Quick Summary
- Overall: Vietnam is very safe for tourists
- Main risks: Petty theft, traffic, and tourist scams
- Emergency: Police 113, Ambulance 115, Fire 114
- Best practice: Use Grab app for taxis, agree prices upfront
Common Scams to Avoid
Taxi Meter Tricks
Some taxis have rigged meters or take long routes. Solution: Use Grab app exclusively. Price is fixed before you ride.
Shoe Shine / Massage Offers
Street vendors offer services then demand high prices. Solution: Politely decline and keep walking. Don't engage.
Motorbike Rentals
Some shops claim damage you didn't cause. Solution: Take photos/video before renting. Use reputable shops recommended by your hotel.
Currency Confusion
Vietnamese Dong notes look similar. 500,000 and 20,000 are both blue. Solution: Check each note carefully. 1 USD ≈ 24,500 VND.
General Safety Tips
- Traffic: Look both ways constantly. Motorbikes don't always stop. Walk slowly and predictably—drivers will go around you.
- Bag snatching: Wear bags cross-body on the building side, not the street side. Keep phones secure.
- Food safety: Eat where locals eat. Busy = fresh ingredients. Avoid ice in drinks at street stalls.
- Valuables: Use hotel safe for passport and extra cash. Carry a photocopy of your passport.
- Prices: Always agree on price before services (tours, rides, food). Get it in writing if possible.
Emergency Contacts
Police
113
Ambulance
115
Fire
114
Tourist Hotline
1900 6868