From saving money and avoiding tourist traps to staying safe in Vietnam’s wild traffic, these 12 essential tips will help you smartly explore Vietnam like a local.
Especially if you are planning like a local in Vietnam then this article can be very helpful for you.
1Drink only filtered and bottled water
Drink only filtered and bottled water Vietnam’s food is amazing, but the tap water is not that good, one thing you need to know before coming to Vietnam is to always drink bottled water or tea.
And when ordering iced drinks, choose a clean quarter. This usually means it has been factory filtered and is safe.
And ice is usually filtered, if it looks like this it’s filtered ice water, then all is well. It’s fine to drink hot drinks or tea,
The boiling process makes it safe, and it is often served free or at a reduced price in local restaurants. So always drink sealed bottled water.
2.Watch your surroundings
Watch your surroundings Vietnam is crowded, fast-paced and bustling. And that’s part of its charm, but it also means you have to be alert.
It’s a narrow street, folks, so you always have to be aware of your surroundings. Although the country is generally safe, petty thefts like purse snatching do occur.
Especially scooter riders should wear a cross body bag, keep it in front of them if possible, and avoid walking too close to the road with their phone or bag open. A little awareness can go a long way.
3.Walking in Vietnam
Walking in Vietnam Pay attention to physical safety especially when walking on Vietnam roads, you have to cross at your own risk, look both ways and pray for the best.
Traffic is an experience, scooters have space. When traveling drive slowly and predictably, vehicles will usually move around you. Don’t panic. Don’t run or stop suddenly. Double check before crossing the road.
Follow the directions of the locals, they are your best guide to survive the crossings. If you are driving, expect orderly traffic. And always wear a helmet while driving.
4.Navigating Traffic
Even though there are traffic lights, not everyone follows them. Especially on scooters, people often keep driving even when the light turns red.
So don’t rely on signals alone. And don’t expect traffic to stop just because you’re crossing the road. Drivers can’t stop unless they see you, unless they do.
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5.Used The grab app
Let’s prevent you from being scammed. Another year if you are traveling alone or with a companion. Do not bargain for a taxi with a m. Use Grab Vietnam’s version of uber.
Friends, you can order food to your hotel or arrange for transportation, this is very helpful, believe me. It is reliable and cheap, we tell you the price in advance.
For transportation, if you want to save money and are alone then you can use grab car. Or if you want to go on an adventure or if you are with family then you can opt for a car to travel safely.
6.Carry cash
Vietnam is still a case based society. Especially in street markets and small cities, it is most popular there. I would say that it is done in 90% of the places, online facility is not that much.
And most of the shops do not accept credit cards. If possible, carry small notes as it can be difficult for vendors to pay with large bills.
This can save you from any kind of trouble or danger, this helps you to avoid any trouble or be cheated by the seller. Make sure that you have this dangerous weapon with you.
7.Be cautious of price gouging
The next step will help you avoid fraud. Whenever you go to a busy market or such a tourist place, make sure that the shop has the price written on the menu.
Without the original tag, the seller can easily change the product and charge you more money. The seller can quote a higher price on the spot. Go to such shops or stalls where the price is visible.
Some vendors charge different prices to locals and foreigners. This is not always malicious, especially in tourist spots.
8.How to Handle pushy vendors
Vietnam’s markets are full of charm and vibrancy but the vendors are very persistent. Many of these vendors are out to scam you so they may call out to you or signal you.
Can’t block your path right now. You don’t want to eat them on the spot. Don’t feel pressured. Just keep walking. Just don’t look at them.
9.Are Those wet Wipes free?
In most Vietnamese restaurants you will find a small wet towel on your table. Be aware that this is not free. If you use one, a small fee is usually added to your bill.
If you don’t need it just leave it on the table untouched and unused. You won’t be charged anything but if you do need it there are also regular napkins which are usually free.
10.Helpful vientnames World
Learning some basic Vietnamese vocabulary can really enhance your experience. It can make everyday tasks like ordering or paying a little easier.
If you are ordering coffee or food and you want it takeaway sometimes they may not understand what takeaway is. In Vietnam it is called Mangway.
11.Rest at a cafe
If it’s too hot outside and you need to cool off or warm up by having a nice cup of coffee and sitting in an air conditioner, go to a coffee shop. There are so many different places to drink coffee in Vietnam.
If you want to try something new and trendy then you can try something called laviet. It is a lifesaver when it comes to heat or rain.
12.How to Dress for temples or Pagodas
If you are visiting pagodas or temples, make sure you dress accordingly. This means keeping your shoulders and knees covered no matter how hot it is outside.
A little effort can go a long way. Some temples have covered gates but this is not guaranteed so dressing appropriately will ensure you don’t get turned away and will also show that you are a considerate guest.
Be wary of Raw vegetables and Herbs
Another piece of advice we have when visiting Vietnam is to stay away from raw vegetables. Although the risk of this happening is low nowadays, raw vegetables such as lettuce or fresh can carry bacteria into Vietnam.
If you have a sensitive stomach or are being cautious, it is better not to eat raw vegetables, especially if you do not go to roadside or unknown places.