Ultimate Solo Travel Guide for Women: Nanning, China to Hanoi, Vietnam Adventures 🇻🇳✨

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.