Scams tourists actually run into, and how to avoid them

Vietnam is a safe country and most people are honest. These are simply the tricks that repeat, so recognise them and move on. • Taxi meters. Some meters run fast, or the meter is suddenly broken. Use a ride-hailing app where the price is fixed before you book, or the airport taxi desk. Watch out for cars painted to look almost like the big companies, with one letter changed in the name. • Shoe repair. A man points at your shoe, takes it, glues something, then asks for a large amount. Do not hand over your shoe. Keep walking. • Motorbike rental damage claims. Before you ride away, film the whole bike slowly, including every existing scratch, with the renter in the shot. Never leave your passport as deposit; offer a copy or a cash deposit. Always park in a guarded lot, keep the ticket, and use the wheel lock. • The note swap. You pay with 500.000 đ and are told you gave 20.000 đ. Say the amount out loud as you hand it over, and count the change. • It is closed today. A driver tells you the temple or museum is shut and offers a shop or tour instead. Check the opening hours yourself. • The photo prop. Someone puts a fruit seller's shoulder pole on you for a picture, then names a price. Agree the price first or say no. • The friendly guide to a better bar. Do not follow strangers to a bar you did not choose. The bill there is creative.