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Common scams in Vietnam
Confusing currency
It’s no lie that when a traveller has just arrived in a new destination, handling a different currency can get confusing. Local business owners have used this factor to their advantage by scamming naive tourists. They may overcharge on goods, insist on a tip being given, change the agreed fare once the service has been completed or round up or down to suit them. Visitors must also be aware of the currency in question. If a vendor says ’20’, they could mean US dollars, Vietnamese Dong or something else altogether. Always be sure to check before agreeing.
Unauthorised tour companies
A common occurrence in tourist-populated areas is that of unauthorised or disreputable tour companies charging more for less than adequate trips, which may end earlier than agreed. They may also overbook on trips and exploit tourists with high return prices. It’s wise to read reviews of tour companies in the area and only use the service of legitimate, reputable businesses.
Shopping scams
Vietnam has many excellent shopping opportunities, but travellers need to be aware of scams surrounding this fun pastime. Goods which have been agreed on have been switched out for something else, but when wrapped in packaging, the buyer is none the wiser. Store owners and vendors alike may also claim that something is free of charge. However, once the service has been used or food consumed, they will demand payment.
Taxi or motorbike taxi price hikes
While Vietnam’s taxis and Xe Om (motorbike taxis) might be a good way to get around town, they can also be a good way to find your pockets substantially emptier than expected. By deciding on a firm price before you ride, you can avoid the awkward encounter when it’s time to get off and your driver insists you agreed upon 50,000 dong instead of 15,000.
The shoeshine scam
Recently, one tourist scam that has been tripping up travellers is to do with shoeshining in Ho Chi Min. While there are respectable shoe shiners in Vietnam, several reports have surfaced where tourists start to have their shoes polished only to have the vendor inform them that the price will be around VND 600,000 to 1 million (AU$36-60). If you are approached, don’t be afraid to refuse firmly before moving on – you can even try the Vietnamese word for no, không, to get your point across.
Ha Long Bay bait and switch
This incredible spot is not to be missed on a trip to Vietnam, but it is also a prime place for tourist pitfalls. It isn’t uncommon to find that the beautiful boat your booked for your cruise around the bay is completely different to the vessel that awaits you. To minimise the risk of being disappointed upon arrival, do your research beforehand and consult forums such as TripAdvisor for the latest reviews of each company. Here, the more you pay, the better your experience is likely to be, but at the same time, don’t be afraid to do some haggling!
Crime in Vietnam
As a whole, crime in Vietnam is largely kept to the level of petty crime, such as pickpocketing. Don’t make yourself a potential target for thieves. Instead, keep valuables securely on your person at all times and do not leave belongings unattended.
Bag snatching by moped drivers is also common. Motorcyclists are known to grab bags from unsuspecting tourists who may be waiting at crossings.
Ho Chi Minh City is one of Vietnam’s most crime-filled cities, where petty crime can be fairly common. Tourists must be wary in crowded places to avoid falling victim.
Travel Insurance
We all know that the good times can take a slight detour when travelling. When the going gets tough, Travel Insurance Direct policies aim to do the heavy lifting and may assist with travel insurance cover for your trip to Vietnam to help keep your trip moving in the right direction, so you can refocus on the fun.