At 24, I decided to embark on my first international adventure, and Vietnam was the perfect choice! I opted for a thrilling 7-hour bus journey from Nanning to Hanoi. Here’s a comprehensive guide packed with tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, especially for solo female travelers!
🚌 **Ticket Purchase Guide**
– **Ticketing Platform:** Use the WeChat Mini Program “Yunde Travel” for easy booking.
– **Departure Times:** Buses leave between 7:40 AM and 1:30 PM. The 9:00 AM departure is highly recommended, and you can reschedule if you arrive early.
– **Boarding Point:** 📍Nanning Langdong Bus Station (conveniently located near Nanning East Station/Nanning Station, easily accessible by subway).
📝 **Boarding Process**
– **8:30 AM – Wait for the bus:** Have your passport ready as the driver will take a photo for registration. Staff will also set up a group chat where you can ask any questions, making the process very considerate and helpful.
– **10:10 AM – Chongzuo Service Area:** Enjoy a 20-minute stop to use the restroom and grab a quick snack.
– **11:30 AM – Pingxiang Border Check:** Simply show your ID for a straightforward check.
– **12:00 PM – Friendship Pass Border Check:** You’ll receive a tag with your ticket and a free ride on an electric sightseeing vehicle to the Friendship Pass. Be cautious of people promoting currency exchange (1:3500) and SIM cards.
It’s wise to exchange only 100 RMB for emergencies and buy a SIM card in advance on PXX (20 RMB/5 days, 5G per day, same operator calls are free).
🛃 **Exit and Entry Procedures**
– **Exiting China:** Follow the signs for security checks, passport inspection, and questioning.
– **Entering Vietnam:** Join the queue with your separate visa paper for stamping and luggage inspection. ⚠️ During the Spring Festival, expect long queues of over 2 hours; head straight to the immigration window to save time!
– **After Entry:** Look for staff in orange uniforms to register and take the shuttle to the bus point.
🚗 **Arrival in Hanoi + Transportation**
– **Drop-off Point:** 📍55 Tran Quoc Toan Street (look for the APEC store sign).
– **Taxi:** Share a Grab with others for about 30,000 VND per person. Download the app in advance, and no need for international roaming to receive the verification code.
– **Bus:** Download Google Maps for accurate arrival times and fares, making it a reliable option for getting around.
⚠️ **Tips to Avoid Pitfalls**
1. **Avoid Soliciting Taxis:** The price might change after you get in, and there’s no platform protection.
2. **Currency Exchange:** The rate at Friendship Pass is 1:3500. Exchange only 100 RMB for emergencies, as better rates (1:3535) are available in Hanoi gold shops.
3. **SIM Card:** Buy in advance on PXX for 20 RMB/5 days, which is more cost-effective than buying on-site. If it doesn’t work, don’t hesitate to argue with the seller.
💡 **Practical Tips**
– **Luggage:** Pack light—a 20L backpack is sufficient.
– **Navigation:** Google Maps is a must-have for accurate bus and walking routes.
– **Safety:** Keep your documents and cash with you and avoid remote areas at night.
Follow me for more travel tips in Vietnam! Next, I’ll share a 2-day, 2-night travel guide to Hanoi.
This guide is so helpful! I’m actually planning a similar trip next year and will definitely use the WeChat Mini Program tip. It’s great to hear about other solo female travelers’ experiences, too. The 7-hour bus ride sounds intense but doable with these tips!
That sounds like an amazing adventure! I love how detailed your guide is, especially about using WeChat Mini Program for tickets—it’ll definitely help other solo travelers. Have you explored more of Vietnam since this trip?
Thank you! Yes, I’ve explored more of Vietnam since then—it’s such a beautiful country with so much to offer. Hoi An and Ha Long Bay were highlights! I’m glad you found the tips helpful. Safe travels!