What Not to Do in Vietnam: Essential Tips for a Smooth and Respectful Trip

1. Don’t Disrespect Local Customs and Traditions

Vietnamese culture is rich with customs and traditions. Here’s how to show your respect:

• Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, are considered inappropriate in Vietnam. Keep your interactions private to respect local norms.

• Dress Modestly When Visiting Temples: When visiting religious sites, dress conservatively. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing. Opt for long pants and covered shoulders.

• Don’t Point Your Feet: In Vietnamese culture, feet are considered the lowest part of the body. Avoid pointing your feet at people or religious artifacts, as it’s considered disrespectful.

2. Avoid Tipping Excessively

Tipping is not a strong tradition in Vietnam, and while it’s appreciated, excessive tipping can be seen as unnecessary. Here’s the scoop:

• Leave a Small Tip: In restaurants and for services, leaving a small tip is appreciated but not expected. A few thousand VND or rounding up the bill is usually sufficient.

• Be Mindful in Tourist Areas: In tourist-heavy areas, tipping practices might be different. However, in local establishments, it’s best to stick with modest tips.

3. Don’t Disregard Traffic Rules

Traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic, especially in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Here’s how to stay safe:

• Don’t Ignore Traffic Signals: Even if you’re in a hurry, make sure to follow traffic signals and crosswalks. Traffic can be unpredictable, so always stay alert.

• Avoid Jaywalking: Cross streets at designated crosswalks and wait for traffic to clear. Jaywalking can be dangerous and lead to accidents.

4. Don’t Overlook Local Etiquette

Understanding local etiquette will make your interactions smoother:

• Don’t Touch People’s Heads: In Vietnamese culture, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Avoid patting or touching people’s heads, especially children’s.

• Avoid Raising Your Voice: Speaking loudly or arguing in public is considered impolite. Keep your tone calm and respectful in conversations.

5. Don’t Forget to Use Your Right Hand

In Vietnam, the right hand is traditionally used for giving and receiving items. Here’s the proper way:

• Use Your Right Hand: When handing money, gifts, or even shaking hands, use your right hand. If you’re using both hands, ensure your right hand is the primary one.

6. Avoid Drinking Tap Water

While Vietnam has made strides in improving water quality, it’s still best to stick with bottled water:

• Stick to Bottled Water: To avoid any stomach issues, always drink bottled water and make sure the seal is intact before purchasing.

• Use Boiled or Filtered Water: If bottled water isn’t available, ensure the water you drink is boiled or properly filtered.

7. Don’t Bargain Aggressively in Markets

Bargaining is common in markets, but there’s a polite way to do it:

• Bargain Fairly: While haggling is part of the shopping experience, avoid being overly aggressive or disrespectful. Offer a fair price and be willing to compromise.

8. Avoid Discussing Sensitive Topics

Some topics are best avoided to steer clear of uncomfortable conversations:

• Refrain from Political Discussions: Avoid discussing sensitive political topics or conflicts related to Vietnam’s history. Stick to neutral and friendly conversations.

• Respect Historical Sensitivities: Be mindful of the historical context and avoid making jokes or comments about past conflicts or sensitive issues.

9. Don’t Overlook Health Precautions

Staying healthy is key to enjoying your trip:

• Avoid Street Food from Unsanitary Places: While street food is delicious, ensure you choose vendors that maintain good hygiene. Avoid eating food from stalls with questionable cleanliness.

• Be Cautious with Raw Foods: Raw foods, especially seafood, can pose health risks. Opt for cooked dishes to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.

10. Don’t Forget to Learn Basic Vietnamese Phrases

A little effort goes a long way in building rapport:

• Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing a few basic Vietnamese phrases, like “hello” (Xin chào) or “thank you” (Cảm ơn), can go a long way in making interactions smoother and more enjoyable.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll navigate Vietnam like a pro and make the most of your adventure. Enjoy the vibrant culture, incredible food, and warm hospitality that this beautiful country has to offer. Happy travels and see you in Vietnam!

Safe travels! 🌟🍜✈️