Getting Around

The bus system is improving and many new buses have been added to the city’s fleet. However, very little information regarding routes and schedules is published in English and most foreigners don’t use the inner city buses.

Driving in the city can be hazardous, as the laws of the road are not always observed and traffic can be heavy, especially at peak periods. The city centre is small and most journeys take less than 15 minutes, because of these reasons most people travel either by automobile or motorbike taxi, which are very cheap. The first two kilometres cost about 12,000VND. Motorbike taxis are even cheaper and often used by foreigners, (7,000VND for a short trip).

Many people however rent their own motorbikes – which are readily available throughout the city - after getting accustomed to the traffic. Helmets for all motorcyclists are mandatory on highways and strongly advised when driving in the city as well.

Roads in the cities and between major centres are generally good, but travel to smaller locations can often be time consuming and a little difficult. Cheap and relatively comfortable bus services are available between the main cities. There are also flights to most cities and resorts.