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Travel in Hoi An - dangers, scams and tips to stay safe for tourists

Travel in Hoi An - dangers, scams and tips to stay safe for tourists

Hoi An - an ancient city on Vietnam's central coast which is famous all over the world for its unique combined culture identity from both Western and Eastern countries, wonderful tourist attractions, tasty traditional foods and friendly locals. Although Hoi An is so beautiful, but sometimes terrible things might occur in an unexpected way. In this article, we will list some dangers and scams that might happen to visitors and some travel tips to stay safe in Hoi An for tourists . 

Beach Safety 

Although Hoi An’s beaches usually have lifeguards but visitors still need to be careful at all times. The waves of the ocean are quite rough and heavy leads to the injuries and fatalities of many local people here, especially from October to March. Tourists need to be aware, do not forget to stay and swim only in the safe areas as indicated. 

Beach-Safety

Traffic Safety 

Traffic in Vietnam in general and Hoi An in particular is super chaotic. Every vehicles including cars, buses, motorbikes, bicycles are on the streets with no arrangement. Moreover, although Hoi An does have traffic lights on every street, but pedestrians need to watch every vehicles are running towards when crossing the roads as some people in Vietnam they do not follow the rules, go fast and still cross the red lights. According to some researches and reports, Vietnam has the highest rate of motorbike and car accidents that cause death. To be safe when going outside, tourists need to be very careful in every move. Do not freaking out if some locals honk many times and even shouting at you. 

traffic-safety

Boat Rides Safety 

For some visitors who want to have a boat trip to discover Hoi An, do not forget to follow safety instructions and wear a life jacket. If you are feeling unwell, do not take a risk. 

boat-trip-safety

Thefts, Pickpockets 

For tourists who want to stay safe in Hoi An, please be aware as typical crimes in here is pickpocketing of many thefts. The streets in Hoi An are very crowded, especially in Hoi An Ancient Town, so it is easy for criminals. There are many ways for thefts to pickpockets you, the most common way is when you are walking around, people may approach, especially women who act friendly to you, saying hello, shaking your hands with the aims to distract your attention for their accomplice action. When you realise your phone or wallet have gone, they have already escaped. Even if you report it to the police, they might cannot help you as it is so hard to find someone you just met for 1 minute and without any prove. In the worst circumstances, if you go alone, you might be beaten by bandits, even during the day.  Therefore, you must be careful with their belongings, keep it with you at all times. 

Thefts-Pickpockets

After Dark Safety

To travel safely in Hoi An, tourists need to be careful at night. Many stories are told by Western tourists about they are used by Xe Om drivers and drug addicts when they were too drunk, they might be robbed, or Xe Om drivers forced them to use their service and charged with unbelievable price. For women who are travelling alone, drug addicts can do something bad to you, the worst thing is raping. 

hoian-After-Dark-Safety

The most common scam in Vietnam is overcharging. This thing is so familiar with tourists in Vietnam, especially for International visitors. In many restaurants in Hoi An in particular and Vietnam in general, they know you are tourists and foreigners, if you do not ask for the price before having dishes, when you stand up and want to pay the bill, they may increase the price terribly, can be up to 10 times higher. If you do not pay, they may scold you and do some aggressive actions. So do not ask the price before ordering. Even if you only take pictures of something on the streets, at the beginning the vendor is happy and open-armed, but suddenly they ask you to pay for ‘taking pictures’ of themselves or buy what they sell. 

scam-in-hoian

For tourists who are coming to Hoi An, do not forget to follow our tips to stay safe in Hoi An. 

Posted by Sophia Doe | Tue, Sep 05, 2023

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Common Tourist Scams to Avoid in Vietnam

Phu Quoc in Cape Ganh Dau, Vietnam

Keep a lookout for the following tricks during your stay in lovely Vietnam and you won’t end up in a pickle.

Vietnamese people are proud to show their beloved country to foreigners, and it’s easy to see why. The land is travel-magazine beautiful and the people are wonderful — well, almost all of them. Unfortunately, as with any place that relies on tourist trade, there are scammers and con artists looking to swipe your cash and valuables. Here’s how to spot them and avoid their scams.

You can also join Culture Trip’s specially curated small-group Vietnam adventure , which allows you to experience the best of this fascinating country with a Local Insider whose expert knowledge will mean you never have to worry about getting scammed.

1. Speed thieves

Picture the scene: you’re sitting at a café or chatting on a street corner. A scooter with a pillion passenger pulls up. The passenger grabs your bag and the scooter speeds away. Pedestrians on the streets of Saigon are particularly vulnerable to this one. How to avoid it? Use a bag with a clasp catch, or a sturdy shoulder strap. If you’re sitting in a street café, loop the strap through your table leg and don’t sit street-side.

2. Fake leather

Shops in Hoi An and Saigon are famous for their handmade leather – especially bags, belts and shoes. The examples on display are usually created using the real thing, to entice potential customers in. Bespoke items are often partly fake – with leather outers but plastic lining or shoe-inserts. Before paying, check your garment thoroughly. If you suspect it’s fake, heat a piece of metal with a lighter and hold it to the plastic, which will melt. Then demand your garment is reworked.

3. Just not the ticket

This scam is particularly common at concert venues in Hanoi . While you’re queuing up to buy a ticket for a show you are informed that all the cheaper seats are sold out and that you must buy a much more expensive alternative. Always politely but firmly request that the ticket seller double-check – and if in doubt politely tell them that you don’t understand the problem. Then ask a local for help in purchasing what you need – the Vietnamese are happy to help tourists.

4. Collared by the dollar

Prices in Vietnam are often abbreviated and sometimes quoted in US currency – so 10 can just as easily mean $10 as it can 10,000 dong (about £0.35). Make sure that you check exactly what money you’re being asked for – especially in well-frequented tourist bars and restaurants. And if you’re paying in dollars be sure to check that you’re getting the right change – both according to current exchange rates and the note denominations.

5. Duplicate businesses

A popular tourist agency or hotel will often spawn a whole host of imitators with almost exactly the same name. For example, a reputable business called Lotus Tours might engender a string of far less professional me-toos called Lotus Tour, Lotus Guest Tours or Lotus Touring. These often work in cahoots with drivers in the area. Be sure to check the address of the genuine establishment and to share it with your taxi driver before supplying the name of the business.

6. Photo scams

While frankly understandable, being asked for money when you take someone’s picture can be as unexpected as it is common throughout Asia. Of course, many local people are accustomed to tourist practices and want their remuneration. So before so much as looking through the viewfinder, ask permission. That way you can be sure that, if someone does want payment for that Instagrammable snap, you know in advance exactly how much, and won’t risk an unpleasant confrontation when that beaming individual turns to you and demands $10.

7. The great cycle switcheroo

If you’re in Vietnam for a while, buying a bike and selling it when you leave makes sound economic sense. But keep your eyes open for faulty specimens, dodgy paperwork and switcheroos. In this scenario you’re shown a bike, which is then sent to the work room for a minor repair and exchanged for an older, inferior version of the same model. Conduct a test ride, check the paperwork and verify the registration before and after the final workshop dust-over.

8. When peanuts are not peanuts

Draft beer in Vietnam is cheap, cold and low in alcohol. With the hot weather it’s easy to gulp back. But be careful if your pints come with accompanying bowls of peanuts – these are liberally served in bars throughout Hanoi and Nha Trang. Portions are refreshed with every glass, whether you ask for them or not, and are easily – almost subconsciously – munched. Know, though, that they’re almost always as expensive as the beer, so your end-of-evening bill may be double what you expected to pay.

9. Old SIM cards for new

Buying a SIM card for your mobile in Vietnam couldn’t be easier – with every outlet from official telecom shops to corner stores selling them and with no need to supply personal information in order to obtain them. Beware the cheapest deals – they’re often to be found in unofficial fly-by-night stores that buy in bulk from official outlets at discounted prices. The problem with that? Since they start once cards have been purchased from the official outlets your cheapo, with-data plan might already be days old by the time you start using it.

10. Money switch

It’s usually motorbike taxi drivers that try this one. They use sleight of hand to switch whatever money you give them for smaller denominations, and then they put on a dramatic show of indignation — to make it appear that you’re the one trying to rip them off. The most common scenario is switching a 500,000VND note for a 20,000VND, which is an easy trick to spring since they’re both blue. The best way to avoid this is to pay with small bills. Break your larger notes at convenience stores, restaurants or other reputable businesses.

11. The groin grab

This one involves taking advantage of men in touristy areas. An attractive female will start flirting with a guy who’s out by himself. Telling him how handsome he is, she starts enquiring whether he’d like a massage, all the while letting her fingers flit seductively around his trouser flies. Of course there’s an ulterior motive: emptying his pockets. Girls often work in teams for this one.

12. Fake taxis

The two best companies in Vietnam are Vinasun (white) and Mai Linh (green) – with a few exceptions their drivers are honest. Unfortunately, other companies use identical colour schemes. Their trick is to point out their meter – everyone knows to avoid taxis without one – on which your fare proceeds to climb, suspiciously, much faster than it should. Be careful when you pay, too: cab drivers, like motorcycle taxi drivers, will often try the money switch scam. To be on the safe side, stick to the real deal – Vinasun or Mai Linh – or use a reputable app, such as Grab or Uber.

13. The two-shine

There are good reasons for stepping out in sneakers. If you’re wearing snazzy shoes in a touristy area, you can bet you’ll be hounded by shoe-shiners. More often than not, foreigners give in and get theirs done just to be left in peace, but here’s, as it were, the rub: a price is negotiated, but when the shoes come back, it has doubled, because of course the original amount quoted was just one shoe. And you’re advised to cough up – kick up a fuss and underworld muscle is never too far away.

14. A fine bag of tea

Marijuana is illegal in Vietnam, but many foreigners smoke it openly. The problem is that tourists usually buy it from the motorbike taxi drivers who lurk around the hostels and bars. They’ll let you smell a bag of real marijuana as they negotiate the price, but once you pay, they’re gone and you’re left with a bag of tea. And good luck reporting it to the Better Business Bureau.

15. The coconut photo shoot

This one happens mostly in Hanoi. Street vendors with baskets of coconuts will ask if you want to use their bamboo baskets for a photo shoot. But while you’re clicking away, they’re chopping open coconuts for you that cost an obscene amount. What’s that you say? You didn’t ask for them? Get ready for some shouting and a gathering crowd of people who don’t take kindly to foreigners cheating the honest Vietnamese.

16. Bait-and-switch massage

Massage parlors use this one to prey on lascivious men who ought to know better. A beautiful woman on the street convinces a guy to step inside for a massage, usually by flirting and laughing a lot. But the minute he has paid, said beautiful woman disappears, leaving a surly individual with gorilla-rough hands to perform the treatment. Another common scam is to charge the unwary ridiculous amounts for such basics as water and towels. When you refuse to pay, the gangsters step in. The moral of the story? Don’t go following pretty people into dark alleys. Do some proper research online instead.

17. Motorbike taxi

Motorbike taxis — xe ôm in Vietnamese — are notorious cheats. In touristy areas, many of them are gangsters hoping to sell fake drugs to gullible foreigners. But the most common scam they pull is when they agree on a price for a trip and then ask for a lot more when you arrive at your destination. They’ll tell you that you must’ve misheard them, and when you argue, they escalate things quickly . They know most foreigners would rather pay a couple more dollars than make a huge scene in a strange area with no friends around.

18. The wandering fare

Even the reputable taxi companies have staff that pull this one on tourists. Foreigners don’t really know the best routes, so the drivers use this to their advantage. They take a creatively long and circuitous route, often pretending to be lost so they can get a few more dollars by wandering around through back streets. A good way to avoid this is by having a map open on your phone. If the driver goes off in a strange direction, wave the map at them. But the best way to avoid this is to take Uber or Grab. They follow routes on the map.

19. Baggage fee

You usually won’t have issues with the larger bus companies, but a common scam is to tell foreigners that they have to pay a fee when their bags are being loaded into the hold. Staff know the unwary will just pay the small fee to avoid confrontation; and since they can’t read Vietnamese, foreigners tend to assume the fee was mentioned in some unintelligible small print. But there’s no such thing as a baggage fee in Vietnam, so politely refuse and step aboard. And ignore instructions to move to the back by the toilet. If you have an assigned seat, stay in it. If somebody’s in it, pick another one and sit tight, regardless of what they say.

Alex Robinson contributed additional reporting to this article.

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Scams In Vietnam: READ BEFORE YOU VISIT (2024)

Come find out everything you need to know about common tourist scams in Vietnam. Be a smart traveler by knowing the dos and don’t in your traveling adventures.

Learn about what to look out for, situations to avoid, and more as I explain how to can have a scam-free trip to Vietnam.

It is super important to do some research about safety and scams in a country before you travel there. Ultimately this will make for an easier and stress-free time when you are on the ground exploring.

This is something I have always done before venturing somewhere new, and luckily I have avoided scam situations the majority of the time.

Vietnam is definitely not a dangerous country. Though I will say scams seem to be lurking around every corner, well at least in the touristy areas.

We watched numerous scams happen to travelers each day. I spent a month backpacking Vietnam from the North to South and scams occurred in every city I visited. This is why I am sharing what I have learned with you.

Unfortunately, Vietnam is definitely one of those countries where you need to second-guess interactions with people on the street. This is especially so in large cities such as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

The most important thing when traveling is keeping yourself safe and away from dangerous situations. Scams in Vietnam may only cost you $20.00 or could set you back thousands.

Vietnam Scams: 17 Scams To Be Aware Of To Keep Safe

🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: Baolau & 12.Go Asia

1, 2 & 3. Motorbike Scams In Vietnam

Motorbike scams Vietnam are rather common. I mean they are absolutely everywhere here so it is no surprise you will eventually get on the back of one, though there are a couple of things you need to know before you do.

Whether you have brought your own motorbike and are riding the length of the country or perhaps you are just taking a motorbike taxi across the city, each one has its own scams you need to be aware of:

1. Taking A Motorbike Taxi

Now if you are traveling solo you may find it easier to simply take a motorbike taxi rather than a regular taxi, especially if you aren’t taking any luggage.

Plus they only fit one person, rather than a car, so surely they are cheaper. Well, this is the case, except if your driver decides to take advantage of you.

More often than not you will agree on a fixed price before jumping on. As long as the driver is decent this is your final price.

However if not, they may chuck an extra zero on the end and suddenly your price has increased x10. They will insist that you misheard and it is the price you originally agreed to. Since there is no one else around to stick up for you, it is simply your word against theirs.

How To Avoid: The best way to avoid being ripped off by a motorbike taxi is simply to use the Grab app.

It works similarly to Uber so you agree on a price before jumping on, and this price is on your phone so no one can disagree with it.

2. Buying A Motorbike In Vietnam

Now buying a motorbike in Vietnam is an incredible way to see the country. You will be able to get off the beaten track and discover more than most travelers get the opportunity to.

Unfortunately having your own vehicle in a foreign country does leave you open to being vulnerable to more scams.

One of the most common occurrences is being scammed while buying a motorbike. This could come in the form of a faulty bike, or dodgy paperwork.

Surprisingly you can even have the motorbike switched on you, where everything is good up until the last minute when the bike is swapped for an inferior version of the same model.

How To Avoid:

The best way to avoid this is by doing research in advance and buying through a reputable company.

There is a heap of options online, so doing research is a must. Make sure to read through travelers’ past reviews, or get recommendations from your hostel.

buying motorbike accessories in vietnam

3. Motorbike Rental Scams In Vietnam

This is a common scam throughout Southeast Asia, including Vietnam. You may find your passport is being held hostage while the owners demand money for damages not caused by you.

However, this next motorbike rental scam in Vietnam is even worse. It has become an infamous situation for the motorbike hire staff to come and ‘steal’ their motorbikes from those who have hired them.

The person renting the motorbike doesn’t realize it was actually the company that has stolen the bike.

This leaves the person responsible for the motorbike in an extremely awkward and difficult situation. Now when they go turn up at the motorbike rental store without the bike, they will be forced to pay exorbitant amounts. Though, unbeknownst to them the bike is in the owner’s possession.

Apart from the obvious of not hiring a motorbike, there will always be some sort of risk when hiring a motorbike. The best thing you can do is to ask other travelers if they have hired one and their recommendations.

You could always ask your hotel or guesthouse for their recommendation, though there is a risk that they may get kickbacks or a certain percentage of the money made by recommending you to certain shops.

be careful when riding a motorbike for scams in vietnam

4. Pick Pockets & Snatch Thieves

Unfortunately, petty crime is super common in Vietnam, especially in large cities. You need to constantly be aware of your surroundings and where your valuables are on you from the moment you touch down at the busy airport.

Vietnam is an overload on the senses, so it’s not surprising that many let their guard down as they try to bearings.

I have many friends who traveled to Vietnam and were victims of the snatch thieves . More often than not these are people on motorbikes so look for the perfect opportunity, someone standing a little too close to the street with their valuables, and then quickly driving past and snatching it off them.

Whether you are looking at your phone for directions, opening up your wallet to pay for a cold drink, or simply walking down the road with your bag over your shoulder.

The best way to avoid this scam is to be aware of your surroundings. If you need to use your phone make sure to open it facing towards a building or opposite the roadside, making it near impossible for someone to drive by the grab it off you.

Perhaps you have your camera and are taking photos of this incredible country, then make sure to use the strap and have it tightly wrapped around your hand.

Lastly, if you carry around a bag make sure it is a cross-body bag (with a zipper close), as it is a lot more difficult to snatch.

crowded night market in vietnam

5. Taxi Scams In Vietnam

Ahhhh the taxi scam, one which every traveler knows all too well. Though in Vietnam, and basically all of Southeast Asia they are all too common. The best companies to ride with here are called Vinasun (white in color) and Mai Linh (green in color).

For the most part, most of the drivers who work with these companies are reputable and honest. However, just like the duplicate business scam, other taxi services take advantage of this by copying the color schemes of the cars.

Unfortunately in these cars, the meters go up a lot quicker than they would in a reputable taxi car. Also, the drivers are known to also try out the money switch scam, more on that below.

To avoid taxi scams in Vietnam it is best to only ride with Vinasun or Mai Linh.

If you can’t find them, or perhaps have bad eyesight like myself and want to avoid the awkward interaction when you realize it’s too late and need to come up with an excuse not to jump in the scammy taxi, then just use the Grab app.

6. Money Switches

Now, something that can happen in any country is the good ol’ money-switching scam, and the same goes for Vietnam. Usually, it is the motorbike or taxi drivers that try this one, as they can quickly drive off never to be seen again.

They use sleight of hand to switch whatever money you give them for smaller denominations. Then comes the real performance, they put on a dramatic show and make it appear that you’re the one trying to rip them off.

Commonly this is done by switching a 500,000VND note for a 20,000VND note since they’re both blue.

The best way to avoid this is to pay with small bills or pay with the exact amount. If you have larger notes you are needing to break it is best done at convenience stores, restaurants, or other reputable businesses.

a travelers motorbike along the beach in vietnam

7. Fruit Basket & Coconut Seller Tourist Scams In Vietnam

As soon as you start exploring the streets in Vietnam you will quickly see locals dressed up selling baskets of fruit or coconuts.

Both of these scams operate in a similar fashion where you are super impressed by the seller perfectly balancing these baskets of fruit or coconuts on their shoulders and you grab a photo.

From here one of two things will happen:

The first is that they will happily pose for the photo. Afterward, they will start demanding a large sum of money for the photographs.

The second is that they will start chopping up the fruit or coconuts as they pose for your photos. Afterward, they will say that chopped up it for you and that you now must buy the fruit or coconut, for another high price.

I, unfortunately, saw many people fall for this scam, especially in Hanoi.

Unfortunately, it is as simple as not interacting with these sellers, no matter how cool their setup looks or how good their balancing skills are.

the infamous fruit basket models in vietnam

8. Duplicate Businesses

A common occurrence in Vietnam is the presence of multiple, completely different, businesses operating under the same name.

This is usually in the form of well-known companies that may attract travelers. Though in reality, these businesses have no affiliation with these larger companies.

The reason they call themselves the same, or very similar name, is in hopes that travelers recognize it and then utilize their services over others.

Though the problem is it is very likely their services will be very poor compared to what you were expecting.

For example, a reputable business called Mekong Tours might engender a string of far less professional me-toos called Mekong Tour, Mekong Guest Tours, or Mekong Touring

The best way to avoid this type of scam is to do some research online to find out the location of the actual company.

The presence of these types of businesses is super common in Hanoi, so be sure to be extra vigilant there.

busy stores along the roadside in vietnam

9. Shoe Shining Scams In Vietnam

Unfortunately, the infamous shoe shinning scam is quite common, and one of the most common scams Hanoi. This is one scam I have seen play out in front of me multiple times.

Usually, you will be completely minding your own business then suddenly someone will come up to you taking great interest in your shoes. No matter what you say or do they won’t stop.

I have seen these shoe shinners pull off people’s shoes to start shining them, knowing they won’t walk away barefoot.

Once the shine is complete they will demand a price that is about 10 times what you’d be expecting.

The best way to avoid the shoe-shining scams in Vietnam is to simply not stop when someone approaches you.

I know this may sound rude but as soon as you stop walking that allows them to grab your shoe.

Here is a video of this scam in action:

Limpieza callejera de zapatos en Vietnam 👟🇻🇳 *Me estafaron*

10. Cyclo Driver Scam

Now all around Vietnam you will see cyclos and think wow that looks like a lot of fun. I mean who wouldn’t want to be nicely driven around a city? I mean it is a lot more relaxing than being on a crazy motorbike.

These cyclo drivers are everywhere and you will no doubt encounter them in your travels. They will offer to take you wherever you wish to go, and once you negotiate a price you jump on.

Unfortunately, a few bad things commonly happen from here. The first is that the driver will take you far from your desired destination, and ask you for a crazy price to take you back.

Perhaps you have organized a sightseeing tour around the city to a few of the highlights, well unbeknownst to you the driver has a so-called “waiting fee”, typically starting at 500,000 VND / $25.00 an hour. You will be hounded for this amount.

The best way to avoid cyclo scams is to either have your maps open on your phone so you know you are going the correct way or book online through a reputable company if you want to do a tour.

This will also save you the headache of haggling.

taking a cyclo around hanoi one of the scams in vietnam to be aware of

11. Do Not Give In To The Donut

I know, it’s just an innocent donut, how the heck can this be one of the scams in Vietnam? Bad news, it is. Street food is in abundance in Vietnam, and I totally encourage you to try it all, except for those sneaky little donuts.

Though before this sounds like I am being judgy, trust me, I nearly fell victim to this scam multiple times. I mean yummy little doughy balls of goodness covered in powdered sugar, it’s hard to say no.

Mainly in Hanoi, you will walk past people balancing baskets of good-looking donuts on their shoulders. The seller will stop and ask if you’d like to try one for free.

While you say yes and taste one, the vendor will talk you into buying a small bag of donuts. However, a lot of travelers don’t need convincing and just go straight in and buy a bag.

Unfortunately, it is well known that the oil used to fry these donuts is unregulated. The oil could’ve been sitting there for weeks without being changed.

The donuts are also known to be stale, and travelers report feeling sick after consuming them.

It’s simple, just don’t eat them. Vietnam has so many delicious foodie options, so why not grab a banh mi instead?

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12 & 13. Restaurant & Bar Scams In Vietnam

Since restaurants are a place travelers visit so often, and let’s be honest the food in Vietnam is incredible, it is no surprise a few different scams are floating around.

12. Missing Prices

Unfortunately, this is something that can happen anywhere in the world but don’t sit down at a restaurant unless there are prices on the menu.

Without ordering with fixed prices you are leaving the restaurant’s staff the chance to charge you whatever they wish.

13. Free Food

Now nothing is free in this world, and the same goes for Vietnam. I know back at home you may be used to getting a free bowl of peanuts when you order a nice cold beer.

However, this isn’t always the case in Vietnam. More often than not, in Hanoi and Nha Trang you will find yourself being charged for these bowls of peanuts that are quickly brought to you.

delicious tofu and jackfruit meal in hanoi

14. Luggage Scams In Vietnam

You won’t have these issues with the larger bus companies or those more reputable ones. However, on some bus companies, the staff will tell foreigners that they have to pay a fee when their bags are being loaded underneath the bus.

Unfortunately, a lot of the workers there know travelers will happily pay a small amount to avoid confrontation, and then they can just pocket the cash.

There is no such thing as a baggage fee in Vietnam. Therefore just walk ahead down to your assigned seat.

the corridor with doors which lock on a sleeper train in vietnam

15. Shopping Scams In Vietnam

Now if you are coming to Vietnam of course you can’t miss out on a spot of shopping. I mean prices here are often too good to pass up!

There are a few things you should know to prevent you from being scammed while shopping in Vietnam.

One of the most common scams is sellers passing off fake goods as real. You should always assume the item you are buying is fake or a knock-off, no matter what the seller says.

Whether the item is a brand name, or simply the material it’s made from could be fake, such as leather.

Tip: If you are buying a leather item that is supposed to be real, but if you suspect it is fake then you can heat a piece of metal with a lighter and hold it to the material. If it is not real leather then it will melt.

a busy mall in hanoi vietnam

16. SIM Card Scams In Vietnam

When I touch down in a new country one of the first things I do is buy a sim card. This keeps me connected in a foreign place and easily able to access maps and Google Translate if required.

Unfortunately there has been a common scam in Vietnam regarding SIM cards happening.

You can nearly buy a SIM card anywhere in Vietnam. Seriously, every little corner store will sell them with speedy internet and unlimited texts. The process is super easy as well since you don’t need to provide any personal information.

The SIM card scam operates as these small corner stores purchase the cards in bulk to sell to travelers at higher prices. That’s just business right?

Well unfortunately as soon as they purchase them in bulk the plans on them have already started and the days of usage start being used up.

This means that when you wander into this business and are promised unlimited data for 30 days, that actually may not be what you are getting. In some cases, travelers have reported that SIM cards stop working in just a couple of days.

This is also a scam that has been operating at airports.

The best way to avoid this is to only buy from an official seller, or even better directly from the telecommunication company themselves.

By doing this you will prevent this type of scam from happening to you and you won’t be paying that marked-up price either!

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17. ATM Skimming Tourist Scams In Vietnam

Unfortunately, something that is popping up all around the world is ATM skimming, and this includes it being one of our scams in Vietnam. Since Vietnam is mainly a cash society you will find yourself visiting the ATM fairly often.

Though unbeknownst to you that shiny, air-conditioning ATM you just visited had a skimmer installed and recorded your card details.

The best way to avoid ATM skimming is to be particular about which ATMs you decide to use. Make sure you visit ones in controlled environments such as banks, where the staff monitor the machine with cameras, or a guard, is present.

If you don’t have any luck with finding one like this then inspect the card reader and keypad, even give them a good tug to be extra safe.

two atms in hanoi vietnam

Other Important Things To Be Aware Of In Vietnam

These aren’t considered Vietnam scams per se. They are everyday things that you should simply be aware of to save you money.

Corrupt Police If You Are Renting/Own A Motorbike

Like many places around the world, you don’t need to look too far to find corrupt police here in Vietnam. This often will come in the form of asking for bribes to get out of a ticket etc.

The best thing to do here is to drive around with a fake wallet only carrying a small amount of cash. That way when you are pulled over and asked to pay a bribe it looks like you only have a small amount of cash on you.

Picture Perfect

Not so much a scam, but more something to be aware of is people asking for payment for photos. This is rather common throughout Southeast Asia, though if you aren’t prepared for it, it can be quite a surprise.

In my experience, you will generally know who these people are in advance of taking their photo. In my case, it was someone perfectly perched on top of a water buffalo in Hoi An .

The local ‘model’ will generally encourage you to take the photo and pose, compared with a regular person who would simply ignore you and go about their own business.

Seemingly nearly impossible to avoid, ATM fees can add up fast! This is especially true when backpacking Vietnam on a budget .

Though, here in Vietnam, some ATMs charge a lot more than others. Agribank is the cheapest ATM to use with fixed fees throughout the country.

USD to VND Conversions

Now the currency in Vietnam is rather large, you will often find yourself getting a few million out of the ATMs. Being such a large amount it is rather common that the prices are abbreviated, eg 500,000 becomes 500.

Also, USD will also be used rather often in popular tourist bars and restaurants, so make sure you are reading menus and prices carefully so you fully understand how much you are paying.

Wrap-Up: Vietnam Tourist Scams

Vietnam is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history, but it also has its share of tourist scams that can ruin your trip. We have discussed some of the most common scams in Vietnam and provided some tips on how to avoid them.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your visit to Vietnam without falling victim to these scams.

Remember, not all Vietnamese people are scammers, and most of them are friendly and hospitable. However, it is always better to be safe than sorry and to be prepared for any situation.

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Want more Vietnam Inspiration? Check out….

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  • TRA QUE VEGETABLE VILLAGE IN HOI AN, VIETNAM
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18 Comments

Avatar for Tasha Amy

Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

3 thoughts on “ Scams In Vietnam: READ BEFORE YOU VISIT (2024) ”

Avatar for Dr. Darwin Edwards

This just in: Police raided several homes in Manila, angered by the Real Estate fraud plaguing their nation, and drug use(meth). Police found three immigrants and an actor eating the pants of a man who died twenty years ago saying to police: Let us have something to eat before we die!!. Get BIGFOOT(mexico) out of The Phillipenes. Emporer of endo-asia Cinxciao Dr. Darwin Edwards Future President of Uñited States of America. (Hello MINH WYNH)

Avatar for Rob

Thank you 🙏. I always type in ‘Tourist scams in ……..’ some great tips. It’s always better to be aware and educated prior to going. I went to Beijing a few years ago and basically everything happened pretty much in the order I read about it. Knowing literally saved hundreds of dollars or more even. Thanks heaps. Rob

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Tres bon blog peut on utiliser les cartes de crédit?

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Foreigners share how to avoid tourist traps in vietnam.

Foreigners share how to avoid tourist traps in Vietnam

Four years ago, Indian tourist Sanja Singh was ripped off by a local vendor while walking with his friend near the Reunification Palace in downtown Ho Chi Minh City.

The vendor approached Singh and his friend and asked them if they wanted to drink coconut water. When Sanja asked how much a coconut costs, the man answered, "For free."

When Sanja asked the vendor again, he still replied "For free."

A while later, Singh and his friend insisted paying for coconut water, the vendor charged them a total of VND300,000 ($12.87), nearly 10 times against the normal price.

Sanja did not understand the exchange rate and he accepted paying such a high amount of money with a big smile, still being moved from the original offer.

After checking the exchange rate, Singh was shocked and could not understand why the vendor did it.

This was not the only time Singh had been scammed in Vietnam.

During a recent trip, Singh wanted to take photos standing beside a coconut drink push cart and he then approached a local vendor who quickly agreed with his proposal.

He thought the vendor was nice until he was asked to pay VND250,000. When he refused, the vendor chased Singh and harassed him. Finally, he paid just to stop the hassle.

Soon, he decided to share his story on social media, advising his friends "not to talk to strangers while traveling in Vietnam."

"There are nice people and then there are also people who really want to take advantage of you. As a foreigner in this country, you are really not familiar with exchange rates so if someone asks you to pay for money in thousands of dongs, you should check exchange rates to avoid being cheated," he said.

Australian Geoff Holland who used to live in Vietnam for three years also shared his experiences, warning people about the "tourist traps" one can encounter while in the country.

Holland said was often a victim of taxi scams as a driver would charge him double the meter fare.

He advised people to the install Grab app after arriving in Vietnam.

"Without Grab, people should only choose taxi services from Vinasun and Mai Linh, the most prestigious brands in Vietnam," he said. "If tourists choose to take a taxi, please remember to ask how much it will cost before getting in the car."

After one year of solo backpacking in Vietnam, an American man called Huff said the most important thing was to memorize the exchange rate between USD and VND.

"You should remember $10 is equivalent to around VND230,000 and $20 equivalent to around VND500,000, the largest denomination in Vietnamese currency system," Huff said.

"If you eat a bowl of Hue-style beef noodle soup ( bun bo Hue ), and the vendor asked you to pay $10, say no because $10 is too expensive."

Miquel Angel, founder of the MQL sustainable travel solutions company, said tourist scams have become a deep-rooted problem in Vietnam for years.

"Foreigners were scammed while in Vietnam and then they told their stories to their friends and relatives and that’s why many have not returned," he said.

Although the tourism industry has launched hotlines to receive feedback and complaints from foreign tourists, most say the hotlines do not work properly.

Vietnam opened its border on March 15 last year, becoming one of the first Southeast Asian countries to fully reopen to tourism.

However, it is lagging far behind its neighbors in post reopening tourism recovery as the country only received 3.7 million foreign tourists in 2022, around 70% off its target.

Industry insiders blame weak law enforcement and meager fines for the pervasive fraud perpetrated on visitors, including tricking foreigners into buying things at unreasonable prices.

In Vietnam, those deceiving tourists can face fines of up to VND10 million.

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Scams in Hoi An and How to avoid it  

hoi an tourist scams

Hoi An has everything for a perfect holiday: the ancient town with valuable historical and cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, stunning islands, and its sophisticated culinary art. However, when you are new to a place with language barriers and different customs, you are at risk of being ripped-off or getting scammed. The town is not an exception.

Like many cities in the Southeast Asia, it is likely that your entire trip can be ruined by being ripped-off or getting scammed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The thought of being scammed may make you angry, confused and lose your trust in local people. Your experience in the city, which must have been great, becomes terrible. Honestly, it will not be awful if you are prepared.

The best thing to avoid scams is to prevent them as best as you can. Before setting off, you should spend time reading carefully travel guides. And you should share of other tourists on reputations sites. Do not let your guard down whenever you catch a xe ôm (motorbike taxis) or choose a tailor.

Here are common scams you can encounter in your trip in the town:

Overcharging and confusing currency – Scams in Hoi An and How to avoid it

hoi an tourist scams

When you purchase anything, remember to confirm the currency before taking it. Some sellers can put the numbers into a calculator to show you the final price, or use body language to give an exact amount without saying that it is in Vietnamese dong (VND) or US dollars (USD). Therefore, you need to confirm before making a payment. Or you can use the calculator on your phone and say “dong” to deal the price with the shopkeepers.

The 500,000 VND and 20,000 VND notes look quite similar and people, who are unfamiliar with the currency, may be confused. Take a look carefully when paying for a product because if you give a wrong note, you will never get it back.

Xe ôm (motorbike taxi) and taxi – Scams in Hoi An and How to avoid it

hoi an tourist scams

Xe ôm is the cheapest and the most convenient mode of transport in Vietnam. But drivers are those who mainly take advantage of travellers. You should check the price for your preferred journey at your hotels before heading for a xe ôm . Before getting on, make sure to ask for the price and do not mind bargaining until you agree with the final one. Do not pay until you reach your destination. Remember to prepare smaller notes or you do not have your change back.

You also need to be cautious about cabs. You can ask receptionists of your hotel to call a taxi.Asking them to give an estimated price for the distance you wish. When getting into the cab, you must ask the drivers to turn the meter on. Currently, there are three taxi operators in Hoi An: Mai Linh taxi, Faifo taxi, and Hoi An taxi.

Commissions- Scams in Hoi An and How to avoid it

hoi an tourist scams

There are a lot of tailors, shoe shops, and restaurants in Hoi An and their competitions are very tough. Therefore, they are willing to pay up 40% commission for hotels, travel agencies, tour guides or anyone who bring clients to their places. If you do not want to fall into the trap, remember to read reviews, blogs and recommendations from trusted sources to pick up the right one.

Petrol stations- Scams in Hoi An and How to avoid it

The gas tank of your rented motorbike is almost empty, and you need to fuel it at a petrol station. Do not make yourself be bait. Before the petrol station staff fuels your bike, do not forget to ask him to set the meter reading to zero. Otherwise, you will have to pay for the amount of the previous customers.

In Vietnam, you must have a driving license to drive a motorbike. Traffic police usually do not stop foreigners unless they drive too fast. If you are caught without a license, your bike will be impounded for a month and you have to continue paying for the bike.

The yellow bus- Scams in Hoi An and How to avoid it

hoi an tourist scams

Taking a bus is the cheapest way to get from Da Nang to Hoi An and back. The yellow bus runs daily from 5.30 a.m. to 8 p.m. And it costs VND20,000 for a one-way ticket. Have 20,000 VND note ready . Bcause the driver may look confused if being given VND50,000 or VND100,000  while you are waiting for the change.

Remember that you can be scammed everywhere, even in your home country. Be well-prepared and you will totally enjoy your holiday. Therefore, do not let stories of scams in Hoi An prevent you from visiting the charming town.

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  • Common Tourist Scams to Avoid in Vietnam
  • Things to Do

Tourist scams in Vietnam to avoid is common thing else where. However, Vietnamese people are proud to show their beloved country to foreigners, and it’s easy to see why. The land is stunningly beautiful and the people are wonderful — well, almost all of them.

Unfortunately, like any place that welcomes tourists, there are scammers and con artists looking to swipe your cash and valuables. So keep a lookout for the following tricks during your stay in lovely Vietnam to avoid

Ask Tony Private Tour Guide for common scams to avoid In Vietnam

Scams in vietnam 1024x561 Common Tourist Scams to Avoid in Vietnam

1. Money switch

It’s usually motorbike taxi drivers that try this one. They use sleight of hand to switch whatever money you give them for smaller denominations, and then they put on a dramatic show of indignation — like you’re the one trying to rip them off. money scams in Vietnam

The most common version is switching a 500,000VND note for a 20,000VND, which is easy to fall for since they’re both blue.

The best way to avoid this is to pay with small bills. Break your larger bills at convenience stores, restaurants, or other reputable businesses. This ways to avoid tourist scams in Vietnam

2. The groin grab

This one preys on men in touristy areas. An attractive girl will start flirting with a man off by himself, telling him how handsome he is and asking if he wants a massage as she plays with his groin. While he’s distracted, she empties his pockets. Girls often work in teams for this one.

3. Fake taxis

The two best companies in Vietnam are Vinasun (white) and Mai Linh (green). Some of their drivers are shady, but the majority are honest. Unfortunately, there are other companies that use similar names and matching color schemes.

They’ll trick you by pointing to their meter, since everyone knows to only get in taxis that has one. But you’ll quickly notice that the meter climbs much faster than it should . And when you pay, the drivers will often try the money switch scam. Make sure you get in a Vinasun or Mai Linh, or use an app like Grab

  • Read more: Tips: Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter with Ease

4. Fake travel companies

This one is similar to the fake taxis mentioned above. When a travel company gets popular, fake businesses open shops with similar names, hoping to trick foreigners who are unfamiliar with Vietnamese.

Research everyone online before you buy from them, and check the spelling closely.

  • Read more: Tours By Locals & Transfers

5. The two-shine

If you’re wearing dress shoes in a touristy area, prepare to be hounded by shoe-shiners. Oftentimes, foreigners accept just to be left alone. They negotiate a price, but when the shoes come back, the price has doubled, because the price they gave you was for just one shoe. If the foreigner puts up a stink, underworld muscle is never too far away.

6. Bait-and-switch massage

Massage parlors use this one to prey on amorous men. A beautiful woman on the street convinces the man to come inside for a massage, usually by flirting and laughing a lot. Then, once the man has paid, the beautiful woman is gone and a surly woman with gorilla hands comes in.

Another common tourist scams in Vietnam is to charge tourists ridiculous fees for things like water, towels and music. When you refuse to pay, gangsters step in. Your best bet is selecting places you’ve researched online, rather than following pretty girls into dark alleys.

7. Motorbike taxi

Motorbike taxis — xe ôm in Vietnamese — are notorious cheats. In touristy areas, many of them are gangsters hoping to sell fake drugs to gullible foreigners. But the most common tourist scams in Vietnam they pull is when they agree on a price for a trip and then ask for a lot more when you arrive at your destination.

They’ll tell you that you must’ve misheard them, and when you argue, they escalate things quickly . They know most foreigners would rather pay a couple dollars than make a huge scene in a strange area with no friends around.

Continuing updated common tourist scams in Vietnam …

Do hope you find the best advises from Local Tour Operator before planning a Trip To Vietnam

That is why traveling with local private tour guide Vietnam to avoid a lot of trouble

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Hoi An scams

  • Central Vietnam

The most dangerous thing for tourists to worry about in Hoi An are motorbike accidents and spending too much money shopping. However, as an extremely popular tourist destination, petty theft is a common nuisance and the town is rife with scams. Perhaps the city’s cute facade lulls travellers into complacency. Sometimes travellers go to the other extreme, and assume everyone is out to trick them; this is not so, and street savvy doesn’t mean you need to be rude. So use some common sense, and read this laundry list of dangers and scams and be prepared without going overboard in the cynicism stakes.

More on Hoi An

  • Accommodation

Petty theft occurs in Hoi An mostly out of opportunity. Try to park your bicycle or motorbike in a highly visible area and always lock them up. If there’s organised paid parking, for example like at An Bang Beach , use it. For 5,000-10,000 dong, someone will ensure your bike is there when you return. Most motorbike rentals provide cheap helmets but keep in mind that any helmet worth more than US$20 may get nicked. If your helmet looks decent, lock it inside the compartment. Most motorbikes also have a locking hook in front of the seat, or you can place the helmet strap half in the compartment and shut the seat on it. Someone could always cut the strap but it’s usually good enough as a deterrent.

When riding a bicycle don’t keep valuables in the front basket . If you’re walking around with a bag or purse, beware of bag snatchings by people zipping past on motorbike.

The ol’ gas scam : always fill up at a proper petrol station and be very careful to check that the pump is at 0 before the refill starts. Give the attendant an amount – for example, 30,000 dong -- rather than asking to fill it up or buy a certain number of litres. Then watch that it is filled correctly. A motorbike tank usually doesn’t take more than 50,000 dong to fill. The stations on Cua Dai Road and Hai Ba Trung Street (on the way to An Bang Beach) are notorious for overcharging tourists. It’s best to avoid them altogether. The most trustworthy station is near the public bus station on Le Huong Phong Street. We also haven't had any problems at the Petrolimex station on Phan Boi Chau Street, the river road east of town/Anantara Resort. And unless you are absolutely desperate, do not fill up at an informal roadside pumps as these may use illegal fuel – there have been reports of vehicles exploding. If you must, just buy enough to get you to the next petrol station.

Arriving in Hoi An after a long bus journey either very early or very late? You will be met by a charming welcome committee offering a free lift into town. Take it unless you want a 15-minute walk to town. Your ride will drop you off outside a row of the most unbelievably good value US$10 guesthouses, with swimming pool, air-con and promises of meeting all the needs of guests. Alas, the US$10 rooms are full. The rest are priced from US$20 up, the swimming pool is a good 10 minutes away and the air-con is always broken. This street is called Ly Thuong Kiet. The two top abusers are Vinh Huy and Hoa My Hotels. They aren’t bad until you see the alternatives. Hoi An hotels are more expensive than some other tourist destinations in Vietnam, but the standards are a lot higher. So once you get off the free bus, walk straight back to the traffic lights and turn left on to Hai Ba Trung Street , which leads around to Ba Trieu. This street is chock full of backpacker accommodation, where US$15-20 will get you a better value room with breakfast (like Thien Nga Hotel ) or a decent US$9 hostel like Tribee .

Commission – it’s what makes Vietnam tick. It’s not necessarily a scam per se. Just be aware that when a guide, hotel reception, taxi driver, random person on the street recommends a tailor shop, lantern shop, restaurant, or whatever, more often than not they are getting a kickback. That’s not to say the hotel’s recommendation isn’t truthful. But by eliminating the middleman, you can negotiate a better price since the shop isn’t factoring commission into it.

Here's an interesting scenario: you get befriended by a local or your family-run guesthouse, who invites you to join them for a home-cooked dinner. They feed you, make you feel part of the family, give you shots of rice whiskey and everything is merry; they refuse to take any money for the meal. Then your new friends want to take you out to a local bar to show you the real Hoi An – great! At the bar suddenly his or her friends start showing up and ordering drinks – drinks that you don’t want and don’t order but they insist and everyone is toasting to you -- because at the end, you are stuck with the bill, drinks costing an outrageous amount. Everyone including the guesthouse and bar is in on it. And if you refuse to pay, that “friend” will turn aggressive. Unfortunately we’ve heard a couple of stories like this from travellers -- so you've been warned.

Late night revellers, have fun but beware of the usual tricks . Men: flirt with that pretty woman who asks you to buy her drink after drink and you can get stuck with an enormous bill, both bar and woman cashing in. In general, don’t do bar tabs. Pay as you go.

The old quarter promptly shut down at 22:00 and most travellers head across the river to the row of bars on An Hoi Islet serving bucket drinks and round-the-clock happy hours. The usual common sense applies: leave valuables at home, never leave your glass unattended, watch out for each other and don’t let your guard down.

Even An Hoi has to close up at midnight and gangs of motorbike taxis will eagerly await to take you to a late-night joint located in the outskirts of town. Be extremely sceptical when it comes to these motorbike taxis and after-hour bars, which work in cahoots with each other. Bars take advantage of the drunk and confused and we’ve heard disturbing stories about gangs waiting to pounce outside these establishments.

Reviewed by Cindy Fan

Cindy Fan is a Canadian writer/photographer and author of So Many Miles , a website that chronicles the love of adventure, food and culture. After falling in love with sticky rice and Mekong sunsets, in 2011 she uprooted her life in Toronto to live la vida Laos. She’s travelled to over 40 countries and harbours a deep affection for Africa and Southeast Asia. Between jaunts around the world, when in Southeast Asia, she calls Laos and Vietnam home where you’ll find her traipsing through rice paddies, standing beside broken-down buses and in villages laughing with the locals. Cindy is a widely published travel writer who has featured in leading international publications including TIME, The New York Times, and the Australian.

Further reading

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hoi an tourist scams

How to Stay Safe and Avoid Scams in North Vietnam – Hanoi, Halong Bay and Sapa

Generally, Vietnam is a very safe country in which to travel. Compared to most major tourist cities in the West – Paris, London, New York, Rome – the streets of Vietnam’s urban centers are much less threatening. However, in some of the more popular tourist destinations in Vietnam, there are a handful of tourist scams and safety hazards that all travelers should be aware of. In this XO blog – the first in a two-part series – we describe some common scams in North Vietnam – especially in  Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa. This guide to avoiding common tourist scams will help you get the most out of this fabulous country and avoid any negative experiences. (Read Part 2 of this series HERE ).

Avoid scams in North Vietnam

HOW TO AVOID SCAMS IN NORTH VIETNAM – HANOI, HALONG BAY AND SAPA  

(Please click on the link below to jump direcly to region you want to explore)

HANOI:  

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city, is one of the busiest and most beguiling cities in Southeast Asia. But, as tourist numbers have risen steadily, so too have tourist scams.

Airport Taxi Scam: Many visitors emerge from Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport dazed after a long-haul flight. Scam taxis take advantage of this by picking up passengers at the airport arrivals gate and immediately saying that the hotel they’ve booked has closed down. They will then offer to take you to another, better, cheaper hotel. Inevitably, this turns out to be a substandard and much more expensive hotel. Bewildered and weary, travelers give in to the demands and check-in. Naturally, the taxi drivers get a cut of the room charge. The solution is either to prearrange your airport pick up through your hotel when you book it, or, at the airport arrivals, look out for the official airport taxi drivers (who wear bright yellow jackets). Alternatively, make sure you flag down a trusted taxi company such as Mai Linh, ABC, or Taxi Group. Note: We covered other common taxi scams in Ho Chi Minh and other southern cities in another post.

Fruit Seller Scam: Notorious in recent years, this scam involves local fruit sellers, who struggle along Hanoi’s streets carrying bamboo poles laden with tropical fruit over their backs. The fruit sellers offer tourists a ‘go’ at carrying the bamboo pole, presenting it as a good photo opportunity. When the tourist hands the pole back to the fruit seller they demand money for the ‘service’ or insist that you buy their outrageously overpriced fruit as compensation. Don’t pick up that pole! This common scam can also be found in Ho Chi Minh City.

Hotel Currency Rates: Some budget hotels in Hanoi have been known to swindle customers by switching the room price from dollars to dong , and massively inflating the exchange rate. They may also say that the rate quoted was per person, not per room. Double check when you book, and keep any email confirmation you receive as evidence. Hotels may also charge guests for any preexisting breakages in the rooms. If anything is broken when you arrive notify reception immediately so that they cannot claim you were responsible.

Hoan Kiem Hospitality: A walk around Hoan Kiem Lake is a favorite activity for tourists and locals alike. Young men and women will approach you to practice their English and ‘make friends’. While this is often a genuine attempt to establish friendly contact – I have good friends made exactly like this – it can sometimes lead to invitations to expensive meals or day outings, for which you will be given the bill. Use your ‘travelers’ radar’ to assess whether contact is genuine or not.

Hoan Kiem Lake

[BACK TO CONTENT]

HALONG BAY:  

Famed for its mystical limestone karsts rising from the sea, Halong Bay is a captivating sight. But, these days, it can get pretty darn crowded with boat tours. Before you visit you should take note of a few things.

Tours & Cruises : A day cruise (and usually a night too) around Halong Bay is one of the most popular tours in all Vietnam. Tourists often book all-inclusive tours from Hanoi. These vary wildly in price and quality. Travellers who book onto the cheaper ones are often disappointed: bad food, terrible accommodation, sloppy service. More importantly, your major concern should be safety. Vietnam has a poor maritime safety record and there have been incidents in recent years in Halong Bay, including sunken tourist boats and on-board fires, which have led to tourist deaths. Our advice is to spend more on your tour, and thoroughly check its credentials before you book. Not only will this ensure better quality, it will also mean better safety standards. An all-inclusive tour to Halong Bay from Hanoi should be around $100-150, anything less and you run the risk of disappointment. Another point to be aware of is that boat tours are often cancelled due to bad weather, especially during the monsoon months from July to September. Good tour companies will reimburse you, but many of the cheaper ones do not. Make sure you understand the policy of your tour clearly.

On-board  Theft: Unsurprisingly, there are reports of belongings and valuables being stolen on-board some of the cheaper tour boats. Take care not to leave your valuables unattended. At night, tour boats should have lockers available to passengers so that you can sleep easy knowing that your possessions are safe.

Floating Restaurants: There are hundreds of floating restaurants in Halong Bay, where fresh, reasonably priced seafood is available. However, these restaurants represent the most captive market in Vietnam; with water on all sides, where are you going to run if your hosts decide to overcharge you? Establish in advance (before you’ve made the voyage there) the cost of meals, and whether drinks and the return boat fare are included in the price. The restaurants in Ben Beo, off Cat Ba Island, are said to be better and less touristy than others. A boat out and back should be around 150,000 vnđ, but don’t pay your fee before the return journey to dry land is complete, otherwise, you might find yourself stranded at sea.

Mountain and sky scenery at Ha Long Bay

SAPA:  

A mountain town surrounded by towering peaks and plunging valleys, unfortunately, Sapa’s natural beauty is undermined by the constant hassle to buy trinkets and book onto tours, as well as the odd tourist scam.

Bogus Hotel Bookings: Such is Sapa’s tourist boom that, in recent years, hotels struggle to serve the hundreds (even thousands) of foreign and domestic travellers they receive on any one night, especially on weekends and public holidays. Even if you have booked your room months in advance, you may still find there are ‘no vacancies’ when you arrive. Check the reputation of your chosen hotel before you book, and, if you’ve booked in advance, reconfirm your booking before your arrival. One of the best things about staying in Sapa is having a spectacular view of the mountains from your hotel balcony. When you make your booking check and check again that you will have a clear mountain view, and, as always, keep the email confirmation from the hotel. Many travelers arrive in Sapa only to find that their mountain view is no more than an air conditioning unit and a bare brick wall.

Train Station Pick Up: Don’t accept a ride to Sapa from Lai Cao train station from anyone except your pre-booked hotel or tour agent. If you don’t have prearranged transportation take a taxi ($25) or one of the reliable minibuses that wait outside the station (50,000vnđ).

A Helping Hand? A quiet walk around Sapa town or the surrounding countryside is now almost impossible. At each turn tourists are met with shouts of ‘You buy something?’ or ‘I take you go for beautiful walk’. The hassle is constant and out of control. Many tourists come to Sapa specifically to visit ethnic minorities who live in the nearby mountains. It may be difficult, but you should ignore approaches from friendly young minority girls telling you their life story and offering you a free guided walk to their village. Inevitably, these ‘free’ guides will demand, beg, and even cry for money once you arrive at their village. Don’t make payment for a service you did not ask for or in order to get the girls to leave you alone, as this only sets a precedent – these young girls’ time would be better spent in school, but, at the moment, it is simply more lucrative for them to prowl the streets of Sapa for the tourist buck. All this leaves travelers in a quandary: what’s real, what’s fake? Is hospitality genuine of just a ruse to a scam? Contact Sapa O’Chau ( www.sapaochau.org ) for more information about the situation and for tours with genuine local guides.

Mountain view from a Sapa hotel balcony

We hope you found this blog post, and our Vietnam Travel Tips useful. The 2nd part of our Vietnam scams and safety article, focusing on Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An and Nha Trang, can be found HERE .

This blog is sponsored by XO Tours – Vietnam motorbike tours; offering the most acclaimed food tour in Vietnam for 8 years running!

Why choose XO?

*1st motorbike food tour in Vietnam and still most acclaimed food tour in Vietnam. Voted 1 of the top 9 food tours in the world by Forbes magazine. Listed in Lonely Planet, Rough Guides and Fodors. *1st motorbike tour with all female drivers, providing Vietnamese women with previously unafforded opportunities to work in tourism * 1st motorbike tour in Vietnam to provide accident insurance for all guests * 1st tour operator in Vietnam with security/support staff following every tour * 1st tour operator in Vietnam to provide free tour photos to every guest

Related posts:

  • How to Stay Safe and Avoid Scams in Southern Vietnam – Saigon, Nha Trang and Hoi An
  • How to avoid taxi and cyclo scams in Ho Chi Minh City: The XO Guide
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  • What to buy in Vietnam from North to South!

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I wish I had come across this article before this morning. Had a friendly chat whilst writing in my journal with a gentleman named Lam, who claims to be a chef at a hotel. He even bought me a coffee, but then we went out to lunch and when the bill came, it was 8 million dong, which I ended up paying half of, because I didn’t want to deal with the trouble in a country where I didn’t know the language. Please just tell them to go away next time they approach you, save yourself the hassle.

Thanks for sharing. In North Vietnam, you can travel to others destinations such as: Ha Giang, Pu Luong, Moc Chau, Mai Chau… If you want to safe when travel, you need research about Vietnam travel before coming to Vietnam

Absolutely Agreed. These routes are beautiful butalso quite dangerous so we would recommend everyone to do a throughout research before going.

Be careful when you plan to have a trip to HaLong Bay. Tour offices in Hanoi can offer cheap price and yet take you to bad boats with terrible room and service. In Hanoi and Hochiminh city you must be very careful with transportation risks because practically there is no traffic law in these cities; you can be hit a a motor-cycle even when you are walking on the pavement. Food and water is not really safe and could give you a food poisoning. Bring with you medicine.

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10 Common Tourist Scams in Vietnam (and how to avoid them)

Vietnam / 6 September 2020 by James / 1 Comment

I love Vietnam. It’s one of my favourite countries in the world. There’s a wide variety of things to do, the food is delicious and it’s incredibly cheap to backpack around the country.

But… amongst the many kind Vietnamese people are a whole load of scammers and rip off merchants eager to pounce on unsuspecting tourists. Across my personal travel experiences (predominantly in Asia), I’d put Vietnam in the top three, alongside Sri Lanka and Morocco, of the worst countries for this type of behaviour.

In this post I’m going to detail some of the common scams/rip offs and how to avoid them. Apologies in advance for the Vietnamese currency jokes…

hoi an tourist scams

1. Taxi drivers charging ridiculous fees

The most common of them all and a regular frustration for travellers in many countries. This is especially prevalent at transport hubs and tourist attractions, I’ve been quoted up to ten times the price I can get through Grab, an app like Uber, while in Vietnam. Usually the multiple is far less, but I expect every quote from a taxi driver to be at least double what it should cost.

Where it happens

Basically anywhere that you try and get a taxi. Expect the largest mark ups to be at the aforementioned transport hubs and tourist attractions. Where possible, walking just a minute away from these areas and hailing a taxi should get you a lower quote, but it will still usually be higher than it should be.

hoi an tourist scams

How to avoid

Option 1 – Use Grab. It isn’t available everywhere in Vietnam but, where it is, I’d suggest using this to avoid hassle.

Note that if a taxi driver shows you the Grab price on their phone, you shouldn’t believe it – they have probably selected a (far more expensive) VIP option. I have fond memories of this at Da Nang Airport – some drivers quoted 500,000 VND (£16.35 GBP) for a short ride to the city centre and, using their phone, showed me a similar price on Grab when I declined. When I checked the price on Grab myself, it was about 50,000 VND. I showed this to the next driver who approached me and, with me STARING AT THE SCREEN, he scrolled through the different Grab options on my phone to some VIP service costing about 500,000 VND, then acted like this was proof that his quote was fair and not ten times the normal price – how stupid does this guy think people can be!?

hoi an tourist scams

Option 2 – Ask for the driver to put the meter on before agreeing to the ride. This should get you a fair price but beware that fake meters, which rise faster than they should do, aren’t unheard of. The other risk here is that the driver can take a long ‘scenic’ route to your destination – having the route on your phone can easily put a stop to this.

Option 3 – If they insist on a fixed price, be prepared to haggle hard and willing to walk away. It’s best to have a rough idea of prices in advance, otherwise you won’t know what sort of fixed price to aim for.

I’d only use option 2 or 3 if Grab isn’t available. The app saves so much aggravation and means your money is going to the taxi drivers (minus Grab’s fee) who are willing to work, not the arseholes that hang around tourist spots all day waiting for one big fare.

hoi an tourist scams

Even with Grab, I had a problem on one occasion. Upon arrival in Sapa, the driver sent me a message asking for 50,000 VND to go from the bus stop to my hostel. The actual price on Grab was about 30,000 VND so I cancelled the booking. This only happened to me once in Vietnam (worldwide, it’s happened to me a couple more times with Uber in Jordan) so I think it’s very rare, but don’t be shocked if it happens.

2. Motorbike taxis

hoi an tourist scams

Continuing with the taxi theme, there are motorbike taxis who will offer to take you somewhere. This can be good fun and going should be fine, but you might find the price suddenly rising when you arrive at your destination.

This is one of two cons on this list that hasn’t been tried on me but it could occur anywhere. I suspect it’s more likely to happen in the big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

hoi an tourist scams

Haggle and agree a fixed price upfront. Check what it costs on Grab to help with your negotiations (don’t give them the chance to grab your phone and drive off). Stick to the agreed price if they ask for more at the end. Any claims that the price has gone up because there was a lot of traffic are nonsense – there is always a lot of traffic in Vietnam!

3. Getting your Dong mixed up

No need to be alarmed – the currency in Vietnam is called the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Banknotes range from 100 VND to 500,000 VND and, aside from the all-important number, the 20,000 VND and 500,000 VND notes look very similar. When handing a 500,000 VND note over, there’s a chance that the recipient might quickly switch it for a 20,000 VND note and pretend you gave the wrong one.

hoi an tourist scams

This is the other scam on this list that has never been tried on me, but anywhere where you’re handing over money is a possibility.

Pay attention when handing your money over, the recipient can’t switch notes if you’re watching.

On the subject of currency, break some of your big notes into smaller denominations as soon as you can. Small vendors might say they don’t have change (sometimes true, sometimes not) which can leave you a choice between paying extra or not buying what you wanted. I’ve paid slightly extra for water outside one of Hue’s royal tombs as the girl (who had already tried being flirtatious and using the coin collecting trick – more on these later) claimed she didn’t have any change.   

4. Shoe shiners/repairers

hoi an tourist scams

Picture the scene, you’re walking down the street or sitting outside and a guy suddenly exclaims “look!” at you while pointing at your shoes. He offers to shine/fix them and quotes a price. After the work is done, the price changes. The easiest trick here is for the price to double (the quote was per shoe after all) but some chancers may aim higher.

I don’t think it’s exclusive to Hanoi, but it’s been tried on me multiple times here and not at all in other parts of Vietnam.

Just say no – they can’t do any work on the shoes you’re wearing unless you let them. Don’t be like the guy in Goodfellas who asks to have his shoes shined. Note that, if your shoes actually are in poor condition, you’ll still probably have to say no several times before being left alone. Not that I have any experience of being out and about in such shoddy footwear…

View this post on Instagram View from the top of Mua Caves. Just a few stairs involved in getting to the top! A post shared by James Crescenzo (@backpackandwork) on Dec 6, 2019 at 4:10am PST

5. The coin collector

A local approaches you in the street under the pretence that they want to have a friendly conversation with a foreigner. This interest in you is highly unlikely to ever be genuine if you are in a location popular with visitors. At some point in the conversation, they ask where you are from and proceed to either 1) ask for a coin (or note, the greedy buggers) from your home country for their ‘collection’ or 2) ask if you can give them some VND in exchange for money they have in your home currency. Guess what? If they ask the latter, they got the foreign currency they want to change for VND from a previous unsuspecting tourist.

hoi an tourist scams

One guy, who looked like he was in his 70s, flat out asked me for VND after I declined his request to exchange currency. He needed the money to help provide for his baby daughter apparently. I suppose I should have congratulated him.

Another version of this trick is to say they are a teacher and want the foreign money to show to their school students or some other variation that involves showing children, since this can elicit sympathy. To be fair, showing foreign currency to kids is better than showing them dong.

hoi an tourist scams

Could be anywhere but collecting coins seems to be a very popular hobby in Hue. I have no idea why it happens so much here but it does. I have really fond memories of a morning in Hue where I got stopped multiple times by ‘coin collectors’ on a 15 minute walk from my hostel to a coworking space. When I arrived at my destination, I discovered it had closed down, went on another walk to a different coworking space and met more lovely coin collectors on the way to this one. Really, I should learn to just keep walking and not stop for a chat, but my Britishness usually gets the better of me.

The polite way – go through the motions of the conversation but decline to give/exchange any money. Either say you don’t have any money in your home currency to give them or, if they are asking for VND in exchange, say you don’t need any of your home currency as you’re not going to be there for a long time.

The rude way – just ignore them and keep walking. After getting constantly stopped and bothered by strangers for 20 minutes, hearing the latest tosser shout angrily at you as you walk away is quite satisfying.

6. Being overcharged for food/drink

You sit down, enjoy a meal and receive a bill with the items you consumed, but at higher prices than those on the menu. This is an easy one to fall for if you don’t remember the prices or if they only inflate the bill slightly.

hoi an tourist scams

Note: There is a chance, anywhere in the world, that they have genuinely made a mistake with the bill so don’t immediately start making accusations. The opposite happened to me once in Bali where an old lady undercharged me – I could see the meal and drink on the bill added up to more than the total she had written down, but had to demonstrate this on her calculator before she accepted the correct amount.

Again, this could be anywhere. In Vietnam, it has been tried on me once in a small café in Hanoi… with a successful outcome. I must have been having a bad day as I inexplicably went along with it and paid despite knowing the bill was too high. It was hardly any money, but I was really annoyed with myself for not saying anything. Unfortunately, I don’t remember the name of the place so my chance to exact petty revenge on them in this blog or on TripAdvisor has been lost.

hoi an tourist scams

Tell them the prices are higher than on the menu (state the correct prices for all items that you remember the price for) and insist on them giving you the correct bill. Ask for the menu back if necessary to see the prices (bear in mind they might have an overpriced menu exactly for this situation – if this happens, call them out on it). This can get heated but stand your ground – I had a similar situation in Sri Lanka and they eventually charged the right amount after feigning innocence for a while. As an ultimatum, threatening to walk out without paying anything unless they give you the right bill may work – I expect I’ll be testing this theory sometime!

As an extra, warn any other customers about their nefarious practices on your way out. The other customers deserve to know and it’s an easy way to stick it to the owners. Win win.

hoi an tourist scams

7. The photo opportunity

At some point while exploring, you may be asked by a local if you want to take a photo either of them or yourself carrying a traditional Vietnamese bamboo shoulder pole. They might say it’s free when encouraging you to take the photo, but they’ll soon change their minds afterwards!

hoi an tourist scams

Mostly around the old town of Hoi An, though I’ve seen it in Hanoi as well.

Just saying no should be enough. There’s a chance they try and put the shoulder pole on you – don’t let them.

8. The overly friendly girl(s)

Guys, use your brain. If an unknown woman approaches you on the street and flirtatiously grabs your arm/other body parts, it’s very unlikely to mean that she has a high opinion of you. She might be trying to sell you something, or she might be trying to pick your pockets. The dong she wants isn’t in your pants.

hoi an tourist scams

Things like this don’t only happen on the street. When I was paying a bill in a local restaurant, a waitress suddenly stared at me like she’d been hypnotised and declared “your eyes are so beautiful”. As much as I’d like to think she was hypnotised by my facial features, I’m pretty sure the waitress was thinking about dong, I mean a tip (ok – no more of these).

This is another one that can happen pretty much anywhere in the country.

If you get caught in this situation, keep your hands on your pockets, decline whatever is suggested and walk away.

hoi an tourist scams

9. The motorbike salesmen

Not actual motorbike sellers, but guys driving around the streets at night on the lookout for foreigners to bother, especially solo male travellers (lucky me), with offers of drugs and/or prostitutes.

As a good boy who’s never done anything wrong in his life, I’ve always declined (at least one of these statements is true). However, I understand that the drugs are usually fake and the prostitutes do not look as advertised (the motorbike pimp will kindly flash photos in your face without being asked to). Also, both drugs and prostitution are illegal in Vietnam – penalties for the former can be deadly.

hoi an tourist scams

I mostly received offers in Hanoi, but you’re likely to be approached in any tourist area where there’s nightlife.

hoi an tourist scams

Another instance where you just have to say no and they can’t do anything except be annoying and keep asking until they give up.

10. The imitators and false advertising

hoi an tourist scams

A common occurrence with travel companies in Vietnam. Whenever a travel company earns a good reputation, other businesses will open up with similar names and logos, hoping to cash in on unwary tourists. Despite similarities in branding, the imitation will not extend to the quality of service.

The same companies will often offer tours or transport services that do not deliver what they promise. When a sleeper bus is advertised as having onboard toilets and Wi-Fi, it’s not very nice to find out at the start of your 10 hour bus trip from Hoi An to Phong Nha that neither exist.

hoi an tourist scams

At tour agencies, both online and in physical locations.

Google the companies and check online reviews – there is a lot of information online. Also, if an employee at the tour agency tells you the company with negative/mixed reviews has just got nice new buses, don’t take their unscrupulous word for it.

A few thoughts

hoi an tourist scams

As much as I’ve (half-jokingly) moaned throughout this post, remember that a lot of people around the world cannot afford to travel and that’s true for many in Vietnam. Imagine never having the money to leave your country but seeing thousands of people from the other side of the world come and visit yours, some of whom will be visiting as part of a backpacking trip covering multiple countries and continents. I don’t have any problem paying a bit more than a local, what annoys me is the dishonesty and being treated like an idiot. Don’t change the taxi price on Grab from 50,000 to 500,000 on my phone while I’m looking, don’t pretend to be interested in talking to me when you only want my money – it’s just insulting and disrespectful. When this sort of thing is constantly happening, it becomes extremely frustrating.

Ultimately, a good number of the people that have tried to rip me off will have never left Vietnam due to financial restrictions. I left the UK in October 2018 and have been travelling/working remotely ever since while going from country to country (at least until COVID hit). I’m in a good position and part of the reason for that is simply down to the wealth of opportunities available in my home country.

View this post on Instagram Until next time, Vietnam. A post shared by James Crescenzo (@backpackandwork) on Dec 24, 2019 at 7:43am PST

Finally, is it worth visiting Vietnam with these issues?

Yes, absolutely. The country is full of things to see and do and, frankly, you will face tricks like these when travelling to just about any developing country. There are plenty of amazing experiences to be had in Vietnam but nothing is perfect. These issues, while frustrating, are a part of travelling and some of the experiences can be funny to look back on. Along with the photos that are loosely scam related, I’ve scattered a few nicer photos from my trips to Vietnam around this post and this is just scratching the surface of what the country has to offer.

You could probably avoid all or most of these scams/rips offs by booking a controlled, all-inclusive tour around the country but I can’t imagine that being as enjoyable and, in all likelihood, the fancy tour package will cost a lot more than what the local swindlers try and get from you.

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BE ALERT with tourist scams when travelling in Vietnam

Concerned tourist scams & cheating problems in vietnam.

Are you planning a trip to Vietnam? And you would like to know whether “ is it safe to travel in Vietnam”? The answer is “ Yes”. The same answers can be found such prestigious travel sites as Tripadvisors, Rough Guides, Lonely Planet, Smarttraveler…...Vietnam is a peaceful country with its stable politics and Vietnamese are friendly & hospitable….However, there are many terrible problems & scams happenning now all over the world, and it is also not exceptional in Vietnam. In this travel article, Golden Hoilday Travel will list some concerned tourist scams & cheating– things to avoid when travelling to Vietnam.It will not be a problem if you take common-sense precautions on pushy vendors, shoe shiners or taxi drivers…..We hope that it will be helpful for you to arrange a safe & memorable vacation in Vietnam.

1.Fake taxi with super fast running meters

In the airports or in big cities of Hanoi, Sai Gon, besides good & reliable taxis from branded companies, there are some fake taxis with altered meters jumping very fast with money amounts, then at the end of the trip, you have to pay the price much higher than normal.Or for a short distance, taxi drivers choose the long way or run around to charge more money. Travelling in Vietnam , in need of going around by taxi, we suggest you such Reliable Taxi Brands as Mai Linh Taxi, Taxi Group ( Hanoi), Vinasun( Ho Chi Minh)

Taxi Scams

Taxi meters altered to cheat the customers

2.Hawkers ( street vendors selling fruits)

When walking along the old quarter of Hanoi capital or tourist districts of Ho Chi Minh city, you sometimes see street vendors selling different fruits on “baskets at two ends of the pole” on their shoulders.If you like any product, you can bargain & buy from them for their income. However,some bad ones may approach tourists on purpose, they put “the pole with two baskets of fruits” on your shoulders for your beautiful photos.In the end, they will ask you for a few dollars or invite you buy their fruits with super expensive price.

hoi an tourist scams

Street vendors approaching tourists

3. Shoes shiners

In your trip to Vietnam, you may have your shoes polished, the cost is around 1 usd or 20.000 vnd for your pair of shoes. However, some of our customers told us that they had paid 200.000 vnd (10usd) to shoes-shined boy.Travelling along some streets, you may be approached by shoes shiners, they take off your shoes without your permission and ask you to polish or repair them not on a right way (they use glue 502 to fix your shoes, it looks good at that time and get broken in 3 days later).In need of fixing the shoes, you can go to Cau Go or Hang Dau streets ( near Hoan Kiem lake & Water Puppet Theatre)  where are popular with many shops selling shoes.There are some men offering the service of shoes fixing at reasonable cost of 60,000 vnd ( 3usd). They can sew and fix your shoes with special glues.

Shoe shining cheating boy

Shoe shiners & tourists

4.Lighter & T-shirt vendors.

There are many street vendors in Hanoi, Hue, Sai Gon selling Zippo lighter or T-shirts on tourist streets or tourist attractions. They keep following you and try to sell low- quality products at 7- 10 usd/one.When selling the products, they explain that the T-shirt made of coton & hand-made embroidery.However, it is not true, it is made of nilon and the real cost is 2-3 usd/ one.Travelling to Vietnam, you can see the vendors try to sell those T-shirts in Temple of Literature, Hanoi old quarters (Hanoi), Dong Ba market(Hue) & Ben Thanh market ( Sai Gon).If you love to buy those cheap products, you can buy to use for one time.If you don’t like the products, you just say “No” firmly, the vendors will stop following you… !

Tourist Scams Hanoi

5. Non- stated- price restaurants

Travelling to Vietnam, it is good to taste different local foods & drinks for your authentic travel experiences or.Overpriced cheating happens not only foreign tourists as well as to local people when the restaurants show no price on their menu.To avoid the overpriced cheat, before ordering the dishes or buying the items, you should ask the price in advance. Some locals may charge you much higher price if you don’t ask them the cost first.

6.Overpriced shopping in local markets.

You enjoy Vietnam’s landscapes and beautiful local products : embroidery or lacquer paintings, silk items…... You would like to buy some of them as good presents to bring home, that is a good idea.In many shops in Hanoi old quarter, Dong Ba market or Ben Thanh market, most shops don’t label the prices on their products, so it is hard to shop if you have no ideas of product value & no good shopping skills – bargain.Some greedy shoppers say high prices ( more popularly to foreigners) so even you bargain 50% down, they still make big profits.In this way, you should shop around a few shops for the same items, then choose the one of good price or it is better to go shopping on the ones of price-labeled products- if you love their items, you just buy, no need to bargain much !

Local Markets

Whole sales market Dong Xuan in Hanoi

7.Theft & Petty Crime

This problem happens everywhere in the world.In Vietnam,many people including tourists & local Vietnamese got pickpocked in those crowded areas such as Hanoi night market, Dong Xuan market, bus & train stations, travel attractions… Thieves on motorbike aim at the pedestrians or tourists on cyclo tour. It is quite common for a group of 2 on a motorbike to approach and quickly snatch bags, phone or any valuable things….. We strongly advise you not to show what you have (iphone, expensive cameras,jewlery, money…) on those places, keep your belongings in front and try to walk not so close to the edge of sidewalk

To prevent it from happening, you should  leave your passport & valuable things at the hotel’s safe, avoid taking your phone out on the streets and be always aware of petty crime when going out.It is better not to wear the jewlery and not to go out too late at night in unlighted areas alone.

hoi an tourist scams

Rob by motorbike

8.Don’t take a cyclo on the streets

Cyclo is a good transport for your hanging around in Hue, Hanoi old quarter & Sai Gon. You no need to worry about the busy traffic of motorbike , just leisure and lie back on the the cyclo to see surrounding areas.You can have this fun when booking a city tour with us ( on request), we have  mutual contract with cyclo companies so the cost & service are good.However, when you take cyclo on the streets by yourselves, you have to bargain and double check the cost by showing drivers the money amount & your travelling routes.Some of our clients joined the cyclo trip with us and after that they found the same name of the cyclo to go. However, they were tripple-charged. They reported to us and asked us why. Most of the cyclo drivers work as freelance for the travel company and they can go around the city to find their own clients on the streets. However, when we call the cyclo drivers to give the job to them, none of them dares to trick to our clients.

Cyclo cheating

Cyclo in waiting for their customers

9.Sex Tourism

Different from Thailand, Sex tourism industry is not allowed and considered illegal in Vietnam. However, the prostitutes may find you - male travellers in their intension. Please be careful with those girls. According to Hanoi Policeman research, 17% of the Prostitutes in Hanoi are added to HIV.Also, it is a must to follow the rules of the country that you are travelling in, otherwise you may get into troubles.

10.Sleeping bus for a long journey

This is a common transport option for backpackers wishing to travel from the North to the South or vice versa. However, there are also many scams associated such as losing things on your lugguages when you are sleeping or asking to pay more money for the journey otherwise you willl be forced to get down along the road or in the middle of nowhere.... so it is important to only buy from reputable companies!

Sleeing bus on long journey

sleeping bus on a long journey

Hotlines for travel supports of tourism treating & scams from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh city

Below are the list of hotlines for typical tourist provinces & cities in Vitenam.If anything not nice happens to you, you can call for the help of local authorities.

  • Hotline in Hanoi: 0941.33.66.77
  • Hotline in Sapa: 0911.479.389
  • Hotline in Dien Bien: 091.5531244
  • Hotline in Halong Bay: 0203.6282.282 or 0913.265.009
  • Hotline in Ninh Binh(Tam Coc - Trangan): 0229 886 068
  • Hotline in Sam Son: 0946.353.000, 0123.467.999, 0913.293.701
  • Hotline in Quang Binh: 0232 3833399 or 0232 3503399
  • Hotline in Hue: 0914050005 or 0234.3847232
  • Hotline in Danang: 0236.1022 or 0236.3550.111
  • Hotline in Hoian: 0235.3666.333
  • Hotline in Nha Trang: 0947.528.000 or 0258.3528.000
  • Hotline in Binh Thuan(Phan Thiet): 0252.810.801 or 0252.608.222
  • Hotline in Dalat: 0913.881271, 0913.853053, 0913.953207, 0918.007267, 0263.701788, 0263.701726
  • Hotline in Saigon: 028.38.387.200
  • Hotline in Vung Tau: 0989217417
  • Hotline in Phu Quoc: 0918.769.666 or 0918.083.518
  • Hotline in An Giang: 0911.575.911 or 0969.536.584

Golden Holiday Travel – a local licensed tour operator in Vietnam

We have shared about some tourist scams or cheating problems to avoid when travelling in Vietnam so you easily realize and have your proper behaviors & smart actions to avoid them for an enjoyable vacation in Vietnam.

Notes : Scams are more likely to happen on independent travelers.Travelling with Golden Holiday Travel can help you avoid most of scams because we provide a private car with driver & guide to escort you from the moment of your arrival to the end of the tour, travel support 24/7.

When planning your trip to Vietnam , in need of travel services ( tour packages , car rental with driver, tourguide…) or travel consultancy, feel free to drop us emails to [email protected] or call us at +84.988451530 (whatsapp, viber, SMS) . As a local licensed tour operator, Golden Holiday Travel Team will try our best to support the customers with useful travel consultancy for your memorable Vietnam holiday of lifetime experiences!

Best luck & have a good time in Vietnam !

Golden Holiday Travel Team !

hoi an tourist scams

Need local support, please, let us know!

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I hope you havent't forgot us.  If you have I have included a photo of us in attach file.I promised to e-mail you when we get back.  Sorry for the delay but we had so much shit to sort out when we've got back home.

Thanks very much for giving us a tour of Hanoi.  Without you two, we would of missed a hell of a lot of Hanoi which we never had the time to explore.

When we were in the south, we came across a lot of English and Irish backpackers that were heading to Hanoi and we've recomended you and the taxi driver Binh to them.  I hope they contact you two when they get to Hanoi and give you business.

So so much had changed since I left Vietnam.  Some changes are positive and a lot of negatives but people link yourself and Binh will keep up the traditions.

I hope that you will get this e-mail.  If you do please reply.

Since we've came home, I've had so many ideas about starting a business venture in Vietnam and and hoping that you might want to be  be part of the it.

Alec  (Hung)

Dear Ban, 

Sorry for being late.

I tried to write you a letter several times, but I couldn't finish the letter. I don't know why.

I am still in winter vacation, so I have been very lazy, frankly speaking. And I miss you and the other good people I met in Vietnam. You cannot imagine how much it is!! As for our meeting, let's put it aside for my next trip, possibly that would be the coming August. At that time, we can have time to talk a lot about Vietnamese school system and other interesting things. Don't you think??

And I am so happy to know that you think my voice is tender  in different songs... *^^*

By the way, how's it going with your new business? Is it going well? I'm sure you will be successful because you are quite ambitious and intelligent. You agree, Ban?? ^^

When my school starts, I cannot tell anything about Vietnam without talking about you to my students... I get impressed a lot, surely yu know that. Right?

I will attach the picture you took together in my next mail because my camera battery is out. Sorry about that!!

It's Saturday today. I wonder what you are doing at this moment in Vietnam when I am writing to you. Keep in touch often. OK?? ^^

Take care and be well & happy

Your friend,

Hwayoung Lee from Korea

Hello Mr Ban, What a surprise to hear from you and a good one. yes I do remember you quite well....as Black Dan? Is this right?  It has been 5 years since I was in your country. a long time, but I remember how bright and funny you were and also how polite!!! So, have you a family to look after now? A wife and some beautiful children?  I hope all is well with you and you have plenty of work to do. I am taking a break at my work as it is Christmas time here and everything stops and family get together. I know you have TET around the corner and I wish you much success and good fortune for the next year. Which animal will it be next year for TET, I wonder? And which year you born in?  I am still working with flowers. Iam known as a florist and my job keeps me pretty busy. I enjoy it very much as I love to make beautiful things from flowers and stones, dried things from Mother Nature and sometimes with man made stuff as well. It is quite funny that you emailed me at this time as I have been thinking of coming over to Vietnam alot lately and may do next year sometime. I missed out on a few places I would love to go ( Hoi Ann), and re visit some places I have been to last time. Are you still a guide? All the best.

Thue xe du lich

Thank you very much for your interest in  Golden Holiday Travel . Please, take a moment to complete  this form  with your detailed requests, our dedicated travel experts will be in touch and reply you back shortly with useful consultancy and travel support for your enjoyable  Vietnam holiday  of lifetime !

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hoi an tourist scams

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Scam - Hoi An - Vietnam Forum

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' class=

https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTopic-g298082-i9204-k12549733-Endless_Vacations_a_total_scam-Hoi_An_Quang_Nam_Province.html

hoi an tourist scams

If complete strangers approach you and start talking for no reason at all, they are nearly always after money at some point.

Just ignore them & continue walking

' class=

Just Ignore and go, It could be scam but few there.

Time share touts.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Mergulhando em Hoi An: explorando as maravilhas subaquáticas do Vietnã

Templo da literatura hanói, 12 coisas a não perder em ninh binh, 10 coisas para fazer quando vier para dien bien, grand café saigon, au delice & le restaurant d’arthur hanoi, amato tapas bar & restaurant, o terraço metrópole, melhor vida noturna em hoi an – coisas para fazer em hoi…, liquid sky bar em saigon, teatro de marionetas aquáticas de nha trang, junção bia hoi, 5 melhores shoppings em hanói, loja da fazenda cocobox café em hoi an, vila da seda de hoi an, galeria de belas artes de hoi an.

  • Guia de viagem

Scam in Hoi An – A Growing Concern for Tourists

Tourist in Hoi An

Hoi An, a charming ancient town in Vietnam, has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. With its picturesque streets, colorful lanterns, and rich cultural heritage, it’s no wonder that tourists flock to this city. However, amidst the beauty and charm, there is a growing concern of scams targeting unsuspecting tourists. From overpriced goods to fake tours, scams in Hoi An have become a common occurrence. In this article, we will delve into the world of golpes em Hoi An , how they operate, and what you can do to protect yourself.

Who are the Scammers in Hoi An?

Scammers in Hoi An come from various backgrounds, but most of them are locals who see an opportunity to make quick money from tourists. They often target foreigners who are unfamiliar with the local culture and customs. These scammers can be found in popular tourist areas such as the night market, tailor shops, and even on the streets.

Tipos de golpistas em Hoi An

  • The Tailor Shop Scam One of the most common scams in Hoi An is the tailor shop scam. Tourists are lured into these shops with promises of high-quality custom-made clothes at a fraction of the price. However, once the clothes are made, they turn out to be of poor quality or not what was promised. Some shops also use aggressive sales tactics, making it difficult for tourists to leave without making a purchase.
  • The Overpriced Goods Scam Another common scam in Hoi An is the overpriced goods scam. This usually happens in markets or street vendors where tourists are charged exorbitant prices for items such as souvenirs, food, and drinks. The scammers often target tourists who are not familiar with the local currency and charge them much higher than the actual price.

How to Avoid Scams in Hoi An?

Embora seja impossível completamente evite fraudes em Hoi An , there are some steps you can take to minimize your chances of falling victim.

Faça sua pesquisa

Before traveling to Hoi An, do some research on the common scams in the area. This will help you identify potential scams and be more cautious when dealing with locals.

Desconfie de táticas de vendas agressivas

If a shopkeeper or street vendor is being overly pushy or aggressive, it’s best to walk away. These tactics are often used to pressure tourists into making a purchase they may regret later.

Negocie com sabedoria

Bargaining is a common practice in Hoi An, but make sure to do it wisely. Know the approximate price of the item you want to buy and don’t be afraid to walk away if the price is too high.

Prós e contras de fraudes em Hoi An

Like any other illegal activity, scamming in Hoi An has its pros and cons. Let’s take a look at both sides of the coin.

Prós de fraudes em Hoi An

  • Quick Money For scammers, the biggest advantage of scamming in Hoi An is the quick money they can make from unsuspecting tourists. With the increasing number of tourists visiting the city, there is a constant flow of potential victims.
  • Easy to Get Away With Due to the transient nature of tourism, scammers can easily get away with their crimes without facing any consequences. They can simply move on to another location and continue their fraudulent activities.

Contras de fraude em Hoi An

  • Negative Impact on Tourism Scams in Hoi An have a negative impact on the tourism industry. When tourists fall victim to scams, they are less likely to return to the city or recommend it to others, leading to a decline in tourism.
  • Damage to Local Reputation Scams in Hoi An not only affect tourists but also damage the reputation of the locals. This can have long-term consequences for the community and its economy.

Alternativas para golpes em Hoi An

While scamming may seem like an easy way to make money, there are alternative ways for locals to earn a living without resorting to fraudulent activities.

  • Sustainable Tourism Encouraging sustainable tourism practices can provide locals with a steady income while preserving the natural and cultural heritage of Hoi An. This includes promoting responsible tourism, supporting local businesses, and preserving the environment.
  • Education and Training Providing education and training opportunities for locals can equip them with the skills needed to work in the tourism industry. This can create more job opportunities and reduce the reliance on scams as a source of income.

Guia passo a passo para evitar fraudes em Hoi An

  • Be aware of common scams in Hoi An.
  • Do your research before traveling to the city.
  • Be cautious of aggressive sales tactics.
  • Bargain wisely when making purchases.
  • Report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

Dicas para se proteger contra golpes em Hoi An

  • Keep your valuables safe and secure.
  • Don’t carry large amounts of cash with you.
  • Use reputable tour companies and guides.
  • Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or advice.
  • Trust your instincts and be cautious when dealing with unfamiliar situations.

Perguntas frequentes sobre golpes em Hoi An

Q: Is it safe to visit Hoi An? A: Yes, Hoi An is generally a safe city to visit. However, tourists should be cautious of potential scams and take necessary precautions.

Q: How do I know if I’m being scammed? A: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and do your research before making any purchases.

Q: Can I get my money back if I fall victim to a scam in Hoi An? A: It can be difficult to get your money back, but you can report the incident to the authorities and seek their assistance.

Q: Are all locals in Hoi An scammers? A: No, not all locals in Hoi An are scammers. Most of them are friendly and welcoming, but it’s important to be cautious and aware of potential scams.

Q: What should I do if I encounter a scammer in Hoi An? A: Stay calm, politely decline their offer, and walk away. If you feel unsafe, seek help from nearby shops or the authorities.

Scams in Hoi An are a growing concern for tourists, but with proper precautions and awareness, you can protect yourself from falling victim. Remember to do your research, be cautious of aggressive sales tactics, and trust your instincts. By supporting sustainable tourism practices and providing education and training opportunities for locals, we can help reduce the reliance on scams as a source of income. Let’s work together to make Hoi An a safe and enjoyable destination for all.

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  • 10 essential things to do in Hoi An

Hoi An's architecture has elements of Chinese, Japanese and French influences.

Cradled between rivers, rice paddies, and beaches, Hoi An has all the elements of a timeless destination. Its yellowing shop houses, riotous blossoms, and green countryside set the tone for enriching days and magical nights. If you find yourself in this former trading port, round out your visit with these 10 inspired ideas.

Cycle the countryside.

hoi an countryside

Snag a bicycle from your hotel or any rental shop on the street (VND30,000/day) and pedal your way from the Ancient Town toward the open roads of Cam Thanh and Cam Chau . Here you’ll get a firsthand look at Vietnamese life in the countryside, plus countless leafy vegetable gardens, adorable duck ponds and greasy repair shops.

TIP: If cycling is not your thing, you can still get up close with Hoi An's beautiful countryside lanes on a vintage sidecar tour from Victoria. Climb inside and enjoy a full hour of being shown around the vegetable plots of Tra Que, the rice paddies in Cam Chau, and the sand dunes near An Bang Beach. 

best tours in hoi an

Get on the water

what to do in hoi an

‘Water, water everywhere’ might just be Hoi An’s unofficial slogan. Don’t leave without taking a sunset cruise on the Thu Bon River. A few seconds of negotiation at the ferry quay should get you a breezy, half-hour trip for about VND150,000 - VND200,000. Leave just before sunset for the best views. 

TIP: If you’re an early riser, try sunrise stand-up paddleboarding at An Bang; or join a kayak tour to see more of Hoi An’s quiet waterways.

Go café-hopping

best cafes in hoi an

Every city in Vietnam has heaps of cafes, but Hoi An’s cafes have tangible charm. Some ideas: Fresh-pressed juice and avocado toast at Rosie’s Cafe , caramel coffee or mango shakes at Le Fe , tea and snacks at Reaching Out . If you're the type who likes people-watching, claim a seat on the balcony at  Hoi An Roastery   and watch the world go by.

Have a beach day

best restaurants an bang beach

An Bang Beach , just 7km outside the Ancient Town, is one of the most pleasant stretches of sand anywhere in Vietnam. In the main area, you’ll find beachfront favourites such as Soul Kitchen and The Hmong Sisters , as well as a string of seafood restaurants. A little ways down, things get more languorous, and local sellers trade on sun loungers, cheap coconuts, and cold beer.

TIP: Want a little space from the crowds? Salt Pub & Restaurant and Sound of Silence are perfect for leisurely breakfasts followed by lazy hours on the sand.

Shop for souvenirs

where to shop in hoi an

Hoi An is known for its tailors. If you need a new suit, dress, leather bag, or anything custom-made -- you’ve come to the right place. Apart from the tailor shops, it’s worth spending a few hours checking out the boutiques in town. Look in stores such as Cocobox (Vietnamese jams and coffee),  Metiseko (fashion and accessories), Artbook (posters and stationery) and Reaching Out (ceramic tea sets and jewelery) for high-quality items to take home.

TIP: OZU by Tadioto is the coolest new retail space to open in Hoi An. Check them out at 54 Phan Boi Chau. 

Taste regional dishes

hoi an attractions

You’ll probably have some of the best meals of your trip in Hoi An, thanks to the unbelieveably fresh produce delivered dails from farms and seas nearby. Get your fix of authentic local specialities -- Cao Lầu , White Rose , Hoành Thánh , and Mì Quảng – at Morning Glory Restaurant , Miss Ly , or Mai Fish . More contemporary? Visit Nu Eatery for Hoi An's best fusion fare. 

TIP: For a snack that can’t be beat, the banh mi at Madame Khanh are outrageously good.

Stroll the Ancient Town

what to do see in hoi an

While pretty during the day, the Ancient Town really comes into its own after dark. Don't miss the chance to stroll this UNESCO-listed heritage site in the evenings, when thousands of brightly lit lanterns illuminate the streets and set the Thu Bon River aglow with twinkling reflections.

Revisit Hoi An history

top attractions in hoi an

From the 15th to 19th centuries, Hoi An was a thriving trading port, welcoming merchants from China, Japan, and Europe. Today, a sprinkling of ancestral houses and pagodas are in easy walking distance of each other inside the Ancient Town. You’ll need a ticket to enter these sites, but the fee is worth the opportunity to experience Hoi An’s multi-layered past. Three stops for your list: the Japanese Bridge , Tan Ky House , and Phuc Kien Assembly Hall .

Take a cooking class

things to do in hoi an

You don’t have to be pro in the kitchen to enjoy Hoi An’s fantastic cooking classes . Here you can follow the entire process, from the fishing net and public market to the claypot and frying pan, while learning local techniques along the way. After a full morning of fun, eating the results of your labours is the best part.

TIP: A session at the Red Bridge cooking school is a must-do for foodies in Vietnam.

Sample the nightlife

best bars in hoi an

Leading the pack of places to party in Hoi An is a one-of-a-kind venue, Mango Mango . This alluring gathering place promises punchy cocktails, mouthwatering dishes, and nightly live music. For delicious bar bites and drinks in a casual setting, visit The Happy Buffalo on Cua Dai St. Out on An Bang beach, take your pick of live bands and DJ sets at Soul Kitchen , or its sister venue, Soul Beach .

TIP: If you happen to be in Hoi An on a Saturday evening, duck into Le Fe for a front-row seat to Vietnamese vocal talents you won’t soon forget.

BONUS: Catch a cultural show

Lune Production is known for staging world-class contemporary circus, dance and musical performances in Vietnam and around the world. Don't miss the chance to watch a show at their new performance centre in Hoi An. The Mist, Lune's first show to debut in Hoi An, is a gorgeous, riveting hour-long spectacle that's as Vietnamese as it gets. From evocative scenes of countryside life to spellbinding ballets, you won't be able to tear your eyes from the stage. See what's on, as well as schedules and ticket prices at the Lune Production website . 

Want more Vietnam travel ideas?  Sign up for our newsletter  to receive our best stories in your inbox.

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Hoi An Tourist Attractions: 12 Best Places to Visit in Hoi An

Hoi An Tourist Attractions: 12 Best Places to Visit in Hoi An

Hoi An is one of the most popular destinations in Vietnam, and for good reason. This charming city in central Vietnam is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the rich heritage of a former trading port. Hoi An is famous for its well-preserved ancient town, where you can admire the architecture, lanterns, and bridges that reflect the influences of Chinese, Japanese, French, and Vietnamese cultures. Hoi An is also a paradise for foodies, as it offers a variety of delicious dishes, such as cao lau, banh mi, and mi quang. But Hoi An is not only about the old town. There are many other attractions that you can explore in and around Hoi An, such as historical sites, temples, pagodas, villages, beaches, islands, and forests. In this article, we will introduce you to 12 of the best Hoi An tourist attractions that you should not miss on your trip to this enchanting city

Table of Contents

1. Hoi An Ancient Town

2. tan ky old house, 3. chua ong pagoda, 4. phuc kien assembly hall, 5. japanese covered bridge, 6. thanh ha pottery village, 7. kim bong carpentry village, 8. an bang beach, 9. bay mau coconut forest, 10. my son sanctuary, 11. tra que vegetables village, 12. cham island.

Typical yellow houses in Hoi An Ancient Town

Typical yellow houses in Hoi An Ancient Town (Source: Lê Rồng Photography)

It is undeniable that Hoi An Ancient Town is a must-visit attraction in Hoi An. It is well-known for a Southeast Asian trading port dating back the 16th and 17th centuries. Nowadays, this old town appeals a large number of domestic and foreign travelers thanks to its peaceful atmosphere, charming beauty of restaurants, café shops and full of historic yellow and wood buildings in a traditional Chinese style. It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Hoi An was recently ranked third among the list of the world’s top 25 cities in 2020 by Travel+Leisure Magazine. It is the result of the magazine’s annual survey of readers’ travel experiences in the cities they’ve been to. The vote is based on the following criteria: scenery, vision, culture, cuisine, locals’ friendliness, shopping, and mutual values.

Entrance fee : Included in Hoi An Ancient Town day-time ticket (120,000 VND/ visitor).

Tan Ky Old House was built in 1741 by a Vietnamese family, and has been preserved through 7 generations. The architecture of this house is combination of Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese styles. There are 4 small rooms in the house with different purposes: one for welcoming the Chinese merchants, one for living room, courtyard and bedroom. Especially, all are no windows.

Foreign tourists visiting Tan Ky Old House

Foreign tourists visiting Tan Ky Old House – a perfect example of the 18th-century merchant’s residence

This old house was designed by the most skillful artisans of the famous Kim Bong village at that time. Wood is the main material for the house but stone (from Thanh Hoa Province) and floor tiles (from Bat Trang ceramic village) are used in many details such as flooring, wall, furnishings… All of them make the house cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Over 200 years old, Tan Ky Old House still remains unique features in the interior decoration and objects from ancient times. It is also recognized as a national historical-cultural relic in Vietnam in 1990.

Address : No. 101 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Minh An District, Hoi An. Opening time : 8:30am – 5:45pm. Entrance fee : Free.

Chua Ong Pagoda, also called Quan Cong Temple, was built in the middle of the 17th century. It was recognized as a “National Historic and Cultural Site” in 1991. This temple is dedicated to Quan Cong, who was an ancient Chinese general, lived in the time of “Three Warring Kingdoms” (3rd century AD). He was well-known for his talent, a talented, courage, loyalty, integrity, compassion and righteousness in the feudal time of China.

The facade of Chua Ong Pagoda

The facade of Chua Ong Pagoda

The pagoda’s structure consists of 3 parts: front hall, open yard and back hall and it followed the Chinese architecture at that time. Despite many restorations, the temple is almost kept the same original structure.

Address : 24 Tran Phu, Cam Chau, Hoi An Opening time : 6am – 5pm, every day Entrance fee : Included in Hoi An Ancient Town day-time ticket (120,000 VND/ visitor).

The three entrance gate to Phuc Kien Assembly Hall

The three entrance gate to Phuc Kien Assembly Hall

Phuc Kien Assembly Hall or Fujian Assembly Hall was built in 1690 by Chinses people living in Hoi An. It was served as a gathering place for the Chinese residents and traders from Fujian, China, then transformed into a religious site dedicated to Thien Hau Thanh Mau – the Goddess of the sea and the protector of sailors. Phuc Kien Assembly Hall is well-recognized for its gorgeous and sophisticated Chinese-style architecture in a vast space. The Assembly Hall is divided into separate areas including large ornate gate, colorful courtyard, lake, backside, backyard, 2 corridors and ornamental plant. There is full of statues, bronze bells, bronze drums and lacquered works of art engraved with Chinese characters… and a lot of animal pictures and statues such as dragons, unicorns, phoenix and turtles… The whole combination and arrangement of every element in the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall tend to imply the Chinese philosophy of happiness.

Location : No. 46 Tran Phu Street, Cam Chau, Hoi An. Opening time : 7am – 5pm. Entrance fee : Included in Hoi An Ancient Town day-time ticket (120,000 VND/ visitor).

Japanese Covered Bridge on Thu Bon river

Hoi An’s iconic Japanese Covered Bridge on Thu Bon river

Japanese Covered Bridge, also known as Lai Vien Kieu or Chua Cau, is the unique architectural heritage built by Japanese traders in the 16th century. The bridge is covered with a wooden pagoda roof with decorative details reflecting the harmonious combination between Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese and Western architectural styles. In spite of several restorations over years, the Japanese Covered Bridge is well preserved and becomes an iconic symbol of Hoi An. The image of this famous bridge is printed on one side of 20,000 VND note. You may see many people holding it up while taking a photo with the bridge itself. Inside the bridge, there is a small temple dedicated to Tran Vo Bac De, the Taoist God of weather, who protects believers during earthquakes and floods.

Location : Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Minh An District, Hoi An Ancient Town. Opening time : All day. Entrance fee : Included in Hoi An Ancient Town day-time ticket (120,000 VND/ visitor).

Just 3km from Hoi An Ancient Town to the West, Thanh Ha pottery village can be reached by bicycle, motorbike or by boat along Thu Bon river. This ancient village was established in the 16th century when people from Thanh Hoa province came here to build a new life with their traditional craft pottery. Undergoing over 400 years, Thanh Ha pottery village is still preserved its original intact beauty and values. Today, there are not many villagers following the traditional profession but some artisans still love and conserve the ancient pottery-making techniques and also revive the pottery village to become a tourist attraction.

making pottery product in Thanh Ha Pottery Village

An old man making pottery product in Thanh Ha Pottery Village

The products in Thanh Ha village are mainly household wares serving the daily life of the local people in domestic market. They are bowls, jars, pots and decorative wares. Tourists coming here will have opportunity to see pottery-making process, admire traditional terracotta products as well as try hands-on experience to make your own product. To avoid the heat and crowd of tour groups, it is suggested to visit the village on weekdays and in the morning.

Location : Block 5, Thanh Ha Ward, Hoi An. Opening time : 8am – 5:30pm, every day. Entrance fee : 35,000 VND/ visitor.

Kim Bong is known as the most reputable carpentry village in Cam Kim commune, Hoi An. Most of the ancient architectures of Hoi An’s heyday was built by the talented carpenters of Kim Bong village. Originated from the North and also acquired some quintessence of Champa Kingdom, Chinese, Japanese sculptural traditions and of course, skillful hands of Vietnamese craftsmen, Kim Bong’s products have become more and more ingenious. For many years, Kim Bong village has developed vigorously and formed 3 groups of artisans: ancient architectural construction, shipbuilding and civil wooden furniture.

Kim Bong Carpentry Village

Tourists exploring a workshop in Kim Bong Carpentry Village

From the old town, the village is accessible by boat along Thu Bon river or by bicycle. Here visitors will have chance see the artisans working with their skillful hands on the crafts, admire special works such as the clove carved 1,000 dragons made of bamboos, the image of Japanese Covered Bridge and buy some specialties as souvenirs. Besides, riding around the Kim Bong carpentry village is an interesting activity to get closer touch with daily local life, learn the farm work such as weaving mats, bamboo knit, and also enjoy the local dishes.

Address : Trung Ha, Cam Kim commune, Hoi An. Opening time : 7am – 5pm, every day.

Stunning An Bang beach

Stunning An Bang beach with white smooth sand and clear blue water

An Bang Beach is one of the best beaches in Hoi An with the wild beauty of white smooth sand, green trees along the beach and several bamboo basket boats. It is quite peaceful, still pristine and suitable for both locals and tourists who are looking for a relaxing place. Here is a home to many beachfront resorts, seafood restaurants and hippy bars which you can find easily along the coastline. Tourists visiting An Bang beach can participate in some of the most popular activities, including swimming, paddle-boarding and surfing. The best time to visit An Bang beach is between March and September when the weather is fairly pleasant with calm waters. But it is pretty crowded during this time.

Address : 7km north of Hoi An Ancient Town Transportation : Bicycle, motorbike, taxi or private car

Located in Cam Thanh commune, 5km from Hoi An ancient town, Bay Mau coconut forest is known as a right place to get wonderful coracle rowing experience, thus it attracts a large number of tourists. It is the green tourism area and also the “lung” of Hoi An and nearby areas. Here is the habitat of many marine animals such as shrimp, crab and mollusks.

Bay Mau Coconut Forest

Tourists experiencing a bamboo basket boat ride in Bay Mau Coconut Forest

Nothing is more interesting than joining with local fishermen on the river and enjoying hands-on experience to explore the wetland ecosystem and understand more about the local daily life. Besides, you can participate in some exciting activities like baskets boating, visiting coconut forest, tasting the fresh sea-foods on the boat… The small boats will bring you float under the coconut leaf canopy to enjoy the green and boundless space of water coconut trees. It seems make all pressure of busy life disappear to prepare energy for a new day.

Address: Van Lang, Cam Thanh commune, 5km east of Hoi An Ancient Town Entrance fee: 150,000 VND/ a basket boat/ 2 people.

My Son Sanctuary is a group of temple-towers of Cham people, an imperial city during the Champa Kingdom. It was officially recognized as the UNESCO’s World Heritage in 1999. Nestling in a narrow valley surrounded by mountains, My Son Sanctuary comprises 70 architectural works including temples and towers which connect to each other with complicated red brick designs. Each group has a main temple worship Linga – a symbol of Shiva, one of senior triple gods in Indian Hinduism. The main tower is for the deities of Champa people, and the smaller tower is for worship of Champa’s king.

Vietnam-Hoi-An-My-Son-Holy-land

My Son Sanctuary – a great sample of the ancient Champa civilization

According to records on the stone stele, the prime foundation of the ancient My Son architectural complex was a wooden temple to worship the Diva Bhadresvera genie. Through stone stele and royal dynasties, they proved My Son to be the most important Holy Land of the Cham people from the late 4th to the 13th centuries. For those who are into history and Cham architecture, My Son Sanctuary is the perfect place to discover. It is a harmonious combination between cultural values and the natural beauty.

Address : My Son, Duy Xuyen District, Quang Nam Province, 40km away from Hoi An Ancient Town Opening time : 6am – 5pm. Entrance fee : 150,000 VND/ visitor.

Tra Que village is named after the sweet scented vegetables that spice up the everyday meals of the Hoi An people. This village was formed 300 years ago, surrounded by De Vong River and Tra Que Lagoon. Thanks to the special condition of rich soil and water, the village is famous for planting many kinds of vegetables and herbs such as lettuce, water spinach, cabbage, basil, coriander, fish lettuce… Thanks to a kind of algae found only in a lagoon in this village, Tra Que herbs and vegetables look so fresh and green. They are widely recognized for their quality, safety and especially outstanding tastes and flavors.

farming procedure in Tra Que Vegetales Village

A female tourist joining the local’s farming procedure in Tra Que Vegetales Village

This village is a perfect destination to enjoy the fresh atmosphere, meet lovely local people and get away a bustling city life. Tourists have great chance to watch and experience the farming procedures of local farmers such as hoeing soil, raking soil, planting, watering, picking vegetables… You can also take a hands-on cooking class and then taste some famous dishes with Tra Que vegetables and herbs.

Address : Cam Ha, Hoi An, 3km from Hoi An Ancient Town Entrance fee : 10,000 VND/ visitor

Cham Island, or known as “Cù Lao Chàm” in Vietnamese, occupies beautiful sand beaches, forested hills and breathtaking landscapes. It includes 8 small island and has been recognized by UNESCO as the World Biosphere Reserve (Cu Lao Cham Marine Park). Just 30 minutes traveling by speedboat from Cua Dai port, you will reach a marvelous place with the picturesque and pristine setting.

Pristine and peaceful scenery of Cham Island

Pristine and peaceful scenery of Cham Island

Cham Island offers a wide variety of leisure activities, namely, camping, swimming and sunbathing on the long white sandy beaches. For those who love to explore the corals and colorful marine life, there are available facilities for water skiing, paragliding, kayaking, kite flying, snorkeling and scuba diving. Staying overnight on the island will give you chance to witness the best sunrise and sunset. It is recommended to visit Cham Island between April to August when the weather is comfortable with a sunny sky, the clear water and calm sea. You should avoid getting here from September to March due to the bad weather with rough sea and even storms.

Address : 18km offshore from Hoi An Ancient Town.

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I’m begging you not to Google for airline customer service numbers

I regret to tell you about another way you might be tricked out of money.

hoi an tourist scams

A version of a scam has hit panicky travelers over and over and over and over .

People searching Google for airline contact information when they have a problem occasionally find bogus customer service phone numbers listed at or near the top of Google.

If you call, crooks posing as airline reps try to persuade you to pay to rebook a flight or another task. Your money goes poof.

Get Shira Ovide’s advice straight to your inbox

hoi an tourist scams

No one knows how often this scam happens. But this airline customer service misdirection is common knowledge in the travel industry and among people who know Google.

In researching this article, I found an apparent scam number highlighted by Google when I searched “JetBlue contact customer support.”

Google has the power to ensure that it shows the correct airline contact information, according to three experts in the inner workings of web searches. In their view, Google chooses not to fix the problem.

Google says that it’s “extremely rare” for airline customer service searches to show you scam phone numbers. A Google representative didn’t say what the company considers an acceptable number of people tricked out of their time or money.

The persistence of the airline scam shows that while we’re worried about a future of misleading AI, widely used sites such as Google are already pockmarked with scams and deceptions in plain sight.

Here’s my advice: If you’re searching for airline customer service contact information, DO NOT trust phone numbers you might see highlighted at the top or other prominent places on Google.

Eyeball the adjacent web links for authenticity. Make sure you click on the company’s official website or app. Or I’ve listed below the correct contact information for major airlines.

It’s harder to spot scams when you’re in a hurry for customer service help. Criminals feed on our desperation. Google is enabling them.

How does this keep happening?

Criminals use the tricks of internet merchants to get numbers they control to pop up when you Google for airline customer service.

They know that when you search Google for some information, the company might show what it believes is accurate information at the very top or other prominent places on Google’s site.

Often, this is handy. Google “state bird of Ohio” or the name of a neighborhood pizza place, and Google may show you an answer or the phone number — not just links.

Similarly, you may see a phone number listed when you’re searching for airline contact information. It might be highlighted at the top, listed on the right side under a business’s information or under the “People also ask” questions.

Most of the time, that phone number will be correct. Occasionally, it will be a scammer-controlled bogus number.

When I searched for JetBlue customer support, I saw a number highlighted in Google’s “People also ask” section under “How do I get a hold of someone on JetBlue?”

I called and asked the person who answered several times if I had reached JetBlue. Eventually the representative said it wasn’t JetBlue’s official customer service but a travel agency that works with the airline. I hung up.

There were red flags that this Google information was bogus, including an odd font and a website below the number that wasn’t JetBlue. But if you’re a traveler dealing with a suddenly canceled flight, you might overlook that.

When I told Google about the apparently misleading JetBlue number, the company said it would “take action as appropriate under our policies.” JetBlue didn’t respond to my questions.

We advise people to report attempted scams to the Better Business Bureau’s scam tracker and to the Federal Trade Commission’s fraud reporting site . I did that.

Shira Ovide

Near Media’s Mike Blumenthal , who has helped legitimate businesses with their Google search results, said Google could fix airline number scams.

There are only so many airlines, travel sites and their associated customer service numbers. He said Google should be able to create an authoritative list and only show you those numbers unless a change is vetted by an airline or a partner.

Google, said Blumenthal, “acts like they are working on a fix, but the same issues occur over and over and over again.”

Google says that when it detects you’re probably searching for customer service contact information, it has vetted numbers from businesses and only highlights those. But Google doesn’t always understand what humans are looking for. Less common search words might be easier for scammers to game.

People do billions of searches every day on Google. If Google shows bogus phone numbers controlled by scammers to even a tiny percentage of searchers, that’s still a lot of potentially duped people.

Airline customer service impersonation scams pop up other places, including the X — formerly Twitter — app and Alexa’s voice assistant. But Google is the world’s front door to information and therefore the richest target for scammers.

Airlines aren’t blameless either. They make it frustrating to reach human help.

How to avoid airline customer service scams

The Washington Post’s travel experts have tips on reaching an airline fast and what to do when your flight is canceled .

Check to see whether your problem can be resolved on the airline’s website or mobile app without needing customer help. See the official contact information below.

Also read these red flags for scams from my colleague Heather Kelly and travel-specific warning signs from the Better Business Bureau .

Once again, please don’t rely on a phone number that’s listed for an airline (or rental car company or bank) anywhere in Google search results. And if you do, check the web link that’s below it to try to gauge its authenticity.

Rand Fishkin , chief executive of the software firm SparkToro and a close follower of Google, suggested that if you search Google for airline contact information, include the airline web address like this: “southwest real person site:southwest.com”

Yes, that requires you to know an airline’s web address.

An airline executive also recently told me that the live chat options on airline websites and apps can be the best way to reach a representative quickly. (They’re often automated chatbots plus humans.)

These aren’t perfect solutions. Ultimately, when Google shows you information it presents as authoritative and it’s wrong, that is Google’s fault. Not yours.

The correct customer service contact information for 6 major airlines:

(Use these if you’re calling from the United States.)

800-221-1212

Find more information on Delta’s official help website including a big red “Message Us” button to live chat with customer service .

Delta’s app also has a “contact us” link at the bottom of the screen. Tap it to find contact phone numbers and a “message us” option.

American Airlines

800-433-7300

American Airlines has more phone numbers here and other customer service help.

American’s app has a one-tap feature to message with customer service. Once you log into your account or choose to continue as a guest, tap the image that looks like chat bubbles in the top right of the app.

800-435-9792

For more information, try the Help Center website for Southwest

United Airlines

800-864-8331

See United’s website for more phone numbers and other help information including a “Chat now” option at the bottom of the page.

In United’s app, sign into your account or pick “continue as guest.” From the menu at the top left that looks like three lines, scroll down to “Help Center” and find “Contact Us” at the bottom of the next screen. There are phone numbers and an option to “Message us.”

800-252-7522 (for help before your flight); 800-654-5669 (for help after you've flown)

See a full list of contact information (including live chat) for Alaska Airlines

In the Android app, tap on the menu at the top left that looks like three lines, scroll down to “Contact us” for phone calling and texting options to reach customer service.

In the iPhone app, tap on “More” at the bottom of the screen. Then find “Contact us” and pick “Customer care” or “Reservations” for phone calling and texting options to reach customer service.

800-538-2583

See JetBlue’s website for a full list of contact information . Or to message with the airline, click the icon in the lower right corner of the website that looks like chat bubbles.

In JetBlue’s app, tap “More” in the bottom of the screen and then “Help.” There are options to chat message with customer service or tap to call them.

hoi an tourist scams

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COMMENTS

  1. Travel in Hoi An

    Scam. The most common scam in Vietnam is overcharging. This thing is so familiar with tourists in Vietnam, especially for International visitors. In many restaurants in Hoi An in particular and Vietnam in general, they know you are tourists and foreigners, if you do not ask for the price before having dishes, when you stand up and want to pay ...

  2. Common Tourist Scams To Avoid In Vietnam

    2. Fake leather. Shops in Hoi An and Saigon are famous for their handmade leather - especially bags, belts and shoes. The examples on display are usually created using the real thing, to entice potential customers in. Bespoke items are often partly fake - with leather outers but plastic lining or shoe-inserts.

  3. 17 Scams In Vietnam: READ BEFORE YOU VISIT IN 2024

    3. Motorbike Rental Scams In Vietnam. This is a common scam throughout Southeast Asia, including Vietnam. You may find your passport is being held hostage while the owners demand money for damages not caused by you. However, this next motorbike rental scam in Vietnam is even worse.

  4. First hour in Hoi An, 2 scams already

    Re: First hour in Hoi An, 2 scams already. It was an old trick. Old lady with traditional fruit baskets walk into my camera shot, to complete the ancient town illusion. I was willing to play along and buy a fruit off her (what's a tourist for) but it was the greed of the asking price that turned it into a scam.

  5. Foreigners share how to avoid tourist traps in Vietnam

    Foreigners share how to avoid tourist traps in Vietnam. Foreign tourists walk in Hoi An ancient town, March 2023. Photo by VnExpress/Dac Thanh. After falling prey to tourist scammers while visiting Vietnam, many foreign tourists have shared their travel experiences on social media and warned friends how to avoid being cheated.

  6. First hour in Hoi An, 2 scams already

    First hour in Hoi An, 2 scams already - Hoi An Forum. Asia ; Vietnam ; Quang Nam Province ; Hoi An ; Hoi An Travel Forum; Search. Browse all 7,088 Hoi An topics » ... But every vibe of the situation screamed intentional tourist rip off. Define it as a scam? The money involved would be peanuts. But with much scamming it's the anger of the ...

  7. Scams in Hoi An and How to avoid it. scams in Hoian

    Let's check the list of Scams in Hoi An and How to avoid it. [email protected] . 0979 58 77 44 ---- 0905 562 063 (Viber/ Whatsapp) ... travel agencies, tour guides or anyone who bring clients to their places. If you do not want to fall into the trap, remember to read reviews, blogs and recommendations from trusted sources to pick up ...

  8. Common Tourist Scams to Avoid in Vietnam

    Vietnam UNESCO Road Trip: 10-Fabulous Day Hanoi to Hoi An (1,025) Vietnamese translator interpreter services (1,024) Hanoi Free Tour Guide (Vietnam) (1,012) Common Tourist Scams to Avoid in Vietnam (1,012) The Perfect 2-Week Vietnam Itinerary (996) Cát Bà ở Đâu, Du Lịch Cát Bà Tự Túc (992) 5 North Vietnam attractions off the beaten ...

  9. Hoi An scams

    Hoi An scams. The most dangerous thing for tourists to worry about in Hoi An are motorbike accidents and spending too much money shopping. However, as an extremely popular tourist destination, petty theft is a common nuisance and the town is rife with scams. Perhaps the city's cute facade lulls travellers into complacency.

  10. Avoiding common scams in North Vietnam

    This guide to avoiding common tourist scams will help you get the most out of this fabulous country and avoid any negative experiences. (Read Part 2 of this series HERE). Avoid scams in North Vietnam ... The 2nd part of our Vietnam scams and safety article, focusing on Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An and Nha Trang, can be found HERE. This blog is ...

  11. 10 Common Tourist Scams in Vietnam (and how to avoid them)

    In this post I'm going to detail some of the common scams/rip offs and how to avoid them. Apologies in advance for the Vietnamese currency jokes…. Be wary of gamesmanship in Vietnam. 1. Taxi drivers charging ridiculous fees. The most common of them all and a regular frustration for travellers in many countries.

  12. 13 Scams To Avoid In Vietnam (13 Kiểu Chặt Chém Tại Việt Nam)

    This scam is most commonly seen in the Hoi An Ancient Town due to a long-running confusion. The authority does offer a ticket (VND120,000, ~USD5.16) ... Travel scams in Vietnam. While there are bad people out there, Vietnam is a beautiful, friendly, and welcoming country. It's a good thing to prepare yourself for unwanted situations, but don ...

  13. Travelling To Vietnam? Here's How To Spot And Avoid Scams

    Fake Leather. Store In Hoi An Selling Leather Shutterstock. Vietnam is known for its leather products, especially in Hoi An and Saigon. However, some shops may try to sell you fake leather items that are made of plastic or low-quality materials. To avoid this, check the item carefully before buying, and look for signs of stitching, smell ...

  14. BE ALERT with tourist scams when travelling in Vietnam

    Hotlines for travel supports of tourism treating & scams from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh city. Below are the list of hotlines for typical tourist provinces & cities in Vitenam.If anything not nice happens to you, you can call for the help of local authorities. Hotline in Hanoi: 0941.33.66.77. Hotline in Sapa: 0911.479.389.

  15. Scam in Hoi An

    Negative Impact on Tourism Scams in Hoi An have a negative impact on the tourism industry. When tourists fall victim to scams, they are less likely to return to the city or recommend it to others, leading to a decline in tourism. Damage to Local Reputation Scams in Hoi An not only affect tourists but also damage the reputation of the locals.

  16. Scam

    1. Re: Scam - Hoi An. Newcastle upon... 2. Re: Scam - Hoi An. If complete strangers approach you and start talking for no reason at all, they are nearly always after money at some point. 3. Re: Scam - Hoi An. Just Ignore and go, It could be scam but few there.

  17. Scam in Hoi An? : r/VietNam

    Cause you stated that not everything is a scam and that there would be a simpler explanation, yet it is the same as the OG post. You can ask him and find out. Doesn't seem to be too problematic, if he was a real thief, it would be gone in a few seconds. That said, currently Hoi An is not safe after hours.

  18. Hidden Gems in Hoi An & Avoiding Scams as an Indian Tourist on Budget

    #hộian #hoianancienttown #indianinvietnam Hoi An on a Budget! Hidden Gems & Avoiding Scams as an Indian Tourist | Vietnam Tour Guide 2024Q1: Is Hoi An expens...

  19. Guide To Hoi An

    Most hotels and homestays in Hoi An have motorbikes for rent, but if you like to have more bike models to choose from, contact the services below: Motorvina. Address: 360 Cua Dai Str., Hoi An. Telephone: 02353933866. Anh Khoa - Hội An. Address: 84 Phan Chu Trinh Str., Hoi An. Telephone: 0935439306.

  20. Scam in Hoi An

    Negative Impact on Tourism Scams in Hoi An have a negative impact on the tourism industry. When tourists fall victim to scams, they are less likely to return to the city or recommend it to others, leading to a decline in tourism. Damage to Local Reputation Scams in Hoi An not only affect tourists but also damage the reputation of the locals.

  21. 10 essential things to do in Hoi An

    Get on the water. Boats anchored along the ferry quay in the Ancient Town. 'Water, water everywhere' might just be Hoi An's unofficial slogan. Don't leave without taking a sunset cruise on the Thu Bon River. A few seconds of negotiation at the ferry quay should get you a breezy, half-hour trip for about VND150,000 - VND200,000.

  22. Hoi An Tourist Attractions: 12 Best Places to Visit in Hoi An

    9. Bay Mau Coconut Forest. Located in Cam Thanh commune, 5km from Hoi An ancient town, Bay Mau coconut forest is known as a right place to get wonderful coracle rowing experience, thus it attracts a large number of tourists. It is the green tourism area and also the "lung" of Hoi An and nearby areas.

  23. 20 Thailand Tourist Scams & Crimes to watch out for

    20 Top scams in Thailand. 1. Attraction is closed scam / Palace is closed. Possibly the most common scam in Thailand (especially in Bangkok), sometimes taxi drivers and tuk tuk drivers will tell you a certain attraction is closed to tourists or because of a public holiday.

  24. The correct airline customer service numbers to help avoid scams

    Near Media's Mike Blumenthal, who has helped legitimate businesses with their Google search results, said Google could fix airline number scams. There are only so many airlines, travel sites and ...