Saturday, July 14, 2007

Safety Tips in Vietnam

Compared with many other countries, Vietnam is considered one of the safest countries in the world for personal security. But petty crime has increased in recent year, especially in and around the major cities.

Here are some precautions can help you avoid potential problems

  • Traffic in Vietnam especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is not safe for you as a foreigner. It has no problem if you go by taxi or motor cycle but be careful when you are walking especially crossing the street.
  • Be particularly cautious about your possession in crowded areas such as local festivals, markets, tourist sites, railway, bus stations, on trains and buses. There may have pickpocket so you should always keep valuables in a safety deposit box at your hotel instead of leaving them in your room.
  • Do not show off your money in public places especially on a street.
  • Keep enough money for your immediate needs in your pocket, and hide the rest on your body or leave your backup supply in a safety deposit box at your hotel. It is very convenient if you bring credit card or master card. In big cities you can withdraw as much as you can.
  • Remove any jewelry that may draw a thief's attention before you go out for strolling
  • Never wear a bag or purse on your street-side shoulder in order to avoid becoming a target of the "snatch-and-ride"
  • Never carry your passport/visa, credit cards, traveler's schedules or other travel documents in your shoulder bag or bum bag
  • Ensure that you aware of the values of different local banknotes to avoid being deceived.
  • Always let your hotel or guides know where you are on your free days during your tour.
  • Respect the custom of the local ethnic groups
  • Do not quarrel with anyone during your trip.
  • Do not voice publicly any opinions contrary to Vietnam's laws and code of ethics and morals.

(from Vietnam-Culture)

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