Be cautious of traffic when crossing the streets in Vietnam as the roads can be chaotic. Additionally, be careful of scams and pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas.
When visiting Vietnam, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to have a safe and enjoyable experience. The vibrant streets of Vietnam, filled with buzzing motorbikes and busy markets, can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution and be aware of potential risks. Here are some detailed tips and interesting facts to help you navigate through Vietnam:
-
Traffic Safety: One of the main things to be cautious about in Vietnam is the traffic. The roads can be chaotic, particularly in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Motorbikes dominate the streets, and crossing them may seem daunting. It is crucial to be extra careful when crossing the roads, as traffic rarely stops for pedestrians. A famous quote from Vietnamese Zen master, Thich Nhat Hanh, emphasizes this challenge: “To cross the road, you must let go of fear.”
-
Scams and Pickpocketing: Like many popular tourist destinations, Vietnam has its share of scams and pickpocketing incidents, particularly in crowded areas. Tourist hotspots like the Old Quarter in Hanoi or Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City can be potential targets. Stay vigilant and guard your belongings, especially in busy markets or when traveling on crowded public transportation. Avoid accepting unsolicited help or deals that seem too good to be true.
-
Cultural Sensitivity: Vietnamese people are warm and friendly, but it’s crucial to be mindful of cultural norms and customs. Dress modestly, particularly when visiting temples or pagodas, and remove your shoes before entering these sacred places. Additionally, it is considered impolite to touch someone’s head or display excessive public affection.
-
Hygiene and Food Safety: While Vietnam offers a rich culinary experience, it’s important to be cautious about food hygiene. Stick to restaurants with good hygiene practices and choose properly cooked or boiled food. Avoid street food vendors whose cleanliness may be questionable. Remember the famous saying: “When in doubt, throw it out!”
-
Environmental Awareness: Vietnam boasts incredible natural landscapes, from the majestic Halong Bay to the lush Mekong Delta. However, it is essential to be mindful of the environment during your visit. Avoid littering and participate in eco-friendly activities such as clean-up campaigns or opting for sustainable travel options.
Table: Currency in Vietnam
| Currency | Vietnamese Dong (VND) |
|---|---|
| Banknotes | 1,000; 2,000; 5,000; |
| 10,000; 20,000; | |
| 50,000; 100,000; | |
| 200,000; 500,000 | |
| Coins | 200; 500; 1,000; |
| 2,000; 5,000 | |
| Average | 23,174 VND = 1 USD |
| exchange rate |
Interesting facts:
- Vietnam is the world’s second-largest exporter of coffee.
- Vietnamese cuisine is known for its delicious and diverse street food.
- The Vietnamese New Year, Tet, is the most important and longest celebration in Vietnamese culture.
- The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi houses the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh, the revolutionary leader and president of Vietnam.
- Vietnam is home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Halong Bay and Hoi An Ancient Town.
By following these guidelines and being mindful of your surroundings, you can have a memorable and safe trip to Vietnam. Always remember to respect the local culture, engage in responsible tourism, and take necessary precautions to ensure a smooth experience.
Answer in video
The YouTube video titled “10 Things You Should NOT Do in Vietnam” provides important tips for travelers visiting the country. The video advises against underestimating the weather, not drinking tap water due to contamination, and being cautious about discussing political matters to avoid legal troubles. The video also highlights cultural customs, such as removing shoes before entering someone’s house, avoiding playing with chopsticks, and dressing modestly when visiting temples. The speaker encourages attempting to speak Vietnamese and not getting offended by laughter in embarrassing situations. Overall, the video urges travelers to embrace the differences and approach Vietnam with an open mind and warm heart.
Many additional responses to your query
Scams and taxi dramas aside, the main crime that tourists need to watch out for is pickpocketing and bag snatching. This is, unfortunately, quite common in the bigger cities of Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, Hue, Ha Long), and the only way to avoid it is to be vigilant.
COVID-19 remains a risk in Vietnam. Restrictions are in place to reduce transmission of the virus (see Local laws and Travel). Insect-borne diseases such as dengue, Japanese encephalitis, malaria and zika virus are a risk. If you’re pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your doctor. Use insect repellent. Get vaccinated before you travel.
Safety tips for travel to Vietnam
- 1. Keep your belongings in a safe place When you travel it is better not to take all your belongings with you everywhere.
- 2. Be aware of scams Scams are pretty common in Vietnam.
The Do’s when Visiting Vietnam
- 1. Dress appropriately Dress conservatively, especially for female travellers.
- 2. Respect at temples When visiting temples and pagodas – keep your arms and legs covered.
- 3. Remove bling
You will most likely be intrigued
Consequently, What is considered inappropriate in Vietnam? In reply to that: Common taboos in Vietnam
Avoid hugging, holding hands, and especially kissing in public. Even touching a member of the opposite sex is looked down upon. Modesty: It is important to keep your body covered. Avoid overly short shorts and revealing shirts.
In respect to this, Is Vietnam friendly to Americans? Vietnam is now considered to be a potential ally of the United States, especially in the geopolitical context of the territorial disputes in the South China Sea and in the containment of Chinese expansionism.
Is Vietnam safe for tourists now? Latest update:We’ve reviewed our advice for Vietnam and continue to advise exercise normal safety precautions. We advise: Exercise normal safety precautions in Vietnam.
Which part of Vietnam is safest?
Response to this: 10 Safest Cities in Vietnam
- Hoi An, Vietnam.
- Can Tho, Vietnam.
- Da Nang, Vietnam.
- Vung Tau, Vietnam.
- Da Lat, Vietnam.
- Hanoi, Vietnam.
- Nha Trang, Vietnam.
- Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Furthermore, What should you know before visiting Vietnam?
Don’t Confuse when you count Between “15” And “50” One of the things you should know before you visit Vietnam is aboutcurrency. Those street vendors in Vietnam, like coconut sellers, shoe shiners, will silently trick you and claim that you agreed to a higher “50” thousand VND and not the “15” thousand VND that you were completely.
Consequently, What are some safety tips in Vietnam? As a response to this: Follow basic safety tips. Wear a seatbelt at all times. Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis. When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.) Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Vietnam may be poor. Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Thereof, How can I protect myself from diseases in Vietnam? Answer: Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Vietnam, so your behaviors are important. Unclean food and water can cause travelers’ diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits. Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
Beside this, How to etiquette in Vietnam?
Don’t publically, kiss and cuddle. Here is a guide to kissing etiquette around the world. These personal displays of affection are not considered appropriate in Vietnam. Holding hands is ok, particularly as you cross the manically busy roads. 16. Don’t stop when crossing a road Don’t stop as you cross the busy roads.
Besides, What are some safety tips in Vietnam? The answer is: Follow basic safety tips. Wear a seatbelt at all times. Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis. When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.) Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Vietnam may be poor. Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
In respect to this, What do you need to know about Vietnam? The traditions of Vietnam date back thousands of years and are instilled with a respect for the land, sea and people. If you want to understand the nuances of this beautiful culture, these are the things you need to know. Eyeing up a trip to Vietnam?
In respect to this, How can I protect myself from diseases in Vietnam?
Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Vietnam, so your behaviors are important. Unclean food and water can cause travelers’ diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits. Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
In this regard, How to etiquette in Vietnam?
Response to this: Don’t publically, kiss and cuddle. Here is a guide to kissing etiquette around the world. These personal displays of affection are not considered appropriate in Vietnam. Holding hands is ok, particularly as you cross the manically busy roads. 16. Don’t stop when crossing a road Don’t stop as you cross the busy roads.