Cash Exchange (USD, RUB, VND) in Vietnam: what actually matters to know
Short answer
Carry new US dollar bills for the best exchange rates and use local jewelry stores for cash transactions. For digital payments, utilize QR codes via Russian banking apps or UnionPay cards to avoid high ATM fees and double conversion.
From real experience
For travel to Vietnam, it is recommended to carry new US dollar bills as they are more widely accepted and may offer a better exchange rate compared to older notes.
Some establishments may offer lower rates or refuse older bills. Card payments are possible, with UnionPay (especially a Ruble-denominated card) being a viable option to avoid double conversion.
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To exchange Russian rubles for Vietnamese dong or USD in Vietnam, use jewelry stores for the best rates, especially for older USD bills.
Pharmacies also exchange money, but with a lower rate for small denominations. RosSelkhozBank ATMs are available in many shops. Card payments are accepted where terminals are present. QR code payments via Russian banking apps (Sberbank, VTB) are a viable alternative where terminals are absent, with no commission and favorable conversion rates. Ensure your Sberbank app is updated to the latest version before traveling.
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When exchanging currency or making payments in Vietnam, be aware of potential scams involving counterfeit or easily confused banknotes, particularly between 20,000 and 500,000 VND, or 10,000 and 200,000 VND.
It's advisable to use smaller denominations for market purchases and larger denominations or card payments in malls. Payment via QR code is also becoming more prevalent. Be cautious with card payments; some sources indicate issues with 'Mir' cards, while UnionPay might be more widely accepted. It's generally recommended to use payment methods that have been confirmed to work reliably.
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Upon late-night arrival in Hanoi, with hotel check-in only in the morning and no airport hotels available, currency exchange options are limited.
Airport exchange rates may be higher, but were reported to be comparable to city exchange offices on May 22nd (26350 VND per USD). It's advisable to use new USD bills for better rates. UnionPay cards, particularly Ruble-denominated ones, are accepted for payments, offering favorable exchange rates. Withdrawing cash from ATMs is not recommended due to high fees and poor exchange rates.
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In Vietnam, consider various payment methods.
While QR code payments are common, exchanging USD at 'Corona' and paying with a card is also an option. For Ruble to Dong exchange, courier services are available, but always confirm the current exchange rate. Both USD and VND are accepted at airport shops. For local currency needs, consult with currency exchange specialists.
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Payments in Vietnam for Russian tourists can be made via QR codes in local banking apps (e.g., Sber).
Average exchange rate is approximately 1 RUB = 335 VND. For cash, jewelry stores in Nha Trang are the most reliable places to exchange Russian Rubles for Dong. International bank cards with Apple Pay/Google Pay are widely accepted at POS terminals.
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If you need to exchange dollars for Vietnamese Dong in Cam Ranh, do not rely solely on your guide's advice.
You can typically exchange currency at hotel reception desks and in jewelry stores. Additionally, consider using QR code payment options through Russian banking apps (Sberbank, VTB) or cryptocurrency platforms if available and accepted.
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Recommended payment methods in Vietnam for Russian tourists include: 1) UnionPay cards (enter 00 before the PIN if needed), 2) MIR cards at VRB (Vietnam-Russia Bank) ATMs, and 3) QR payments.
For currency exchange, local gold shops often offer better rates than banks. USDT-to-VND exchange services are widely used by the expat community.