Shopping

Can you claim a VAT refund in Ho Chi Minh City for an opened or activated iPhone?

For a VAT refund, an iPhone is formally expected to be unused, and customs may match its model and serial number to the invoice. An opened box is not always refused, but an activated or used phone is risky; confirm that the shop provides the complete VAT-refund paperwork before buying.

1 source · 15 days ago

Where can I buy affordable fresh mango near Vinhomes Grand Park in Ho Chi Minh City?

Look for street fruit vendors just outside Vinhomes Grand Park: mango was reported at VND 35,000–40,000. The mapped stall also sells melons, bananas, mandarins and dragon fruit.

1 source · 17 days ago

Where can I buy shisha tobacco, charcoal and tobacco sticks in Ho Chi Minh City?

According to travelers in September 2026, shisha tobacco and charcoal for home use are hard to find in Ho Chi Minh City itself: one couple searched the whole city and found no shop. In the discussion, ordering Darkside and other blends by delivery from Hanoi was suggested instead. Shisha at Ho Chi Minh City lounges costs at least VND 600,000, according to the same report.

1 source · 25 days ago

Can travelers bring or use vapes, IQOS devices, or hookahs in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam?

No. Since 1 January 2025, Vietnam has banned the import, sale, possession, transport, and use of vapes, IQOS devices, heated-tobacco sticks, and hookahs. Devices may be confiscated at the border, and possession or use can result in a VND 3–5 million fine.

1 source · 25 days ago

How to order computer parts from AliExpress or Chinese marketplaces to Ho Chi Minh City: customs taxes, delivery and collection

Ordering electronics from China to Ho Chi Minh City may involve an emailed customs declaration and a separate tax payment. One roughly US$300 electronics order incurred around VND 1.5–2 million in tax; computer parts are often easier to buy locally or through Shopee Vietnam.

1 source · 32 days ago

Where to buy electronics in Ho Chi Minh City — best stores and chains?

To buy electronics in Ho Chi Minh City, participants repeatedly pointed to Vietnam-wide chains between June and September 2026: The Gioi Di Dong, Dien May Xanh, FPT Shop, Nguyen Kim, CellphoneS, Phong Vu, Viettel Store, Hoang Ha Mobile, Di Dong Viet, MediaMart and TopZone. For cameras and specialist gear they named Binh Minh Digital, Le Bao Minh, VJShop and ZShop, for online shopping Lazada and Shopee, and for Apple the authorized reseller list on Apple's official website.

2 sources · 17 days ago

Where to buy quality women's clothing and linen in Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho Chi Minh City has great options for natural fabric clothing at Ben Thanh Market, An Dong Market, and small boutiques in Districts 1 and 3. For discounted branded clothing, check local markets and outlet stores instead of malls.

2 sources · 107 days ago