Da Nang is a modern, safe, and welcoming city, but like any major tourist destination, visitors should be aware of common scams, safety risks, and cultural differences. This Vietnam Story guide highlights the most critical mistakes to avoid, ensuring your journey is seamless, respectful, and focused on discovery.
Transportation traps and how to navigate safely?
The biggest area where first-time visitors can lose money or time is with unverified transportation. The golden rule is to never rely on unsolicited offers from drivers at the airport or on the street. Knowing how to choose your transport is the first step to a stress-free holiday. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:
| Mistake to avoid | The trap | Vietnamstory’s expert tip |
| Using unofficial taxis | You might encounter taxis with rigged meters that run incredibly fast, or drivers who refuse to turn on the meter and demand a very high flat rate at the end of the trip. | Only use the two most reputable taxi companies: Mai Linh (bright green cars) or Vinasun (white cars with red and green stripes). Before you get in, make sure the meter is on. It’s also a good habit to note the taxi’s number. |
| The airport grab “scam” | When you exit the airport, you might find unofficial drivers loitering around, claiming to be your “Grab” driver. They will try to coerce you into their overpriced car, and you will end up paying much more than the app’s price. | This is very important: After you book your ride on the Grab app, always check the license plate number of the car and the driver’s name on your phone screen. Before you get in, confirm the driver knows your name. If they can’t, it is not your car. Wait for the real one. |
| Riding a motorbike without a license | Many tourists are tempted to rent a motorbike to explore the city. However, riding without the proper international driving permit that is valid in Vietnam is illegal. If you are stopped by the police, you risk a heavy fine and having the bike confiscated. | Do not rent a motorbike to drive yourself unless you are an experienced rider and have the correct legal permits. It is much safer and completely stress-free to use the affordable and convenient GrabBike (motorcycle taxi) or regular Grab cars/taxis instead. |
| The pedestrian mistake | The traffic in Vietnam can be overwhelming. Motorbikes and cars will often not stop for pedestrians waiting to cross the road, which can be very intimidating. | Do not wait for a complete gap in the traffic – it might never come! The local way is to step out slowly and walk at a steady, predictable pace. The traffic will magically flow around you. Never make sudden movements or run. |
READ MORE: Full guide to public transport in Da Nang
Currency, shopping and street vendor scams
Our Vietnamese Dong (VND) has a lot of zeros, which can be very confusing at first. Being vigilant when you are paying for things will save you a lot of trouble. Knowing how to handle your cash and interact with vendors is key to a smooth shopping experience. Watch out for these common issues:
The look-alike notes
Be very careful with our banknotes. The 20,000 VND note and the 500,000 VND note are both blue and can be easily mistaken, especially at night. Similarly, the 10,000 VND and the 200,000 VND notes can also be confused. Always double-check the number of zeros before you hand over your money.
The money-switching scam
This can happen with a dishonest driver or street vendor. You hand them a large note (like the blue 500,000 VND), and they will quickly swap it for a small note of the same color (the blue 20,000 VND) and then accuse you of trying to underpay them. The best way to avoid this is to pay with smaller bills whenever possible. Break your large 500,000 VND notes at your hotel, a reputable restaurant, or a convenience store first.
The photo/fruit seller scam
You might see ladies carrying poles with baskets of fruit. They may offer to let you wear their conical hat and take a photo with their setup. Afterwards, they can become very aggressive and demand an inflated fee for the photo. Similarly, a fruit seller might chop up a pineapple for you before you have agreed on a price, and then demand an exorbitant amount. Remember to always agree on a price before you touch any product or let them prepare it for you.
READ MORE: Vietnam Money & Currency Guide for Indian Tourists: VND, Payments & Tips
Cultural faux pas and respecting local customs
A little cultural awareness will go a very long way in earning the respect of local people and having a much more positive and authentic experience. Vietnamese people are very forgiving, but avoiding these simple mistakes will be greatly appreciated.
Showing respect for our traditions is the best way to connect with our culture. Here are a few simple things to keep in mind:
Respect the person and public conduct
- Body anguage: In our culture, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Never touch someone’s head, not even a child’s. Also, avoid using your feet or the soles of your shoes to point at a person or an object.
- Temper: Losing your temper or raising your voice in public is considered extremely disrespectful. It causes a severe “loss of face” for everyone involved and will only escalate a problem, not solve it. Always try to remain calm and polite.
- Public displays of affection: Vietnamese culture is generally more reserved. While holding hands is perfectly fine, it is best to tone down more overt public displays of affection like kissing or excessive hugging.
Visiting temples and homes
- Dress code: This is mandatory. When you visit any temple, pagoda, or other religious site, you must always cover your shoulders and knees. Please wear trousers or a long skirt and a shirt with sleeves.
- Shoes: You should always remove your shoes and any hats before you enter a private home or the main prayer hall of a temple or pagoda.
Health, safety and responsible travel
Your well-being is the most important part of your holiday. A few simple precautions can ensure you stay healthy and safe. From staying healthy to protecting your belongings, these practical tips are essential for a worry-free trip.
- Food and water safety: Please do not drink the tap water. Use only sealed bottled water for drinking and even for brushing your teeth. When it comes to street food, our best advice is to choose busy stalls with a lot of local customers. This means the food is fresh and popular. Also, make sure the food is cooked fresh and served hot.
- Theft: While Da Nang is very safe, petty theft like snatch-and-grab robberies can happen, especially in crowded tourist areas. Avoid flashing expensive jewelry or the latest smartphone. Carry your bag across your body, away from the street side, and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in poorly lit areas at night.
- Sun and heat: Do not underestimate the strength of the tropical sun! The UV index is very high. Use high-SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Mosquitoes: To protect against mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever, it is a good idea to use an effective mosquito repellent, especially around dusk and dawn when they are most active.
- Passport security: Your passport is your most important document. After you have checked into your hotel, they only need a copy. Never hand over your original passport to a tour operator or a motorbike rental company. A copy is sufficient for most needs.
READ MORE: Best time to Visit Da Nang: A seasonal guide for Indian travelers
Conclusion
Every journey is a story, and the best stories are filled with positive and happy moments. By knowing what to avoid in Da Nang, you are simply ensuring that your travel story is not interrupted by any unnecessary or unpleasant chapters. Instead, your story will be about the thrill of watching a dragon breathe fire, the taste of a perfect Bánh Mì from a friendly street vendor, the serenity of a sacred pagoda, and the incredible kindness of the Vietnamese people. These are the moments that truly matter.
Your travel story deserves to be a beautiful one. Allow Vietnam Story to be your guide. We specialize in crafting seamless Tour Packages from India that are built on a foundation of safety, respect, and authentic cultural connection. Reach out to us, and let’s start writing your happy and unforgettable Vietnam story together.