Traffic Rules in Vietnam

Chaos Reigns on the Street
Originally uploaded by richardinsale

DO NOT FOLLOW THE RULES AS FOR CAMBODIA!!!!!!!!

Before we get to the rules that apply to crossing roads in Saigon, it helps to understand the type of traffic, its volume and where it comes from in Saigon.

There are MILLIONS of motorbikes and mopeds. They fly at considerable speed from all directions in what can only be described as an ever present moto-tsunami. There are a smaller number of cars and buses, but again, they appear from all directions.

There are pedestrian crossings, but these serve no purpose other than making the streets look slightly prettier.

How to cross the road in Saigon:

1. Stand on the side of the road and look both ways at the same time.
2. Do not blink.
3. When you think there is a very slight gap for 1 metre in front of you, start crossing (the gap is merely an illusion but it makes you feel better to think that its really there).
4. Walk and observe traffic from all directions without blinking.
5. If you see something coming towards you, STOP immediately.
6. The traffic will pass you.
7. Repeat from step 1 until you get to the other side.
8. When you get to the other side, calm down and find a beer.