Traffic Jams
It's scary. It's iconic. It's photo-worthy.
Traffic congestion in Vietnam is most frequently observed in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, where locals have adapted to heavy traffic and may even find themselves nostalgic for it when traveling elsewhere.
There is no definitive timetable for when traffic jams occur, but they are particularly severe during rush hours when commuters are eager to get to work or return home. In addition to peak hours, expect congestion between 9 am to 10 am and 3 pm to 4 pm, particularly as motorbikes navigate through narrow streets. Rainy weather exacerbates the situation, often leading to flooding that makes getting a taxi nearly impossible. On average, standstills last around 30 minutes, while the most severe congestion can extend to about 2 hours, which is manageable compared to other global cities.
Traffic Jams in Saigon - Photo: Vietnamnet
The rise in car ownership combined with poorly planned road development has worsened the traffic situation. However, what's most frustrating for many is how drivers behave amidst the congestion. Many ride their motorbikes onto sidewalks rather than waiting patiently, others continually honk their horns to urge vehicles ahead to move, and shouting is a common response. Fortunately, cyclists can usually carry their bikes and weave through the gridlock with relative ease.
Traffic Jam in Hanoi - Photo: Zing News
Not everyone views traffic congestion negatively; in fact, it often serves as a practical excuse when one is running late. Moreover, it has become a popular topic for casual conversation, akin to discussions about the weather. So why not embrace it? It is undeniable that winters would seem duller and less vibrant without the chatter that traffic jams inspire.
Do you know?
- Hanoians and Saigonese have distinct terms for traffic congestion: in the South, it is referred to as "kẹt xe" (jammed vehicles), while in the North, it is known as "tắc đường" (congested road).
- If you're planning to travel, try to avoid the first and last days of major Vietnamese holidays such as Tết and the long weekend from April 30 to May 2, when many locals are traveling to and from their home towns.
- Be sure to allocate plenty of time for travel if your flights coincide with rush hours—it can take up to 1 hour for the 7km journey from District 1 to Tân Sơn Nhất Airport.
