Originally Posted by
cookieee
Having second thoughts about a vacation in Vietnam. Is it safe? The Sheraton Hanoi (Cat 4) and Sheraton HCMC (Cat 5) are located in the heart of downtown, nice neighborhoods. But the CIA has issued warnings of snatch and grab motorcycle gangs "dragging a victim's body" and "quick-napping" or kidnapping for a short period to drain an ATM account in the more affluent areas. So how safe is safe?
Safer than most western big cities. Take the advice given, also, with a bike or motorbike don't put anything you don't want to lose into a basket. When you sit at a roadside restaurant make sure your bag can't be taken.
In SE Asia attacks, physically, are rare, certainly for westerners. Theft is more common, but still not 'common'. Be cautious but don't be scared.
Both I and a friend lost our ATM cards in different machines during a 2 days period earlier this year in Hanoi. We both got them back with little hassle.
Most of the time someone approaches you as a target it won't be to in the guise of theft, just working toward a scam. Fools often give their money away to 'thieves' in a way that is much safer for the locals.
I've seen this happen in KUL, BKK as well as other places. As a tourist you are their lifeblood, you fuel their economy. Enjoy your trip.