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Safety in Vietnam: Risks, Reality and Tips for Travelers Vietnam is a welcoming and very safe nation. With the exception of a few pickpockets and snatch thefts that are increasing in some areas of big cities like Hanoi or Saigon, the Vietnamese are a peaceful people. It is very rare for travelers to be assaulted during their stay. Traveling in Vietnam remains simple and safe. Generally speaking, here are some recommendations to follow in order to minimize risks and dangers, and to ensure you always feel safe during your stay in Vietnam:
Important documents and money
Passports
– Before leaving, check the expiration dates of your passport (6 months after the date of entry into Vietnam). If necessary, obtain a visa (essential for French passports if the stay exceeds 45 days). Scan your passport and other important documents, and save them in a place accessible from everywhere (such as your email).
– Make a photocopy of your passport and always keep it with you, leaving your passport and important papers in your hotel safe or in your room safe.
– In case of theft, the local police will provide you with a certificate (insist on the notion of theft and not loss, if this is the case). This certificate allows you to obtain a pass (in case of theft or loss of passport) from your embassy.
Bank card
– Only take necessary bank cards with you on your trip to avoid theft or loss.
– Most banks have an app that you can download on your smartphone. In case of theft or loss of your bank card, block it quickly via the app. Otherwise, inform your contact in Vietnam as soon as possible for a quick intervention.
– If you need to exchange local currency, use exchange offices, banks or large hotels. Avoid the black market to avoid the risk of scams.
– It is possible to make withdrawals with your bank card. However, Vietnamese banks charge fees (which vary). Not all ATMs have the same withdrawal amounts. VietcomBank has a reasonable fee for a maximum withdrawal of 3,000,000 dong. VPBank offers fee-free withdrawals up to 5,000,000 dong.
– Keep your money and valuables in an inside pocket of your bag.
– Do not leave money or valuables in vehicles when you get out, even if the driver remains inside.
– Do not wear valuable jewelry ostentatiously.
– Do not carry large sums of money or valuables in public.
– Avoid making large purchases from street vendors to avoid tempting potential pickpockets.
– Immediately put your money away after a bank withdrawal before turning around.
General
Road safety
Traffic is the main danger in big cities, especially with the thousands of scooters! They come from everywhere and in all directions. Crossing a street can easily become a test of strength. A one-way street can quickly become a two-way street.
Here are some tips for your safety when driving and crossing streets:
– Ensure your safety by remaining vigilant and looking around you at all times.
– Wearing a helmet is mandatory if you ride a two-wheeler.
– To cross the street, move forward slowly, step by step, always in a forward direction. It is crucial not to hesitate or stop in the middle of the road when crossing, knowing that locals on motorbikes always anticipate your movement and trajectory to avoid you.
– In the event of an accident in which you are involved, contact the police.
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Taxi travel during free transport
– During your stay, you may need to take a taxi during your free time. For this, choose official taxis like Mai Linh or Taxi Group which have clear and fixed rates. The most convenient is to ask the hotel staff to organize this service for you.
– Always carry a hotel map with you (for the return) and ask the receptionist or your guide to write down the addresses of the different places you want to visit so that the taxi driver can understand you.
– Remember to write down the taxi number in case you forget personal items inside.
– Avoid using pedicabs at night, use taxis instead and always ask for metered rides.
– Taxi drivers always wear their company uniform. Avoid getting into a taxi whose driver is not wearing a uniform.
– Carefully count the number of zeros on your notes when making your cash payment, as it is very easy to get confused between a 10,000 VND note and a 100,000 VND note.
– With your smartphone, it is advisable to download the transport application “Grab” (the Asian version of Uber). It is easy to find a driver with a fixed price.
Writing by OCTourist, vietnamese travel agency
