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Vietnam Travel Information
3 Tips to Avoid Taxi Scams in Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)
Taxi is a common form of transportation to get around Ho Chi Minh City because it can make you avoid the heat and is easy to find. There are dozens of taxi brands operating in Ho Chi Minh City, and while some are legit and some are created to confuse and trick you. Asides from the common scams in Vietnam, here are the 3 things to keep in mind when you wave down a taxi in Ho Chi Minh City:
1) Know a reputable taxi brand before you go
I recommend the use of these 2 reputable taxis: VinaSun and Mai Linh
VinaSun Number (HCM): 028 3827 2727
Mai Linh Number (HCM): 028 3838 3838
Pay attention to the taxi names and phone numbers on the taxis. Some brands and phone numbers are created very similar to the above to deceive tourists into believing they belong to VinaSun and Mai Linh.
2) Never negotiate a fixed price before traveling
A legit taxi driver and company will always follow the meter, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t research a rough estimate of the routes before you go. Check this guide for information on the travel time and taxi fares from major cities in Vietnam to the city center.
3) Pay with small bills
Using a small denomination minimizes your chance of getting ripped off. In some instances, you may encounter a driver, either intentionally or unintentionally, who does not have change for your fare and asks to keep the rest.
Vietnam Travel Information: the Vietnamese Currency and how to obtain SIM Cards in Vietnam
4) Book via an app
Most major taxi lines in Vietnam such as Vinasun and Mai Linh now have mobile apps, through which you can see the distance and taxi fares before booking. Additionally, drivers' information and support center contact are available within one click. You can also pay in advance with your cards or e-wallet to prevent rip-off.
Additionally, you can book a ride via a Ride-hailing App or take Shuttle Buses from the Airport
Protect yourself with reliable Vietnam Travel Insurance:
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© Written by Linh Nguyen for itourvn.com
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Comments
Make sure to turn on the Google Map of where you're going. Not all taxis are bad though, but gotta protect yourself in case the bad people take advantage of you. If you're arriving late at night, it's better to ask for the receptionists to book you a ride. May cost higher, but safety is guaranteed
Keep away from this Taxi with Logo on top of Taxi Van Tai Du Lich 27/7, phone 54 27272727, this taxi not real and try to rip you off with the dodgy meter.
Event on 17 th of March 2019, 6km on Google maps with charged 397,000 đồng: $USD 20
Those guys use to park and waiting at the West gate of Ben Thanh Market
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These are just a few very important tips to keep in mind when you are taking taxis on your travels. This is not meant to scare you away from taking a cab, as most of the time they are a safe and convenient way to get where you are going. However, being aware of these types of risks is essential when you travel the world. Stay safe and have fun on your travel adventures!