12 Vietnam Travel Tips & Scams to Avoid || MUST Know Before Visiting!

About this Video

• Video Title: 12 Vietnam Travel Tips & Scams to Avoid || MUST Know Before Visiting!
• Channel: Amanda & Felix Eats
• Speakers: Amanda, Felix
• Duration: 00:11:29

Introduction

This video provides twelve essential travel tips for visiting Vietnam, focusing on saving money, avoiding scams, and staying safe. The presenters, Amanda and Felix, share their experiences and advice on various aspects of travel in Vietnam, from navigating traffic and choosing transportation to understanding local customs and avoiding common tourist traps.

Key Takeaways

• Safe Water: Only drink bottled water or tea; iced drinks should have clear, cubed ice.
• Personal Safety: Stay alert in crowded areas; use a cross-body bag to avoid petty theft.
• Navigating Traffic: Be aware of scooters; cross streets cautiously; don't rely solely on traffic signals.
• Transportation: Use Grab (Vietnam's version of Uber) for reliable and affordable transportation.
• Currency: Carry small bills for easier transactions; many places are cash-only.
• Avoiding Scams: Choose shops with displayed prices to avoid inflated prices charged to tourists.
• Handling Vendors: Be assertive and walk away if pressured; don't be swayed by vendors claiming all food is the same.
• Wet Wipes: Be aware that wet wipes are not free in most restaurants; they add a small fee to the bill.
• Helpful Phrases: Learning basic phrases like "hello" and "thank you" improves your experience. "Mang ve" means "take away".
• Escaping the Heat/Cold: Utilize air-conditioned coffee shops for respite from the weather.
• Temple/Pagoda Dress Code: Dress respectfully (covering shoulders and knees) when visiting temples and pagodas.
• Bonus Tip: Avoid raw vegetables, especially at street stalls, to minimize the risk of stomach upset.