Traveling can be an incredible experience, but unfortunately, there are some unscrupulous individuals out there who are ready to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists. In Vietnam, in particular, there are several common scams that travelers should be aware of. By familiarizing yourself with these scams and taking some simple precautions, you can help ensure that your trip to Vietnam is enjoyable and hassle-free.
Taxi Tricks
One of the most common scams in Vietnam involves taxi drivers. Illegal drivers often go to great lengths to rip off unsuspecting tourists. They may use modified meters that run faster than normal ones, resulting in a higher fare. Additionally, these drivers may take longer routes in an attempt to maximize the fare. To avoid falling victim to these scams, it is best to use reputable taxi companies like Mai Linh, Vinasun, or Taxi Group. If you are unsure, ask a receptionist at your hotel to help you find a reliable taxi service.
Xe Om Tricks
Taking a motorcycle taxi, known as “xe om,” can be an exciting way to get around Vietnam. However, it’s important to be cautious as some drivers may try to scam you. One common trick is to offer a lower fare than a taxi and then demand a higher fee at the end of the trip, citing high petrol costs. To protect yourself, trust your instincts and avoid using dubious motorcycle-taxi services, especially when traveling alone or late at night.
Hotels
When it comes to booking hotels in Vietnam, it’s essential to be cautious. Some hotels employ cunning tactics to trap unsuspecting tourists. They may advertise attractive names like “Prince,” “Paradise,” or “Queen” and hire websites to write positive articles about them, creating a false reputation. These hotels often offer lower room rates initially but then upsell guests to more expensive rooms upon arrival. Some even add unreasonable fees to the final bill. To avoid falling for these scams, it is best to book in advance through trusted booking sites and bring your confirmation email or voucher with you.
Traps at the Airport
Sometimes, taxi drivers and hotels work together to trap tourists, and these agreements can be quite sophisticated. At the airport, taxi drivers pay attention to tourism companies’ tables to gather information about incoming tourists. They then pretend to be responsible for picking up these tourists and lead them to hotels they work for. Even if tourists have already chosen a different hotel, taxi drivers can still trick them. They may call for help from their hotel on the way, and the fake receptionists will convince tourists to go to a “branch” of their chosen hotel, which is, in fact, the “evil” hotel they work for. To avoid falling for this scam, arrange for a pick-up service from your own hotel if possible. Alternatively, you can walk out of the airport, get in a taxi, and call your hotel on the way to confirm the directions.
Long Haul Bus
Long-haul bus trips, particularly in small towns in the South, can be challenging experiences, even for locals. These buses are known for their arrogant assistants who may resort to violence if passengers do not comply. They often go around bus stop stations, forcing tourists onto their buses at inflated prices. They may then sell these tourists to other buses, repeating the process until they are satisfied with the amount of money earned. To avoid such situations, it is best to use trusted bus brands like Hoang Long, Mai Linh, or Phuong Trang. Alternatively, you can book an open tour bus where fellow travelers are typically foreign tourists.
Karaoke
Karaoke is a popular form of entertainment in Vietnam, but it can also be a trap for unsuspecting tourists. Some karaoke establishments hire motorcycle-taxi drivers, cyclo-drivers, or taxi drivers to lead male tourists to their restaurants with the promise of beautiful girls and fun. Once inside, these tourists are coerced into paying exorbitant fees for drinks and fruits, along with made-up charges. This scam is illegal and should be avoided. Do not seek out prostitution services and, if you are genuinely interested in karaoke, always go with a group of Vietnamese friends.
Street Vendors
While street vendors in Vietnam may appear friendly, they can sometimes become a source of trouble for tourists. Some vendors may invite tourists to take photographs with their products, only to later demand that they buy the items or give them tips. If tourists refuse to pay, these vendors may follow and disturb them until they give in. In addition, vendor children often pretend to be disabled or orphans, appealing to tourists’ sympathy while selling chewing gum or begging for money. To avoid falling victim to these scams, politely decline the offers and, if necessary, walk away.
Restaurants
Vietnam boasts many excellent restaurants, but there are unfortunately some establishments that prioritize profit over quality and fairness. These restaurants often do not list prices on their menus and only reveal them after guests have finished their meals. The prices can be shockingly high compared to the quality of the food and the market price. To avoid these scams, consider seeking recommendations from trusted sources or using reputable restaurant guides.
Photographers
Street photographers in Vietnam may seem friendly, but they can also deceive you if you’re not careful. These photographers often approach small groups of tourists, offering to take photos at a very cheap price. However, they may take far more photos than agreed upon and demand a higher fee. They promise to deliver the photos but never show up again. To avoid falling for this scam, bring your own camera or have friendly-looking people nearby take photos for you.
“Prison” Restaurants
This scam is quite rare, but it is one of the most dangerous scams in Vietnam. “Prison” restaurants are typically located on highways or bus stop stations and have agreements with bus drivers to deliver tourists to their establishments. Once inside, tourists are locked in and forced to buy food at extremely high prices. If tourists refuse, they may be beaten until they comply. To avoid this scam, choose trusted bus services to minimize the chances of getting trapped.
By being aware of these common travel scams in Vietnam and taking precautions, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Remember to book services from reputable brands, use trusted transportation options, and trust your instincts. Enjoy your time in Vietnam and have a wonderful journey!
*[YMYL]: Your Money or Your Life
