Getting around can be safe in Vietnam

[ASEAN NOW News]

It seems to be a global issue.

 

Disreputable taxi drivers are notorious for overcharging fares, especially from transportation hubs and tourist attractions.

 

Almost all taxis have meters, and most drivers use them, though they might take a circuitous route if they suspect that you are a newly arrived tourist and aren’t familiar with the area.

 

Some scoundrels have doctored meters, which click at an alarmingly fast pace; if you suspect that you’ve accepted a ride from one of these taxis, tell them to immediately let you out, pay the fare, then hail a different taxi.

 

These drivers usually lurk around train or bus stations.

 

When in doubt, walk a block or two away from the station and then hail a taxi; drivers are far more likely to be honest.

 

Ideally, it is best to use one of the taxi companies with a long-standing reputation for hiring honest drivers.

 

Reliable companies

 

file photo

 

Mai Linh Taxi is available throughout most of Vietnam, Hanoi Taxi Group in Hanoi, and Vinasun, which serves almost all of central and southern Vietnam, are all good choices.

 

Alternately, Grab Taxi, a ride-hailing app like Lyft and Uber, serves most cities in Vietnam.

Uber is no longer operating in Vietnam.

 

In 2018, Uber in Vietnam was acquired by Grab. Grab works the same way as Uber and is very dependable with the bonus of earning Grab points every time you use the app that can use towards purchases on the app.

 

Fares are fixed and the drivers tend to be pleasant and reliable. Most smaller towns have a mix of taxi companies, and the drivers are usually honest and knowledgeable.

 

 

Motorbike taxis, called xe ôm, are also widely available.

 

Anyone can drive a motorbike taxi, so if you decide to travel this way, be sure to agree on the fare before you accept the ride. Grab Taxi also offers this service, with fixed fares and door-to-door service.

Safe travel!

 

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[GregBow]

Hey

Good advice.

Also try Gojek as option to Grab.

Grab and Gojek are much higher priced at peak hour and when raining.

If possible get a benchmark taxt price as well.

Regards

 

Greg

[BritManToo]

In Vietnam I always use the bus.

Very cheap, covers lots of places.