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Published on August 27, 2025
As Storm Kajiki nears central Vietnam and attendant safety considerations intensify, the United Kingdom has aligned with Canada, Australia and New Zealand in promulgating travel advisories. The system, previewed by meteorological forecasts, is calculated to deliver damaging winds, protracted heavy rainfall, and a concomitant threat of flooding and landslides. In parallel, travelers are cautioned to remain vigilant regarding petty theft in tourist zones and to exercise increased prudence on roadways, where conditions are particularly perilous during the seasonal rains. The United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, together with counterpart agencies, urges all prospective and current visitors to remain apprised of, and compliant with, the relevant advisories in order to maximise personal safety and facilitate effective contingency planning throughout the visit.
Travel advisories have recently been issued for Vietnam by several countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. These advisories come in the wake of Storm Kajiki, expected to impact the central regions of Vietnam, and highlight ongoing concerns about safety, crime, and travel disruptions. Each country has provided its citizens with specific guidelines to follow, ensuring a safe visit to Vietnam amidst the storm and other potential risks.

United Kingdom

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The United Kingdom’s travel advisory focuses on Storm Kajiki, which is anticipated to hit central Vietnam around 25 August. Cities including Hue, Thanh Hoa, Ha Noi, Ninh Binh, and Danang are expected to face heavy rainfall, high winds, and flooding, with an increased risk of mudslides in the days following the storm. Travelers are strongly urged to follow local authorities’ instructions and stay updated with weather forecasts.
The UK advisory further emphasizes the importance of securing appropriate travel insurance to cover any disruptions caused by the storm, including flight cancellations, transportation delays, and medical emergencies. Travelers are advised to avoid unnecessary travel in the affected areas and prepare for possible infrastructure disruptions, particularly in more rural areas.

Canada

In addition to weather concerns, Canada’s travel advisory highlights the persistent issue of petty theft in popular tourist destinations in Vietnam. Crimes such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and bag slashing occur frequently, especially in crowded markets, shopping centers, tourist sites, and public transportation hubs. The advisory notes that thefts are more common during high tourism seasons, such as Tet (Lunar New Year), when the influx of visitors increases.
The Canadian government advises travelers to secure their belongings, particularly passports and valuables, and to keep digital copies of important documents. Travelers should avoid carrying large sums of cash, expensive jewelry, or other valuables that may attract thieves. For safety, it is recommended that visitors stay in well-lit, populated areas, avoid isolated spots at night, and always be aware of their surroundings.

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While violent crime against foreigners is rare in Vietnam, travelers should be cautious of scams targeting tourists. The Canadian advisory stresses the importance of using authorized taxis and not accepting rides from unlicensed drivers, especially at airports or other transportation hubs.

Australia

Australia’s travel advisory for Vietnam is especially concerned with the impact of the rainy season (June to November), which brings floods, typhoons, and severe weather. These weather events can disrupt essential services and transportation networks, particularly in the central and northern regions of the country. The Australian government urges travelers to be alert when traveling by road, as traffic accidents are a major concern in Vietnam, with roads often crowded and driving conditions chaotic.
The advisory emphasizes the importance of road safety, urging visitors to ensure their rental vehicles are in good condition and to always wear safety helmets when riding motorbikes. In addition, travelers should exercise caution during the rainy season, as floods and other weather-related disruptions may cause delays or even make certain regions temporarily inaccessible.
Petty theft remains a concern in Vietnam, especially in tourist areas and on public transportation. The advisory recommends travelers to carry minimal valuables, avoid isolated areas, and be mindful of potential snatch-and-grab incidents by thieves on motorcycles. If traveling by ATMs, it is advised to only use machines located in banks or shopping malls for added security.

New Zealand

New Zealand’s travel advisory also outlines concerns related to road safety and scams, especially for those unfamiliar with the chaotic driving conditions in Vietnam. Motorcycle theft and scams targeting tourists, such as fake taxi services and unauthorized airport transfers, are of particular concern. New Zealanders are advised to arrange airport transfers directly through their hotel or use authorized taxis to avoid falling victim to scams.
The advisory also warns about the risks of unexploded landmines in former battlefields, particularly in central Vietnam and areas along the Laos border. Although landmines are not commonly found in major tourist areas, rural regions and unmarked paths can pose a serious danger. Visitors are advised to stay on paved roads and avoid traveling through remote areas, especially when signs indicate the potential presence of landmines.
In addition to these safety concerns, the New Zealand advisory emphasizes the importance of securing valid visas and ensuring that the visa details match the information on the passport. Any discrepancies could result in issues at immigration and denial of entry.

General Travel Safety Recommendations for Vietnam

Across all four travel advisories, travelers are reminded to secure valid visas before entering Vietnam. Visa errors, such as incorrect spelling of names or mismatched passport details, could lead to entry denial. It is recommended that travelers double-check their visa details well in advance to avoid complications at immigration.
The rainy season and the potential for natural disasters, such as typhoons and flooding, remain key concerns, particularly during the months between June and November. Travelers are advised to stay updated on local weather conditions and follow the advice of local authorities to mitigate risks.
To further ensure safety, travelers are encouraged to keep copies of their travel documents, including their passport, visa, and emergency contact information, both digitally and in physical form. This practice is particularly important in the event of theft, travel disruptions, or other emergencies.
Travelers should also be cautious of scams, particularly those involving unlicensed taxis, card skimming at ATMs, and other tourist-focused schemes. Using authorized transport services and avoiding poorly-lit or isolated areas, particularly after dark, can help minimize the risks associated with such scams.
The travel alerts issued by the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand serve as crucial reminders for travelers planning a trip to Vietnam. While the country offers incredible cultural experiences, beautiful landscapes, and rich history, there are certain risks associated with weather conditions, petty theft, and road safety that should not be ignored.
By following the advice laid out in these advisories, travelers can significantly reduce their risk and ensure a more enjoyable and safe experience while visiting Vietnam. Staying informed about local weather conditions, practicing caution in crowded tourist areas, and securing the necessary travel insurance are all essential steps toward a successful trip.
The United Kingdom has joined Canada, Australia, and New Zealand in issuing travel alerts for Vietnam due to the approaching Storm Kajiki, which poses risks of flooding, landslides, and severe weather, along with ongoing safety concerns in tourist areas.
Vietnam remains a top destination for travelers, and with proper planning and awareness, visitors can fully enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer while staying safe and protected.

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Tags: Australia, travel alert, United Kingdom, Vietnam

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