Travel Tips

Travel Tips
When traveling always be aware of your surroundings and use common sense as you would anywhere. Vietnam is a relatively safe place, but there are always some people looking to take advantage of you. Most everywhere you go people ask you where you're going or what do you want and to answer them is inviting them to help you, which you probably don't want. Ask the concierge at your hotel if you need help or someone you trust. In Saigon, I recommend my friend Nhut who is my guide when I'm there and is very trustworthy.

I'm not one for tours and tour groups. To me, they are too much like work where you're held to schedules and have to travel with a mixed bag of people. However, if you like traveling that way they are not hard to find. I do take an occasional day tour which can be arranged from most hotels or local travel groups. Most of the time I just prefer finding my own way, having my own room with a private bath and air conditioning for between $20 US and $40 US a night. Rooms can vary widely from less than $20 to much more.

Getting Around
Around the towns there are cyclos, motor bikes and taxis. They are all inexpensive by Western standards, but before you go with any of them you have to negotiate the price. Most taxis have meters but sometimes they will try to get more. Be polite but firm.

Walking
I like to walk when I can, it's the best way to see the people and their everyday routine. The only problem with walking is the street people, vendors and cyclo drivers. They will often follow you everywhere you go. Unfortunately, the only way to avoid this is to ignore them. Even saying, "No thanks." is an invitation for them to follow you. This can be very annoying. I've had them follow me for hours.

Cyclos and Motorbikes
Cyclo drivers are notorious for asking one price and wanting more after the ride, but it is still worth the experience to try it out. Make sure you negotiate a price before getting on one, and don't pay more, except for maybe a small tip.
Motorbikes are everywhere and are my choice in the cities. Every corner, every hotel everywhere you go there are motorcycle taxis available. They are inexpensive, but as usual, still negotiate a price before you get on.

Busses
With the exception of tour company busses, they are pretty miserable, slow and unreliable. You might want to take one just for the experience, it's another way to mingle with the locals. Make sure to watch your belongings.

Taxis
They are relatively inexpensive, also a great way to get around, especially if the weather is bad. Just make sure you get a metered cab and only pay what's on the meter, and maybe a small tip.

Trains
A train runs from Hanoi to Saigon, making several stops at coastal towns. It's fun to take at least one or two train trips. It's a good way to see the countryside if you have the time. Make sure you get a "Soft Sleeper" or at least a cushioned seat. I would also bring my own food and drink.

Boats
In some areas it is necessary to take boats. A recommended ride is to take the hydrofoil from Saigon to Vung Tau. In most cases the prices are set but in cases where it is a privateer, make sure you negotiate the price prior to getting on the boat.

Airplanes
If you are traveling any distance and time is a consideration, planes are not expensive by Western standards and allow you more time at your destination.
Never surrender your suitcase or backpack to a taxi driver at the airport before you see his vehicle, or you may find yourself chasing him wherever he wants you to go. Instead, look for a metered taxi. You still may want to verify a price before getting in. In Saigon there is a taxi stand inside the airport where you pay there and they give you a voucher. I still had my cab driver try to get more money from me. So, just make sure at the stand that your payment is in full or ask if you will need to pay more.

Beggars
It's a sad reality that in Vietnam, as in many places in the world, there are beggars on the streets and there are young street kids who sometimes work for begging syndicates. They can be relentless. If you are seen giving money to a beggar, you may find yourself surrounded by them and if you buy something from a street kid, flowers, gum, etc., they have a tendency to follow you everywhere you go trying to sell you more. Unfortunately the best way to deal with the situation is to totally ignore these people from the start. I know this sounds cold but it's just the way it is. I've actually had to jump on motorcycles and taxi cabs just to get away from them.

Bartering
Bartering is expected in Vietnam, except for in some of the bigger stores. Usually the vendors on the street will start with double or triple the price that they are willing to take. It is expected that you try to negotiate a lower price, and you want to get a good deal, but you also want to be fair. If you can't reach a fair price walking away will let you know if they are willing to take less. Keep in mind that these people are trying to make a meager living, so don't try to get the absolute lowest price.

Tipping
People don't normally tip in Vietnam, but giving a small amount is very much appreciated. Remember they have very little. On the other hand, do not over tip as it could be insulting and it drives prices up for the next person. In some establishments the owner doesn't even let the employee keep the tip, it's yet one more thing that makes it hard to help people in Vietnam.

Send me your comments or suggestions.