How easy is it to get around on your own in Vietnam (2 people)? I speak a little French, which I"m guessing is of relatively little use, and NO Vietnamese. <BR> <BR>What I read gives me conflicting views on attitudes toward foreigners, and nothing really addresses whether the language barrier is an issue. <BR>Thanks, <BR>Leah

I was in Saigon last weekend and had no problem with English. If you wanted to get off the main tourist track - which isn't that easy in Vietnam - buy a Lonely Planet Phrase book (which has the Vietnamese written translation for you to point to if all else fails). <BR> <BR>From my own experience, fumbling with the local language is usually a great way to meet and start to form an understanding of the people.

I went to VN/Cambodia on a tour this past July . . . my first tour, I always go independent but like you had heard that it would be difficult in VN. <BR> <BR>We started in Hanoi and I think it would have been a little difficult there--not many signs in English, not many people spoke English (you're lucky you speak French, I speak a little Spanish which didn't help at all). <BR> <BR>As we went south (Hue, Hoi An, Saigon), it got easier with everything in English and everybody speaking English. The food was wonderful and so were the people. The public transportation that we saw looked pretty dismal (dirty, packed, no a/c). <BR> <BR>We had a great time and hope you do, too. It might be a little harder than Central America (my usual haunt) but I still could have done it. You'll not regret going, very different, very beautiful. <BR> <BR>Sandy

I just got back from traveling in Vietnam on my own and could not believe how easy it was to travel and do anything you want. There is a huge `backpacker` culture there and numerous travel cafes to help with arrangements.I found most everyone speaks English and the ones who do not are happy to play charades until you get your point across. <BR> <BR>You will have a great time!

Hello, <BR>Last Jan. I spent 3 day's in Saigon all by my self and nobody looks more American than me. I never had one problem all the time, but I also kept a low profile. I spent a day at the tunnels out side of Saigon and took in a couple museums. I more than undertsand you concerns. I was abit nervous, but I went anyway. Ya gotta live. Any questions E-mail. Later