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- The principal risk to travelers in Vietnam is road safety concerns due to chaotic traffic and limited enforcement of traffic laws, as well as petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching in crowded areas.
- Natural hazards include flooding during the monsoon season (May–October), typhoons from June to November, and landslides in mountainous areas. Monitor weather updates and plan travel accordingly.
Risk Factors
- Vietnam experiences a high level of cybercrime. Use secure networks, avoid public Wi-Fi for financial or sensitive transactions, disable Bluetooth when not in use, and ensure your device’s software is up-to-date. Consider using a VPN (virtual private network) for enhanced online security.
- ATMs pose a risk of card skimming and theft, which can be mitigated by using ATMs in secure locations (e.g., inside banks and hotels), inspecting machines for tampering, covering the keypad while entering your PIN, and avoiding standalone or poorly lit machines.
- Travelers to Vietnam should exercise caution or avoid border areas with Laos and Cambodia, particularly remote regions, due to risks such as unmarked landmines, banditry, and illegal cross-border activities like smuggling. Additionally, the China border regions can be sensitive, with restricted areas requiring permits.
- Petty theft and scams are prevalent, especially in tourist areas. Secure personal belongings and be vigilant against pickpocketing, bag snatching, and other forms of petty theft. Be cautious in crowded places and during local festivals when the risk of petty crime increases. Mobile phones are the most targeted item.
- Robberies and assaults are less common, though sporadic incidents have previously been reported, especially near Ben Thanh, Van Thanh, and Quan Binh Chanh in Ho Chi Minh City. Incidents of crime tend to increase around the Vietnamese New Year.
- There are organized criminal groups active in Vietnam, which are mainly involved in drug and human trafficking. Such groups rarely resort to violence, and foreigners are rarely targeted.
- Traffic in Vietnam is chaotic and disorderly; the leading cause of injury, fatalities, and evacuation of foreigners in Vietnam is road traffic incidents. Motorcycle accidents are particularly common.
- The safest means of intercity travel in Vietnam is train travel, followed by private car services. The most reliable and popular train connections in Vietnam are along the North-South Railway (Reunification Express), linking major cities such as Hanoi, Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City. Alternatively, private car and driver services can be arranged by a reputable hotel or tour operator.
- Taxis can be safely hailed on the street; however, avoid taxis without meters or proper branding, as they are often unlicensed and prone to scams or overcharging.
- The most reliable and popular ride-share apps in Vietnam are Grab and Be, which operate in major cities.
- While casual attire is common, modest clothing is expected when visiting temples, pagodas, and rural areas.
- The quality of police response is questionable and there are instances of corruption. Seek assistance from your respective embassy in the event of an emergency or criminal incident.
- Avoid photographing military facilities, border crossings, or government buildings, as this is prohibited and may lead to fines or detentions.
- Heavy rains during the monsoon season (May–October) often cause urban flooding. During the monsoon season in Hanoi, avoid staying at accommodations located near the riverbank due to the risk of flooding.
- Typhoons hit Vietnam between June and November, bringing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges. Coastal areas in Central and Northern Vietnam (e.g., Ha Long Bay, Hue, Da Nang) are most affected.
- Mountainous regions in Northern Vietnam (e.g., Sapa, Ha Giang) and parts of Central Vietnam are prone to landslides, especially during heavy rains. Monitor alerts for weather updates and follow local authorities' advice during severe weather events.