{"id":11277,"date":"2023-06-27T08:57:41","date_gmt":"2023-06-27T01:57:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/?p=11277"},"modified":"2023-06-27T09:09:47","modified_gmt":"2023-06-27T02:09:47","slug":"vietnam-travel-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"Vietnam travel tips"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><strong>Given its historic past, Vietnam is a country that offers a unique perspective for travelers. Blessed with an insanely diverse landscape, you could be sliding down sand dunes in the morning, taking a stroll by the beach by noon and walking around a UNESCO heritage town by afternoon.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>No better way to start your holiday to Vietnam knowing that you\u2019ve got everything figured out. Flight booked, hotel booked, enthusiasm on point. But what to bring\/prepare? This is our Vietnam checklist, a list of important travel essentials you\u2019re definitely going to need!<\/p>\n<p>Following these top <a href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/top-10-unique-food-specialties-of-northern-mountains-in-vietnam\/\">Vietnam travel<\/a> tips will help you avoid the major pitfalls, and ensure you come away from your first visit to Vietnam with happy memories, as well as your souvenir conical hat \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n<p>When you are limited in time, or you don&#8217;t feel like figuring out everything yourself, we suggest you book a private\u00a0tour in Vietnam. And that&#8217;s where we come in! We at ForeverVacation offer some of the best\u00a0tours in Vietnam, including our best selling\u00a0Hanoi Instagram tour, where our guides will take you to the most famous spots in Hanoi, all in one day! No muss, no fuss!<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips.png\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"911\" height=\"683\" \/><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_65 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-white ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Truy c\u1eadp nhanh:<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#Sort_out_the_right_visa_before_traveling\" title=\"Sort out the right visa before traveling\">Sort out the right visa before traveling<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#Make_sure_to_travel_at_the_right_timeseason\" title=\"Make sure to travel at the right time\/season\">Make sure to travel at the right time\/season<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#Dont_underestimate_the_countrys_size\" title=\"Don&#8217;t underestimate the country&#8217;s size\">Don&#8217;t underestimate the country&#8217;s size<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#Learn_how_to_cross_the_streets_in_the_big_cities\" title=\"Learn how to cross the streets in the big cities\">Learn how to cross the streets in the big cities<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#Use_mosquito_repellent\" title=\" \nUse mosquito repellent\"> \nUse mosquito repellent<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#Which_clothes_to_pack_for_traveling_to_Vietnam\" title=\"Which clothes to pack for traveling to Vietnam\">Which clothes to pack for traveling to Vietnam<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#Know_your_transportation_options\" title=\"Know your transportation options\">Know your transportation options<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#The_benefits_of_organized_tours\" title=\"The benefits of organized tours\">The benefits of organized tours<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#Prepare_a_medical_kit_at_home\" title=\"Prepare a medical kit at home\">Prepare a medical kit at home<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#How_To_Avoid_Them_For_An_Amazing_Trip\" title=\"How To Avoid Them For An Amazing Trip\">How To Avoid Them For An Amazing Trip<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#Always_Set_a_Price\" title=\"Always Set a Price\">Always Set a Price<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#Hotels_Hostels_and_Tours\" title=\"Hotels, Hostels, and Tours\">Hotels, Hostels, and Tours<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#Vendors_and_Children\" title=\"Vendors and Children\">Vendors and Children<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#Beggars\" title=\"Beggars\">Beggars<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#Stay_Positive\" title=\"Stay Positive\">Stay Positive<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#Explore_Asia_with_Asia_Highlights\" title=\"Explore Asia with Asia Highlights\">Explore Asia with Asia Highlights<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#10_Common_Tourist_Scams_in_Vietnam_and_how_to_avoid_them\" title=\"10 Common Tourist Scams in Vietnam (and how to avoid them)\">10 Common Tourist Scams in Vietnam (and how to avoid them)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#1_Taxi_drivers_charging_ridiculous_fees\" title=\"1. Taxi drivers charging ridiculous fees\">1. Taxi drivers charging ridiculous fees<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#2_Motorbike_taxis\" title=\"2. Motorbike taxis\">2. Motorbike taxis<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#3_Getting_your_Dong_mixed_up\" title=\"3. Getting your Dong mixed up\">3. Getting your Dong mixed up<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#4_Shoe_shinersrepairers\" title=\"4. Shoe shiners\/repairers\">4. Shoe shiners\/repairers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#5_The_coin_collector\" title=\"5. The coin collector\">5. The coin collector<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#6_Being_overcharged_for_fooddrink\" title=\"6. Being overcharged for food\/drink\">6. Being overcharged for food\/drink<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#7_The_photo_opportunity\" title=\"7. The photo opportunity\">7. The photo opportunity<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#8_The_overly_friendly_girls\" title=\"8. The overly friendly girl(s)\">8. The overly friendly girl(s)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#9_The_motorbike_salesmen\" title=\"9. The motorbike salesmen\">9. The motorbike salesmen<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#10_The_imitators_and_false_advertising\" title=\"10. The imitators and false advertising\">10. The imitators and false advertising<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#A_few_thoughts\" title=\"A few thoughts\">A few thoughts<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/vietnam-travel-tips\/#inally_is_it_worth_visiting_Vietnam_with_these_issues\" title=\"inally, is it worth visiting Vietnam with these issues?\">inally, is it worth visiting Vietnam with these issues?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sort_out_the_right_visa_before_traveling\"><\/span>Sort out the right visa before traveling<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Preparation is key when it comes to traveling, especially when you are flying to a different continent! When planning a trip to Vietnam, one of the first questions you need to ask yourself is &#8216;do I need a visa to enter Vietnam? It goes without saying that you need an international passport. Make sure it\u2019s valid longer than six months though or they won\u2019t let you in (true story).<\/p>\n<p>But when do you need a visa? This will entirely depend on your nationality and how long you are planning to stay in Vietnam!<\/p>\n<p>There are certain countries (only a few though) that made agreements with the government of Vietnam so their citizens can benefit from the visa exemption when entering the country as tourists. These tourists are allowed to stay in Vietnam for a limited amount of time, without the need to apply for a tourist visa from their local Vietnamese Embassy.<\/p>\n<p>However, most people will need to get a tourist visa before traveling to Vietnam. Depending on how long you would like to stay, you will need to apply for and E-Visa or a Visa On Arrival! Make sure to check our\u00a0detailed Vietnam visa blog post\u00a0to make sure you get the right one!<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-1.png\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"750\" height=\"450\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Make_sure_to_travel_at_the_right_timeseason\"><\/span>Make sure to travel at the right time\/season<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Knowing the best time to visit Vietnam is essential if you want to make sure you&#8217;re traveling at the right time; ideally avoiding the sweltering heat and dodging the monsoon rains. You also need to understand there are big differences when it comes to seasons in different parts of Vietnam.<\/p>\n<p>The weather in Vietnam changes from North to South and region to region. Influenced by the tropical monsoon climate, north Vietnam has 4 distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall and winter. The south of Vietnam has 2 seasons: dry season and rainy season. Each season has its own features and characteristics, which bring you different experiences about places and landscapes.<\/p>\n<p>Lucky for you, we&#8217;ve dedicated a whole blogpost to Vietnam&#8217;s weather and when the best time is to visit! You can read all about it\u00a0here!<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dont_underestimate_the_countrys_size\"><\/span>Don&#8217;t underestimate the country&#8217;s size<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Vietnam is a very long, thin country. From the city of Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, the distance is over 1,000 miles and it would take about 30 hours by car. If you are limited on time, you should definitely plan on flying if you want to hit all of the highlights in the south, central, and northern regions.<\/p>\n<div dir=\"ltr\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-2.png\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"700\" height=\"1136\" \/><\/div>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Learn_how_to_cross_the_streets_in_the_big_cities\"><\/span>Learn how to cross the streets in the big cities<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div dir=\"ltr\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">First things first. When you find yourself in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh and you are exploring the city by foot, one of the most difficult challenges you&#8217;ll come across will be&#8230;.crossing the street! Traffic is pretty crazy in Vietnam and crosswalks don\u2019t really matter here.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">To locals, it&#8217;s basically just white paint on the road with no meaning. It will be a bit intimidating at first, but when you take in the following rules, you&#8217;ll be able to tackle the streets like a pro!<\/p>\n<div dir=\"ltr\">\n<ul>\n<li>Cross with locals: especially if it&#8217;s your first time crossing a street in Vietnam, try to spot locals, follow them and copy their pace, timing and attitude.<\/li>\n<li>When in the middle of the road, KEEP GOING AND DON\u2019T STOP. Believe us, they will dodge you, even if it\u2019s by just a hair.<\/li>\n<li>Meet the eyes of the people driving straight at you. This will help them avoid you.<\/li>\n<li>Keep in mind that sidewalks are not only used by pedestrians, they are also being used by scooters that want to avoid traffic jams<\/li>\n<li>Look confident and don\u2019t hesitate!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_mosquito_repellent\"><\/span><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-3.png\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"1000\" height=\"605\" \/><br \/>\nUse mosquito repellent<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Mosquito bites can be nasty, you know that already. But in Vietnam these annoying blood suckers can also carry Malaria and Dengue Fever. Unless you want to get severe headaches, muscle pain, high fever and nausea, put some insect repellent in your suitcase. Extra plus, it will keep other bugs away too!<\/p>\n<div dir=\"ltr\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-4.png\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"1280\" height=\"853\" \/><\/div>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_clothes_to_pack_for_traveling_to_Vietnam\"><\/span>Which clothes to pack for traveling to Vietnam<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Choosing the right time to travel to Vietnam can have a big impact on your holiday, both for personal comfort and packing purposes. The south generally receives more rain and enjoys a tropical climate, however, Hanoi and points farther north have colder winters than many travelers expect. If you are looking to cover both north and south, you&#8217;ll need to pack both warm and light clothes!<\/p>\n<p>Vietnam is a semi-tropical country but winters in the north can be chilly (especially in highland areas such as Sapa). If you\u2019re heading to Hanoi and the surrounding region between December and March, make sure you pack a few hoodies or warm sweaters for the evenings.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Central Vietnam can be wet in November and December: an anorak or raincoat is a must. South Vietnam is warm at all times of year, so opt for light, breathable clothes and a sunhat\/sunglasses here.<\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-5.png\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"1200\" height=\"799\" \/><\/h3>\n<p>Be wary of scams<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Vietnam is known for its tourist traps and scams, so we&#8217;ve a listed some of the most common ones below so you can recognize and avoid them:<\/p>\n<div dir=\"ltr\">\n<ul>\n<li>Taxi scams\u00a0&#8211; Taxi scams are common in Vietnam, particularly in tourist hotspots. Some taxi drivers will take advantage of tourists by driving them around in circles to increase the fare or by charging exorbitant prices. To avoid taxi scams, make sure you use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps such as Grab. Always ask for the fare before getting in the taxi and make sure the meter is on.<\/li>\n<li>Fake tours and tickets\u00a0&#8211; Be wary of cheap tours or tickets that seem too good to be true. Some tour operators may offer incredibly low prices, only to take you to fake attractions or force you to pay extra fees once you&#8217;re on the tour. To avoid this, research the company beforehand and read reviews from other travelers.<\/li>\n<li>Money exchange scams\u00a0&#8211; Some currency exchange booths may advertise favorable exchange rates but actually give you less money than you should receive. To avoid this, always check the exchange rate beforehand and only exchange money at reputable exchange booths or banks.<\/li>\n<li>Motorbike rental scams\u00a0&#8211; Motorbike rental scams are common in Vietnam, particularly in popular tourist destinations. Some rental companies may ask for an inflated deposit and then claim damages that were already on the bike or even steal the bike altogether. To avoid this, only rent from reputable companies and take photos of the bike before and after renting it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-6.png\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Know_your_transportation_options\"><\/span>Know your transportation options<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">There are numerous means of transportation in Vietnam and your choice will depend entirely on your budget, the amount of time you have and the level of comfort you prefer!<\/p>\n<p>Travel by plane: the fastest way<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Most first time Vietnam visitors want to visit both Hanoi (in the North) and work their way down to Ho Chi Minh City (in the south), or do the opposite. If you only have a limited amount of time (or you prefer to travel comfortably), your best shot is to take a flight between these two cities.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Travel by train<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Vietnam has a reliable and well equipped rail system and the trains in Vietnam are better than most in Southeast Asia. The cost for getting around by train is a little higher than by bus but the extra comfort you get on a train makes it worth the extra cost. And more importantly, the trains are said to be safer than buses.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Travel by bus: The cheapest way<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Traveling by bus is one of the cheapest ways to get around Vietnam, with buses connecting most major towns and cities. Keep in mind that the quality of the services and the busses can differ dramatically depending on which tour operator you chose so we recommend opting for the slightly more expensive ones, if you have to budget for it.This especially if you take overnight buses and when traveling long distances (for example, it takes around 32 hours from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi).<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Travel by motorbike: the most adventurous way<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">If there is one country in Southeast Asia associated with motorcycle travel, it is Vietnam. Each year, thousands of backpackers set off on an adventure: live the unique experience of traveling Vietnam on a motorcycle. It&#8217;s really a unique way of traveling around the country but we do however only recommend it to experienced motorbike drivers.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Getting around in the city<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The most efficient way to get around in larger cities is by using the apps &#8216;Grab&#8217; or &#8216;Gojek&#8217;. Like Uber, Grab and Gojek are app-based taxi companies that will allow you to &#8216;order&#8217; scooter and car rides just like Uber. It&#8217;s a super easy and cheap option for those who are on a budget!<br \/>\nJourneys are reserved via your mobile phone (maybe get a local sim card for this one) and the journey has a fixed fare meaning that you&#8217;ll avoid arguments with the drivers. The application allows payment by card or cash!<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Travel by boat<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">If you&#8217;d like to see Halong Bay, you&#8217; re only option is to take a boat. \u00a0If you have never heard of Halong Bay, well, it&#8217;s one of Vietnam\u2019s most stunning attractions \u2013 there is no way to describe Halong Bay other than as purely breathtaking. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and natural wonder of the world, the bay features thousands of limestone islands and cliffs emerging from the turquoise sea.<\/p>\n<div dir=\"ltr\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-7.png\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"690\" height=\"462\" \/><\/div>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_benefits_of_organized_tours\"><\/span>The benefits of organized tours<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Traveling with a private driver is a perfect solution for people that enjoy an easy way of travel or for people traveling in group or with a family. Although this might be a slightly more expensive option, it&#8217;s also the safest and most comfortable way.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">When driving with a local driver, you are sure they know all the ins and outs, they know how to tackle the Vietnamese traffic and you can personalize your trip and make stops at all the attractions you&#8217;d like to visit along the way!<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">As you know (or don&#8217;t know), we at ForeverVacation offer\u00a0private, all-inclusive tours in Vietnam\u00a0such as Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, Danang and Quy Nhon, where one of our local guides will take you around i the comfort of your own private, air-conditioned car! How good does that sound?<\/p>\n<p>Pros:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Everything is organized for you so you&#8217;ll be stress free<\/li>\n<li>It&#8217;s a comfortable way of traveling<\/li>\n<li>You can personalize your trip<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-8.png\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"474\" height=\"355\" \/><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Prepare_a_medical_kit_at_home\"><\/span>Prepare a medical kit at home<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Bring your own medical emergency kit from home when you travel. I know this is a no-brainer, but still worth mentioning. You will feel much safer and at ease when you have your own medication and pills from back home.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Also, don&#8217;t forget to bring your medical prescriptions from back home, or even better, buy your prescription pills in your own country before leaving for Vietnam.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Also, never drink tap water, only eat fresh cooked food and wash your hands regularly. Believe us, you don\u2019t want to get sick. If you do though, you\u2019ll be thanking yourself you brought some diarrhea pills. If you\u2019re planning on traveling by boat, you may want to consider bringing some motion sickness pills as well.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-9.png\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_To_Avoid_Them_For_An_Amazing_Trip\"><\/span>How To Avoid Them For An Amazing Trip<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Traveling in Vietnam can be challenging to say the least, especially when trying to avoid tourist traps and scams hidden around every corner. Asia Highlights is here to show you what to look for to avoid these traps.<\/p>\n<p>We can also help design the best possible tailor-made private travel experience for your budget and needs.<\/p>\n<p>Our prime goal is to keep you safe. All of our guides have been trained with your needs in mind. They seek to give you the best experience possible by showing you all of the breathtaking views while keeping you away from tourist traps and scams.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Always_Set_a_Price\"><\/span>Always Set a Price<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Before you do anything,find out the asking price or set a price yourself. You can always ask your tour guides or hotel\/hostel staff what the prices should be close to.<\/p>\n<p>However, this can often be confusing because the Vietnamese currency (the Dong) has a very high note denomination. Currently,1 USD is equal to more than 22,000 Dong! Check the exchange rate daily because it is constantly changing.<\/p>\n<div>\n<section>\n<h4>Eating<\/h4>\n<p>One of the most popular and easy ways to scamyouis with a menu that has no prices listed. These restaurants are hoping you won&#8217;t notice so they can overcharge you.<\/p>\n<p>Don&#8217;t fall into this trap. Always check for a price, and if you can&#8217;t find one move on to another restaurant or try your luck with bargaining for a price.<\/p>\n<p>Along with hidden prices, restaurants will often place tissues, bottles of water, and small snacks on or near the table. These things are usually not complimentary but are put there in the hope that you will use them so they can charge you for them &#8211; sometimes at triple the normal asking price.<\/p>\n<p>So try to remember to ask about prices before using anything.<\/p>\n<p>Street food is a fun and cheap alternative to a more Western-style restaurant, but many of these places won&#8217;t have prices listed. So, the best way to make sure you&#8217;re paying the best price is to see how much locals pay for the same thing.<\/p>\n<p>This way, the vendor can&#8217;t try to charge you three times as much for the same meal, and if locals are eating there you know it has to be good.<\/p>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<h4>Getting Around<\/h4>\n<p>Taxis are one of the easiest ways to get around Vietnam, and taxi drivers know that once you&#8217;re inside their cabs you&#8217;re obligated to pay. To make sure that they don&#8217;t charge you more than they should, try to use official taxi companies, such as Mai Linh, Vinasun, or Taxi Group.<\/p>\n<p>Often, illegal taxi drivers will have modified meters that run faster in order to charge you unbelievably expensive fares, or they will take longer routes to increase the cost.<\/p>\n<p>You can always ask your hotel or hostel to call a taxi for you. You can also ask them for estimates on how much it should cost to travel from place to place.<\/p>\n<p>Anytime you want to take a boat trip, we recommend booking a return ticket instead of a one-way ticket. Often, when you try to buy the return ticket separately it will more challenging and cost you more money, which you could be spending on fun excursions.<\/p>\n<p>Especially when walking around, but even on the back of motorcycles and tuktuks, your bags are easy targets for professional thieves in Southeast Asia. Try not to show off your expensive belongings.<\/p>\n<p>When traveling, always keep your personal belongings very close. It may even be best to keep a hand on top of your belongings to help keep them safe. Hotels, Hostels, and Tours<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hotels_Hostels_and_Tours\"><\/span>Hotels, Hostels, and Tours<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Finding the right place to sleep and the best tour to take can be overwhelming, especially on a budget. We recommend only putting your trust in well-established and reputable tour groups, hotels, and hostels.<\/p>\n<p>Any time you take a chance on one of these you risk not having a well-organized tour, safe food, or even a clean bed to sleep in.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Vendors_and_Children\"><\/span>Vendors and Children<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Tourism has become a large industry in Vietnam, and the locals have learned what foreigners like and how to make money off them. One common scam is to get you to take a picture with them and then to ask for money.<\/p>\n<p>By being aware of this scam you will be able to avoid these situations.<\/p>\n<p>However, depending on how much you want some pictures it might be worth it to pay money to the vendor or child for the picture.<\/p>\n<p>Locals at some very picturesque locations will try to help you take a picture and charge you for it. This can be seen negatively or as a great chance to meet the locals and create a lasting memory.<\/p>\n<article>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Beggars\"><\/span>Beggars<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Like many other places around the world, some beggars are used by gangs and corrupt groups of people to make a profit by manipulating the sympathy of innocent people. It is hard to know who really needs help and who is just a part of the corrupt begging system.<\/p>\n<p>So if you feel uncomfortable giving money because you don&#8217;t know how they will use it then we suggest you don&#8217;t givethem any.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, try to carry some food on you so you can give food instead of money. This way, if they take the food then you know that you have really helped them and have avoided giving them money for drugs or other things.<\/p>\n<\/article>\n<article>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stay_Positive\"><\/span>Stay Positive<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Remember that if you do get scammed,you are probably not losing as much money as it feels like. We recommend downloading a simple converter app to help you know how much money you are actually spending and take one of our trusted guides with you to get the best deals.<\/p>\n<\/article>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Explore_Asia_with_Asia_Highlights\"><\/span>Explore Asia with Asia Highlights<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>At Asia Highlights we offer tailor-made tours through Asia, where you can enjoy all highlights as well as amazing cultural experiences. To get started, send us an email.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Common_Tourist_Scams_in_Vietnam_and_how_to_avoid_them\"><\/span>10 Common Tourist Scams in Vietnam (and how to avoid them)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>I love Vietnam. It\u2019s one of my favourite countries in the world. There\u2019s a wide variety of things to do, the food is delicious and it\u2019s incredibly cheap to backpack around the country.<\/p>\n<p>But\u2026 amongst the many kind Vietnamese people are a whole load of scammers and rip off merchants eager to pounce on unsuspecting tourists. Across my personal travel experiences (predominantly in Asia), I\u2019d put Vietnam in the top three, alongside Sri Lanka and Morocco, of the worst countries for this type of behaviour.<\/p>\n<p>In this post I\u2019m going to detail some of the common scams\/rip offs and how to avoid them. Apologies in advance for the Vietnamese currency jokes\u2026<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11290\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"905\" height=\"679\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips.jpg 905w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-533x400.jpg 533w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-800x600.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 905px) 100vw, 905px\" \/><figcaption>Be wary of gamesmanship in Vietnam.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Taxi_drivers_charging_ridiculous_fees\"><\/span>1. Taxi drivers charging ridiculous fees<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The most common of them all and a regular frustration for travellers in many countries. This is especially prevalent at transport hubs and tourist attractions, I\u2019ve been quoted up to ten times the price I can get through Grab, an app like Uber, while in Vietnam. Usually the multiple is far less, but I expect every quote from a taxi driver to be at least double what it should cost.<\/p>\n<p>Where it happens<\/p>\n<p>Basically anywhere that you try and get a taxi. Expect the largest mark ups to be at the aforementioned transport hubs and tourist attractions. Where possible, walking just a minute away from these areas and hailing a taxi should get you a lower quote, but it will still usually be higher than it should be.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11291\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-1.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"905\" height=\"679\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-1.jpg 905w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-1-533x400.jpg 533w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-1-800x600.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 905px) 100vw, 905px\" \/><figcaption>Taxi drivers sense money whenever a train pulls in.<br \/>\nLocation: Hanoi Train Street (not an actual train stop)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>How to avoid<\/p>\n<p>Option 1 \u2013 Use Grab. It isn\u2019t available everywhere in Vietnam but, where it is, I\u2019d suggest using this to avoid hassle.<\/p>\n<p>Note that if a taxi driver shows you the Grab price on their phone, you shouldn\u2019t believe it \u2013 they have probably selected a (far more expensive) VIP option. I have fond memories of this at Da Nang Airport \u2013 some drivers quoted 500,000 VND (\u00a316.35 GBP) for a short ride to the city centre and, using their phone, showed me a similar price on Grab when I declined. When I checked the price on Grab myself, it was about 50,000 VND. I showed this to the next driver who approached me and, with me STARING AT THE SCREEN, he scrolled through the different Grab options on my phone to some VIP service costing about 500,000 VND, then acted like this was proof that his quote was fair and not ten times the normal price \u2013 how stupid does this guy think people can be!?<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11292\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-2.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"905\" height=\"679\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-2.jpg 905w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-2-533x400.jpg 533w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-2-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-2-800x600.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 905px) 100vw, 905px\" \/><figcaption>There are some beautiful sights around Da Nang. I\u2019m less enthusiastic about the taxi drivers.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Option 2 \u2013 Ask for the driver to put the meter on before agreeing to the ride. This should get you a fair price but beware that fake meters, which rise faster than they should do, aren\u2019t unheard of. The other risk here is that the driver can take a long \u2018scenic\u2019 route to your destination \u2013 having the route on your phone can easily put a stop to this.<\/p>\n<p>Option 3 \u2013 If they insist on a fixed price, be prepared to haggle hard and willing to walk away. It\u2019s best to have a rough idea of prices in advance, otherwise you won\u2019t know what sort of fixed price to aim for.<\/p>\n<p>I\u2019d only use option 2 or 3 if Grab isn\u2019t available. The app saves so much aggravation and means your money is going to the taxi drivers (minus Grab\u2019s fee) who are willing to work, not the arseholes that hang around tourist spots all day waiting for one big fare.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11293\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-3.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"405\" height=\"677\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-3.jpg 405w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-3-239x400.jpg 239w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 405px) 100vw, 405px\" \/><figcaption>Reckon these guys try and overcharge too? I know my answer to that question.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Even with Grab, I had a problem on one occasion. Upon arrival in Sapa, the driver sent me a message asking for 50,000 VND to go from the bus stop to my hostel. The actual price on Grab was about 30,000 VND so I cancelled the booking. This only happened to me once in Vietnam (worldwide, it\u2019s happened to me a couple more times with Uber in Jordan) so I think it\u2019s very rare, but don\u2019t be shocked if it happens.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Motorbike_taxis\"><\/span>2. Motorbike taxis<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11294\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-4.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"1024\" height=\"612\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-4.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-4-669x400.jpg 669w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-4-768x459.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-4-800x478.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>Wheeeeeeeeeee!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Continuing with the taxi theme, there are motorbike taxis who will offer to take you somewhere. This can be good fun and going should be fine, but you might find the price suddenly rising when you arrive at your destination.<\/p>\n<p>Where it happens<\/p>\n<p>This is one of two cons on this list that hasn\u2019t been tried on me but it could occur anywhere. I suspect it\u2019s more likely to happen in the big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11295\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-5.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"510\" height=\"680\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-5.jpg 510w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-5-300x400.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 510px) 100vw, 510px\" \/><figcaption>Miserable fella, but he didn\u2019t try and change the agreed price.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>How to avoid<\/p>\n<p>Haggle and agree a fixed price upfront. Check what it costs on Grab to help with your negotiations (don\u2019t give them the chance to grab your phone and drive off). Stick to the agreed price if they ask for more at the end. Any claims that the price has gone up because there was a lot of traffic are nonsense \u2013 there is always a lot of traffic in Vietnam!<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Getting_your_Dong_mixed_up\"><\/span>3. Getting your <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vietnamese_%C4%91%E1%BB%93ng\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dong<\/a> mixed up<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>No need to be alarmed \u2013 the currency in Vietnam is called the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Banknotes range from 100 VND to 500,000 VND and, aside from the all-important number, the 20,000 VND and 500,000 VND notes look very similar. When handing a 500,000 VND note over, there\u2019s a chance that the recipient might quickly switch it for a 20,000 VND note and pretend you gave the wrong one.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11296\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-6.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"408\" height=\"680\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-6.jpg 408w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-6-240x400.jpg 240w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 408px) 100vw, 408px\" \/><figcaption>Sound advice.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Where it happens<\/p>\n<p>This is the other scam on this list that has never been tried on me, but anywhere where you\u2019re handing over money is a possibility.<\/p>\n<p>How to avoid<\/p>\n<p>Pay attention when handing your money over, the recipient can\u2019t switch notes if you\u2019re watching.<\/p>\n<p>On the subject of currency, break some of your big notes into smaller denominations as soon as you can. Small vendors might say they don\u2019t have change (sometimes true, sometimes not) which can leave you a choice between paying extra or not buying what you wanted. I\u2019ve paid slightly extra for water outside one of Hue\u2019s royal tombs as the girl (who had already tried being flirtatious and using the coin collecting trick \u2013 more on these later) claimed she didn\u2019t have any change.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Shoe_shinersrepairers\"><\/span>4. Shoe shiners\/repairers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11297\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-7.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"510\" height=\"680\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-7.jpg 510w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-7-300x400.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 510px) 100vw, 510px\" \/><figcaption>I just want to be able to walk around in peace.<br \/>\nLocation: Hoi An<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Picture the scene, you\u2019re walking down the street or sitting outside and a guy suddenly exclaims \u201clook!\u201d at you while pointing at your shoes. He offers to shine\/fix them and quotes a price. After the work is done, the price changes. The easiest trick here is for the price to double (the quote was per shoe after all) but some chancers may aim higher.<\/p>\n<p>Where it happens<\/p>\n<p>I don\u2019t think it\u2019s exclusive to Hanoi, but it\u2019s been tried on me multiple times here and not at all in other parts of Vietnam.<\/p>\n<p>How to avoid<\/p>\n<p>Just say no \u2013 they can\u2019t do any work on the shoes you\u2019re wearing unless you let them. Don\u2019t be like the guy in Goodfellas who asks to have his shoes shined. Note that, if your shoes actually are in poor condition, you\u2019ll still probably have to say no several times before being left alone. Not that I have any experience of being out and about in such shoddy footwear\u2026<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_The_coin_collector\"><\/span>5. The coin collector<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A local approaches you in the street under the pretence that they want to have a friendly conversation with a foreigner. This interest in you is highly unlikely to ever be genuine if you are in a location popular with visitors. At some point in the conversation, they ask where you are from and proceed to either 1) ask for a coin (or note, the greedy buggers) from your home country for their \u2018collection\u2019 or 2) ask if you can give them some VND in exchange for money they have in your home currency. Guess what? If they ask the latter, they got the foreign currency they want to change for VND from a previous unsuspecting tourist.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11298\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-8.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"510\" height=\"680\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-8.jpg 510w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-8-300x400.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 510px) 100vw, 510px\" \/><figcaption>Again, I just want to be able to walk around the streets in peace.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>One guy, who looked like he was in his 70s, flat out asked me for VND after I declined his request to exchange currency. He needed the money to help provide for his baby daughter apparently. I suppose I should have congratulated him.<\/p>\n<p>Another version of this trick is to say they are a teacher and want the foreign money to show to their school students or some other variation that involves showing children, since this can elicit sympathy. To be fair, showing foreign currency to kids is better than showing them dong.<\/p>\n<p>Where it happens<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11299\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-9.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"905\" height=\"679\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-9.jpg 905w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-9-533x400.jpg 533w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-9-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-9-800x600.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 905px) 100vw, 905px\" \/><figcaption>Hue, Vietnam. A city of history, culture and, ostensibly, many coin collectors.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Could be anywhere but collecting coins seems to be a very popular hobby in Hue. I have no idea why it happens so much here but it does. I have really fond memories of a morning in Hue where I got stopped multiple times by \u2018coin collectors\u2019 on a 15 minute walk from my hostel to a coworking space. When I arrived at my destination, I discovered it had closed down, went on another walk to a different coworking space and met more lovely coin collectors on the way to this one. Really, I should learn to just keep walking and not stop for a chat, but my Britishness usually gets the better of me.<\/p>\n<p>How to avoid<\/p>\n<p>The polite way \u2013 go through the motions of the conversation but decline to give\/exchange any money. Either say you don\u2019t have any money in your home currency to give them or, if they are asking for VND in exchange, say you don\u2019t need any of your home currency as you\u2019re not going to be there for a long time.<\/p>\n<p>The rude way \u2013 just ignore them and keep walking. After getting constantly stopped and bothered by strangers for 20 minutes, hearing the latest tosser shout angrily at you as you walk away is quite satisfying.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Being_overcharged_for_fooddrink\"><\/span>6. Being overcharged for food\/drink<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You sit down, enjoy a meal and receive a bill with the items you consumed, but at higher prices than those on the menu. This is an easy one to fall for if you don\u2019t remember the prices or if they only inflate the bill slightly.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11300\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-10.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"1024\" height=\"612\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-10.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-10-669x400.jpg 669w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-10-768x459.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-10-800x478.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>Plenty of good food in Vietnam, but check the bill!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Note: There is a chance, anywhere in the world, that they have genuinely made a mistake with the bill so don\u2019t immediately start making accusations. The opposite happened to me once in Bali where an old lady undercharged me \u2013 I could see the meal and drink on the bill added up to more than the total she had written down, but had to demonstrate this on her calculator before she accepted the correct amount.<\/p>\n<p>Where it happens<\/p>\n<p>Again, this could be anywhere. In Vietnam, it has been tried on me once in a small caf\u00e9 in Hanoi\u2026 with a successful outcome. I must have been having a bad day as I inexplicably went along with it and paid despite knowing the bill was too high. It was hardly any money, but I was really annoyed with myself for not saying anything. Unfortunately, I don\u2019t remember the name of the place so my chance to exact petty revenge on them in this blog or on TripAdvisor has been lost.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11301\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-11.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"1024\" height=\"612\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-11.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-11-669x400.jpg 669w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-11-768x459.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-11-800x478.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>Can never have too much Vietnamese food.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>How to avoid<\/p>\n<p>Tell them the prices are higher than on the menu (state the correct prices for all items that you remember the price for) and insist on them giving you the correct bill. Ask for the menu back if necessary to see the prices (bear in mind they might have an overpriced menu exactly for this situation \u2013 if this happens, call them out on it). This can get heated but stand your ground \u2013 I had a similar situation in Sri Lanka and they eventually charged the right amount after feigning innocence for a while. As an ultimatum, threatening to walk out without paying anything unless they give you the right bill may work \u2013 I expect I\u2019ll be testing this theory sometime!<\/p>\n<p>As an extra, warn any other customers about their nefarious practices on your way out. The other customers deserve to know and it\u2019s an easy way to stick it to the owners. Win win.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11302\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-12.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"1024\" height=\"612\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-12.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-12-669x400.jpg 669w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-12-768x459.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-12-800x478.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>More Vietnamese food, just because.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_The_photo_opportunity\"><\/span>7. The photo opportunity<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>At some point while exploring, you may be asked by a local if you want to take a photo either of them or yourself carrying a traditional Vietnamese bamboo shoulder pole. They might say it\u2019s free when encouraging you to take the photo, but they\u2019ll soon change their minds afterwards!<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11303\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-13.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"905\" height=\"679\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-13.jpg 905w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-13-533x400.jpg 533w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-13-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-13-800x600.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 905px) 100vw, 905px\" \/><figcaption>My sister-in-law at the Vietnamese Women\u2019s Museum. A safe haven for photos with traditional objects.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Where it happens<\/p>\n<p>Mostly around the old town of Hoi An, though I\u2019ve seen it in Hanoi as well.<\/p>\n<p>How to avoid<\/p>\n<p>Just saying no should be enough. There\u2019s a chance they try and put the shoulder pole on you \u2013 don\u2019t let them.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_The_overly_friendly_girls\"><\/span>8. The overly friendly girl(s)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Guys, use your brain. If an unknown woman approaches you on the street and flirtatiously grabs your arm\/other body parts, it\u2019s very unlikely to mean that she has a high opinion of you. She might be trying to sell you something, or she might be trying to pick your pockets. The dong she wants isn\u2019t in your pants.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11304\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-14.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"905\" height=\"679\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-14.jpg 905w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-14-533x400.jpg 533w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-14-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-14-800x600.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 905px) 100vw, 905px\" \/><figcaption>Don\u2019t love it so much that you get conned.<br \/>\nLocation: Fanny\u2019s Ice Cream, Ho Chi Minh City<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Things like this don\u2019t only happen on the street. When I was paying a bill in a local restaurant, a waitress suddenly stared at me like she\u2019d been hypnotised and declared \u201cyour eyes are so beautiful\u201d. As much as I\u2019d like to think she was hypnotised by my facial features, I\u2019m pretty sure the waitress was thinking about dong, I mean a tip (ok \u2013 no more of these).<\/p>\n<p>Where it happens<\/p>\n<p>This is another one that can happen pretty much anywhere in the country.<\/p>\n<p>How to avoid<\/p>\n<p>If you get caught in this situation, keep your hands on your pockets, decline whatever is suggested and walk away.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11305\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-15.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"905\" height=\"679\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-15.jpg 905w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-15-533x400.jpg 533w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-15-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-15-800x600.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 905px) 100vw, 905px\" \/><figcaption>Use your hands.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_The_motorbike_salesmen\"><\/span>9. The motorbike salesmen<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Not actual motorbike sellers, but guys driving around the streets at night on the lookout for foreigners to bother, especially solo male travellers (lucky me), with offers of drugs and\/or prostitutes.<\/p>\n<p>As a good boy who\u2019s never done anything wrong in his life, I\u2019ve always declined (at least one of these statements is true). However, I understand that the drugs are usually fake and the prostitutes do not look as advertised (the motorbike pimp will kindly flash photos in your face without being asked to). Also, both drugs and prostitution are illegal in Vietnam \u2013 penalties for the former can be deadly.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11306\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-16.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"510\" height=\"680\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-16.jpg 510w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-16-300x400.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 510px) 100vw, 510px\" \/><figcaption>Being a solo traveller is tough at times. You never know what dangers await\u2026<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Where it happens<\/p>\n<p>I mostly received offers in Hanoi, but you\u2019re likely to be approached in any tourist area where there\u2019s nightlife.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11307\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-17.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"405\" height=\"677\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-17.jpg 405w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-17-239x400.jpg 239w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 405px) 100vw, 405px\" \/><figcaption>Don\u2019t get too carried away at night.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>How to avoid<\/p>\n<p>Another instance where you just have to say no and they can\u2019t do anything except be annoying and keep asking until they give up.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_The_imitators_and_false_advertising\"><\/span>10. The imitators and false advertising<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11308\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-18.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"905\" height=\"679\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-18.jpg 905w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-18-533x400.jpg 533w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-18-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-18-800x600.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 905px) 100vw, 905px\" \/><figcaption>I don\u2019t have any photos that I can even loosely tie in to this scam, so here\u2019s a photo from the sand dunes of Mui Ne instead. Consider it as real advertising for Vietnam.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>A common occurrence with travel companies in Vietnam. Whenever a travel company earns a good reputation, other businesses will open up with similar names and logos, hoping to cash in on unwary tourists. Despite similarities in branding, the imitation will not extend to the quality of service.<\/p>\n<p>The same companies will often offer tours or transport services that do not deliver what they promise. When a sleeper bus is advertised as having onboard toilets and Wi-Fi, it\u2019s not very nice to find out at the start of your 10 hour bus trip from Hoi An to Phong Nha that neither exist.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11309\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-19.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"510\" height=\"680\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-19.jpg 510w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-19-300x400.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 510px) 100vw, 510px\" \/><figcaption>The sleeper bus \u2013 a cheap and popular way of getting around Vietnam, but some are more comfortable (or should I say less uncomfortable?) than others.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Where it happens<\/p>\n<p>At tour agencies, both online and in physical locations.<\/p>\n<p>How to avoid<\/p>\n<p>Google the companies and check online reviews \u2013 there is a lot of information online. Also, if an employee at the tour agency tells you the company with negative\/mixed reviews has just got nice new buses, don\u2019t take their unscrupulous word for it.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_few_thoughts\"><\/span>A few thoughts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-11310\" title=\"Vietnam travel tips\" src=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-20.jpg\" alt=\"Vietnam travel tips\" width=\"905\" height=\"679\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-20.jpg 905w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-20-533x400.jpg 533w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-20-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bo-mot-nang-vietnam-travel-tips-20-800x600.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 905px) 100vw, 905px\" \/><figcaption>Deep in thought, definitely not posing.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>As much as I\u2019ve (half-jokingly) moaned throughout this post, remember that a lot of people around the world cannot afford to travel and that\u2019s true for many in Vietnam. Imagine never having the money to leave your country but seeing thousands of people from the other side of the world come and visit yours, some of whom will be visiting as part of a backpacking trip covering multiple countries and continents. I don\u2019t have any problem paying a bit more than a local, what annoys me is the dishonesty and being treated like an idiot. Don\u2019t change the taxi price on Grab from 50,000 to 500,000 on my phone while I\u2019m looking, don\u2019t pretend to be interested in talking to me when you only want my money \u2013 it\u2019s just insulting and disrespectful. When this sort of thing is constantly happening, it becomes extremely frustrating.<\/p>\n<p>Ultimately, a good number of the people that have tried to rip me off will have never left Vietnam due to financial restrictions. I left the UK in October 2018 and have been travelling\/working remotely ever since while going from country to country (at least until COVID hit). I\u2019m in a good position and part of the reason for that is simply down to the wealth of opportunities available in my home country.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"inally_is_it_worth_visiting_Vietnam_with_these_issues\"><\/span>inally, is it worth visiting Vietnam with these issues?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Yes, absolutely. The country is full of things to see and do and, frankly, you will face tricks like these when travelling to just about any developing country. There are plenty of amazing experiences to be had in Vietnam but nothing is perfect. These issues, while frustrating, are a part of travelling and some of the experiences can be funny to look back on. Along with the photos that are loosely scam related, I\u2019ve scattered a few nicer photos from my trips to Vietnam around this post and this is just scratching the surface of what the country has to offer.<\/p>\n<p>You could probably avoid all or most of these scams\/rips offs by booking a controlled, all-inclusive tour around the country but I can\u2019t imagine that being as enjoyable and, in all likelihood, the fancy tour package will cost a lot more than what the local swindlers try and get from you.<\/p>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Given its historic past, Vietnam is a country that offers a unique perspective for travelers. Blessed with an insanely diverse landscape, you could be sliding down sand dunes in the morning, taking a stroll by the beach by noon and walking around a UNESCO heritage town by afternoon. No better way to start your holiday&#8230; [xem th\u00eam]\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":11286,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[76],"tags":[1220,1218,1221,1222,1217,1216,1219],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11277"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11277"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11277\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11344,"href":"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11277\/revisions\/11344"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11286"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11277"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11277"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bomotnangkrongpa.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11277"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}