FIRST ENCOUNTER WITH THE LAW IN VIETNAM (lesson learned)

[@OnePackWanderers]

Hey everyone! The traffic stop in this video seems to have struck a chord with some people, so we'd like to clarify a couple things. - All three of us have international driving permits. That said, it's actually not possible to drive legally in Vietnam as an American because the US and Vietnam are not party to the same conventions. - After some back and forth with the officers about our permits, the charges were switched to a speeding fine. - This is just how traffic violations are handled here. If you are stopped, you're paying a fine for something. We took it as a learning experience, and we're happy to get back to enjoying this beautiful country 🙂 Have a great day, everyone!

[@gregreed2713]

That's too bad you found the traffic cops who actually know the difference between 1949 & 1968. And why is the US on the old one anyway ???

[@TheIslander2025]

actually as a Vietnamese citizen, my respect for those traffic police is really low. they mostly try to trap people into something so they can ask for money. these traffic police are all corrupted. they hit the road with the intend to make money from people, they love the job for that.

[@dt-zr5ti]

“Hoi Lo Tu Do Va Hanh Phuc” That’s how communists work at any level. I feel embarrassed and hopeless when my country is governed by a bunch of low class.

[@laurasalva7256]

The conclusion is that the cop was corrupt and wanted to take advantage of a tourist. A lot of people were mad because we all hate corruption and wish that didn't happen to you. Every trip has some type of obstacle. Enjoy the rest of your trip. Your positive attitude will attract more amazing things on this trip and beyond!!!

[@ThuanLe-mj3vs]

1. Your licenses will be temporarily allowed if your Visa expire in three months (it will be illegal if the Visa over three months). 2. I have no clue how fast you are to be punished. But it would be better if you guys RECORD VIDEOS when you are stopped by the police (in case they have not good intentions, they will think about it :) ) and it is totally legal.

[@jomontanee]

So sorry you encountered the “traffic cop” in Bali and in Vietnam. Don’t let those incidents discourage your adventure. Keep up your morale. You inspire so many people around the world right now. That MATTERS A LOT. Love you always from Thailand. 🇹🇭

[@vfgreen]

I'm so sorry you had a bad police encounter. But it was a good reminder that it isn't all sunshine and roses all the time. I'm glad you were able to avoid getting the bikes impounded! I hope that's the only time you have to deal with it. The countryside scenes were gorgeous, as always. Thanks for sharing these experiences with us!

[@xdgs567z]

Sorry about your encounter with the traffic cop, but kudos to you guys for an amazing, long, and tough motorbike road trip through Vietnam and sharing your experience 👍

[@quetoicattrangbienxanh6646]

"It's part of the adventure"! Being optimistic is always great. I didn't really know what was wrong with the cop because in my opinion, the international driving permits are ok in Vietnam. The best thing is that the pack is still in one piece. Have fun and be safe!

[@duongnhdn]

No it's not. It's only for the member of 1968 Vienna treaties of Road traffic, which Vietnam is a member of and the US which these guys from isnt.

[@aklaft]

They don’t have motorcycle licenses

[@RustyLid]

Pro Tip; Next time you're in Cambodia or Thailand get a motorcycle license, it's really easy. The Vietnamese Police may not recognize the international license but they do recognize the Thailand license under a regional reciprocity agreement.

[@OnePackWanderers]

This is a really excellent piece of advice. Definitely will look into that next time we’re in one of those places 🙂

[@aldotour]

Not so easy now to get a driving license in Thailand (specially with a tourist visa)!

[@WeWanderlustCo]

Loved the scenery on the way. So sorry to see you guys go through that. It truly sucks but we’re so glad all 3 of you made it safely to warm beds. 🤗💛💫

[@edcampbell7484]

New subscriber from Northern California

[@allthebestparts7629]

Shout out to NorCal! You have some fine roads up there!

[@craigclements9891]

Hey guys....great videos! I'm planning a trip soon and have also looked into international driving permits, and yep, us Aussies can't legally drive there either as we are not in the 1968 convention. In defence of TIGIT Motorbikes though, they do note this clearly on their website, which I think is testament to their integrity. So, for everyone planning a ride around Vietnam, go TIGIT! Enjoy your adventures and I look forward to more videos (this comment is not sponsored by TIGIT Motorbikes) he he he

[@OnePackWanderers]

Couldn’t agree more. Tigit is a class act, and the responsibility is 100% on us regarding the license.

[@datgal2u]

@@OnePackWanderers But your dad (All the Best Parts) doesn't seem to agree as he thinks your licenses are legit. He responded to me on another thread and all my responses are getting deleted. If I was calling him names, being mean, or untruthful, then by all means, remove the comments. However, censoring legit replies where just the facts are laid out makes me question the integrity of this channel.

[@OnePackWanderers]

We’re not deleting your comments.

[@jomontanee]

@@datgal2u Calm down! Your too many comments have condescending tones!!

[@datgal2u]

@@OnePackWanderers Thanks for responding and I apologize for that. It's frustrating when my responses are continually removed, but I guess that's youtube doing it then. I need to check next time that no links are added to my comments and such.

[@khanhnguyen05]

Sorry that yall have to deal with those cops! Unfortunately, It's a part of a game at this point. I had several situations like this when traveled back to VN. Two wallet trick is the way to go. I really enjoy your contents and the vibe! Keep up the good work!

[@ThePorscheGTO]

Not only do they do it to foreign tourists, they also find ways to extort from their native people. It's corruption at its worst being a communist country. It's kinda sad but it exists in every part of Vietnam.

[@golden_gate0049]

It part of society over there, if you pay fine on the spot you good to go, if you make scene than they take you to station and you double the fine +. You can negotiate but NOT object or offend them (it law there). I know it suck if you dont do homework. Alway be prepare having some extra cash because you be run into these scenario, cop in rural area more strict than in city.

[@chermarl5955]

@@golden_gate0049 Paying on the street is cheaper than going to the police station.😁😂

[@golden_gate0049]

@@chermarl5955... Yes mate, cop there in rural can collect fine on the spot. They still use the old system which very sound weird to most but it FACT 🤓. Now it a tip to any foreign traveler👍😁

[@pmwill7117]

@@golden_gate0049 " cop there in rural can collect fine on the spot. "....are you kidding or what? Cop did collected a bribery/under table/blackmail NOT a fine. And these money going to their own pocket, not government.

[@musiccovertop8718]

very wonderful, I like the way you experience the trip, it's your appreciation for the people and the life you go through. Wish you have a pleasant experience

[@BKKWheels]

If you go to Da Nang, You have to go to Lang Co. It’s beautiful place and peaceful. And you have to go to Bana Hill also.

[@partituravid]

Great as always! Love your attitudes, very encouraging. However high variation in volume levels --quite low at coffee stop

[@siddharthchowdaryvunnam525]

Honestly one of your first videos I could actually really to in someway. Keep up folks

[@michaelho5040]

Have a nice trip, guys! The scenery is just so beautiful and reminds me so so much of my trip from Saigon to Nha Trang when I was only 10! It was a long time ago but things still look the same! Admire your courage to take such a long journey, not knowing much about the local language and customs. What a way to go!!

[@charlesphan9254]

Just a suggestion...you can ask for a pitcher of boiling water to dilute the Vietnamese dripped coffee. That is how the natives do it. Likewise, on the warm/hot day, you can request for a cup of ice if your would like to have a nice ice cold coffee. Really enjoy your videos!!!

[@tooktav]

so sorry that happened to u..it is a problem in Thailand and Laos as well..and I'm sure they pocketed all that money themselves..at least all 3 of u are safe❤❤

[@kenpak5368]

Great attitudes !! love your content and the hard work it takes to edit these videos after a hard day in the saddle !!

[@sandotravels]

Oof! Just one of those travel days. I'm sure you guys will look back and laugh.

[@josephdang3687]

I subscribed to your channel for a while and happily followed you guys on your trips in my home country. This video is amazing for it has some true "things" that may happen on the trip. Anyway, it is spreading in our community and people are discussing the validity of the actions of the police.

[@QuanDev2]

OMG.. I knew it.. I tried to warn you in the previous video.. So sorry you had to deal with it. Yes, unfortunately corruption is a big part of our country, along side with the beautiful sceneries. Next time, if you don't have a decoy wallet, just put money in the backpack or keep it somewhere outside of your wallet. I'm so sorry again. Hope you'll make it safe and sound.

[@OnePackWanderers]

Hey no worries at all. This video was actually filmed the day before we posted the previous video, so it was kind of a funny moment seeing your good advice after this happened 😅 Have a great day 🙂

[@davebuc4823]

@@OnePackWanderers ah ha. so my warning came too late as well. you still got lucky in how it ended.

[@musicful7036]

Corruption happens in EVERY country, the USA is the Leader of the biggest corruption, if you don't truly/deeply understand the American politics/government. Vietnam is no exception. ONLY civilians in all countries are good people. The WORLD Politicians or those who work for their governments are bad/hypocrites.

[@sno_mouse1235]

You missed out on the mud baths in Nha Trang

[@vinhquyen46]

First, thanks for visit and explore my beloved country. Sorry above incident with local police.

[@jaredford8440]

Even the tough days can create amazing memories ❤️❤️❤️keep trucking TeamA 🙂 dad's bike " Chad " 😂🌺🇳🇿

[@bale2330]

Sorry to heard that. Don't feel bad just a bump on the roads . Just keep smiles and continue with your journey. If you stop in Da Nang make sure you guys doing a Herb Bath it really good for you .

[@waynemortensen8769]

Hey guys well done for not getting too angry at the police, seems to be just a normal part of going to Vietnam. I was always told to have a copy of your passport page because if you give them the original they will bribe you to give it back.. So sad, but it's part of going there. Love your videos . I go up there often, involved in sponsorship, inspired to try a long ride myself haha . keep safe.

[@KennethLeo4969]

cheer up! danang is nice! gotta rem to go and see the spectacular view from the top of the mountain! greetings from sg 💪

[@livingin2worlds137]

The shakedown socks but you are right. What can you do? Good luck on the next leg.

[@kymwright263]

Wow guys im in shock right now im gobsmacked!!! So glad this is on video and all over the internet now for all to c Spreading it all over my facebook to boot Sorry this happened to you wow just wow

[@datgal2u]

Just be sure you're spreading the WHOLE truth. Yes, they were pulled over. Yes, they were riding illegally, per itourvn (US license is NOT legal there as we didn't agree to the 1968 convention and assuming you're from a country that signed it, you are ONLY allowed to drive the the class your license is registered for...in case you're wondering, the US has a separate license for motorcycles). The cops could legally have impounded their bikes and worse. And yes, they got out of it with a lesser charge of speeding and lining the police pockets with "coffee" money.

[@kymwright263]

Make sure im spreading the truth??? Mate the video speaks for itself words dont need to be spoken here!!!! Re post the video and people will c it how they will!!! Simple The end!!!

[@baovodinh]

Good job y’all! Too bad for the incident with the thief but looks like a fun trip. I wouldn’t ride there. Law? Left in 75 and haven’t been back. Good luck!

[@teejayoz1221]

if that cop fine situation happened to me I would go berserk n cause a diplomatic incident 😆 Having worked in Asia on official business I have come across these types of behaviour. U guys dealt with it alot better than I would have. I despise scamming on any level. You guys are amazing to smile through it all. Enjoying ur vlogs, keep up the great work n stay safe 🙏

[@ansongjong]

It’s okay! That’s part of experiences you guys need to face with. Let’s goooo

[@Dom_Fella]

okay?

[@PaulinAsia_]

I wonder how much of that money went straight into their pocket. Good on you Tia for your honesty. I thought you were going to cry.

[@vinciniokhun2489]

It is what it is,,, thank goodness you have a decoy wallet with you… stay safe!

[@nhathong8356]

So great!

[@mynguyeno6355]

Bạn đi cẩn thận tốc độ chậm thì hy vọng sẽ không xảy ra vấn đề gì. Tôi thấy nhiều người nước ngoài cũng hay chạy xe máy trên đường phố. Chúc hai bạn may mắn thượng lộ bình an, giữ gìn tư trang cẩn thận nhé

[@jc_production]

When Tia learning bike along the way, I was apprehensive as I remember you need an intl bike license. And how come you're able to rent 1 without producing a license? But be of good cheer. The journey is beautiful. 👍 👍 👍

[@allthebestparts7629]

They didn't even look at my license before telling me it was invalid. The rental place understands the nuances of the license situation and blogs about how to deal with the police. If they were to validate a customer's licenses, I doubt they would have much of a business.

[@changyone]

ugh good thing you shows the bad behavior of these authority people and love the positive energy! Keep on rocking!

[@haonhu7403]

You guys are amazing,keep going.🥰

[@LinhLe-cq4sg]

Thanks

[@mussen1876]

Great video. Stay safe.

[@lazzymeomeo7039]

Luckily they let you guys go, or your bikes gonna go with them to the town. I think the fine for each bike is higher than the official fine (800-1200k) but for your convenience it’s the best option.

[@sidneylim925]

come back to Thailan

[@khoa4401]

Sad to see you guys went through this and lost some money. Should the bike rental company verify and confirm that your license is valid and allowed to drive the type of motorcycle which you want to rent in Vietnam ? The bike rental company should have a phone number for tourists like you guys to contact in case of emergency like bike breakdown or how to deal with local enforcement or in case of an accidence, etc. Otherwise, it will impact tourism in Vietnam and create not a good image to Vietnam. What if your bike breakdown in the middle of no where? how will you get help? I follow and watch every video uploaded by you guys! Stay safe!

[@gregreed2713]

I know the bike rental company, Tigit, well. Probably the best one in VN. None of them really check that tourists have license, because most don't, unless you rent a big bike (over ~170/180cc is another class of license). They have a help number for breakdowns, etc, but can't help in that case of simple traffic police stop. There is plenty of advice available, and they already knew the trick of having the "dummy wallet". At least they aren't travelling in the month before Tet - I practically stopped riding then, because they were everywhere (lived in Hai Phong). Looking for end-of-year bonus money ....

[@HuyNguyen-ki9eg]

Sorry for the police stop guys. Y’all are doing a great job. Thanks for your videos i enjoyed them all.

[@suthampiriyatanarak3002]

Why they do that Viet cop. That why not much for tourist.

[@jomontanee]

@@suthampiriyatanarak3002 Many foreign vloggers left Thailand for Vietnam. Many. So don’t say they don’t have tourists. And some foreigners encountered the corrupted cops in Thailand too. Though much much less. We Thais don’t talk bad about any country. We are chilled, easy going. Please keep it cool, bro.

[@suthampiriyatanarak3002]

@@jomontanee yes sir man👍

[@mmaranta785]

I’d be bummed too if someone took my money. Keep up the great videos and even greater puns!

[@trish387]

I’m Vietnamese born American and we have the same issues when we were there. It’s bs. Stay positive and yes maybe even a 3 wallet tricks!

[@locngonhu2903]

Helo các bạn đến vn chúc 2 người có chuyến du lịch tuyệt vời .dạo này mưa nhiều quá!các bạn đi phượt bằng xe máy thật là 1 trải nghiệm tuyệt vời!

[@TheBopbopbi]

Amazing.

[@lindsaybrown7357]

Back in the 90's we were working about an hour out of Guangzhou, southern China. Our site bus was flagged down by what looked like their military as we approached a large roundabout. Our Chinese driver looked like he was stopping but sped off as guys with rifles approached. Looking out the rear window, they had the guns trained on us, but we did get away. Our interpreter told us it was a shakedown.

[@Minnari9300]

are you going to stay in pleiku? that's my hometown. I'm in danang now and missing pleiku so much TT

[@AlpineFive0]

Great videos guys.. sorry to see what happen, I know Tigit warns about police in the Mui Ne area but looks like you guys are well north of Nha Trang? My wife and I are doing this exact ride next month - your misfortune is a "lesson learned" for me too

[@bmcbg]

We've been there done that..me and my Vietnamese wife has had to pay them off too but most of the time they have a good reason, going the wrong way on a one way street etc..some are corrupt, but most are good there

[@k9monsterVN]

ohhhhhh.this girl with nice smile

[@raythomas7744]

is it better to ride an old bike like a honda win even if your a foreigner to try to stay away from extortion?

[@theLoveInUrEyes]

How long are you guys going to be in Vietnam?

[@nguyenthang9183]

I met you yesterday at Hai Van Pass

[@OnePackWanderers]

Oh, hey! Good morning. It was nice to meet you and your adorable dog yesterday! Hope you made it home yesterday before it started raining 🙂

[@sasvaruk]

is it possible to take the train or bus between two cities, and rent the bikes at the destination ?

[@minhtannguyen1905]

Yep, totally doable. There're buses going everywhere and bike rentals mostly in every big city.

[@primzilledingyv9299]

these cops are xactly the same as my country , what a shame bt happens daily in my country to both locals and internationals , feel so bad for you and what a blight on Vietnam traffic cops. Good to see you look so well after your dad, what a lovely couple you are.

[@expandingtravels6856]

Lol cops remind me of Bali same thing goes on there. Certainly doing some long days.

[@QuanDev2]

Lol I kept staring at the hotdog at 10:21, not knowing it was a hotdog, and kept asking myself "is that what I think it is?"

[@OnePackWanderers]

😂🤣😂

[@mickphillips6855]

Wot time of year did you guys travel across Vietnam??

[@OnePackWanderers]

May & June

[@tomdiesen4767]

I live in Vietnam and have been stopped a bunch of times in Ho Chi Minh. Each time there was a good reason. Each time i show them an international license, and 200 local yuan. They take the 200 and I am on my way. Simple.

[@aussie_granny]

Like your new haircut

[@yenlawong6605]

That’s so embarrassing!!! One time my nephew drove my husband and I to airport and we got in the same situation. My nephew had to give them $ even he didn’t do anything wrong. But don’t let that effect you trip. Have fun and be safe 💕

[@thuytruong1020]

We’ve dealt with corruptions at the airport over there. They wouldn’t let us through unless we slipped them a $20 bill.

[@KhuongNguyen-ym9pl]

I’m so sorry about the police officers in Vietnam. I’m a Vietnamese, and it happened with me and my friends couple times. I believe that problem never stop in VietNam. You didn’t do anything wrong, they just tried find some nonsense reasons and ask money about it. I don’t know that you guys still in Viet Nam or not, if yes i think this tip will help you guys and maybe for someone else that want to travel in Vietnam in future. Tip: when you travel by a Motorcycle, just keep about 200k Vietnamdong ( around 10$) in your wallet ( tell your friend and family as well, and the person seat behind should not carry money). So when the police officers pull over, and ask for the money just tell them like:” I use credit card all the time. I have not much cash in wallet.” So If they take it, you just lose around 10$ instead of 30$ or more. Hopefully this will help you a little bit. Please don’t hate Vietnam and people in there just because of few bad people.

[@nguyenpham7965]

This is the "in house rules" for all traffic cops in Vietnam. All traffic cops have to pay hefty amount to get that traffic slots which pull people over. Also dont try to talk about laws and regulations with them, there is NONE.. Now they have to pull over as much as they could to recoup that upfront money and "monthly fees" to their higher ups otherwise they would be removed to desk or admin jobs. This rule will apply to every single branches and offices in Commie Viet government. There is no IG (Inspector General) or authorities for people to file complaints or reports. Money talks

[@32bitscolor]

Can you guys tell the exact location you get this situation? Street name, province name please!

[@graytohson]

Are you guys the cutest couple or what! Love to you Tia!

[@MillaExplores]

Oh man, I'm really sorry to see you have to deal with corrupt cops, that sucks! Not all days traveling can be perfect, but I'm glad you show some of the less good things too. I always enjoy watching your vlogs! 😊

[@datgal2u]

The cops weren't in the wrong in pulling them over. Tia does not have a license to ride that bike, she just learned to ride on the trip. I don't know if the other two have proper license or not, but it's also possible that Chev's dad may not be licensed to drive such a motorcycle.

[@OnePackWanderers]

We all have international driving licenses. After I kept pointing that out through Google Translate, the officer switched the accusation over to speeding 😅

[@OnePackWanderers]

Thanks, Milla! Overall it was still a great day 🙂

[@datgal2u]

@@OnePackWanderers Thanks for clarifying, but based upon my googling, if you're from the US, you are driving illegally there as the US isn't on the map as one of the countries that signed for the 1968 convention per the article I found on itourvn (tried to link you to both articles, but Google won't post my comment). Also another article from there mentioned that you're only allowed to drive the class for which your license permits, so no, even IF the US license was accepted, Tia doesn't have a motorcycle license. And as foreigners, you guys will stand out and easier to spot and target, just like a fancy red sports car in the US.

[@jomontanee]

@@datgal2u They could ride in Thailand with their international licenses just fine. Think about it, bro.

[@banhcuondj9690]

Often the violations of tourists, the police will remind and let go. being Vietnamese, it's embarrassing to know that they openly accept bribes like this

[@positiveworld-view8677]

Thanks for this info

[@hungnguyen9262]

Openly accept? Brazenly accepted by those "enforcers". Such an assholes!

[@danielhuynh8264]

They are not accepting bribe they were asking for it. It's countryside and people are doing it tougher than in big cities. I think that maybe the reason. If you live in big cities it's always better to get a ticket and go pay it later, to make it count. But in this case I don't think they really have a choice as their bikes will be impounded due to inappropriate licenses.

[@thethaovatoquoc312]

Embarrassing if you don't think circumspect foreign tourists can do simple research online, especially in the information age with readily available information about any topics online. That's why for every 1% that wants to stay, 99% want to get out of this Commie sh*thole whenever they can, as evidenced by 39 ill-fated lives found in UK container truck recently on the news (and that's only what's been reported), unfortunately. Search "Công An Ăn Hối Lộ" to see more of Vietnamese Commie cop routinely forces citizens to pay bribes. Search "cướp đất dân" to see millions of footages of how ruthless and brutal the Vietnamese Commie regime rob lands and houses of Vietnamese citizens, all over the country, from North to South, spanning for decades, since 1953 when Commie Chinese puppet & terrorist Ho Chi Minh started his deadly land-reform (1953-1956) that killed about 1 million North Vietnamese citizens to rob their lands and properties.

[@thethaovatoquoc312]

@@danielhuynh8264 Bingo! The corrupt Vietnamese Commie cops blatantly demand bribes, and openly blackmail drivers by threat of impounding the vehicles, which they actually proceed if not paid.

[@คนปอนๆด์]

ชอบที่ทั้งสองยิ้มได้เสมอ รักนะครับจากไทยแลนด์

[@iuvnkyo]

Sorry for this unhappy moment. I also feel disgusted with those corrupted cops. You may report to the authority to get them punished. And always have a driving license to get avoid from these kinds of things. Wish you best!

[@THƯƠNGNHỚ1303]

The law in Vietnam allows you to record videos while the government is on duty. If the Vietnamese police make mistakes, you can send the video to the government or the embassy! I think you guys are wrong so can't complain about this? I don't know what your country's law is? but Vietnam's law requires you to have a driver's license and wear a helmet!

[@iuvnkyo]

@@THƯƠNGNHỚ1303 do not mismatch the cops with the drivers. Even the drivers are breaking the law, they still can report this behavior of the cop!

[@THƯƠNGNHỚ1303]

@@iuvnkyo do not worry! The US embassy in Vietnam is very strong and has a strong voice! If the police are wrong, please contact them, if you are careless, the Vietnamese government will not make it difficult for you.

[@btan3495]

What licence did you use while traveling in Vietnam? I think only the local licence and the international driving licence would be valid.

[@OnePackWanderers]

We each have an international driving license. The charge was ultimately switched to a speeding fine. I think we were going to pay a fine for something the moment we were stopped 😅 At the end of the day though it’s just how things work in Vietnam and we’ll be sure to learn from this in regards to where we keep our money.

[@thomasschumacher5362]

International license is not accepted in Vietnam

[@datgal2u]

@@thomasschumacher5362 Yep, especially if your country is not part of the 1958 convention agreement. If they go to itourvn, they'll see two articles that addresses 1) they are driving illegally (the US isn't part of the 1968 convention) and 2) assuming their country is part of the 1968 convention, their license is only valid for the class it's issued for in your country (Tia for sure isn't issued a motorcycle license as she just learned to drive on this trip).

[@btan3495]

@@thomasschumacher5362 Thanks for the info.

[@btan3495]

@@OnePackWanderers I've been to Vietnam quite a few times. I do see them do these stops quite often. I think they do take the opportunity to ask for money when they find an issue. I am not sure if they will make up issues per se, but I have no evidence of that. However, I do know of payments being made (for what reasons, etc is unknown - I know of payment to an immigration officer I once saw while leaving Vietnam, and payments made to facilitate contract acceptance). With respect to traffic stops, I have seen foreigners stopped at let go at such stops. I believe Thomas Schumacher had mentioned that international licences are not allowed. I can check with my Vietnamese friends if you want. That could be the reason for them asking you to pay an amount instead of them imposing whatever the law allows them to. Would you like me to ask my Vietnamese friends? I am from Singapore, by the way... your stop just before Vietnam. I never tried riding in Vietnam (always used a grab, etc) because of their traffic (in cities) and I would imagine a whole lot of issues if there ever was an accident. However, Vietnam has a lot of nice places to offer. While you are in central Vietnam, you can consider the caves at Phong Nha. They have the largest cave systems in the world there (#1 Song Doung Cave system and #2 Phong Nha Cave system). The Song Doung Caves are expensive (believe run by an Australian company and requires rappelling into the cave - there are beautiful pictures to gauge) but Phong Nha cave system (think includes caves like the dark caves) are affordable and still very nice. You might want to consider visiting. It's northwest of Danang, after Hue (which is also beautiful and I'm sure it's on your list already).

[@Emerald214]

I think you won't be able to avoid this situation again if your driving license is still considered illegal in Vietnam. What some Vietnamese people do is to give the police around 200k every time they get pulled over due to some violation. I know it sounds a little bit corrupting but it is how the system works. I think it's similar to tipping in America. I found it weird to have to tip waiters in the US although I already paid for my dish; otherwise, they will get upset. You may also think about it like a kind of travel fee. Hope you will have a great time!

[@thethaovatoquoc312]

LOL what a clown to compare Vietnamese Commie regime's massive corruption to tips to waiters in the West!

[@Windtalkerzz]

According to the 1968 convention, international driving license is accepted in Vietnam. It is legal.

[@kevinnguyen2729]

Now I realize that tipping is similar to bribery. Wow! Thanks for clarifying that.

[@OnePackWanderers]

Hahaha this is a great way to explain it. We will definitely try and be better with the negotiations if it happens again 😅

[@liem2011]

ngay cả khó khăn, nụ cười vẫn nở trên môi của bạn. Hi vọng đây là chuyến đi thú vị nhất của các bạn cho vùng đất nhiệt đới nóng ẩm, mưa nhiều :v

[@ThuanLe-mj3vs]

in mind opinion, for the southern of central Vietnam it is kinda not really the best choice for your journey. it would have been better if you two ride along with the 1A highway, i mean the Pacific Ocean on the right side ( with some gorgeous bays)of the street and mountains are right on the other side that make you be slower to go (for enjoying the landscape instead). Moreover, 1A highway has not only diverse climate and geographical situations (desert, hills and moutain passes, and so on) but also better quality of street that help your journey be safer. Enjoy and ride safe!

[@mikavova85]

im sure you have your reasons but looks like yer skipping hoi an? if you get a chance, i highly recommend stopping in hoi an if only for an afternoon.. its one of the best and charming cities in vn

[@paulreportingliv]

So what do you mean when you say you don’t have the right drivers license? Do you mean you don’t have a motorcycle license or you don’t have an international license?

[@OnePackWanderers]

It's been discussed at length in the comments but the gist of it is, no US-issued document allows an American to ride legally in Vietnam. The two countries never signed the same international agreement. So yep, that's the long and short pretty much. However that being said, the law works differently in Vietnam and basically if you get stopped, you are paying some sort of fine - regardless of whatever the law says. When we produced international driving permits (which admittedly aren't legal), the crime was simply switched to speeding (we weren't). I hope that gives you a clearer picture.

[@tankietnguyen1222]

Lại trời mưa haha chúc 3 bạn hạnh phúc

[@yuth66666]

come back to cambodia some day

[@OnePackWanderers]

We certainly will 🙂

Ok, let’s hope that was only time. But I think that on a long trip , you might run into a few stops like that.

[@kevinthailand2567]

Corrupt Vietnam. One reason I avoid touring there. Had some horrible experiences there and don't intend to ever go back.

[@jomontanee]

Have you ever encountered this in Thailand? If so what can we improve (I am Thai)?

[@AussieTVMusic]

This reminds me of driving around Thailand in the 80s with my girlfriend. They kept talking to my GF in Thai like she was a local and people were staring at her all the time. I asked the guy at the hotel and he told me that they thought she was a famous actor from TV. He showed me a picture of her and I was stunned that she did look exactly like her. The thing is that My GF isn't even Asian, she is half greek lol.

[@jasonworldwide]

Smart, experienced travelers...dummy wallet and hide the bulk of your money👍 I see Tiger Crystal in da house, this time! Not bad! But hey, my favorite beer in vn is called Zorok. Green can, and can usually find it in VinMart, Circle K, etc. Maybe give it a try and do it on video! Cheap lager, but good. I miss...

[@lamphilu]

Sorry to see you were ''fined'' by the police. Did they give you a receipt? Anyway it is very good video which would entice me into such a journey that I have never been able to do myself. Enjoy your tour of Vietnam. Thanks.

[@cdtran453]

Bribery is the game they play everywhere especially in the country side

[@tankietnguyen1222]

Vnch đây rồi, nên về VN học luật nhé, đừng nên nhìn vào thời 1954 tới 1974 SG nhé

[@kibu2008]

Sorry guys for the big annoyances of these policemen's way of robbing Vietnamese and tourists alike. It is a problem and we have been living with it for too long and got used to it as much as raining. It is sad for us! I very much like your great spirits, especially shown from your dad. Safety is first and happiness too! I wish you a great trip and see more beautiful things.

[@jerryle379]

To Vietnamese just don't pay coffee money , pay the fine . People wanted thing fast and pay coffee money then later complain 🤯🤔,I always demand fines and sign the paper took more time and some time more expensive but it help reducing corruption .

[@karenpratt8665]

I always have a second wallet incase hasselt in markets small.amount in £20 in what ever currency country your in xx

[@thangnguyen5765]

You three have the right attitude and are made for traveling. Feel bad that you ran into ***holes that really give Nam bad representations. Generally, Vietnamese are warming and generous, but of course there are those criminals in uniforms. Keep up with creating great content, we really enjoying living through your experiences in VN. Safe travels!

[@thethaovatoquoc312]

None taken if there is no good representation in the first place. Corruption in Commie Vietnam is widespread, from top to bottom of the regime. That's why for every 1% that wants to stay, 99% want to get out of this Commie sh*thole whenever they can, as evidenced by 39 ill-fated lives found in UK container truck recently on the news (and that's only what's been reported), unfortunately. Foreign travelers can always search "công an Ăn hối lộ" to see more of Vietnamese Commie cop routinely forces citizens to pay bribes. Then search "cướp đất dân" to see millions of footages of how ruthless and brutal the Vietnamese Commie regime rob lands and houses of Vietnamese citizens, all over the country, from North to South, spanning for decades, since 1953 when Commie Chinese puppet & terrorist Ho Chi Minh started his deadly land-reform (1953-1956) that killed about 1 million North Vietnamese citizens to rob their lands and properties.

[@animatran]

Anh Thang is so right! Stay positive and don’t let those corrupted pigs ruin your trip ❤️🌈! Safe Travel!

[@duongnhdn]

So these guys were driving illegally and somehow the cops were the bad guys here? Get a load of this guy.

[@mmaranta785]

That’s an old fashioned shakedown. Decoy wallet is a good idea.

[@HungNguyen-ee4xi]

I'm so sorry that you had to deal with the policies (the not nice ones imo). If it makes you feel any better, it's not just you, the locals have to deal with them the same way. In Vietnam, we call those police stations the "speed trap", and they lure everyone in without good attention. When I was young, I traveled with my dad a lot and we had to deal with them In every city and province that we went through, at some point, we remembered all the locations of all the police stations and how much money we needed for each. I'm sorry that you had to see that ugly side of Vietnam. Oh and next time, only put 200k (~$10) in your decoy wallet.

[@hoangthiennn2939]

I know encountering the police is unfortunate, but in reality, when you don't have a driver's license it is normal to get fined. Many people blame the police when they receive money, but in reality you are also not willing to follow the law and pay a fine 2-3 times higher, including being impounded. So those who comment with comments cursing the police are indeed thinking in a kind of double standard. Personally, I feel that you are also quite lucky because you did not encounter many checkpoints on such a long distance. Let's learn from experience, set aside an amount of 300k-500k in your pocket to be ready for similar incidents. If you encounter checkpoints that are too close together (20-40km) you can say that you have been fined before. It was also an experience, good luck to you all :))))

[@OnePackWanderers]

We do all have international driving licenses, and the charges were ultimately changed to speeding tickets when we argued about the licenses. But honestly, you are right that the best thing to do is treat it as a learning experience and move on 🙂 We all have decoy wallets now.

[@NguyenThanhTam26988]

@@OnePackWanderers thực ra lỗi của bạn là lỗi chạy quá tốc độ và họ có quyền dừng bạn lại để kiểm tra giấy phép lái xe, nếu bạn có giấy phép hợp lệ thì họ sẽ không phạt tiền giấy phép của bạn. Các lỗi thông thường khi lái xe ở Việt nam là: không có gương chiếu hậu, rẽ trái rẽ phải không bật đèn tín hiệu xin đường, chạy quá tốc độ trong khu vực có biển báo hạn chế tốc độ… tất cả các lỗi trên họ đều có quyền dừng xe bạn lại để kiểm tra giấy phép lái xe của bạn, nếu bạn không có giấy phép ngoài các lỗi bạn đã bị phạm họ sẽ phạt bạn thêm lỗi không có giấy phép .

[@somkiatthan]

What a day huh, cheer

[@kimchitran6690]

I live in Australia and know that International Driving Permits (IDP) are not accepted in Vietnam. We have used our IDPs in Thailand and Indonesia. To legally drive a motorcycle with your IDPs you must have a motorcycle licence in your own country and have that listed on the IDP. This could have been must worse for you guys. Dad has his motorcycle licence, Tia doesn’t, not sure about Chev. But in any case it’s not accepted in Vietnam unfortunately.

[@jomontanee]

Wow! Thank you for kind clarification.

[@Bikepacking]

No plan the best plan go with the flow don’t try to rush don’t try to fit to much in you ended up missing everthing

[@OnePackWanderers]

We film every other day, there’s a lot that doesn’t make it to KZbin. And can’t take it too slow when your visa is running up 😂🤣

[@matthewqtran1318]

Taking it slow on these small roads is the right way to go. People treat them as an extension of their property so will let kids and livestock roam all over. Dawn and dusk are prime time as people (and their animals) are commuting to/from their homes. Try to stay positive and enjoy your trip.

[@LDboliem82]

That's the problem still happens in Vietnam: Corruption! Sorry for three of you have been encountered it which can be a bad experience for for adventure in Vietnam. By the way, your dad is so cute? Is he single? I live in Virginia and single too. Hopefully I will encounter him one day if he visits this state. ☺️.

[@pohanahawaii]

👍 LOL

[@anhvu7368]

@@pohanahawaii lol

[@datgal2u]

KZbin is now the new Tinder. 🤣

[@LDboliem82]

@@datgal2u I think sometimes in life, we need to be honest with ourselves what we have in minds 😇😁

[@Yru2noz]

I feel bad for you guys. That's part of traveling in Asia. Police sometimes are not your friend. Be safe and have fun on your travels. I was in VN 10 years ago, got pulled over by the cop because I went in the outside lanes on a motorbike. I knew what to do when they pulled me over. 1st question they asked me was my DL, I told him I left it at the hotel. I pulled 500k VND from my back pocket, and hopped back on my bike without saying anything and took off. It took about 15 seconds from the point they pulled me over and me hopping back on my bike. FYI I used to work in VN for many years, I know how the police operate there.