My Curious Exploration of Ho Chi Minh’s “Casino” Scene: A Traveller’s Honest Guide
Hey there, fellow wanderluster! It’s me again, back from another adventure, and this time I’m unpacking my bags from the vibrant, chaotic, and utterly captivating city of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. Before my trip, a few friends jokingly asked if I was going to “hit the casinos in Ho Chi Minh.” That question stuck with me because it’s a topic shrouded in a bit of mystery and misconception.
So, I decided to do a little digging. What I discovered wasn’t the Las Vegas-style strip you might imagine, but a fascinating glimpse into what is and isn’t legal, and how this bustling metropolis entertains its visitors and residents. Join me as I break down everything I learned about Ho Chi Minh and casinos.
So, Are There Casinos in Ho Chi Minh City?
Let’s get the big question out of the way first. The short answer is no, there are no legal land-based casinos in Ho Chi Minh City itself.
Vietnam has strict gambling laws. Generally, gambling is illegal for Vietnamese citizens. However, the government has made exceptions to boost tourism in specific locations. These licensed casinos are located in designated resorts, far from the major city centres, and are primarily aimed at foreign passport holders.
While you won’t find a flashing casino marquee on District 1’s backpacker street, Bui Vien, the concept of gambling and games of chance is present in a more local, low-key form.
What You Will Find: The Local Gaming Culture
Instead of roulette wheels and blackjack tables, the gaming spirit in Ho Chi Minh manifests in a few unique ways:
The Ubiquitous Lottery: The Xổ Số (lottery) is a huge part of life here. You’ll see tickets being sold on every corner, from elderly vendors on tiny stools to bustling kiosks. It’s a legal, state-run game that captures the hope and excitement of the nation. I even bought a ticket myself—for research, of course! (Spoiler: I didn’t win).
Social Card Games: Walk through any park in the evening, and you’ll see large groups of (mostly) men huddled around games of bài lá (playing cards). It’s a profoundly social activity, filled with laughter and intense concentration. The stakes are usually just for fun or incredibly low, making it more about community than cash.
The “Cá Cược Thể Thao” (Sports Betting) Shops: I noticed small, often discreet shops with TVs showing international football matches. These are licensed sports betting outlets where, again, only foreigners are legally allowed to place bets.
The Closest Legal Casinos for Tourists
If you’re a foreign passport holder with a valid visa and have your heart set on a traditional casino experience, you’ll need to take a short trip. The nearest options are integrated into large resort complexes.
Here’s a quick comparison of the most accessible ones from Ho Chi Minh City:
Casino Name Location Distance from HCMC Key Features
Corona Resort & Casino Phu Quoc Island 1-hour flight Largest in Vietnam, part of a massive integrated resort with a water park, shopping, and luxury hotels. A destination in itself.
The Grand Ho Tram Strip Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province ~2.5-hour drive A stunning beachfront resort complex with a world-class golf course, luxury accommodations, and a large gaming floor.
Aristo International Hotel Lao Cai (near Sapa) Not applicable from HCMC Serves the northern region, primarily for those crossing the border from China. A long way from Ho Chi Minh City!
As you can see, a casino trip requires planning. It’s not a casual evening out but rather a mini-excursion to a resort destination.
A Word of Caution: The Illicit Scene
During my explorations, I was occasionally approached by taxi drivers or touts whispering about “secret casinos” or underground poker games in the city. My advice? Steer clear.
A fellow expat I met for coffee put it perfectly: “Those places are not only illegal but can be dangerously unregulated. You’re risking a lot more than just your money. The legitimate options, while a trip away, exist for a reason—safety.”
The risks—from scams to outright theft or legal trouble—are far too high. The peace of mind that comes with sticking to legal, regulated environments is worth the extra travel time.
My Verdict: A Pleasant Surprise
Going in, I thought I’d be writing about flashy lights and jackpots. Instead, I discovered a city that finds its thrill in different ways: the communal hope of the lottery, the strategic fun of public card games, and the electric energy of a packed sports bar during a Premier League match.
Ho Chi Minh City doesn’t need casinos to be exciting. Its gamble is the sensory overload of crossing the street, the adventure of trying a new street food, and the reward of a breathtaking view from a rooftop bar. And that’s a bet I’m always willing to take.
Ho Chi Minh City & Casinos: Your FAQ Guide
Q1: Can Vietnamese citizens gamble in the casinos in Phu Quoc or Ho Tram? A: As of now, the policy is still being trialed. Generally, these casinos remain exclusively for foreign passport holders. There have been talks of allowing Vietnamese citizens to enter under specific conditions (like high entry fees), but it’s not yet a widespread practice. Always check the latest regulations.
Q2: What identification do I need to enter a casino in Vietnam? A: You must present your valid foreign passport. A driver’s license or other ID will not be accepted. They will check it thoroughly at the door.
Q3: Are the casino resorts worth visiting even if I don’t gamble? A: Absolutely! Places like The Grand Ho Tram Strip and the Corona Resort are designed as full-scale luxury destinations. They offer fantastic pools, beaches, world-class spas, incredible dining, and live entertainment. You can have a complete vacation without ever stepping onto the gaming floor.
Q4: Is there a dress code for casinos in Vietnam? A: Yes, most have a smart casual dress code. Avoid sleeveless shirts (for men), shorts, flip-flops, and sports attire. It’s best to dress to impress to ensure entry.
Q5: What is the legal gambling age in Vietnam? A: You must be at least 18 years old to participate in any form of legal gambling, including the lottery and entering casinos.
Have you visited any of the resort casinos in Vietnam? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below! Happy and safe travels