Tips travel to Vietnam
Currency
The Dong (VND) is the national currency and comes in note denominations from 500 right up to 500,000. Travelers’ cheques are readily available with a value of 500,000 and 1,000,000. There are currency exchanges with the rate often better when you change high denomination notes.
Credit card use is common in tourist areas though there is likely to be a surcharge. ATMs are becoming more common in the larger cities and tourist areas though there will be daily limits as well as commission for use which is often displayed on the screen before you complete the transaction so you can decide whether or not to proceed.
Bargaining
It is nothing new in many parts of the world to find that prices go up for tourists and it can apply in Vietnam for a range of goods and services. That can include accommodation and some transport as well as everyday things such as groceries, drinks and clothing. There are restaurants with two menus, one local and one tourist.
It is something that can happen to anyone seen as richer than the seller; Southern Vietnamese can find things more expensive in the North than the locals if the perception is that they have money. It is something that is happening less and less with time.
It is worth agreeing a price and the currency before getting into a taxi for example then there should be no problem at the end of the journey. It is worth remembering that Vietnam is still relatively cheap for visitors so nothing should hit a tourist’s pocket too hard.
People expect you to bargain so it is worth perfecting your skills; if you can’t then you will have to pay their price rather than yours in the end.
Dos and Don’ts
Respect is a key word that everyone on a Vietnam holiday should remember. It works both ways and the Vietnamese are naturally friendly and hospitable. They do expect that visitors to their lovely country treat it and them with respect.
Some definite dos are respecting their religion and its buildings including taking off shoes before entering a temple. Visitors should dress modestly if they intend to visit temples. If you want to take photographs of people it is surely polite to ask their permission?
If you are handing something over or receiving something do it with both hands.
You will have plenty of free time even if you are on a tour; you should have a map and your accommodation’s business card with you if you are on your own and leave any valuables you do not need with you in a safety deposit box at your hotel.
In public you should act respectfully and certainly not point with finger or foot. In addition it is regarded as rude to touch someone’s head.
Safety
Vietnam is rightly regarded as a relatively safe place by any standards. That does not mean you should not use common sense wherever you go. In cities particularly there is no guarantee that there are no petty criminals around.
As a safeguard you should have a photocopy of all your important documents in a safe place such as a hotel safety deposit box.
Taxis are the safest way to travel at night because it will be obvious if you are unfamiliar in a neighborhood. Taxis run on meters and are inexpensive. If you carry a card of your hotel you will not need to rely on the taxi driver speaking your language.
In every major city of the world there is a very small minority that wants to take advantage of any opportunity for easy money. It applies here in Vietnam though in rural areas any likelihood of crime is minimal.
• Street robbery. Thieves and pickpockets can be found in crowded parts of cities and popular tourist destinations. They may be on foot or even motor bikes. Just ensure you are tightly hold on any bag, camera or mobile phone and your wallet is secure.
• General theft. Beaches are a common place for theft and you should avoid leaving any belongings unguarded. If you do not need particular valuables with you then leave them locked away in your hotel.
