File photo for reference only

 

A Taiwanese tourist's first trip to Vietnam was marred by a taxi scam at Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport. On 7th June, at Terminal T2, the tourist encountered a man in a supposed ride-hailing uniform who offered a ride to the Old Quarter, promising a standard rate.

 

The visitor expected the fare to be about VND400,000 (US$15). However, upon reaching Hang Bong Street, the driver demanded a total of VND900,000, citing a fake app showing VND700,000 and claiming an additional VND200,000 for parking.

 

Typically, taxi fares in Vietnam are around VND10,000 - 12,000 for the initial kilometres and VND11,000 - 15,000 thereafter. A legitimate ride-hailing trip from the airport to the Old Quarter usually costs approximately VND300,000.

 

Authorities launched an investigation and discovered a married couple from Hanoi's Soc Son District were behind the scam. They had been illegally soliciting and extorting passengers and are now facing legal consequences.

 

Despite the incident, the tourist commended Vietnam's beauty, recalling memorable experiences in Hoi An, Ninh Binh, and Ha Long Bay, which left a positive impression despite the ordeal.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-06-25

 

 

Ordeal?