Surely, a Vietnam package tour will be an unforgettable memory in your life due to Vietnam’s history and culture in abundance as well as stunning landscapes you find it difficult to believe your eyes. However, you are in need of some real experience from those who have ever landed in Vietnam. The followings are 7 things you should know before you visit Vietnam.
Watch out for scams
There are lots of things to pay attention to or so some careful research before making a decision to visit Vietnam as well many countries in the world. One of them is that we should watch out for scams. It’s possible to say that scams appear at many specific spots in a country, especially in those which are potential for the tourist industry. In Vietnam, for international travellers, trying to keep a watchful eye on their phone and valuables is what they are advisable. Regardless of rarely spotting violent crime here, the tourists must be wary of pickpockets in crowds along streets. Especially, Ho Chi Minh city’s Pham Ngu Lao and Hanoi’s Old Quarter are ideal for the scams.
Traffic is crazy
In order to prepare for a Vietnam package tour, one of the things you should know before you visit Vietnam is that traffic in some large cities, especially Ho Chi Minh city and Hanoi are crazy. There are too many vehicles (mainly motorbikes) on the streets, which often causes the heavy traffic. For tourists who have not ever come to Vietnam but wish to try a motorbike ride by themselves, a caring guide should be required, and they need to avoid traffic knots during the rush hour (the guide will tell you where the traffic knots are and how to move past hard streets in the rush hour).
Learn how to cross the street
Crossing streets may become a nightmare for many tourists who have ever stayed in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi capital for their travel or work. Actually, the system of traffic in Vietnam is fairly complex as pedestrian crossings are not sometimes close to the traffic lights; therefore, it’s recommended that you should raise your hand while crossing the streets in order to let motorcyclists know that. Additionally, try to slow down and look around for the precaution.
Learn how to haggle
Perhaps, people in many areas of the world have not ever thought of bargaining, but it’s quite common in Vietnam. More than that, it’s really expected at lots of markets in Ho Chi Minh city, and other large cities. It’s easy to do that. Ask sellers about prices of some items you would like to buy, and then haggle for the best deal, or there will be a risk that you have to overpay for them. A hint for you is to “walk away” as the sellers don’t accept the price you expect; this can bring you the better price as they call you back.
Don’t be afraid of street food
After doing some research, you will spot many things you should know before you visit Vietnam. Street food is also included in this case. Vietnamese street food is actually wonderful and definitely satisfies your tongue, but it’s advised that you ought to be careful of hygiene problems. It’s the best to choose food stalls where there are lots of customers.
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Tipping
Unlike many western countries, tipping didn’t used to be taken into account as an unusual habit of Vietnamese people. Nevertheless, it has become popular in restaurants, cafés, and international venues in Ho Chi Minh city and other cities nowadays. Just leave about VND5,000-10,000 at the cafés.
Currency
It’s strongly recommended that you should exchange your money into VND (the currency of Vietnam) for your convenience in buying products or using services when travelling to Vietnam. If paying for them in dollars, you will have a risk of getting ripped.
Read more: How to plan your first trip to Vietnam
