HA TIEN NEED TO KNOW
Ha Tien - getting there and away
The easiest way to get to Ha Tien is either by daily boat from Phu Quoc Island, or the short road journey across the border from Kep in Cambodia.
The overland journey from Saigon is more of a struggle. Buses operate to Ha Tien from major centres like Can Tho and Ho Chi Minh but most require you transit through Rach Gia, the provincial capital. It's a long haul from Saigon (10 hours). And even Can Tho, the largest major Mekong Delta city, is 5 hours away by bus.
Travelling to / from Cambodia
Travellers to Cambodia can obtain a visa at the Xa Xia border station. You'll need a passport photo and $30US.
Depending on nationality, many travellers from Cambodia to Vietnam will need to have arranged their visa in advance of arrival at the border. Check the rules applying to your passport before trying to enter Vietnam.
The border crossing from Ha Tien to Kep is relatively straightforward. Make sure you leave plenty of time since you'll likely need to hustle your way to arrange transport to Kep. You can get a taxi from Ha Tien to the border for around US$6.
At the border you'll be met by fairly insistent motorcycle taxi drivers who enjoy remarkable access to both sides of the border post. They'll try and offer porter services through the border and lock you in for the journey to Kep for around US$10 per bike. Unless you're on a tight budget, a car will be a better option. So you'll need to hold on to your luggage.
When you get through the 20 - 30 minute (normally) customs and immigration process, you can pick up a car at the other side. They cost of a ride to Kep is around US$30.
Try and arrive early in the day as your options and your bargaining position will be much diminished at the end of the day.
Ha Tien getting around
Getting around Ha Tien's sights is easy. Bicycle is probably the most enjoyable way to get around. Travelling on the back of a motorcycle taxi can be fun as well.
If you'd prefer to travel by car, taxis can be a good option. You might like to negotiate a rate for your itinerary in advance. Your hotel should be able to organise a car and driver and a guide as well.
Ha Tien - health and safety
Crime against travellers is rare in Ha Tien. Roads are also relatively uncongested and flat making it well suited to cycling.
Rach Gia Hospital is around 2 hours away and is the best in the province. Ha Tien has a smaller basic hospital. If possible, hospital services in Ho Chi Minh City are far better.
Kiên Giang General Hospital
46 Le Loi St,
Rach Gia
0773. 867 241
Ha Tien Hospital
C4 Mac Cuu, Dong Ho, Hà Tiên
Ha Tien - ATMs, WIFI and internet
Free wifi is widely available in Ha Tien hotels as well as some of the local cafes. There are also a number of ATMs in town.
We recommend carrying some additional cash to outlying provinces in the event that ATMs are not functioning. Some hotels accept credit cards. 3G and 4G services work well throughout Ha Tien. You can purchase SIM cards around town too.
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