Scams in Vietnam
Scams are something you need to be aware of every time you visit a new country. By understanding them, you will be able to avoid them, so spend your time reading this article to have a perfect trip to Vietnam.
Vietnam is one of the favorite destinations for tourists from all over the world. They are eager to explore the beautiful country with incredibly wonderful landscapes, friendly people.
Unfortunately, like everywhere else, there are scammers when traveling to Vietnam. So pay attention to the following tips to avoid transportation scams and have a wonderful trip to Vietnam.
1. Motorcycle taxi
Scams:
Motorcycle taxis are everywhere in Vietnam; it is one of the convenient ways to travel in Vietnam. It’s cheap and a motorcycle taxi can go places that buses or cars can’t.
However, some motorcycle taxi drivers are cheaters. Some say there are no buses to your destination, but there actually are. Some charge an extremely higher price than normal taxis.
Others agree on a price, but ask for much more when you arrive. They may charge extra money for luggage, travel during peak hours, or go to an area far from the city center. When using motorcycle taxis, remember to keep your eyes on your belongings like your wallet, phone or passport.
How to avoid:
You can use transport applications like Grab which is the counterpart of Uber in Asia. You can ask Vietnamese people like your host, receptionist or your friend to check the price or discuss with the driver the price before using the motorbike taxi.
2. Motorcycle rental
Scams:
You can avoid scams related to using motorcycle taxis by renting a motorcycle to get around. Using this type of service is cheaper when you travel to many locations over such a long period of time.
However, there are some scams to avoid. It’s ridiculous but it happens in Mui Ne and Nha Trang. The rental owner tries to “steal” your motorcycle and then demands compensation. Another popular scam involves mechanical problems on the motorcycle and the owner will ask for the repair costs.
How to avoid:
Rent a motorbike with popular brands in Vietnam like Honda, Yamaha from a reputable store. Buy your own lock and key so that your motorcycle cannot be “stolen” by the owner.
Test the machine before renting it to identify problems. You can take photos of existing scratches or defects to check with the owner.
Don’t forget to ask for the motorcycle registration certificate at the store. You also need a valid driver’s license in Vietnam, but some rental shop owners may tell you that it is not necessary to rent their motorcycles. So, bring your driving license if you want to drive in Vietnam.
3. Taxis
Scams:
Common taxi scams in Vietnam are unlicensed taxi drivers, drivers who take longer routes to maximize the fare, drive without a meter or with a fake meter.
There are also fake taxi brands. They often use a car with a fake logo of reputable companies, but there may be no meter in their car. The driver of this car often asks for a higher price than the normal car when you arrive at your destination.
How to avoid:
Use reputable taxi companies like Vinasun (white) and Mai Linh (green). The drivers of these companies have uniforms and provide professional services.
You can also go through a private car company like Hoi An Trips which is cheaper than taxis for most journeys and oh well, they respond in French
4. Trains
Scams:
Traveling by train in Vietnam is affordable and practical, but beware of certain scams. You may not believe it, but it is true that there are even fake Vietnam train websites. These sites offer an attractive price.
Another scam, even if you were able to book a train ticket, and when you arrive at the station, some people at the station will tell you that the train is late and ask you to book another train ticket.
How to avoid:
Buy the train from the hotel, from a trusted travel agency like Bao Lau (my favorite) or an official website. If you are at the station, buy the ticket directly at the ticket counter.
5. Cyclo tour
Scams:
In big cities in Vietnam like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh or Hoi An, you will see the cyclo, a symbolic Vietnamese image. You look forward to exploring the city with this means of transportation and the cyclo gives you an extremely low price for the ride. When you arrive, the small amount of money is double or more than you thought.
How to avoid:
It is better to discuss with the cyclist to have a clear price for the trip, the price per person, or total, one way or round trip. If possible, check with the hotel reception before using this type of transport.
Don’t let scams ruin your trip to Vietnam. Travel safely and smartly to fully enjoy your vacation.
