Traveling to Vietnam is an amazing experience. The food is incredible, the scenery is breathtaking, and the people are kind and welcoming. But like any country, Vietnam has its own customs and etiquette you should know about before you travel. Understanding these will show respect to locals and help you avoid any awkward situations. Here’s a quick guide to get you started.
Greetings
The way people greet you in Vietnam can depend on where you are. In cities, people might use a simple handshake, but in rural areas, a slight bow is more common. When shaking hands, always use both hands or support your right hand with your left.
It’s important to note that when shaking hands with elders, you might sometimes only get a nod or slight bow. Address them with extra respect by placing both hands together in a praying motion and bowing your head slightly. This shows humility and gratitude.
Honorifics Matter
Vietnamese people value polite language, especially when addressing someone older. Use “anh” for a slightly older man, “chị” for a slightly older woman, “ông” for an older man, and “bà” for an older woman. If someone is much younger than you, use “em” for both males and females.
Getting these terms right shows locals you respect them, and it’s a great way to build a good relationship.
Dress Code
While Vietnam is quite relaxed when it comes to clothing, there are a few customs to keep in mind, especially in temples or religious sites. Dressing too casually can be seen as disrespectful in such places, so cover your shoulders and knees. This usually means wearing a shirt with sleeves and either long pants or a skirt that goes below the knee.
In daily life, shorts and t-shirts are perfectly fine, especially in the hot, humid climate. However, if you’re visiting someone’s home or attending a formal event, dress more conservatively. Opt for simple, clean clothes and avoid showing too much skin.
Shoes in Homes
In Vietnam, people always remove their shoes before entering someone else’s home. This custom is a way to keep the house clean and show respect for the family. If you’re invited to someone’s house, take off your shoes at the entrance without being asked; it shows that you understand local customs. Some homes provide slippers for guests, so if you see those by the door, feel free to use them.
Body Language
Body language is important in Vietnam, and subtle gestures can carry a lot of meaning. Avoid touching anyone on the head, even children, as this is considered a sacred part of the body. Pointing with your finger can be seen as rude, so if you need to gesture, use your whole hand instead.
Sitting with your feet pointed directly at someone or a sacred object is also considered disrespectful. If you’re sitting on the ground, tuck your feet under your body or sit cross-legged. This is especially important in temples or at religious ceremonies.
Personal Space
Vietnamese culture tends to respect personal space, especially with strangers. Avoid standing too close to people you’ve just met, and try not to touch people unnecessarily. This is particularly true when interacting with older people. Even a light tap on the shoulder might make them uncomfortable.
Dining Etiquette
Food is a huge part of Vietnamese culture, and meals are often shared with family and guests. If you’re lucky enough to be invited for a meal, there are a few customs to keep in mind.
First, wait for the host to sit down and start eating before you dig in. In many cases, the eldest person will start the meal, and it’s polite to wait. If rice is served, it’s common for guests to fill their own bowl, but avoid overstuffing it. It’s better to take smaller portions and go back for more if you’re still hungry.
Chopstick Rules
Vietnamese people eat many meals using chopsticks, and they come with their own set of rules. Never stick your chopsticks upright into a bowl of rice; this resembles incense sticks that are offered to honor the dead, and it’s considered bad luck. Instead, place your chopsticks across the bowl or on the chopstick rest if it’s provided.
Also, don’t use chopsticks to point at people or pass food directly from one set of chopsticks to another. Both of these actions are considered impolite, and they should be avoided.
Paying the Bill
When dining out with locals, the person who initiated the meal often pays the bill. However, you can offer to split the cost, especially if you’re with younger folks. If eating with elders, don’t expect them to split the bill, and it’s polite to offer three times before finally accepting that they’ll treat you.
Gift Giving
In Vietnam, giving and receiving gifts is a significant social practice, especially during special occasions like Tết (Vietnamese New Year). If you’re invited to someone’s home, bringing a small gift is courteous. Typical gifts include fruit, cake, or tea. Avoid giving anything considered unlucky, like knives or scissors, which can symbolize cutting ties with that person.
When giving or receiving gifts, always use both hands to show respect. If you’re receiving a gift, don’t open it in front of the giver unless they encourage you to do so. Opening gifts privately is more common as it maintains modesty and avoids embarrassing the giver in case the gift is not well-received.
Religious Customs
Buddhism is the predominant religion in Vietnam, so you’ll see temples, shrines, and other religious sites throughout the country. When visiting any of these places, there are a few basic rules to follow to show proper respect.
Temple Etiquette
When you enter a temple, dress modestly. Most temples require you to cover your shoulders and knees, and some may even provide long robes if your clothing isn’t appropriate. Always remove your shoes before entering the main hall of the temple.
While inside, keep your voice down, even if the temple isn’t crowded. Avoid taking photos where they aren’t allowed, especially near sacred statues. If you want to make a donation, there will usually be a donation box. Place your money inside the box calmly and respectfully.
Monk Interaction
If you cross paths with a monk, remember that there are certain customs when interacting, especially for women. It’s respectful never to touch a monk, and women should avoid handing items directly to a monk. Instead, place it in their offering bowl or ask a man to hand it to them.
Monks are often part of ceremonies, especially in temples, so if you’re attending one, ensure you are respectful of their space and watch how locals respond. Bowing with your hands in a prayer position is a common form of respect for monks.
Negotiating and Bargaining
Bargaining is normal in Vietnam, especially in markets. While it can be fun, there’s an expectation to keep things friendly and not to push too hard. If possible, learn a few basic numbers in Vietnamese—it can go a long way in building trust.
However, avoid bargaining at big shops or tourist stores where prices are fixed. In small markets or street stalls, it’s okay to negotiate, but always maintain a smile and be willing to walk away if the price isn’t right.
Public Displays of Affection
While Vietnam is more relaxed than some countries, public displays of affection are still generally frowned upon. Holding hands is fine, but anything more is considered inappropriate, especially in rural areas. If traveling with a partner, try to keep this in mind when walking around or interacting with locals.
Conclusion
Vietnam is an incredible country with warm people and rich culture. By learning a few customs, you’re showing respect to the locals and making the most of your trip. It’s all about small gestures that bring big connections. Keeping these tips in mind will help you blend in and make your journey even more enjoyable.
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