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5 Safety Travel Tips in Ho Chi Minh City

Posted on by SGW Technical
06
May

5 SAFETY TRAVEL TIPS IN HO CHI MINH CITY

 

Safe travel tips in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Stick these and you and safe like me!!

1. Be careful when traveling by taxi

Taxi scam is quite popular in Vietnam and such a real concern for many tourists. Some taxi drivers could rip you off and charge you at a very high price. They might choose a longer path or go around to maximize the price on the meter.

In this case, you should be careful when you get into a taxi. Only choose reliable taxi brands such as Vinasun, Mailinh or Grab (like Uber). If possible, let’s take some pictures of the taxi’s plate or the meter and confirm to the driver about the shortest path to your destination (We highly suggest you to use Google Map and Grab). 

The Grab app allows you to view the price upfront and accurately determine the exact distance. For a smoother transaction, it is recommended to use e-wallets or credit cards for payment, rather than cash whenever possible.

Last but not least, make sure you have arrived at the right destination before paying and getting off the car.

2. Buying things in the market

Ho Chi Minh City has the highest average salary in the country. The minimum average salary is around $456 monthly and $5.465 annually, 38% higher than the national average. But there is a world of difference if I compare this amount of number with the average salaries from developed countries.

I often joke that tourists can feel like millionaires when visiting Vietnam, as the majority of goods and services are highly affordable, even exceptionally inexpensive. However, it is widely known that some shopkeepers or vendors may inflate prices—sometimes doubling or tripling them—in an attempt to overcharge unsuspecting visitors. To avoid this, do not hesitate to negotiate and bargain, especially when shopping in markets or on the streets.

3. Do not leave money or valuables in your hotel/hostel

Keep this important tip in mind: it’s advisable to apply it to all hotels and hostels (with the exception of reputable 4-star or 5-star hotels). I’ve heard numerous unfortunate stories from travelers about break-ins. To safeguard your belongings, always keep items like your laptop, camera, cash, and other valuables with you. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

4. Avoid carrying valuables in open pockets.

You had best pay attention to this crime because it can be quite dangerous, especially in some hustling and bustling places like: Markets, tourist attractions or walking streets. Thieves often drive motorbike, come up from behind and suddenly pull or snatch away your bag, camera, wallet and so on. This action could lead to a serious accident. If the victims try to hold on or pull back, they might fall on the ground. Always carry your belongings on the opposite side to the flow of traffic and do not hold your valuables on your hand for too long in open space. Picture this: you’re walking down a crowded, lively street and someone bumps into you. Feels normal, right? Until you realize your stuff’s gone! I learned this the hard way back in my freshman year. Trust me, take the hint, and avoid making the same mistake.

5. Talking to other travelers

“Variety is the spice of life”. I always believe that each person will have their own stories. I do not know about your outlook but to me, I love hearing stories from all travelers I have met and would meet.

At the time you are reading this, Vietnam changed a lot, but you could completely gain precious safety travel tips from travelers on the road and every street corner. They are willing to share their unforgetable memories and lessons. Do not miss out on this great opportunity.

READ MORE: 

SPECIAL OFFER FOR BOOKING FROM 2ND TOUR WITH US

4 PERFECT DAYS IN HO CHI MINH CITY (SUGGESTED ITINERARY)

7 TIPS TO HELP YOU SUCCESSFULLY NEGOTIATE AT BEN THANH MARKET

Check our Best Street Food Tour With Girls Riders HERE
Thank you very much for spending time on our article!
Saigon Adventure wishes you have a memorable time in Vietnam!

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