Hey, wanderers! Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant soul of Vietnam, is a whirlwind of culture, history, and mouthwatering grub. But amidst all the buzz and bucket list spots, a few tourist traps are lurking. No worries, we’re here to spill the tea on how to dodge these sly tricks and make your Saigon escapade smooth sailing.
The Taxi Tango
As soon as you step out of the airport, taxi drivers are swarming like bees. Skip the hassle by summoning reliable ride-hailing apps like Grab or hopping into a Vinasun taxi, which uses a meter for a fair shake.
Overpriced Cu Chi Tunnels Tours
The Cu Chi Tunnels are a must, but some tours can be daylight robbery. Save those precious dong by booking directly on the tunnels’ official website or hitching a ride with a savvy local guide.
Street Vendor Sticker Shock
Street food in Saigon is da bomb, but some vendors see tourists as walking ATMs. Sniff out the local haunts or shoot straight by asking for prices before chowing down to avoid wallet whoopsies.
Misleading Ben Thanh Market Bargains
Ben Thanh Market is iconic, but don’t let them play you like a fiddle. Bargain like a champ and be ready to peace out if the price ain’t right.
Lavish Rooftop Bar Bills
Rooftop bars serve up killer views, but those drinks can make your wallet weep. Sip a couple at these stunners for the gram, then hop down to earth for reasonably priced libations.
Scam Street Vendors
Keep your eyes peeled for street vendors trying to pull a fast one. Count your change and shop at legit stores to dodge the drama.
War Remnants Museum Guided Tours
The War Remnants Museum packs a punch, but those guided tours can break the bank. Go rogue and explore at your own pace to save that moolah.
Lavish Hotel Breakfasts
Hotel breakfasts are tempting, but they often mean shelling out big bucks. Take a morning stroll and find a local pho joint or banh mi spot for a wallet-friendly feast.
Overpriced Notre-Dame Cathedral Souvenirs
Souvenirs near the Notre-Dame Cathedral can cost a pretty dong. Snoop around and haggle for better deals at nearby stalls.
Avoidable Dong Khoi Shopping Spree
Dong Khoi’s boutiques are posh, but your wallet might feel the heat. Explore the nearby Saigon Square for quality shopping that won’t break the bank.
Ho Chi Minh City Transportation scams
- Taxi scam
- Motorbike taxi scam
- Cyclo scam
- Airport taxi scam
- Fake bus tickets
- Fake train tickets
- Luggage bus fees
Ho Chi Minh City Accommodation scams
- Fake hotel pictures and reviews
- Double fee for a stay
- Overcharging for rooms
HCMC Tour scams
- Fake tour companies
- Overpriced tours
- Hidden costs for tours
- Tours that don’t go to the advertised destinations
Saigon Shopping scams
- Fake leather scam
- Fake SIM card scam
- Overcharging for goods
- Bait-and-switch scam
- Pickpocketing
- Massage scam
- Beggar scam
- Coconut seller scam
- Fruit basket scam
- Speed thieves
- Street vendor scam
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll saunter through Ho Chi Minh City’s tourist tricks like a seasoned globetrotter. Enjoy your Saigon adventure with more cash to splash on unforgettable experiences!