Vietnam's streets are lively, and running on them takes some street smarts. These habits will keep you safe.

Be seen

Most group runs start in the dark. Wear bright or reflective clothing, and a small clip-on light or headlamp is cheap insurance. Motorbike riders expect other motorbikes, not runners.

Choose your route

  • Prefer parks, lakes, riverside paths, beach roads and new urban areas with wide pavements
  • Avoid main arterial roads at rush hour
  • Running with a club is the easiest way to learn safe local routes

Crossing the road

The famous rule for pedestrians applies to runners too: walk, don't run, across busy roads, at a steady, predictable pace, so riders can flow around you. Don't make sudden stops or changes of direction. Use pedestrian bridges and lights where they exist.

On the road

  • Run facing oncoming traffic where there is no pavement, so you can see what's coming
  • Watch for motorbikes on the pavement and coming out of alleys (hẻm/ngõ)
  • Watch out for wrong-way riders. Assume vehicles can come from any direction
  • Keep music low or use one earbud only

Carry the essentials

Phone, ID, a little cash and an emergency contact (add it to your phone's lock screen). The emergency numbers in Vietnam are 113 (police), 114 (fire) and 115 (ambulance).

Dogs

Some neighbourhoods have loose dogs. Slow down to a walk, don't stare, and give them space.

Group etiquette for safety

Run no more than two abreast, form a single file on narrow roads, and call out hazards ("motorbike!", "hole!") to the runners behind you.