'Secret trick' to crossing the street after 13 visits to Vietnam by Australian tourist

"My 13 visits to Vietnam over the past 21 years have taught me a lot about a country that is enjoying peace and prosperity after decades of war in the 20th century: Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk and fresh lime soda are two of the best drinks in the world ; waking up at dawn to go for a walk; the ancient capital of Hue should be on every itinerary; Saigon tailors are the best; and crossing the street is simply a matter of confidence," she wrote.

Besides, she also advises tourists to never drink water from the tap, count zeros when handling money, wash their hands before eating, and be wary of pickpockets...

Ho Chi Minh City streets are always crowded with traffic.

However, how to cross the street in Vietnam is not a simple matter.

Sarah Nicholson shares, wait until there is a safe distance between cars, trucks, motorbikes and deliberately step out of the pedestrian crossing and then go straight and at a steady speed. "Local drivers are trained to go around pedestrians and collisions happen when nervous tourists stop or suddenly change direction," she emphasizes the key to success or failure.

Her advice is to make eye contact with approaching riders and point to indicate where you want them to pass. An easier way is to wait for a local, then discreetly follow them away from the traffic and keep moving forward.

"In big cities, there are always automatic traffic lights at some major intersections, but don't assume that because there is a red light, all vehicles stop and give way to pedestrians. 'Blind-eyed' crossing is something to avoid and you must always anticipate that some motorcyclists and car drivers may run red lights and cause collisions," she added.

Crossing the street in Vietnam makes many tourists scared

In addition, she also shares how to safely catch a taxi service and avoid scams. For example, in Ho Chi Minh City, only take a Vinasun or Mai Linh taxi, make sure the driver starts the meter, and writes down the destination in Vietnamese because drivers rarely speak fluent English. If you do not choose a reputable company, you will likely be taken in circles.

When leaving tourist sites, such as the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City or the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, don't jump into the first taxi you see, but stop by a cafe for a drink and ask them to call a reputable taxi for you.

However, you should buy yourself a good pair of shoes and be ready to walk at any time. Because, walking is also a way to explore the scenery and local life in Vietnam...

Source link: https://thanhnien.vn/tuyet-chieu-bang-qua-duong-sau-13-lan-den-viet-nam-cua-du-khach-uc-185240205151241354.htm