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Risk Map & Attractions
Common Scams
The Aggressive Shoe Shine Scam
A vendor points out a dirty or damaged shoe and, without waiting for consent, immediately begins polishing or 'repairing' it. Once finished, they demand an exorbitant fee, often becoming aggressive if you refuse to pay.
Politely but firmly decline any unsolicited service. Walk away immediately and do not allow them to touch your shoes. If they persist, raise your voice to draw attention.
Rigged Meter and Long Route Taxi Scam
Unlicensed or unscrupulous taxi drivers use rigged meters that rapidly increase the fare, or they intentionally take excessively long routes to inflate the cost of the ride.
Use only trusted, reputable companies like Vinasun or Mai Linh (look for clear branding and uniforms), or use ride-hailing apps like Grab, which provide fare estimates and track the route.
Fruit/Coconut Photo Op Scam
Friendly street vendors carrying fruit or coconut baskets with a traditional shoulder pole will offer you a photo opportunity. After you take the photo, they will insist you buy a coconut or fruit at a price vastly inflated (up to 10 times) above the normal rate.
Politely decline unsolicited photo offers. If you want a photo or a coconut, negotiate and agree on the total price beforehand. A fair price for a coconut is around 10,000-30,000 VND.
ATM Skimming and Cloning Scam
Criminals attach skimming devices and hidden cameras to ATMs, particularly those in isolated or poorly monitored locations, to capture your card details and PIN for fraudulent cloning and withdrawals.
Use ATMs located inside banks or well-monitored areas. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Inspect the card slot and keypad for any loose or suspicious attachments before use.
The Currency Confusion Trick
Vendors or taxi drivers exploit the visual similarity between the high-value 500,000 VND note (blue) and the low-value 20,000 VND note (blue) to claim you gave them the smaller note, demanding more money.
Familiarize yourself with the currency denominations. State the amount as you hand over the money, and carefully count your change. Keep large and small denominations in separate pockets.
Motorbike Rental Damage Extortion
After you return a rented motorbike, the owner will point out pre-existing damage (scratches, dents) and claim you caused it. They then demand a ridiculous, non-negotiable repair fee, often holding your passport hostage until you pay.
Thoroughly inspect and photograph/video the bike with a date/time stamp before rental, noting all existing damage. Use a reputable rental company recommended by your hotel or a trusted source. Never leave your original passport as collateral; offer a copy or a cash deposit instead.
The Self-Theft Motorbike Scam
A variation of the rental scam where the rental staff or an accomplice 'steals' the rented motorbike from you while it is parked. When you return to the shop without the bike, they force you to pay the full value of the motorcycle for 'losing' it.
Only rent from highly reputable, well-reviewed companies. Always use the provided locks and park in secure, paid parking lots. If possible, use a rental company that does not require your original passport.
The Cyclo Ride Overcharge
Cyclo drivers offer a ride for a seemingly low price, but at the end of the journey, they demand an excessive fee, claiming the agreed-upon price was per person, per minute, or that you misunderstood the currency.
Always agree on the total fare in writing (or on a calculator/phone) before getting in, and clarify that it is for the entire ride, not per person. Pay only the agreed-upon amount.
The Aggressive Luggage Handler Tip Scam
Unsolicited 'helpers' at transport hubs will aggressively grab your bags and carry them a short distance, then demand a hefty, non-negotiable tip for their unwanted service.
Politely but firmly decline any unsolicited help. Keep a firm grip on your luggage. If someone does assist, offer a small, reasonable tip (e.g., 10,000-20,000 VND) but do not feel obligated to overpay.
Counterfeit Goods and Electronics
Markets and small shops sell high-quality counterfeit goods, especially designer bags, clothing, and electronics, often passing them off as genuine or charging near-genuine prices.
If a deal seems too good to be true, it is. Buy electronics from official stores or authorized dealers. For counterfeit items, haggle aggressively, as the actual value is very low.
Safe Attractions
War Remnants Museum
Museum containing exhibits relating to the Vietnam War.
Ben Thanh Market
Large marketplace in downtown Ho Chi Minh City.
Cu Chi Tunnels
Immense network of connecting underground tunnels.
Notre Dame Cathedral
Historic cathedral built by French colonists.
Bitexco Financial Tower
Skyscraper with a sky deck offering city views.