FAQs

Below is a list of frequently asked questions by visitors while on tour

If you need any other information, please refer to these frequently asked questions to get more information! aaaa

To make payments through our website we accept MasterCard, Visa, American Express, and Maestro Online.

We offer some convenient ways of payment:

  1. Bank Transfer;
  2. Western Union;
  3. Online payment - will send you our secured link to settle the payment (deposit) when you decide to book the trip - Fast - Safe and Easy;
  4. Paypal;
  5. Bank Machine - to pay with credit card: We will send you a payment form to fill out all your card information - sign on it - then send it back to us and we charge money through the bank system with good security;
  6. One Pay - Online payment system.

Booking a tour online in advance offers several advantages:

  1. Guaranteed Availability: Popular tours can sell out quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking in advance ensures that you secure a spot on the tour of your choice.
  2. Better Pricing: By reserving a tour ahead of time, you may be able to take advantage of special rates or promotions from Scootin' Around Hanoi.
  3. Customization and Special Requests: Booking in advance gives you more time to communicate with Scootin' Around Hanoi about any special requests or customization you may want for your tour.
  4. Access to Exclusive Experiences: Some tours or experiences might only be available to those who book in advance, such as special events, and limited-access locations.
  5. Efficient Travel Planning: Scootin' Around Hanoi can help you plan your itinerary more effectively. We can organize your days around confirmed activities, making the most of your time at the destination.
  6. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your tour is booked and confirmed can reduce stress and allow you to focus on other aspects of your trip. It also minimizes the risk of missing out on activities you’re excited about.

Of course! You can book the trip over the phone. If you have any questions regarding the tour or activity, our call center will gladly assist you.

In addition to calling, you can also email us or fill out the form provided on our website to provide even more details.

We are very flexible with your requests! Just let us know your preferences and we will make it happen. Depending on your traveling style, schedule, and the size of your group we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

Scootin' Around Hanoi will strive to provide you with a stress-free experience.

All details related to your tour, including the cost, itinerary, inclusions, and exclusions are available on the booking page. Additionally, you will also find this information in the confirmation email.

Tipping is not mandatory. However, if you are pleased with the service provided by our guides and drivers, a small gesture of appreciation is highly appreciated.

Vietnam is generally considered a safe country for travelers, with low levels of violent crime compared to many other destinations. Here are some key points regarding safety in Vietnam:

Personal Safety:

  • Low Violent Crime: Violent crime against tourists is rare in Vietnam. Most travelers report feeling safe walking around cities and rural areas, even at night.
  • Petty Theft: The most common issue tourists may face is pickpocketing. It's advisable to keep an eye on your belongings, avoid displaying valuables, and use anti-theft bags if possible.
  • Scams: Like many tourist destinations, Vietnam has some scams targeting travelers, such as overcharging by taxi drivers, fake tour operators, or vendors hiking prices. Being aware of common scams and using reputable services can help you avoid these issues.

Traffic and Transportation:

  • Traffic Safety: Traffic can be chaotic in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with a large number of motorbikes on the roads. Pedestrians should be cautious when crossing streets, as traffic rules are often loosely followed.
  • Transportation: When using taxis or ride-sharing services, it's safer to use reputable companies or apps like Grab. For intercity travel, opting for well-known bus or train services can enhance safety.

Health and Food Safety:

  • Food and Water: Street food is a major attraction in Vietnam, and it’s generally safe to eat. Drinking tap water is not recommended; stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Healthcare: Vietnam has good medical facilities in major cities, but it’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers healthcare needs, including medical evacuation, if necessary.

Natural Disasters:

  • Vietnam is prone to typhoons and flooding, particularly in the central and northern regions during the rainy season (June to November).
  • It's important to stay informed about weather conditions if you're traveling during this time.

Safety for Solo Travelers and Women:

  • Vietnam is generally safe for solo travelers, including women.
  • However, as with travel anywhere, it's advisable to take common-sense precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and not accepting drinks from strangers.
Overall, with a bit of caution and common sense, Vietnam is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers.

Here's a tip: When traveling, try out the local food at small, authentic restaurants to truly experience the local food culture. When selecting a place to eat, make sure it is bustling and well-maintained, and opt for fresh, properly cooked food.

Furthermore, Vietnamese cuisine is diverse and varies significantly from region to region, reflecting the country’s geography, climate, and cultural influences. Here’s an overview of the culinary distinctions in Vietnam's three main regions: Northern, Central, and Southern Vietnam. Please make sure that you can try all the typical food of each region in Vietnam as the following recommendation:

The North:

  • Phở: A world-famous noodle soup made with a clear, aromatic broth, flat rice noodles, and usually beef (phở bò) or chicken (phở gà). It's often served with fresh herbs, lime, and chili on the side.
  • Bún chả: Grilled pork served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and dipping sauce (nước chấm). It’s a quintessential Hanoi dish, often accompanied by spring rolls (nem rán).
  • Bánh cuốn: Steamed rice rolls filled with minced pork, mushrooms, and shallots, served with a dipping sauce.

The Central:

  • Bún bò Huế: A spicy beef noodle soup from Hue, featuring a rich, lemongrass-infused broth, beef, pork knuckles, and often congealed pig’s blood, served with herbs and lime.
  • Cao lầu: A regional specialty from Hoi An, this dish consists of thick rice noodles, slices of pork, fresh herbs, and crispy rice crackers, often with a small amount of broth.
  • Mì Quảng: A turmeric-colored noodle dish served with a small amount of broth, peanuts, and a variety of toppings, such as shrimp, pork, or chicken.

The South:

  • Cơm tấm: Broken rice served with grilled pork (sườn), a fried egg, and various accompaniments such as pickled vegetables and fish sauce.
  • Bánh xèo: A crispy, savory pancake made from rice flour and turmeric, filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs, typically served with lettuce and dipping sauce.
  • Hủ tiếu: A noodle soup that’s popular in the Mekong Delta, often served with pork, shrimp, and a clear, flavorful broth. It’s available in various styles, including dry with a separate bowl of broth.

When traveling to Vietnam, it's important to be prepared with the right currency and understand how to manage your money. Here's what you should bring:

  1. Vietnamese Dong (VND) - Primary Currency: The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). The currency used for most purchases, especially in local markets, restaurants, and transportation.
  2. US Dollars (USD)- Secondary Currency: US Dollars are widely accepted in Vietnam, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and larger restaurants. However, the exchange rate might not always be favorable, and you might receive a change in VND.
  3. Credit and Debit Cards: Major credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, and sometimes American Express are accepted in larger cities, upscale restaurants, hotels, and some shops. However, smaller businesses, markets, and rural areas might only accept cash.

By bringing a combination of Vietnamese Dong, some US Dollars, and possibly a credit or debit card, you'll be well-prepared to handle most financial situations during your trip to Vietnam.