Hoi An is undoubtedly one of Vietnam’s most beautiful cities. As someone who has lived here for five years and hosted friends from all over the world, I’ve learned a lot about making the most of this charming destination. These tips I tell my international friends in Hoi An, drawn from both personal experience and conversations with travelers, will help ensure your time in Hoi An is as magical as it should be.
1. Internet and SIM Cards
Staying connected in Vietnam is incredibly easy. Most establishments in Hoi An, from coffee shops to restaurants, offer free Wi-Fi. However, for those who want consistent internet access, buying a local 4G SIM card is a great option. You can find these SIM cards for around 200,000 VND (approximately $8) at mobile shops on Ly Thuong Kiet Street. This area is packed with mobile service providers, including the reliable FPT Shop. With a 4G SIM, you can navigate the city, use translation apps, and stay connected with ease – 11 Tips I Tell My International Friends in Hoi An
One more thing to remember when owning a data sim card in Vietnam is “don’t just extend it by yourself”. In most case, the data in a sim card is fixed and you can not extend it or buy more data by adding more money on the sim card. Carefully read the instruction and inquire the seller before you buy more data for your current sim card, otherwise you might lose your money for nothing.
2. Spending, Money, and Costs
In Hoi An, cash is king, especially for small businesses like street food vendors or market stalls. While many professional establishments, such as restaurants and coffee shops, accept credit cards, they often charge a small fee of around 3%. For international visitors, it’s handy to have cash on hand, as bank transfers usually work only with domestic accounts.
If you have dollar and want to exchange to Vietnam Dong, jewelry stores at Hoi An market can do it for you. Hoi An market is located next to Cam Nam bridge, at the entrance of the old town. – 11 Tips I Tell My International Friends in Hoi An
Pro Tip: When visiting the local market, always carry small denominations of Vietnamese dong. Vendors may not have change for large bills, and it’s easier to bargain this way.
3. Transportation
Getting around Hoi An is straightforward and affordable. Here’s what you need to know:
- Grab: Vietnam’s version of Uber, Grab is reliable and easy to use for getting around the city.
- Taxis: For longer distances, such as traveling from the airport to Hoi An, I recommend using service taxis, which offer better prices and quality than metered taxis.
- Sleeper Trains: If you’re exploring Vietnam beyond Hoi An, choose “First Class” on sleeper trains. It’s the equivalent of third-class in Australia but offers a decent level of comfort with four bunks to a cabin and basic hospital-style mattresses.
For reliable private taxi in Hoi An, Check price [here]
4. Overcoming the Language Barrier
Hoi An’s status as a tourist hub means many locals, especially those working in hotels, restaurants, and shops, speak basic English. However, if you plan to explore less touristy areas like local markets or villages, Google Translate will be your best friend. It’s a simple tool that can help bridge the gap and make your interactions smoother -11 Tips I Tell My International Friends in Hoi An
5. Traffic Safety
Hoi An is a safe city when it comes to traffic, with no large vehicles like buses or trucks in the town center. However, it’s still important to follow local traffic rules:
- Scooters: Always wear a helmet, ride on the right, and slow down at intersections.
- Bicycles: Stick to the right side of the road and use designated parking areas if you plan to stop and walk. Remember that Vietnam’s culture in keeping distance is different from European standard, therefor don’t panic if some vehicles might be close to you, as long as the driver see you, you are okay!
- Walking: Stay on sidewalks and stay alert, especially in the Old Town, which can get crowded.
A special note: Watch out for kids on electric bikes. They’re common in Hoi An and sometimes zip around unexpectedly.
6. Social Safety
Hoi An has a low crime rate, but it’s always wise to stay cautious:
- Pickpocketing and Theft: These incidents are rare but can happen in crowded areas. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially during events like the World Cup or European football season, when petty crimes tend to rise.
- Scams: Taxi scams and overcharging in shops do exist. Use trusted taxi services, and when shopping, always bargain. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a price 30% lower than the initial quote.
If you ever need assistance, the city police station of Hoi An is located at 06 Ngô Gia Tự, Minh An Ward, Hoi An City.
7. Common Accidents
While Hoi An is relatively safe, here are some potential hazards to be aware of:
- Traffic Accidents: Minor accidents can occur, often involving tourists unfamiliar with the roads. Always ride cautiously, especially near the beach, where roads are quieter, and speeding can be tempting.
- River and Ocean Accidents: During the rainy season, the sea can be dangerous. Pay attention to local authorities’ swimming advisories and avoid swimming in undesignated areas. Be careful near the Old Town riverbanks at night, especially after visiting bars or lounges. Accidents can happen and there was a terrible case that a young guy fell to the river near local bars in old town and passed away.
- Animal-Related Incidents: Hoi An has many pet dogs, but they are generally small and harmless. But dogs in small alleys have higher change to run after people than dogs at big roads. But the chance to hit a dog while riding a scooter is higher than being bitten by a dog, therefore you always have to be careful when riding a vehicle because dogs can run out of the street anytime.
8. Shopping
Shopping in Hoi An is an adventure in itself, but here are some tips to make the experience enjoyable:
- Overcharging: This is common in the Old Town, so always bargain. Start by offering 30% less than the asking price and negotiate from there.
- Hustlers: You may encounter persistent sellers in tourist areas. The best way to avoid them is to politely ignore them.
9. Healthcare in Hoi An
In case of illness or injury, Hoi An has several hospitals and clinics that cater to foreigners. For detailed information about healthcare facilities, read my dedicated blog post on this topic. [Click here]
10. Activities to Do in Hoi An
Hoi An is brimming with activities for every type of traveler. Some of my top recommendations include:
- Hoi An memories show or Teh dar show
- Cooking class with basket boat tour
- Wood art class
- My Son santuary
- Snorkeling at Cham island
Visit my tour center for activities’ information – 11 Tips I Tell My International Friends in Hoi An: [Click here]
11. Tailor in Hoi An
Having a suit tailored in Hoi An is an essential experience, not just a tourist activity. The city’s reputation for quality tailoring stems from its well-established supply chain and skilled craftsmen, resulting in suits that are both affordable and high-quality.
The common question travelers ask is: Where should I get my suit made? Instead of pointing you to a specific shop, here are some insider tips about Hoi An’s tailoring industry:
- Uniform Standards: Most shops maintain similar standards as they often share suppliers and tailoring professionals.
- Fabric Quality Matters: Don’t compromise on fabric quality for the sake of saving a little money—it can make or break the final result.
- Quick Turnaround: Most tailors can complete your suit within a day, so it’s ideal for travelers on tight schedules.
- A Smart Trick: To ensure a more relaxed fitting process, tell the tailor your departure date is earlier than it actually is.
- Premium Shops vs. Average Shops: High-end shops charge at least 30% more than mid-range options, so consider your budget and preferences.
- Need a Recommendation? Reach out to me for reliable tailor suggestions to ensure you have a great experience.
With these tips in tell my international friends in Hoi An, you’ll be well-prepared to get a stylish, custom-made suit that fits like a dream.
Final Thoughts
Hoi An is a city that captures the heart of every visitor. Its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty is truly enchanting. By following these tips, you’ll not only navigate the city with ease but also uncover its hidden gems.
Remember, the key to enjoying Hoi An lies in embracing its relaxed pace and soaking in the small joys, from sipping coffee by the Thu Bon River to cycling through rice paddies. Safe travels, and may your time in Hoi An be unforgettable!
From Vincent – the Author
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HOI AN FAIRY TOUR – HOME – TAXI – TOUR/SHOW – BIKE/BUS/BOAT – LOCAL RECOMMENED
