SlideShare una empresa de Scribd logo
1 de 3
Descargar para leer sin conexión
Scams in Vietnam
Common Scams to Avoid When Traveling in Vietnam


Visiting any new country for the first time comes with a learning curve. Not knowing the language,
currency, or local customs makes you far more susceptible to unscrupulous individuals who are eager
to take advantage.


Like the rest of Southeast Asia, Vietnam has its share of scams that target travelers. Generally these
scams are old, proven ways to sucker newcomers to the country out of a few extra dollars here and
there. While most are more a nuisance than dangerous, some scams in Vietnam are far more cheeky
and can literally ruin your entire trip if you fall victim.


Don't be a sucker! Here are some common scams in Vietnam to avoid:


Motorbike Rental Scams in Vietnam


Pretty much applicable to all of Vietnam, be prepared to decline dozens of offers for a motorbike every
time you leave your hotel. Particularly in Nha Trang and Mui Ne, a horde of shady individuals on the
street will offer up their personal motorbikes for rent.


Renting from individuals on the street makes you vulnerable to a multitude of old scams. Some have
been known to follow you then actually steal the motorbike with a spare key. Others rent motorbikes
with mechanical problems then claim that you must make the repairs upon return.


If you intend to rent a motorbike in Vietnam, do so through your accommodation. Although lots of
tourists do drive motorbikes, be aware that you are required to possess a Vietnamese driving permit.
If stopped by the police and you fail to show a permit, they can impound the motorbike for over a month
- you are responsible to pay the rental costs while it is in impound - and charge you a steep fine!


Confusing Currency in Vietnam


Although the official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong, many prices for food, hotels, and
transportation are quoted in U.S. dollars. Always confirm what currency a price is in. For instance, if a
vendor tells you that something is "five" it can mean 5,000 dong - around 25 cents - or $5.


If a price is quoted in dollars and you choose to pay in Vietnamese dong, always double check the
exchange rate used to make the conversion. Carrying a small calculator is a big help, particularly
when the other party speaks little English.


Cyclo and Taxi Drivers in Vietnam


Always confirm before getting inside any taxi that the driver will use the meter. If getting a ride from
one of Vietnam's famous "cyclos" or bicycle-taxis, agree on a clear price before getting inside; you have
lost all your bargaining power once the journey starts. Confirm whether the price is total or per person
and assume that any price you are given is one-way. Prices for rides can usually be negotiated - read
more about negotiating prices in Southeast Asia.


Do not rely on information about a particular hotel or restaurant being "closed" - this is usually the
driver's attempt to take you to a friend's restaurant instead.


A more-dangerous scam in Hanoi consists of drivers pretending to be taxis, then driving their
passengers outside of the city unless they agree to fork over money and valuables. Exercise caution
by only using official taxis, easily identifiable in Vietnam.


There have been reports of airport taxi drivers operating on the coupon system who demand more
money once at your destination. The driver will hold your luggage hostage in the trunk until you pay
the difference. Keep your bags on the seat with you!


Hotel Scams in Vietnam


Hotels in Vietnam have been known to double rates upon checkout by claiming that the price quoted
was per person rather than per night. If your room has a refrigerator, confirm what drinks are present
when you check in to avoid being charged for something a previous guest enjoyed.


When arriving to a new town, your best bet is to walk briskly past all the hotel offers from touts that
wait on the buses. These guys are middlemen and their commission is added to your room rate.


When a hotel becomes popular, others actually spring up with the exact same name in hopes of
stealing business. Confirm the address of your hotel rather than just giving the taxi driver a name.


Ticket Booking Scams in Vietnam


Be wary of anyone that approaches you around the entrance of bus and train stations - most are there to
target tourists. Con-artists will tell you that the train or bus is delayed or offer to book a ticket for
you.


Train tickets in Vietnam do not have the class printed on them. Travel agents may charge you for a
soft-sleeper class berth then give you a ticket that is only good for a less-comfortable class to pocket
the difference. Read more about train travel in Vietnam.


Changing Prices in Vietnam


Many prices for food, toiletries, and other items in small shops are usually made up at thewhim of the
shopkeeper. Never assume that a price is the same as you paid yesterday!
Pirated Goods in Vietnam


Keep in mind that many of the goods sold by street vendors in Vietnam are actually cheap reproductions.
DVDs, books, electronics, and even name-brand cigarettes are convincing-enough fakes but usually of
a lower quality.


Drugs in Vietnam


Don't even think about it: Drug possession can actually carry the death penalty in Vietnam. Individuals
on the street try to sell marijuana to travelers, then phone a friendly police officer to come shake the
buyers down for a large bribe. Read more about drugs in Southeast Asia.

Más contenido relacionado

Destacado

Interactiff text ru 20.10s
Interactiff text ru 20.10sInteractiff text ru 20.10s
Interactiff text ru 20.10sAlexander Ulitin
 
Introduccion curso herramientas en linea para internacionalizar su negocio ...
Introduccion   curso herramientas en linea para internacionalizar su negocio ...Introduccion   curso herramientas en linea para internacionalizar su negocio ...
Introduccion curso herramientas en linea para internacionalizar su negocio ...Mario Parra Varón
 
Презентация Interactiff – победитель БИТ
Презентация Interactiff – победитель БИТПрезентация Interactiff – победитель БИТ
Презентация Interactiff – победитель БИТAlexander Ulitin
 
!Interactiff text en 24.09
!Interactiff text en 24.09!Interactiff text en 24.09
!Interactiff text en 24.09Alexander Ulitin
 
this is our presentencion about places in neighborhoodan san sebastian
this is our presentencion about places in neighborhoodan san sebastianthis is our presentencion about places in neighborhoodan san sebastian
this is our presentencion about places in neighborhoodan san sebastianSebastian Sanchez
 
XYZ Kahve Firması Sosyal Medya Pazarlama Planı
XYZ Kahve Firması Sosyal Medya Pazarlama PlanıXYZ Kahve Firması Sosyal Medya Pazarlama Planı
XYZ Kahve Firması Sosyal Medya Pazarlama PlanıMurat Yaman
 

Destacado (9)

Presentation San sebastian
Presentation San sebastianPresentation San sebastian
Presentation San sebastian
 
Interactiff text ru 20.10s
Interactiff text ru 20.10sInteractiff text ru 20.10s
Interactiff text ru 20.10s
 
Introduccion curso herramientas en linea para internacionalizar su negocio ...
Introduccion   curso herramientas en linea para internacionalizar su negocio ...Introduccion   curso herramientas en linea para internacionalizar su negocio ...
Introduccion curso herramientas en linea para internacionalizar su negocio ...
 
Презентация Interactiff – победитель БИТ
Презентация Interactiff – победитель БИТПрезентация Interactiff – победитель БИТ
Презентация Interactiff – победитель БИТ
 
Presentation gti
Presentation gtiPresentation gti
Presentation gti
 
Malaria in southeast asia
Malaria in southeast asiaMalaria in southeast asia
Malaria in southeast asia
 
!Interactiff text en 24.09
!Interactiff text en 24.09!Interactiff text en 24.09
!Interactiff text en 24.09
 
this is our presentencion about places in neighborhoodan san sebastian
this is our presentencion about places in neighborhoodan san sebastianthis is our presentencion about places in neighborhoodan san sebastian
this is our presentencion about places in neighborhoodan san sebastian
 
XYZ Kahve Firması Sosyal Medya Pazarlama Planı
XYZ Kahve Firması Sosyal Medya Pazarlama PlanıXYZ Kahve Firması Sosyal Medya Pazarlama Planı
XYZ Kahve Firması Sosyal Medya Pazarlama Planı
 

Similar a Scams in vietnam

The Travel Store Newsletter Issue 13
The Travel Store Newsletter Issue 13The Travel Store Newsletter Issue 13
The Travel Store Newsletter Issue 13The Travel Store
 
5 scary travel scams to watch out for in 2021
5 scary travel scams to watch out for in 20215 scary travel scams to watch out for in 2021
5 scary travel scams to watch out for in 2021Luis Gallegos
 
101 ways to save in europe
101 ways to save in europe101 ways to save in europe
101 ways to save in europePete Meyers
 
Overseas travel-checklist-and-tips1
Overseas travel-checklist-and-tips1Overseas travel-checklist-and-tips1
Overseas travel-checklist-and-tips1Vacation Side Travel
 
What should we know before traveling
What should we know before travelingWhat should we know before traveling
What should we know before travelingGavin Manerowski
 
Travel Scams Around The World
Travel Scams Around The WorldTravel Scams Around The World
Travel Scams Around The WorldImOnHolidays
 
Cuba travel guide for beginners (2002, havana series)
  Cuba travel guide for beginners (2002, havana series)   Cuba travel guide for beginners (2002, havana series)
Cuba travel guide for beginners (2002, havana series) MahamatahmatAtteb
 

Similar a Scams in vietnam (9)

The Travel Store Newsletter Issue 13
The Travel Store Newsletter Issue 13The Travel Store Newsletter Issue 13
The Travel Store Newsletter Issue 13
 
5 scary travel scams to watch out for in 2021
5 scary travel scams to watch out for in 20215 scary travel scams to watch out for in 2021
5 scary travel scams to watch out for in 2021
 
101 ways to save in europe
101 ways to save in europe101 ways to save in europe
101 ways to save in europe
 
Overseas travel-checklist-and-tips1
Overseas travel-checklist-and-tips1Overseas travel-checklist-and-tips1
Overseas travel-checklist-and-tips1
 
What should we know before traveling
What should we know before travelingWhat should we know before traveling
What should we know before traveling
 
Travel Security - Part Two
Travel Security - Part TwoTravel Security - Part Two
Travel Security - Part Two
 
Travel Scams Around The World
Travel Scams Around The WorldTravel Scams Around The World
Travel Scams Around The World
 
Cuba travel guide for beginners (2002, havana series)
  Cuba travel guide for beginners (2002, havana series)   Cuba travel guide for beginners (2002, havana series)
Cuba travel guide for beginners (2002, havana series)
 
Grand Chapitre of Vietnam 2023 (v1 - 2023-07-16).pdf
Grand Chapitre of Vietnam 2023 (v1 - 2023-07-16).pdfGrand Chapitre of Vietnam 2023 (v1 - 2023-07-16).pdf
Grand Chapitre of Vietnam 2023 (v1 - 2023-07-16).pdf
 

Más de Vietnam Visa On Arrival

Important documents needed when applying for a tourist visa
Important documents needed when applying for a tourist visaImportant documents needed when applying for a tourist visa
Important documents needed when applying for a tourist visaVietnam Visa On Arrival
 
Mistakes when applying vietnam visa on arrival
Mistakes when applying vietnam visa on arrivalMistakes when applying vietnam visa on arrival
Mistakes when applying vietnam visa on arrivalVietnam Visa On Arrival
 
Important documents needed when applying for a tourist visa
Important documents needed when applying for a tourist visaImportant documents needed when applying for a tourist visa
Important documents needed when applying for a tourist visaVietnam Visa On Arrival
 
How to turn in the tourist visa at the border
How to turn in the tourist visa at the borderHow to turn in the tourist visa at the border
How to turn in the tourist visa at the borderVietnam Visa On Arrival
 
How to obtain a visa for overseas travel
How to obtain a visa for overseas travelHow to obtain a visa for overseas travel
How to obtain a visa for overseas travelVietnam Visa On Arrival
 

Más de Vietnam Visa On Arrival (20)

Consular fee
Consular feeConsular fee
Consular fee
 
Vietnam route to cambodia
Vietnam route to cambodiaVietnam route to cambodia
Vietnam route to cambodia
 
Laos cross border
Laos cross borderLaos cross border
Laos cross border
 
Guide to vietnam visa on arrival
Guide to vietnam visa on arrivalGuide to vietnam visa on arrival
Guide to vietnam visa on arrival
 
Good route travelling to vietnam
Good route travelling to vietnamGood route travelling to vietnam
Good route travelling to vietnam
 
Citizens exempted vietnam visa
Citizens exempted vietnam visaCitizens exempted vietnam visa
Citizens exempted vietnam visa
 
Border crossing scams
Border crossing scamsBorder crossing scams
Border crossing scams
 
Important documents needed when applying for a tourist visa
Important documents needed when applying for a tourist visaImportant documents needed when applying for a tourist visa
Important documents needed when applying for a tourist visa
 
How to renew a passport in new jersey
How to renew a passport in new jerseyHow to renew a passport in new jersey
How to renew a passport in new jersey
 
Egyptian tourist visa
Egyptian tourist visaEgyptian tourist visa
Egyptian tourist visa
 
Myanmar burma visa for foreigners
Myanmar burma visa for foreignersMyanmar burma visa for foreigners
Myanmar burma visa for foreigners
 
Mistakes when applying vietnam visa on arrival
Mistakes when applying vietnam visa on arrivalMistakes when applying vietnam visa on arrival
Mistakes when applying vietnam visa on arrival
 
Hong kong visa trip
Hong kong visa tripHong kong visa trip
Hong kong visa trip
 
Getting laos visa in thailand
Getting laos visa in thailandGetting laos visa in thailand
Getting laos visa in thailand
 
E visa to vietnam
E visa to vietnamE visa to vietnam
E visa to vietnam
 
Important documents needed when applying for a tourist visa
Important documents needed when applying for a tourist visaImportant documents needed when applying for a tourist visa
Important documents needed when applying for a tourist visa
 
Types of visas for travel
Types of visas for travelTypes of visas for travel
Types of visas for travel
 
How to turn in the tourist visa at the border
How to turn in the tourist visa at the borderHow to turn in the tourist visa at the border
How to turn in the tourist visa at the border
 
How to obtain a visa for overseas travel
How to obtain a visa for overseas travelHow to obtain a visa for overseas travel
How to obtain a visa for overseas travel
 
How to get a visa for the uk
How to get a visa for the ukHow to get a visa for the uk
How to get a visa for the uk
 

Último

A Presentation of Braga. It was made by students of school
A Presentation of Braga. It was made by students of schoolA Presentation of Braga. It was made by students of school
A Presentation of Braga. It was made by students of schoolApostolos Syropoulos
 
What Are The Best Locations In Aruba For A Thrilling Kayak Adventure
What Are The Best Locations In Aruba For A Thrilling Kayak AdventureWhat Are The Best Locations In Aruba For A Thrilling Kayak Adventure
What Are The Best Locations In Aruba For A Thrilling Kayak AdventureDelphi Watersports
 
Reflective Essay for global competency certificate
Reflective Essay for global competency certificateReflective Essay for global competency certificate
Reflective Essay for global competency certificateseijibrown2
 
How To Prepare For An Unforgettable Blackwater Dive In Kona
How To Prepare For An Unforgettable Blackwater Dive In KonaHow To Prepare For An Unforgettable Blackwater Dive In Kona
How To Prepare For An Unforgettable Blackwater Dive In KonaKona Ocean Adventures
 
Da Nang Tourist Attractions, VN (越南 峴港旅遊景點).ppsx
Da Nang Tourist Attractions, VN (越南 峴港旅遊景點).ppsxDa Nang Tourist Attractions, VN (越南 峴港旅遊景點).ppsx
Da Nang Tourist Attractions, VN (越南 峴港旅遊景點).ppsxChung Yen Chang
 
Exploring Uncharted Waters Your Guide To Private Sunset Cruise On Maui
Exploring Uncharted Waters Your Guide To Private Sunset Cruise On MauiExploring Uncharted Waters Your Guide To Private Sunset Cruise On Maui
Exploring Uncharted Waters Your Guide To Private Sunset Cruise On MauiMakena Coast Charters
 
pics from luxembourg exchange program 2016
pics from luxembourg exchange program 2016pics from luxembourg exchange program 2016
pics from luxembourg exchange program 2016seijibrown2
 
The West Coast Trail Presentation for SAIT international students
The West Coast Trail Presentation for SAIT international studentsThe West Coast Trail Presentation for SAIT international students
The West Coast Trail Presentation for SAIT international studentsseijibrown2
 
Vietnam presentation for intercultural communications class
Vietnam presentation for intercultural communications classVietnam presentation for intercultural communications class
Vietnam presentation for intercultural communications classseijibrown2
 
TOURIST & ITS TYPE &MOTIVETIONAL FACTORS & BEHAVIOR .pptx
TOURIST & ITS TYPE &MOTIVETIONAL  FACTORS & BEHAVIOR .pptxTOURIST & ITS TYPE &MOTIVETIONAL  FACTORS & BEHAVIOR .pptx
TOURIST & ITS TYPE &MOTIVETIONAL FACTORS & BEHAVIOR .pptxkittustudy7
 
Reflective Essay.pdf for Global Compentency
Reflective Essay.pdf for Global CompentencyReflective Essay.pdf for Global Compentency
Reflective Essay.pdf for Global Compentencyseijibrown2
 
Culture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca.pdf
Culture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca.pdfCulture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca.pdf
Culture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca.pdfseijibrown2
 
Traveling by Train in Sicily: A New Era of Comfort and Convenience
Traveling by Train in Sicily: A New Era of Comfort and ConvenienceTraveling by Train in Sicily: A New Era of Comfort and Convenience
Traveling by Train in Sicily: A New Era of Comfort and ConvenienceTime for Sicily
 
Nanbokucho-period, Historical Origins of Modern Japan
Nanbokucho-period, Historical Origins of Modern JapanNanbokucho-period, Historical Origins of Modern Japan
Nanbokucho-period, Historical Origins of Modern Japanseijibrown2
 
Culture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca (1).pdf
Culture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca (1).pdfCulture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca (1).pdf
Culture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca (1).pdfseijibrown2
 
2024 Annual Meeting: Visit Portland, Maine
2024 Annual Meeting: Visit Portland, Maine2024 Annual Meeting: Visit Portland, Maine
2024 Annual Meeting: Visit Portland, MaineVisit Portland
 
My presentation on vietnam for Intercultural Communications
My presentation on vietnam for Intercultural CommunicationsMy presentation on vietnam for Intercultural Communications
My presentation on vietnam for Intercultural Communicationsseijibrown2
 

Último (17)

A Presentation of Braga. It was made by students of school
A Presentation of Braga. It was made by students of schoolA Presentation of Braga. It was made by students of school
A Presentation of Braga. It was made by students of school
 
What Are The Best Locations In Aruba For A Thrilling Kayak Adventure
What Are The Best Locations In Aruba For A Thrilling Kayak AdventureWhat Are The Best Locations In Aruba For A Thrilling Kayak Adventure
What Are The Best Locations In Aruba For A Thrilling Kayak Adventure
 
Reflective Essay for global competency certificate
Reflective Essay for global competency certificateReflective Essay for global competency certificate
Reflective Essay for global competency certificate
 
How To Prepare For An Unforgettable Blackwater Dive In Kona
How To Prepare For An Unforgettable Blackwater Dive In KonaHow To Prepare For An Unforgettable Blackwater Dive In Kona
How To Prepare For An Unforgettable Blackwater Dive In Kona
 
Da Nang Tourist Attractions, VN (越南 峴港旅遊景點).ppsx
Da Nang Tourist Attractions, VN (越南 峴港旅遊景點).ppsxDa Nang Tourist Attractions, VN (越南 峴港旅遊景點).ppsx
Da Nang Tourist Attractions, VN (越南 峴港旅遊景點).ppsx
 
Exploring Uncharted Waters Your Guide To Private Sunset Cruise On Maui
Exploring Uncharted Waters Your Guide To Private Sunset Cruise On MauiExploring Uncharted Waters Your Guide To Private Sunset Cruise On Maui
Exploring Uncharted Waters Your Guide To Private Sunset Cruise On Maui
 
pics from luxembourg exchange program 2016
pics from luxembourg exchange program 2016pics from luxembourg exchange program 2016
pics from luxembourg exchange program 2016
 
The West Coast Trail Presentation for SAIT international students
The West Coast Trail Presentation for SAIT international studentsThe West Coast Trail Presentation for SAIT international students
The West Coast Trail Presentation for SAIT international students
 
Vietnam presentation for intercultural communications class
Vietnam presentation for intercultural communications classVietnam presentation for intercultural communications class
Vietnam presentation for intercultural communications class
 
TOURIST & ITS TYPE &MOTIVETIONAL FACTORS & BEHAVIOR .pptx
TOURIST & ITS TYPE &MOTIVETIONAL  FACTORS & BEHAVIOR .pptxTOURIST & ITS TYPE &MOTIVETIONAL  FACTORS & BEHAVIOR .pptx
TOURIST & ITS TYPE &MOTIVETIONAL FACTORS & BEHAVIOR .pptx
 
Reflective Essay.pdf for Global Compentency
Reflective Essay.pdf for Global CompentencyReflective Essay.pdf for Global Compentency
Reflective Essay.pdf for Global Compentency
 
Culture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca.pdf
Culture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca.pdfCulture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca.pdf
Culture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca.pdf
 
Traveling by Train in Sicily: A New Era of Comfort and Convenience
Traveling by Train in Sicily: A New Era of Comfort and ConvenienceTraveling by Train in Sicily: A New Era of Comfort and Convenience
Traveling by Train in Sicily: A New Era of Comfort and Convenience
 
Nanbokucho-period, Historical Origins of Modern Japan
Nanbokucho-period, Historical Origins of Modern JapanNanbokucho-period, Historical Origins of Modern Japan
Nanbokucho-period, Historical Origins of Modern Japan
 
Culture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca (1).pdf
Culture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca (1).pdfCulture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca (1).pdf
Culture and Identity through English as a Lingua Franca (1).pdf
 
2024 Annual Meeting: Visit Portland, Maine
2024 Annual Meeting: Visit Portland, Maine2024 Annual Meeting: Visit Portland, Maine
2024 Annual Meeting: Visit Portland, Maine
 
My presentation on vietnam for Intercultural Communications
My presentation on vietnam for Intercultural CommunicationsMy presentation on vietnam for Intercultural Communications
My presentation on vietnam for Intercultural Communications
 

Scams in vietnam

  • 1. Scams in Vietnam Common Scams to Avoid When Traveling in Vietnam Visiting any new country for the first time comes with a learning curve. Not knowing the language, currency, or local customs makes you far more susceptible to unscrupulous individuals who are eager to take advantage. Like the rest of Southeast Asia, Vietnam has its share of scams that target travelers. Generally these scams are old, proven ways to sucker newcomers to the country out of a few extra dollars here and there. While most are more a nuisance than dangerous, some scams in Vietnam are far more cheeky and can literally ruin your entire trip if you fall victim. Don't be a sucker! Here are some common scams in Vietnam to avoid: Motorbike Rental Scams in Vietnam Pretty much applicable to all of Vietnam, be prepared to decline dozens of offers for a motorbike every time you leave your hotel. Particularly in Nha Trang and Mui Ne, a horde of shady individuals on the street will offer up their personal motorbikes for rent. Renting from individuals on the street makes you vulnerable to a multitude of old scams. Some have been known to follow you then actually steal the motorbike with a spare key. Others rent motorbikes with mechanical problems then claim that you must make the repairs upon return. If you intend to rent a motorbike in Vietnam, do so through your accommodation. Although lots of tourists do drive motorbikes, be aware that you are required to possess a Vietnamese driving permit. If stopped by the police and you fail to show a permit, they can impound the motorbike for over a month - you are responsible to pay the rental costs while it is in impound - and charge you a steep fine! Confusing Currency in Vietnam Although the official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong, many prices for food, hotels, and transportation are quoted in U.S. dollars. Always confirm what currency a price is in. For instance, if a vendor tells you that something is "five" it can mean 5,000 dong - around 25 cents - or $5. If a price is quoted in dollars and you choose to pay in Vietnamese dong, always double check the exchange rate used to make the conversion. Carrying a small calculator is a big help, particularly when the other party speaks little English. Cyclo and Taxi Drivers in Vietnam Always confirm before getting inside any taxi that the driver will use the meter. If getting a ride from one of Vietnam's famous "cyclos" or bicycle-taxis, agree on a clear price before getting inside; you have
  • 2. lost all your bargaining power once the journey starts. Confirm whether the price is total or per person and assume that any price you are given is one-way. Prices for rides can usually be negotiated - read more about negotiating prices in Southeast Asia. Do not rely on information about a particular hotel or restaurant being "closed" - this is usually the driver's attempt to take you to a friend's restaurant instead. A more-dangerous scam in Hanoi consists of drivers pretending to be taxis, then driving their passengers outside of the city unless they agree to fork over money and valuables. Exercise caution by only using official taxis, easily identifiable in Vietnam. There have been reports of airport taxi drivers operating on the coupon system who demand more money once at your destination. The driver will hold your luggage hostage in the trunk until you pay the difference. Keep your bags on the seat with you! Hotel Scams in Vietnam Hotels in Vietnam have been known to double rates upon checkout by claiming that the price quoted was per person rather than per night. If your room has a refrigerator, confirm what drinks are present when you check in to avoid being charged for something a previous guest enjoyed. When arriving to a new town, your best bet is to walk briskly past all the hotel offers from touts that wait on the buses. These guys are middlemen and their commission is added to your room rate. When a hotel becomes popular, others actually spring up with the exact same name in hopes of stealing business. Confirm the address of your hotel rather than just giving the taxi driver a name. Ticket Booking Scams in Vietnam Be wary of anyone that approaches you around the entrance of bus and train stations - most are there to target tourists. Con-artists will tell you that the train or bus is delayed or offer to book a ticket for you. Train tickets in Vietnam do not have the class printed on them. Travel agents may charge you for a soft-sleeper class berth then give you a ticket that is only good for a less-comfortable class to pocket the difference. Read more about train travel in Vietnam. Changing Prices in Vietnam Many prices for food, toiletries, and other items in small shops are usually made up at thewhim of the shopkeeper. Never assume that a price is the same as you paid yesterday!
  • 3. Pirated Goods in Vietnam Keep in mind that many of the goods sold by street vendors in Vietnam are actually cheap reproductions. DVDs, books, electronics, and even name-brand cigarettes are convincing-enough fakes but usually of a lower quality. Drugs in Vietnam Don't even think about it: Drug possession can actually carry the death penalty in Vietnam. Individuals on the street try to sell marijuana to travelers, then phone a friendly police officer to come shake the buyers down for a large bribe. Read more about drugs in Southeast Asia.