Shopping centers and big department centers are located in city centers. Department stores generally open 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. Monday to Sunday. Small shops & markets often open daily from early morning to late evening. Handicrafts, antiques, gems of varying quality, embroidery, woodcarvings, ceramics, marble, lacquer ware, silk are things to look out for. Antiques may also be good buys but generally require more searching. When go shopping at local markets or small shops, items sold with no visible price tags must be bargained for. However, tagged items may also be negotiable. Specially, travelers to Vietnam should not buy products made from wildlife.

WATER: Don't drink from the tap and brush your teeth with safe water. But drink much boiled water or bottled water (mineral water) on a daily basic to stay hydrated. Mineral water is available in most cites. You can also take many fruit juices with ice cubes made from boiled or bottled water.

FOOD: Eating in clean establishments. Fruits & vegetables should be peeled or thoroughly cleaned and cooked. Precooked foods in street stalls should be completely avoided. All meat & fish should be thoroughly cooked.