Planning my first trip to Vietnam in the next few months. I've read through a lot of the older threads but wanted to check if the info is still current.
My main questions:
- Best area to stay for easy access to the scene?
- Realistic daily budget?
- Any areas to avoid?
- How welcoming are the locals to foreign visitors?
I'm coming from the US and have experience in Latin America but this would be my first time in Vietnam.
Thanks for any help!
Vietnam safety update
Started by DetroitDan · 18 Mar 2026 · 761 views
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18 Mar 2026 at 12:37
Detroit, MI | 12 countries visited
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18 Mar 2026 at 16:51
Interesting take but I think you overpaid. Try negotiating next time.
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19 Mar 2026 at 02:39
This is outdated info IMO. Things have changed since the new laws came in. Current prices are actually lower than what's described here.
"Travel is fatal to prejudice." — Miami, FL
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19 Mar 2026 at 11:16
Just booked my flights! Thanks for the motivation.
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19 Mar 2026 at 14:46
Thanks for the write-up. Very helpful for my upcoming trip.
Austin Alex — Austin, TX
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19 Mar 2026 at 17:16
Saving this thread for my trip planning. Gold mine of information.
San Diego, CA | Member since 2024
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19 Mar 2026 at 20:41
Adding my experience from February.
The scene has changed a bit since pre-COVID. Biggest change: more competition.
The scene has changed a bit since pre-COVID. Biggest change: more competition.
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19 Mar 2026 at 23:12
I'd rate it similarly. Solid 8/10 destination.
Do your research, respect the locals, stay safe. — Newcastle Nick
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20 Mar 2026 at 04:22
100% agree. The quality is hard to beat.
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20 Mar 2026 at 08:18
I'd also recommend downloading Maps.me before you go. Essential.
Do your research, respect the locals, stay safe. — Northern Lights
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20 Mar 2026 at 14:47
Quick question — how was the ATM situation?
"Travel is fatal to prejudice." — Miami, FL
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21 Mar 2026 at 00:04
Can confirm. Was there 2 weeks ago and everything checks out.
San Diego, CA | Member since 2024
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21 Mar 2026 at 03:40
With respect, my experience was more mixed. But maybe I went at the wrong time.
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21 Mar 2026 at 13:11
Excellent write-up. This is why this forum is the best resource out there.
Austin Alex — Austin, TX
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21 Mar 2026 at 21:20
Hmm, I had a different experience. Prices were lower when I went. Maybe timing matters.
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21 Mar 2026 at 23:33
Great report, thanks for sharing. I had a similar experience there last month.
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22 Mar 2026 at 05:57
Excellent write-up. This is why this forum is the best resource out there.
"Travel is fatal to prejudice." — Nashville, TN
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22 Mar 2026 at 08:53
Excellent write-up. This is why this forum is the best resource out there.
"Travel is fatal to prejudice." — Cardiff, UK
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22 Mar 2026 at 10:30
Agreed on all points. Make sure to bring small bills.
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22 Mar 2026 at 14:09
Adding my experience from 3 weeks ago.
The scene has stayed the same since pre-COVID. Biggest change: prices up 20%.
The scene has stayed the same since pre-COVID. Biggest change: prices up 20%.
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