Vietnam, a country rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, offers travelers a diverse and vibrant experience. To fully immerse yourself in this Southeast Asian gem, understanding the dos and don’ts can significantly enhance your journey. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi, you must adhere to Vietnamese culture and practices. You’re traversing the serene landscapes of Ha Long Bay, or tasting the diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. You must adhere to Vietnamese culture and practices. Here, we delve into a comprehensive guide of dos and don’ts for navigating Vietnam.
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What you should do
1. Dress modestly
Vietnamese culture is body-aware, which means wearing clothes that are revealing might be disrespectful to others. Conservative dress is preferred, especially when visiting religious sites like pagodas temples, or rural communities, to show respect for local norms and Vietnamese customs.
2. Sample the Vietnamese street food culture
The bustling food stalls are eye-catching for tourists, and the food they sell is also mouth-watering. From savory pho to fresh spring rolls, you will find an array of delightful foods. Enjoy aromatic Vietnamese coffee. Exploring street food stalls and local eateries will offer an authentic gastronomic adventure. It’s not just a part of Vietnamese culture, it is a culinary experience that satisfies your taste buds.
3. Explore local and night markets
Vietnamese don’t usually buy food from the supermarkets. They believe that freshly picked vegetables and meat from the local markets are much more affordable. They also think these items are higher in quality. This combination gives the best dishes for the whole family. If you want to look for souvenirs, visit major local markets like Binh Tay Market and Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City. Also, explore Mo Market and Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi. These places offer all items at low prices.
Don’t forget to experience the night markets in Vietnam. It is the perfect gateway to interact with Vietnamese culture. You can meet locals and try delicious food. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the city itself.
4. Negotiate prices when shopping at local markets
Bargaining is part of Vietnamese culture. Approach it with a friendly attitude and politeness. Enjoy the process of haggling. Understand the value of the item. Do not push too hard if the price is fair. You might get a great deal on some unique items.
5. Carry small notes of cash
Generally, spending in Vietnam is cheap, and Vietnamese people mostly use cash or bank transfers. However, if you are traveling in Vietnam, cash is likely the only payment method that you have. Especially, when you go to small shop vendors or eat street food, it is recommended that you give sellers smaller notes for a smoother transaction.
6. Take off your shoes when visiting a friend’s house
Unlike Western culture, you should not wear shoes inside the house of a Vietnamese. Taking off shoes when entering a house or temple is a common Vietnamese culture to show respect. It also keeps the floor clean, as Vietnamese people tend to eat or sleep on the floor. This gesture will show that you are being considerate. It shows that you pay attention to the local customs. This way, you won’t be involved in any cultural misunderstanding.
7. Take Vietnamese lessons
It’s always to know some Vietnamese while in Vietnam. Not all Vietnamese people can communicate with foreigners using English, especially people from the past generation. When you speak even just a few words in Vietnamese, it can make a big difference in your interactions and show your respect for the local culture. Additionally, learning basic Vietnamese phrases can enhance your overall travel experience, as it opens up opportunities for deeper connections and a better understanding of the country and its people. Embracing the local language can also lead to unique encounters and a greater sense of immersion in the rich and diverse Vietnamese culture.
What you should not do
1. Don’t drink tap water, go for bottled water
Drinking tap water is not recommended. The water might contain harmful residue and pollutants. Stick to bottled water, which is widely affordable. Rural areas might even have lower-quality water, so make sure you always carry some water of your own and ask Vietnamese people for the best way to get clean water if you run out of water.Â
2. Don’t show affection in public
Vietnamese culture is quite conservative, so gestures showing love like kissing or embracing in public might not be accepted, especially by the elders. Make sure you limit these actions to avoid any uncomfortable eyes.Â
3. Don’t overuse plastic
It’s impossible to avoid if you are traveling in Vietnam, but as the country is suffering from a major problem of single-use plastic waste, you should limit your use of plastic by offering no plastic bags, or no plastic straws when going to restaurants and coffee shops.
4. Don’t disrespect the national flag or leader figure
Disrespecting the national flag or the country’s leaders is a serious offense in Vietnam, and it is not taken lightly. As a foreign visitor, it is important to be aware of this and avoid any behavior that may be interpreted as disrespectful towards these symbols of national pride and unity.
5. Don’t stop when crossing the road
Yes, Vietnamese traffic might look crazy, but if you keep walking, the vehicles will avoid you. Focus on your destination, and watch the flow of the traffic, but never stop or go back.
6. Don’t kiss Vietnamese on the cheeks to greet
In Western culture, greeting someone with a hug and kisses is common. However, in Vietnamese culture, the people only use words, wave hands or shake hands to greet. Avoid making close physical contact with Vietnamese as it may shock them. You should do it when you have known each other for a while.
Vietnam’s beauty lies not only in its landscapes but also in its diverse culture and traditions. By adhering to these dos and don’ts, travelers can ensure a more enriching and respectful experience in this captivating country. Embrace the warmth of the people. Savor the exquisite cuisine. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Vietnam’s heritage while being mindful of cultural sensitivities. Traveling responsibly and respectfully allows for a deeper connection with the essence of Vietnam, creating unforgettable memories.