My vietnam experience .. Excellent

[oldthaihand99]

Nice to hear that about Hanoi. I've been a few times and came away with mixed feelings about the place, experienced a fair share of attempted scams, but I haven't been there since 2008. Good to hear things are going in the right direction.

Always have preferred HCMC, was there a year ago and it was better than ever.

I've experienced scams in every country i've been to, but Vietnam was the worst. It's been called the national sport there.

oldthaihand99, you must be living under a cloud! Or people immediately take you for a sucker. Not counting the Vietnam war years I have been to Vietnam 4 times in the past 10 years and have never encountered any type of scam there although I'm sure they exist. I have traveled and worked in many countries the past 50 years and I only can recall a couple of scam attempts and not hardly every country I've been to. Maybe you should reevaluate the type of people you hang around with?

You have no idea how often, if ever, i was a victim of a single scam anywhere. Nor do you know what countries i have been to.

My objective research into scams in Vietnam, in particular Hanoi where i stayed for a long time earlier this year, not in ancient history, was confirmed by what i saw there.

[ThaiSmarterThanYou]

Did you drink snake wine?

Is it a standard drink in vietnam ?

http://www.asiansnakewine.com

[Howiehotspur]

As visa runs seem to be out of the question in Thailand now , would you recommend a stay , say 3 weeks in Vietnam ? Before re applying for a 3 month visa back in Thailand ? Which surely wouldn't be classed as a visa run .. What are the visa requirements for Vietnam , is it on arrival 30 days same as Thailand ?

[DamienG]

Thanks for the report. Did you go to any places of interest/sightseeing and can you recommend any? I am thinking of going to Vietnam but do not know the best places to visit.

[rhythmworx]

I always put my hand bag in my underpants and would beg maybe even pay people to grab it.

[kinmaew]

Been there a couple of times and loved it the people are lovely and the country is beautiful and its good to know that its another English teaching option.

[canman]

Geezus....I go to HCMC every month and where are the scams that would take a thinking person in.

One famous one is the chicks on a motor bike.....don't go near em. Second is the chick on bike , often young Viet male with her. She will approach you for sex grab your lower region. While you are saying no and getting out of her grips she will pick pocket you. .....Just don't be stupid.

Scams are easy to avoid. Two more....at airport insist on price for taxi and be firm.....walk away. Price is 200k dong to district 1. About $10. Accept 250k if you don't want to be stuffed about. Its a walk in the park. Always ask bike taxi how much when you jump on back. During the day the taxis are perfect....metered just like bkk.

Hanoi exactly same. What you will find is people will rob you. Particularly women walking along with cell or camera in hand. Just be carefull

Spot on Jacksam. Those motorcycle girls are extremely good at what they do. If one gets near you she will have your phone and/or wallet and you won't know what hit you. Solid advise about the taxi drivers at the airport as well, they are a pack of pricks. Don't ever let a tout talk you into taking a taxi. Agree to the price and destination and stick to it.

[malt25]

Only place in SEA I haven't visited. And won't until they close down their dog meat shops/restaurants.

OP wrote a great positive item on his holiday. You respond with a negative rant on dog meat. Wouldn't it be a bit more appropriate to start your own post on dog meat or other issues you have ?

Just my 2 cents worth.

Cheers..... Mal.

[Tassie Norm]

I returned to Vietnam in April this year, principally for ANZAC Day. It was 44 years between 'trips'. My mate from those early days was with me. It was a moving experience on many levels. For a start we were kids, so to speak, and returning to Vung Tau and now in our sixties one sees things differently. Anyway bugger the nostalgia, we found the people remarkably friendly and helpful. Not just in Vungers but Saigon where we stayed the first and last nights of our pilgrimage. We found prices compared favourably against Thailand with the exception (I'm told!) of Ladies of the Night. One of the standout features, where we were anyway, was the cleanliness of the streets, well kept public gardens, absence of mongrel dogs (we know why don't we) and just a general feel of cleanliness. I might add no animosity, probably because of the young population who simply don't know/care about the war days. Recommended for those out there who may have been thinking of visiting. Oh, bit of a pain, no visa on arrival. Do on line and then queue on arrival.

[ThaiSmarterThanYou]

Whh nobody tell the truth and that they are very pushy about scams ? It's written everywhere online...

[canman]

Whh nobody tell the truth and that they are very pushy about scams ? It's written everywhere online...

Written by those dumb enough to be scammed maybe.

Here's a free tip for you to avoid being scammed on line:

DON't BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU READ ONLINE.

[elgenon]

Only place in SEA I haven't visited. And won't until they close down their dog meat shops/restaurants.

Most Buddhists don't eat cows. That's why beef is so bad here and pig is so popular.

Are Indians shocked at farangs eating cows? To each his own. Judge not lest ye be judged.

[ThaiSmarterThanYou]

People who do not want to eat dogs when they eat every other animals are plain stupid.

I see no difference between dogs and cows or pigs, I don't have any at home anyway.

ps: i am a vegetarian

[phuketandsee]

I lived in VN for several years and only got scammed once. I stupidly "lent" $50 to a waiter at my local restaurant and he did a runner. My fault entirely.

Interesting to compare VN and Thailand. VN, definitely opening up more and more whereas I feel this place is closing. Maybe they will pass each other soon.

As for dog meat - where do you think they get most of it from? Thailand of course.

[The manic]

Only place in SEA I haven't visited. And won't until they close down their dog meat shops/restaurants.

Quite right too. Somebody has to take the lead on this matter to give us all pause for thought.

[SwanF]

I have been following this thread with interest. Having spent a month in Vietnam in 2008, I left the country with mixed feelings. I was overwhelmed with the hassle factor at times and the constant arguing with street vendors trying to charge up to 10x the actual price was challenging at times. I also got way overcharged for a Halong Bay boatrip from my Hanoi Hotel,

However, I found Vietnam possibly the most fascinating country I had visited in SE Asia, I certainly preferred it over the fake smiles of Thailand and quite admired the hard working Viets and respected their ability to drive a hard bargain! I am returning for a month next March starting in HCMC and working myself North to Hanoi.

Back in 2009 one could get a hotel room with AC, fridge etc for $15 in Hanoi/HCMC and 10$ in the rest of the country. Bia Hoi was 3000 Dong a glass and the wonderful vegerian food in the Com Chay restaurants was 15000 Dong! I know prices since then have gone up by 50% plus, but it was not just the good value of Vietnam I enjoyed, it felt then like real Asia, much more so than more developed and tourist jaded Thailand with its overpriced lazy service in Hotels.

As previously noted I am a vegetarian, I don't shout about it as no one should care, but it makes me laugh when people cry about dogs being eaten in Vietnam, dog, pig, cat, cow, snake are all living creatures that are killed to eat, really apart from cultural connotations in the west regarding keeping dogs as pets, whats the damn difference?

[Lissos]

If you think Vietnam is bad, try Egypt. Horrible for scams.

If you think Egypt is bad, try India.

[BKKdreaming]

is there a list of "Interesting" scams that they try in Vietnam ?

everywhere has the pick pocket - taxi meters - higher prices for tourist than locals......

but I am interested in good stuff like temple closed today , TukTuk rides from hell to Gem shops etc

and how much English is understood outside the main cities ?

thanks for the info

[SwanF]

If you think Vietnam is bad, try Egypt. Horrible for scams.

If you think Egypt is bad, try India.

I actually didn't find India worse than Vietnam for lying and cheating one out of money. I visited Vietnam before India and the former prepared me for the latter. Saying that Vietnam is my favourite country in SE Asia and I am a big fan of India too!

[ThaiSmarterThanYou]

I have been following this thread with interest. Having spent a month in Vietnam in 2008, I left the country with mixed feelings. I was overwhelmed with the hassle factor at times and the constant arguing with street vendors trying to charge up to 10x the actual price was challenging at times. I also got way overcharged for a Halong Bay boatrip from my Hanoi Hotel,

However, I found Vietnam possibly the most fascinating country I had visited in SE Asia, I certainly preferred it over the fake smiles of Thailand and quite admired the hard working Viets and respected their ability to drive a hard bargain! I am returning for a month next March starting in HCMC and working myself North to Hanoi.

Back in 2009 one could get a hotel room with AC, fridge etc for $15 in Hanoi/HCMC and 10$ in the rest of the country. Bia Hoi was 3000 Dong a glass and the wonderful vegerian food in the Com Chay restaurants was 15000 Dong! I know prices since then have gone up by 50% plus, but it was not just the good value of Vietnam I enjoyed, it felt then like real Asia, much more so than more developed and tourist jaded Thailand with its overpriced lazy service in Hotels.

As previously noted I am a vegetarian, I don't shout about it as no one should care, but it makes me laugh when people cry about dogs being eaten in Vietnam, dog, pig, cat, cow, snake are all living creatures that are killed to eat, really apart from cultural connotations in the west regarding keeping dogs as pets, whats the damn difference?

Totally agree, they are so ridiculous with their "I don't eat dogs" BS ! All animal are killed by stupid people who believe it is important for them to eat them !

[Jay Sata]

I have been following this thread with interest. Having spent a month in Vietnam in 2008, I left the country with mixed feelings. I was overwhelmed with the hassle factor at times and the constant arguing with street vendors trying to charge up to 10x the actual price was challenging at times. I also got way overcharged for a Halong Bay boatrip from my Hanoi Hotel,

However, I found Vietnam possibly the most fascinating country I had visited in SE Asia, I certainly preferred it over the fake smiles of Thailand and quite admired the hard working Viets and respected their ability to drive a hard bargain! I am returning for a month next March starting in HCMC and working myself North to Hanoi.

Back in 2009 one could get a hotel room with AC, fridge etc for $15 in Hanoi/HCMC and 10$ in the rest of the country. Bia Hoi was 3000 Dong a glass and the wonderful vegerian food in the Com Chay restaurants was 15000 Dong! I know prices since then have gone up by 50% plus, but it was not just the good value of Vietnam I enjoyed, it felt then like real Asia, much more so than more developed and tourist jaded Thailand with its overpriced lazy service in Hotels.

As previously noted I am a vegetarian, I don't shout about it as no one should care, but it makes me laugh when people cry about dogs being eaten in Vietnam, dog, pig, cat, cow, snake are all living creatures that are killed to eat, really apart from cultural connotations in the west regarding keeping dogs as pets, whats the damn difference?

Nice post Swan,

Hanoi is a wonderful city and I love the way the streets all have a flavour of their own.Some metalworkers,others are making granite carvings etc.

The waterfront is great as is the garden area around Uncle Ho. Love the Continental Hotel and the waterfront plus Halong Bay which is worth the three day trip on a junk.

Light years away from the tawdry Pattaya.

[SwanF]

I have been following this thread with interest. Having spent a month in Vietnam in 2008, I left the country with mixed feelings. I was overwhelmed with the hassle factor at times and the constant arguing with street vendors trying to charge up to 10x the actual price was challenging at times. I also got way overcharged for a Halong Bay boatrip from my Hanoi Hotel,

However, I found Vietnam possibly the most fascinating country I had visited in SE Asia, I certainly preferred it over the fake smiles of Thailand and quite admired the hard working Viets and respected their ability to drive a hard bargain! I am returning for a month next March starting in HCMC and working myself North to Hanoi.

Back in 2009 one could get a hotel room with AC, fridge etc for $15 in Hanoi/HCMC and 10$ in the rest of the country. Bia Hoi was 3000 Dong a glass and the wonderful vegerian food in the Com Chay restaurants was 15000 Dong! I know prices since then have gone up by 50% plus, but it was not just the good value of Vietnam I enjoyed, it felt then like real Asia, much more so than more developed and tourist jaded Thailand with its overpriced lazy service in Hotels.

As previously noted I am a vegetarian, I don't shout about it as no one should care, but it makes me laugh when people cry about dogs being eaten in Vietnam, dog, pig, cat, cow, snake are all living creatures that are killed to eat, really apart from cultural connotations in the west regarding keeping dogs as pets, whats the damn difference?

Nice post Swan,

Hanoi is a wonderful city and I love the way the streets all have a flavour of their own.Some metalworkers,others are making granite carvings etc.

The waterfront is great as is the garden area around Uncle Ho. Love the Continental Hotel and the waterfront plus Halong Bay which is worth the three day trip on a junk.

Light years away from the tawdry Pattaya.

Glad you like Hanoi. Back in 2008 I preferred Hanoi over HCMC, yet never spoke to anyone who agreed with me on this! Maybe it was because it was the first place I saw in Vietnam when I flew in from Bangkok? Although I like to think that I enjoyed the old quarter with its run down Parisian feel, drinking Bia Hoi with the locals, tucking into a Banh Mi Baquette and simply taking in the atmosphere of a truly interesting Asian Capital city.

Don't get me wrong Ha Noi was hard work at times, but I have some great memories of that City and cannot wait to revisit next year.

Its interesting to see posters saying that Vietnam is changing for the better tourist wise, Call me cynicaI but I will be convinced on that when I visit and see for myself. One thing is for sure, a lot more Thailand expats are giving the Nam a chance and that is a good thing to see. I was never a lover of Thailand and the events of the last year have only reinforced my belief that overpriced, bloated and complacent Thailand has had its day. I am interested to hear whether other posters feel the same?

[Kiwisailor]

Re: Scams and info

Always enjoyed Vietnam but felt more comfortable in the south rather the the north. Taxi's are the same as everywhere else with plenty of rogues around. Had one in HCMC that seemed to have attached a power drill to his meter it was rotating so fast. Also one in Hanoi had a button to add 100,000 dong to the meter. Most common scam is to charge more on the bill than the menu prices and/or short change you - stupid really as the prices are usually so cheap that you would still have paid the higher price. Still, a petty annoyance that will irritate you daily. Also there are few supermarkets 7/11's etc so you need to know the price of everything, water is a hassle with vendors determining the price by how thirsty you look. Better to buy beer, it's as cheap if not cheaper than water and the price is always advertised.

In HCMC the best taxis are Mailinh or Vinasun but watch out for subtle mispellings of these names and also be certain of the name and address of your guesthouse/hotel - there are many deliberate imitations of the names of popular places (Google maps on your phone is your friend for this).

If you get more than a 30 day visa then you are able to sit the Vietnamese driving licence.

Immigration can be a hassle at times with your passport being stamped for 1 month when you've paid for 2 or 3 months but nowhere near the issues found in LOS

Travelfish has lots of info on Vietnam

[craigt3365]

If you think Vietnam is bad, try Egypt. Horrible for scams.

If you think Egypt is bad, try India.

I landed in Delhi and was kinda freaked out by the scrum after exiting the terminal. It was pretty bad. I was asking for a ride into town to find a hotel when a guy came up offering a ride in for free if I would just stop by his travel agency first. They were offering escorted tours by car at very reasonable prices. I bit, met the driver who would be taking me and because of him and the very low price, left within 2 hours. That was 10 years ago and I still communicate with the driver today. Great guy.

It was an absolutely fantastic trip. In Egypt, I did it entirely on my own. The scams were everywhere. Touts constantly bugging you for this or that. I don't really remember getting scammed buying a bottle of water in India nor when buying a quick bite to eat. In Egypt, you really had to watch yourself. They'd promise you a price of, say, $3 for a meal and when the bill came, it was $10! Very difficult to get out of this...but I did...

Both countries are absolutely fascinating for visits. Vietnam also.

[canman]

I have been following this thread with interest. Having spent a month in Vietnam in 2008, I left the country with mixed feelings. I was overwhelmed with the hassle factor at times and the constant arguing with street vendors trying to charge up to 10x the actual price was challenging at times. I also got way overcharged for a Halong Bay boatrip from my Hanoi Hotel,

However, I found Vietnam possibly the most fascinating country I had visited in SE Asia, I certainly preferred it over the fake smiles of Thailand and quite admired the hard working Viets and respected their ability to drive a hard bargain! I am returning for a month next March starting in HCMC and working myself North to Hanoi.

Back in 2009 one could get a hotel room with AC, fridge etc for $15 in Hanoi/HCMC and 10$ in the rest of the country. Bia Hoi was 3000 Dong a glass and the wonderful vegerian food in the Com Chay restaurants was 15000 Dong! I know prices since then have gone up by 50% plus, but it was not just the good value of Vietnam I enjoyed, it felt then like real Asia, much more so than more developed and tourist jaded Thailand with its overpriced lazy service in Hotels.

As previously noted I am a vegetarian, I don't shout about it as no one should care, but it makes me laugh when people cry about dogs being eaten in Vietnam, dog, pig, cat, cow, snake are all living creatures that are killed to eat, really apart from cultural connotations in the west regarding keeping dogs as pets, whats the damn difference?

Totally agree, they are so ridiculous with their "I don't eat dogs" BS ! All animal are killed by stupid people who believe it is important for them to eat them !

Why do vegans who are so concerned about animals go around eating all their food?

[phuketandsee]

When you consider how the Vietnamese have suffered from foreign abuse over the last 2000 years maybe we can cut them a little slack with the "scams." They have never wavered in their fight for independence and they didn't collaborate with the Japanese - unlike a couple of other countries I could mention.

[BKKdreaming]

When you consider how the Vietnamese have suffered from foreign abuse over the last 2000 years maybe we can cut them a little slack with the "scams." They have never wavered in their fight for independence and they didn't collaborate with the Japanese - unlike a couple of other countries I could mention.

what has the past 2000 years got to do with todays scams ?

And do the scam each other or just save them for Tourists ?

[MikePhuket1970]

If you think Vietnam is bad, try Egypt. Horrible for scams.

If you think Egypt is bad, try India.

If you think India is bad,try Pakistan

Edited November 8, 2014 by MikePhuket1970

[phuketandsee]

When you consider how the Vietnamese have suffered from foreign abuse over the last 2000 years maybe we can cut them a little slack with the "scams." They have never wavered in their fight for independence and they didn't collaborate with the Japanese - unlike a couple of other countries I could mention.

what has the past 2000 years got to do with todays scams ?

And do the scam each other or just save them for Tourists ?

A country's history has a great deal to do with it's culture. After 2000 years of abuse by China, The Mongols, The French and being devastated by the US I am not surprised that getting as much as you can today because you don't know what tomorrow will bring is important to some Vietnamese. However, as I stated before, I lived there for several years and was never being subject to a scam myself.

And, yes, they do scam each other. In fact I have heard locals say they scam each other to a greater extent than they do to foreigners.

[Lissos]

If you think Vietnam is bad, try Egypt. Horrible for scams.

If you think Egypt is bad, try India.

If you think India is bad,try Pakistan

Sorry, got to break the flow of the joke here as I found Pakistan to be a fabulous travel destination