Do people use credit cards in Vietnam?
Yes, credit cards are accepted in Vietnam, especially in tourist areas. While cash is preferred for small purchases and street vendors, major credit cards like Visa are widely used in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores.
Credit Card Usage in Vietnam?
Okay, so Vietnam credit cards, huh? It’s a mixed bag, honestly. I was there last October, in Hoi An, and even tiny street food stalls took Visa. Amazing!
But cash is king for smaller stuff, like grabbing a banh mi for 30,000 dong (about $1.25). It’s just easier, quicker, you know? Less hassle.
Larger places? No problem. My hotel, the Palm Beach Resort & Spa (splurged a little, it was gorgeous!), took my Mastercard without a peep. Same with all the fancier restaurants we hit.
Even some smaller shops downtown took cards. I’m thinking of that adorable boutique selling silk scarves – totally unexpected, but they did.
So yeah, Visa and Mastercard are pretty widely accepted, especially in tourist areas and larger establishments. Cash is still super common though, especially for smaller transactions. Don’t go fully cashless!
What is the best way to take money to Vietnam?
Cash. Yes, cash whispers of old Saigon, a tangible promise. Cash is king, they say, or maybe it was just me. Remember Dad’s old money clip, worn leather, stuffed with bills, a secret treasure. Vietnam… always wanted to see it with him. Miss him.
Cards…plastic realities… but also, maybe, a backup? Safety net shimmering in the humid air. Consider both, a blend, a cautious dance between worlds. Not the airport. Oh god, not the airport. Fluorescent lights, hurried breaths, never, never change money there. Robbery almost. A dream fading.
Order ahead. That’s the trick. Secure your rate, hold it tight. Imagine, bundles of dong waiting, pristine. Like a flower blooming in your hand, the scent of possibility wafting through the air. Delivery, perhaps? Secret agent vibes.
- Best ways to carry money:
- Cash: for everyday expenses, small vendors, local markets. Dong is your friend.
- Debit cards: for ATM withdrawals. Notify your bank before you leave! Avoid fees as possible.
- Credit cards: accepted in larger establishments. Check for international fees!
- Prepaid travel cards: Loaded with currency, locked-in exchange rate.
- Exchange rate tips:
- Order currency in advance: online services offer better rates.
- Avoid airport exchanges: rates are always worse.
- Banks & ATMs: reputable banks often offer competitive rates.
- Jewellery shops: many will exchange currency, but verify rate is trustworthy.
- Important Considerations:
- Keep cash safe: conceal it well, consider money belts.
- Notify bank about travel: to prevent card blocks.
- Keep photocopies: of passport, credit cards, in separate location.
- Small denominations: useful for smaller purchases and tipping.
- Extra thoughts:
- Dong… the feel of it, the weight of it.
- Haggling with cash. A dance.
- My dad would’ve loved it.
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