Locals tend to be private about their relationships in public, and PDA of any kind (queer or straight) is uncommon, but travelers generally report feeling safe and welcome.

Ninh Binh and Halong Bay are rural and small-town by comparison to Hanoi, so there isn't a visible LGBTQ+ scene, but that also means there's little to worry about in terms of hostility. As with most of Vietnam, general social conservatism means it's best to keep public displays of affection low-key, more out of local custom than personal safety concern. Traveling as part of our group, you'll be surrounded by fellow LGBTQ+ travelers, a guide who knows the region like the back of their hand, and a host keeping the great vibes strong.

Yes. U.S. citizens (and most nationalities) need a visa to enter Vietnam. There's no visa-free exemption for Americans. The easiest option is Vietnam's e-visa, applied for online before you travel, valid for up to 90 days. You'll need a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date and at least 2 blank visa pages. Processing typically takes a few business days, so apply at least 2–3 weeks before departure to be safe. Always confirm current requirements with the official Vietnam e-visa portal or your embassy, since rules can change.

There are no vaccines required for entry, but routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, polio) should be up to date, and the CDC recommends Hepatitis A and Typhoid for most travelers to Vietnam, since both spread through food and water. Depending on your health history and how much time you'll spend outdoors in rural areas, your doctor may also discuss Hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, or rabies. Since our itinerary includes farm visits and rural excursions in Ninh Binh, it's worth mentioning that to your travel clinic. Malaria isn't a concern for Hanoi, Ninh Binh, or Halong Bay specifically. Book a travel health consult 4–6 weeks before departure if you can.

Expect mild, pleasant spring weather: daytime highs around 68–80°F (20–27°C) in Hanoi, with cooler mornings and evenings in the low-to-mid 60s°F. Halong Bay and Ninh Binh run a bit cooler and mistier, often in the high 60s to low 70s°F, with light drizzle possible. March is a transitional month between Vietnam's cool, dry winter and its humid spring. Layers are your friend here!

• Light layers — a breathable long-sleeve or light sweater for cool mornings/evenings, short sleeves for midday

• A packable rain jacket or umbrella (March brings occasional drizzle)

• Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets, temple visits, and the rickshaw/cycling tours

• Closed-toe shoes or sandals you don't mind getting muddy for the farm and rice-planting experience

• A swimsuit for Halong Bay (swimming and kayaking are on the itinerary)

• A light jacket for the cruise, since evenings on the water can be breezy

• Sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent

• A universal power adapter (Vietnam uses 220V, with type A/C/G outlets)

• Modest, comfortable clothing for temple visits (shoulders/knees covered)

Check out organizations like ICS Vietnam (Information, Counseling and Support for LGBT People) and VietPride for local community context, and the U.S. State Department's Vietnam travel page for the latest safety and entry information. For more general FAQ on SideQuests trips, visit sidequeststravel.com/faq.