Practical information
Safety Tips and Emergency Numbers
Ninh Binh is generally a safe place. However, we recommend keeping personal belongings in sight and not carrying too much cash when exploring. Make a note of these emergency numbers: Police – 113, Fire – 114, Ambulance – 115.
Healthcare and Pharmacy Locations
For medical emergencies, visit Ninh Binh General Hospital. Pharmacies can be found everywhere and are usually open until 10pm. Local pharmacies can often provide good advice for minor health complaints.
Water Safety
The tap water in Vietnam is not suitable for drinking. You can safely use it for mouthwash after brushing your teeth, but it is advisable to always have a bottle of drinking water on hand. Make sure you have plenty of bottled water in your accommodation or easily available nearby.
Tips for Traffic
Traffic in Vietnam can be hectic and unpredictable, especially for visitors from countries with stricter traffic regulations. Here are some tips to help you:
- Always be alert and careful, both as a pedestrian and as a driver.
- Use Grab or a reliable taxi service for longer trips around the city.
- If you drive yourself, make sure you are familiar with local traffic rules and customs.
- Be extra careful when crossing streets; always look both ways.
- Be aware of motorcycles and scooters, which often change direction unexpectedly.
Basic Vietnamese Phrases for Communication
- Hello: Xin chào
- Thank you: Cảm ơn
- Yes/No: Có/Không
- How much does this cost?: Giá bao nhiêu?
- Where is the bathroom?: Nhà vệ sinh ở đâu?
- Can you speak slower?: Bạn có thể nói chậm hơn không?
Use of Grab
Grab is the Vietnamese version of Uber. It is a useful app for both taxis and food deliveries. Install the Grab app, create an account, and link your credit card for easy payments.
Transport options
In addition to Grab, we also provide personalized transportation services. You can rent a car with a driver for a comfortable and personalized experience. For the more adventurous among us, we offer quality bicycles at affordable prices. Although public transportation is available, it can be difficult due to the language barrier.
Additional Tips
- Always carry a bottle of water with you to stay hydrated in the hot climate.
- Use sunscreen and wear a hat when outdoors.
Money matters, ATM, Withdrawing money
- In Ninh Binh, you can easily withdraw money from local automated teller machines (ATMs) that accept international cards.
- Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and major stores. So you don't necessarily have to exchange money. However, it is useful to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or in areas where cards are not accepted.
- Please note that ATMs may have limits on how much you can withdraw and transaction fees may apply.
Local Customs and Etiquette
- Religious Sites: Show respect when visiting pagodas and temples. Wear appropriate clothing (shoulders and knees covered) and remove your shoes where necessary.
- Markets: Bargaining is often expected in local markets. However, do this with respect and a smile.
- Culture: Try to respect the local culture and traditions. A friendly attitude and interest in local customs are highly appreciated.
Safety tips
- Always be vigilant for your personal safety, especially in crowded areas. Pickpockets can be active in tourist areas.
- Keep valuables such as passports and large sums of money in a safe in your hotel.
- Be careful when crossing streets and be aware of heavy traffic.
Local SIM Card
It is recommended that you use a local SIM card to access data during your stay. This makes it easier to navigate, contact us, or consult information on the Internet. Some tourist attractions offer QR codes that you can scan for more information. We can arrange a local SIM card for you and help with installation for 400,000 VND (approximately 15 euros).
Bicycle rental
For the adventurous tourist we offer high-quality mountain bikes or scooters at attractive rates. These bikes are ideal for exploring the beautiful landscapes and rural roads of Ninh Binh.
Giving tips
In Vietnam, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated, especially in restaurants, taxi drivers, and hotels. A small tip as a sign of appreciation for good service can be greatly appreciated.
Contact Wintering in Vietnam
For more information or assistance, please contact Marcel Renes at:
English 
Dutch 
German