Is the Hanoi Train Street illegal?

Hanoi Train Street is not entirely illegal, but it is heavily restricted due to safety risks from overcrowding, with many cafes operating in a legal gray area. While authorities formally closed it and banned street-level access in 2019/2022, visitors can still enter if escorted by a cafe owner for a drink.

Is train street closed to tourists?

Hanoi's famous train street is one of the cities best sights, but since 2022 it was closed due to safety concerns. Now in 2026, Hanoi train street is open, so read on to find out everything you need to know about visiting this unique destination in Vietnam!

What areas should I avoid in Hanoi?

1. 8 Places to Avoid in Hanoi – Local Guide's List

• Dong Xuan Night Market during Peak Hours.
• Train Street (Phung Hung)
• Unsafe Ferry Crossings on the Red River.
• Street Food Stalls with Poor Hygiene.
• West Lake at Night.
• Narrow Old Quarter Alleys.
• Spontaneous Motorbike Taxi Services.
• Overcrowded Bars and Clubs on Weekends.

Why is train street closed in Hanoi today?

Why is Train Street Hanoi closed? Train Street was closed to the public by Vietnamese authorities in 2019 and again in later years due to increasing safety risks from overcrowding and tourists standing too close to active tracks.

Does Hanoi have a red district?

HANOI RED LIGHT DISTRICT Hanoi does not have an officially recognized red light district, but certain areas like Tran Duy Hung Street, Phan Dang Luu "Waving Street," and Thanh Tri District are known for their underground nightlife scene.

Vietnam's NEW law just changed everything!

Is $50 a lot in Vietnam?

For a more comfortable backpacker experience in Vietnam, it's best to budget around $50 per day. This way, you'll have more money to spend on things like food, drinks, activities and hotel rooms. For a comfortable mid-range experience in Vietnam, it's best to budget $60 to $100 per day for your entire costs.

What is the most common crime in Vietnam?

Pickpocketing, snatch-and-grab robbery, and petty theft are the most frequent types of crime reported in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) where foreigners frequent (major hotels, tourist sites, public parks). Saigon is a relatively safe destination for travellers. Violent crime against foreigners is rare.

What are the unspoken rules in Vietnam?

Unspoken rules in Vietnam emphasize respect, harmony, and modesty, requiring visitors to remove shoes indoors, dress conservatively (especially at religious sites), stay calm in public (avoiding loud confrontation), and show respect for elders. Key etiquette includes mastering chopsticks (don't pass food, stick them upright), accepting offers of food/drink gracefully, using both hands for transactions, and understanding that public affection is generally frowned upon.
 

Where not to go in Vietnam right now?

Landmines and other unexploded weapons are a hazard in former battlefields. Areas of particular risk include central Vietnam and along the Laos border, formerly crossed by the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Mined areas are often unmarked.

Is it okay to wear red in Vietnam?

Delicate suits and jackets are recommended, especially when you have to visit your friend's houses during the festival. We recommend you to pack some red clothes or jackets as this colour is considered as the appearance of luckiness according to Vietnamese culture.

Can Brits visit Vietnam?

As of 2026, UK (British) nationals traveling to Vietnam for tourism or short business trips can stay for up to 45 days without a visa. UK (British) passport holders are also eligible for the 90-day e-Visa program if they plan to stay longer in Vietnam.

Are bed bugs common in Vietnam?

Bed bugs are not only in Vietnam but also other Asian, African countries. These pests are most often encountered in budget hostels, older guesthouses, shared dormitories, and occasionally even in hotels with insufficient pest control.

What does crossing fingers mean in Vietnam?

Crossing two fingers (considered “good luck” in the U.S.) is a vulgar way of indicating intercourse in Vietnam.

What things are considered disrespectful in Vietnam?

Use both hands when giving something: It shows respect. Use your whole hand to point or gesture, not your finger: If not, it is considered rude. Avoid touching others' heads or shoulders: This one shows disrespect. Don't stand with hands on hips or in pockets, especially when talking: It shows disrespect.

What does the pinky finger mean in Vietnam?

Point with your pinky finger

As in many places, it's rude to point with your index finger in Vietnam. To be polite, use your pinky finger when you want to point to something.

What is the 2 child rule in Vietnam?

Vietnamese lawmakers on Tuesday passed new amendments to the Population Law, leaving it up to families to decide how many children they are going to have. The two-child policy, in place since 2009 to prevent overpopulation, restricted families to one or two children.

Is eye contact disrespectful in Vietnam?

Vietnamese people typically avoid direct eye contact and may gaze downward when talking. Avoiding eye contact demonstrates respect to elders, people of higher status or of the opposite sex. Speaking in a loud tone with excessive gestures is considered rude, especially when done by women.

What is inappropriate in Vietnam?

As a general rule, keep your cool and avoid loud arguments, making a scene, berating others for mistakes, or pointing out anything that may cause the locals to feel shamed. TIP: Vietnamese dislike public displays of affection, and men and women often do not touch in front of others.

What is the most common disease in Vietnam?

Here are five of the most common diseases in Vietnam:

1. Chikungunya. This disease, rare in America, is present in Vietnam because of the high humidity and mosquito population. ...
2. Rabies. In Vietnam, it is very expensive to vaccinate dogs and animals that carry rabies. ...
3. Japanese Encephalitis. ...
4. Typhoid Fever. ...
5. Tuberculosis (TB)

Is pickpocketing common in Vietnam?

Pick pocketing and thievery of personal items left unattended are common, especially in areas where large crowds gather. Avoid crowded areas when possible, including means of mass transportation.