Did Tan Son Nhat Airport officer tried to bribe me?
I just arrived back in my country today, and I wanted to share my experience at Tan Son Nhat International Airport.
I forgot to place my boarding pass inside my passport, so when I handed my passport to the immigration officer, he suddenly tossed it back toward the window between us and shouted, “Boarding pass.” After I gave him my boarding pass, everything seemed fine, but he threw my passport back again afterward. I stayed polite and complied because I’m only a tourist and I respect Vietnam, but I found the behavior rude and unprofessional.
After immigration, I proceeded to baggage inspection where my luggage was flagged by an officer. I was asked to step aside for a bag check. The officer asked if I had any cash with me, and I replied that I mainly use my credit card and was not carrying cash. He then asked to check my wallet to confirm. In the end, he did not inspect my baggage and cleared me immediately. Until now I'm unsure why he flagged me. I assume it's a bribery or what they call "coffee money"
Because of that experience, I personally felt uncomfortable and unsure about the situation. My advice to fellow travelers is to stay calm, remain respectful, and be cautious when dealing with unexpected requests during inspections.
PS: I love vietnam so much and I would come back a thousand times. I've met a lot of good people in HCMC. Even the banh mi vender became my friend and gifted me a fan because it was hot in the streets 😂. Also, good good fooood. It's just sad to end my vietnam trip like that.