Car gangs are particularly rampant in some of Vietnam’s major cities, especially Ho Chi Minh City. Many travelers have encountered these groups, so it’s crucial to stay extra vigilant when venturing out. Keep your wallet with you at all times, even in the hotel room, and never let your guard down.
When going through customs, avoid giving tips. If you encounter any difficulties, don’t be afraid; this usually just means a longer wait or letting others pass first. Steer clear of unlicensed taxis, as the drivers might take a longer route, not use the meter, and overcharge. Official taxi drivers charge strictly according to the meter and do not take detours.
It’s best to choose taxis with the markings 38272727 or 38383838, which are the booking phone numbers for their companies, clearly displayed on the car. Alternatively, using Grab or Uber is a safer option.
Before heading to Vietnam, familiarize yourself with the Vietnamese currency and ensure you have some small change. Don’t take out your wallet until the price has been fully agreed upon, and never let drivers or vendors handle your money. After paying, keep your money in sight until you receive your change.
For services, always pay after the service is completed. Confirm the details with the vendor before making a purchase. Many local vendors have different prices for tourists and locals, so observe how much the locals pay first. In tourist markets, remember to bargain.
When dining at Vietnamese restaurants, choose those with clearly marked prices on the menu; avoid places without clear pricing. When eating or shopping, if the change given by the merchant is damaged, especially if it has missing corners, ask for an exchange, as it may not be accepted elsewhere. To be safe, it’s not advisable to withdraw large amounts of cash using VISA, as there are cases of credit card fraud in Vietnam.
Always count your money immediately after exchanging it and before leaving!
Vietnam uses a separate visa sheet, and customs efficiency can be low, so it’s recommended to get the visa done in advance in your home country for a smoother entry. If the Grab car license plate does not match, be cautious. If the driver puts your backpack in the back seat and asks you to sit in the front, and then tries to build rapport by saying he has been to the Forbidden City in Beijing, and near your destination, takes a call claiming his wife just gave birth and needs to go to the hospital, asking for lucky money—be very careful.
They might take the money from your hand and return it (at this point, it may already have been stolen by a skilled pickpocket).
The experience of the royal head massage was not good, and it is not recommended. If you have any additional tips, feel free to leave a comment.
Good tips, especially about staying vigilant—those car gangs sound serious. I’d also add that learning some basic Vietnamese phrases can go a long way in avoiding trouble.