Vietnam in May

Vietnam stretches long, so weather varies dramatically north to south. November through April gives you the best shot at decent weather everywhere, but even then, pack layers. Hanoi gets surprisingly chilly in January — we're talking 50-degree mornings. Dry season (November-April) means clearer skies for Ha Long Bay cruises and better road conditions for motorbike trips through Sapa. But it also means higher prices and more crowds. The rice terraces around Sapa turn golden in September and October, which looks incredible but falls during rainy season. Ho Chi Minh City stays hot year-round, but May through October brings daily afternoon downpours that flood streets within minutes. Not ideal for walking tours. The Mekong Delta gets muddy during rainy season, making some floating markets harder to reach. Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Hue) gets hit by typhoons between September and November — check weather reports before booking.