Avoid Scams in Saigon: 5 Common Traps & How to Spot Them

Saigon is amazing, but like any big city, a few bad apples target tourists. Don't let them ruin your trip! Here are the 5 most common scams and how to dodge them.

1. The Taxi Meter Trap 🚕

The Scam: Driver takes a long route, has a rigged meter that jumps fast, or refuses to use the meter. The Fix:

• Use Grab: It's like Uber. Price is fixed upfront. Safer and cheaper.
• Trusted Taxis: Only use Vinasun (white) or Mai Linh (green).
• Never get in a taxi that refuses to turn on the meter.

2. The "Coconut Photo" Trap 🥥

The Scam: A street vendor puts their carrying pole on your shoulder for a "fun photo," then demands money or forces you to buy expensive coconuts. The Fix:

• Politely say "No thank you" and keep walking.
• Don't touch the equipment unless you plan to buy.

3. The Shoe Shine Ambush 👞

The Scam: Someone points at your shoes, puts polish on them without asking, then demands a high fee for "cleaning" them. The Fix:

• Wear sandals/sneakers and keep moving.
• If they touch your shoe, firmly pull away and say "No."

4. Motorbike Rental "Damage" 🛵

The Scam: You rent a bike, return it, and they claim you scratched it, demanding huge fees. The Fix:

• Video Everything: Walk around the bike filming every scratch before you drive off.
• Rent from Hotels: They are usually safer than random street shops.

5. The Friendly "Student" 🗣️

The Scam: A "student" approaches you to practice English, then invites you to lunch/coffee/poker where you get stuck with a massive bill. The Fix:

• Be friendly but cautious.
• Never go to a second location with someone you just met on the street.

General Safety Rules

1. Phone Snatching: Don't use your phone near the road. Snatch-and-grab on motorbikes is real. Step inside a shop to check maps.
2. Bag Safety: Wear cross-body bags. Keep them on the side away from traffic.
3. Trust Your Gut: If a deal feels too good to be true, it is.

Need Backup?

If you're in a sticky situation or just want trusted advice:

Message us on WhatsApp. We're locals, we know the tricks, and we're here to help you stay safe! 🛡️