Help and FAQ

Which numbers do I call in an emergency?

Police 113, fire 114, ambulance 115. Vietnam's country code is +84.

Is there a tourist hotline?

Yes, the free tourist hotline 1087 runs 24/7 for information and help, including taxi problems.

Where is the visitor information center and when is it open?

In 23/9 Park at the corner of Pham Ngu Lao and De Tham streets, open daily 8:00 AM–8:30 PM. Phone (+84 28) 3920 3040, email support@enter.vn.

What services does the center offer?

Free multilingual maps and guides, itinerary advice, info on hotels, food and transport, tour/ticket booking help, free Wi-Fi and safety assistance.

Which taxi or ride-hailing services can I use?

Mai Linh, Vinasun, Xanh SM, Grab and Be are common. Book via the official app or hotline for transparent fares.

How do I avoid fake taxis?

Check the brand, plate and driver against the app, make sure the meter or app fare is shown, refuse unmarked touts at airports and stations, keep the receipt and check your belongings.

Should I pay in cash or by card?

The currency is VND. Cash works best for street food and small purchases; malls, hotels and big services take Visa/Mastercard. Exchange money at the airport or use ATMs.

How do I get a local SIM card?

Choose Viettel, Vinaphone or Mobifone and bring your passport to register. Prepaid packages cost about VND 20,000–100,000.

What is the weather like?

Rainy season May–November with sudden showers, dry season December–April, about 27°C on average. Bring an umbrella, sunscreen, a hat and drink plenty of water.

Any health and safety tips?

Use mosquito repellent (dengue), wash hands, mask in crowds, pick busy clean eateries and bottled water, wear a helmet on motorbikes, cross streets slowly and steadily, and get travel insurance.

What documents do foreigners need to enter Vietnam?

A valid passport or travel document plus a visa, visa exemption or valid residence paper. Declarations must be truthful and match your documents.

What is pre-arrival registration at Tan Son Nhat airport?

From 15 Apr 2026, foreign-passport holders arriving at Tan Son Nhat should register 2–3 days ahead at prearrival.immigration.gov.vn and show the QR code. Airport kiosks exist but may mean longer waits.

What must I do after entering Vietnam?

Check your permitted stay and extend before it expires, make sure temporary residence is declared (online at tbltktb.bocongan.gov.vn), and hold a work permit if you work.

Is there a way to preview attractions?

The Map 3D/360 at map3d.visithcmc.vn offers 360° views of sites like Independence Palace and Cu Chi Tunnels, multilingual audio guides, auto tours, VR support and metro/waterbus links.

Tickets appear under My trips and by email. Ticket vouchers apply automatically at booking and are returned if the order is not paid.