Vietnam Travel Tips: 16 dos and don'ts in Vietnam

Nestled in Southeast Asia, Vietnam beckons with a rich tapestry of destinations waiting to be discovered. From the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City to the enchanting streets of Hoi An and the historic allure of Hanoi, each locale offers its own unique charm and unforgettable experiences. To fully enjoy your journey through this vibrant country, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the local customs and traditions to avoid any cultural misunderstandings. While Vietnamese are generally very hospitable and forgiving, it's still important to be aware of certain dos and don'ts during your stay.

9 essential tips for your trip to Vietnam

When visiting Vietnam, it's important to be mindful of the local customs and traditions. From dressing appropriately to staying hydrated, here are nine key things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Dress appropriately 

Modesty in clothing is highly valued in Vietnam, especially for women. While the dress code in major cities might be more relaxed, it's still advisable to avoid wearing shorts, low-cut tops, or revealing dresses when out and about, particularly when visiting sacred places. Opt for more conservative attire when entering pagodas or temples, where proper dress is particularly appreciated.

Minimize flashy accessories and stay alert 

Avoid wearing too many flashy accessories, and always keep your bag in front of you or out of sight when walking on the street. Although Vietnam is generally considered a safe destination, theft can occur, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City. Staying vigilant with your belongings will help prevent any unfortunate incidents.

Keep your accommodation details handy 

Make sure to take a business card from your hotel’s reception desk. This will make it easier for you to return to your hotel by taxi or motorbike taxi, especially since not all drivers speak English and addresses can sometimes be confusing.

Stay hydrated 

The tropical heat in Vietnam, especially during the summer, can be intense, so always carry a bottle of water with you. While water is widely available for purchase, it’s best to buy from supermarkets or stores and ensure that the bottle is sealed.

Remove shoes before entering a local’s home 

Most Vietnamese people do not wear shoes inside their homes. Look out for cues, such as whether the homeowner is wearing shoes indoors or if there’s a shoe rack near the entrance. It’s customary to leave your shoes by the door.

Carry with you a roll of toilet paper 

You never know when you might need it. Many public restrooms in Vietnam do not provide toilet paper, so it’s wise to carry a roll with you to avoid any inconvenient situations.

Be ready to bargain

Don’t hesitate to negotiate at Vietnamese markets until you reach a price you're comfortable with. Locals might try to charge foreigners more, assuming they are unfamiliar with the language or true prices. However, a friendly smile and a polite approach can go a long way in getting a fair deal.

Try the Local Food 

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned as one of the best in the world. While enjoying the local delicacies, it’s a good idea to learn how to use chopsticks, as many food stalls don’t offer forks or knives. Also, remember that sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice is considered a bad omen, so avoid doing so during your stay.

Learn a few words of Vietnamese

It might seem daunting if you’re only staying for a few days, but as Nelson Mandela once said, "If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart." Locals will be delighted if you can manage simple phrases like “Cảm ơn” (Thank you) or “Xin chào” (Hello).

7 Things to avoid when traveling in Vietnam

Vietnam is a welcoming and safe destination, where the locals appreciate visitors who make an effort to respect their customs. To help you navigate your journey smoothly and avoid any awkward situations, here are seven things to avoid when visiting Vietnam.

Taking photos without permission 

While the Vietnamese are known for their warmth and hospitality, they generally prefer not to be photographed without consent. Always ask for permission before taking someone's picture, particularly in the historic town of Hoi An, where taking photos might even require a fee. Additionally, never take pictures of military zones, as this is considered a serious breach of national security and could land you in legal trouble.

Drawing unnecessary public attention 

Asian cultures, including Vietnam, tend to be more reserved compared to Western societies. Public displays of affection, such as hugging or kissing, are frowned upon and can even be seen as offensive. It’s best to save these gestures for private settings to respect local norms.

Panicking when crossing the street

Traffic in Vietnam, especially in bustling cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, can be overwhelming. Instead of panicking, which can increase your chances of an accident, be bold and decisive. Look straight ahead and make eye contact with drivers as you cross to safely navigate the chaotic streets.

Pointing your feet towards altars 

When visiting a local’s home, avoid sitting with your feet pointed towards the family altar, as this is considered disrespectful to their religious beliefs. Be mindful of your posture and the direction of your feet when you’re in someone’s home.

Speaking loudly in sacred places 

Silence is valued when visiting places of worship like pagodas, temples, or churches in Vietnam. To show respect, it’s best to keep quiet, join your hands in prayer like the locals, or stroll calmly through these sacred spaces.

Engaging in illegal activities 

If you’re looking to enjoy Vietnam’s nightlife, you’ll find plenty of fantastic bars and pubs in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. However, steer clear of drugs and prostitution, as both are strictly illegal in Vietnam. Involvement in these activities can lead to serious legal consequences.

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Bringing up the war 

The wounds of war still linger in the lives of many Vietnamese people. Discussing the war in casual conversation can evoke strong emotions or even aggression. It’s best to avoid this topic out of respect for the country’s painful history.

Vietnam warmly welcomes tourists from all walks of life, and locals greatly appreciate efforts to integrate and respect their customs. While they are generally forgiving of minor mistakes, following these guidelines will help you make the most of your experience and minimize any cultural missteps during your trip to Vietnam.

TOLUNHA

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