💰The First Thing You Should Do When Arriving in Vietnam: Exchange Your Money!
🌟Must-Buy Souvenirs in Vietnam: Cashews, Coffee, Dried Fruits, and the Famous Banh Mi Rusk!
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City! 🛍️ Visit Takashimaya & Shop at the STAR KITCHEN Counter on B2! 🌟
🌟Wondering where to exchange money in Vietnam? Vietnam Currency Exchange Guide: Where and How to Get the Best Rates!
目錄
Reference Exchange Rate
Getting to Know the Vietnamese Dong
🌟Before exchanging money in Vietnam, it’s helpful to know that the local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), symbolized as đ. Vietnam uses only paper money—no coins. The Dong has a large value, so the numbers often have many zeros, making it easy to feel like a millionaire. Just be cautious when handling amounts, as the numbers can be tricky.
Where Can You Exchange Vietnamese Dong? Do You Need to Bring US Dollars to Exchange in Vietnam?
✨The best exchange rates are typically found at currency exchange shops or jewelry stores in the city center. If you have 💵US dollars, it’s definitely more convenient to exchange them locally in Vietnam, as US dollars are widely accepted, even if other currencies may not be. However, exchanging your home currency directly into Vietnamese Dong isn’t always less favorable than using US dollars. Exchange rates fluctuate, and when you factor in the cost of time, transportation, and potential fees at the bank, it might not be worth the extra effort.
Here are a few popular places where you can exchange money in Vietnam:
1. Vietnamese Airports: Convenient but Expensive
Currency exchange booths are available at major airports across Vietnam. While convenient, the exchange rates at the airport tend to be less favorable, and you may encounter higher fees or worse rates compared to other locations.
🌟Tip: Exchange only a small amount at the airport to cover immediate expenses like transportation, and find better rates in the city for the rest.
2. Currency Exchange Shops & Jewelry Stores
Currency exchange shops are found in popular tourist areas like Hoan Kiem (Hanoi) and Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City). They often offer better rates than the airport, and some jewelry stores also provide exchange services.
🌟Tip: Compare rates at different exchange shops before finalizing a transaction. Always ask for the rate upfront and check for any hidden fees.
Hanoi:
There are many jewelry stores on Hà Trung Street in Hanoi where you can exchange money. It’s recommended to shop around and compare rates!
Quoc Trinh Jewelry Store in Hanoi.
HCMC:
Ha Tam Jewelry
Mai Vân
Thu đổi Ngoại tệ so 59B
3. Vietnamese Banks: Reliable and Secure
Vietnamese banks, such as Vietcombank or BIDV, offer reliable currency exchange services. These are secure and trustworthy places to exchange large sums of money. However, bank hours (usually 8 AM - 5 PM) can be limiting, and you may need your passport for transactions.
🌟Tip: If you need to exchange a large sum of money, banks are a safe bet. However, be prepared for potential paperwork and the need to plan around their working hours.
👇Click to view the live exchange rate.
4. Department Stores: Convenient but Less Favorable Rates
Some large department stores in Vietnam offer currency exchange services. However, these are usually less competitive in terms of exchange rates. They're convenient if you're already shopping, but they shouldn’t be your first choice.
🌟Tip: Use department stores for small exchanges only, and check the rate before you commit.
5. Vietnamese ATMs: Easy but Watch for Fees
💵ATMs in Vietnam are widely available and allow you to withdraw Vietnamese Dong directly from your foreign bank account. The exchange rate is usually reasonable, but banks may charge withdrawal fees. Be sure to check for any additional charges before using an ATM.
🌟Tip: Use ATMs linked to major banks (like Vietcombank) to minimize fees. Keep in mind there might be daily withdrawal limits.
☝️Things to Remember When Exchanging Money in Vietnam
Check the Exchange Rate: Before exchanging money, it’s a good idea to check the day’s exchange rate online to make sure you’re getting a fair deal.
Haggle at Jewelry Stores: Many jewelry stores offer room for negotiation. In some cases, if a shop sees you about to leave, they might lower the price a little to encourage you to stay.
Inspect the Bills: When exchanging money on the street, always check the condition of the bills you receive. Make sure they’re not damaged or dirty.
Count Your Money On the Spot: To avoid any misunderstandings, make sure to count your money right there and then. It’s always best to double-check before leaving.
Compare Prices: Don’t settle for the first place you find. Shop around and compare rates at different exchange points to get the best deal!
💰Exchange rate on 2024, Nov. 7th for reference
Thu đổi Ngoại tệ so 59B: USD 2545
Kim Mai Jewelry Shop: USD 2552
Ha Tam Jewelry: USD 2565
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