How is security and safety in Vietnam?

Question

Tourists often worry about security and safety issues when traveling, especially regarding theft, traffic and health.

Answer 1

Vietnam is a pretty safe country, like all the countries of South East Asia in general. People are very friendly, they always try to make you feel at home, they want to help you in every way they can and you should never have any problem. The crime rate in Vietnam is not very high, especially crimes towards travelers and tourists.

Of course you have to be careful like in every other country in the world. When you are in big cities or on public transport, you have to keep your belongings safe because it’s always possible to find some pickpockets around.

You also have to be aware of scams, because these are the most common problems that happen to tourists and travelers. A very common scam to travelers is making them pay higher prices than the prices local people usually pay. It can happen everywhere, in shops, in street food kiosks, and sometimes even in restaurants. So you really must be careful with scams if you don’t want to waste your money.

If you rent a motorcycle, which is very common among travelers because it’s one of the best ways to explore Vietnam, you need to be very careful when driving, especially in big cities, because traffic can be very crazy and accidents can occur at any time, especially among tourists because they are not used to Vietnamese traffic. Trust me, it’s something else. You need to keep an extra eye open and drive carefully and slow.

The thing travelers risk the most in Vietnam is getting sick.

It’s common to get sick when drinking tap water because it is not very safe to drink for people from overseas. It is also common to get sick when eating street food because sometimes we are not used to new food and our body could take a while. You have to be very careful when you eat, what you are eating, where you are eating, and the water you are drinking.

Be aware of ice, because sometimes it is made with water that is not drinkable, that’s why a lot of travelers get sick when drinking smoothies or cold drinks with ice.

Apart from these general risks that are common to many other countries in the world, Vietnam will make you fall in love. Every year it is the favorite destination of thousands of travelers, it is often picked as a destination for a full-time trip by digital nomads and travelers that want to find their inner peace.

Vietnamese food is simply delicious, you don’t have to be too afraid of the food, you just have to enjoy it because it’s one of the best in Asia. And the people are very lovely.

Answer 2

Vietnam is generally considered a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. However, like traveling in any country, it’s important to be aware of local conditions and take certain precautions. Here’s an overview of security and safety in Vietnam:

### 1. General Safety

- Low Crime Rate: Violent crime against tourists is rare. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur, especially in crowded areas.
- Safe for Solo Travelers: Vietnam is generally safe for solo travelers, including women. It’s advisable to exercise the same level of caution as you would in any other country.

### 2. Traffic Safety
- Motorbike Traffic: Traffic can be chaotic, particularly in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Motorbikes dominate the roads, and traffic rules may not always be strictly followed.
- Road Safety: Exercise caution when crossing streets and consider using taxis or ride-hailing apps if you're uncomfortable navigating the traffic on a motorbike.

### 3. Health and Hygiene
- Street Food: Vietnamese street food is generally safe and delicious. However, stick to vendors that are busy and have good hygiene practices to avoid foodborne illnesses.
- Water: It’s advisable to drink bottled or filtered water rather than tap water. Avoid ice in drinks from uncertain sources.

### 4. Scams and Fraud
- Common Scams: Be aware of common scams such as inflated taxi fares, fake tour operators, or overcharging at markets. Use reputable services and agree on prices beforehand.
- Tourist Areas: Exercise caution in busy tourist areas where scams are more likely to occur.

### 5. Emergency Services
- Emergency Numbers: The general emergency number in Vietnam is 113 for police, 114 for fire, and 115 for medical emergencies.
- Hospitals: Major cities have international-standard hospitals and clinics. In case of serious health issues, it’s recommended to seek treatment at reputable medical facilities.

### 6. Natural Disasters
- Typhoons and Floods: Vietnam is prone to typhoons and heavy rains, particularly in the central and northern regions. Check weather conditions before traveling and follow local advisories.
- Earthquakes: While less common, earthquakes can occur, particularly in the northern regions. Be aware of safety procedures in case of natural disasters.

### 7. Cultural Sensitivity
- Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Always ask for permission before taking photos in sensitive areas.
- Social Etiquette: Be polite and respectful. Vietnamese people are generally friendly and helpful, and demonstrating cultural sensitivity enhances your travel experience.

### 8. Travel Insurance
- Highly Recommended: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers health, accidents, and theft. This provides an additional layer of security and peace of mind.

### 9. Local Laws and Regulations
- Drug Laws: Vietnam has strict drug laws, and penalties for drug-related offenses are severe. Avoid involvement with illegal substances.
- Visa Regulations: Ensure your visa and travel documents are in order. Overstaying your visa can lead to fines or legal issues.

Overall, Vietnam is a safe destination with a low crime rate, but staying informed and taking basic precautions will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Answer 3

I can say that safety for tourists in Vietnam is good. If you are in Northern Vietnam then there is no need to worry. Of course you should still be careful.
But If you are in Saigon (Southern), there is a little note to take to prevent the risk of having your phone stolen on the street. So if you are on the road, remember to keep your phone safe or hold it firmly in your hand to avoid being robbed.