20 TIPS DOS AND DON’TS WHEN YOU TRAVEL TO VIETNAM

Vietnam is a stunning and enthralling nation with hospitable citizens and a vibrant culture. There are some dos and don’ts in Vietnam that you should be aware of in order to maximize your experience and prevent any miscommunications or cultural gaffes. I will show you 20 valuable tips and advice to help you confidently navigate Vietnamese customs and etiquette.

10 Dos When You Visit Vietnam

1. Must try the street food, because it has affordable price and tasty.

Vietnam’s street food scene is renowned for its incredible flavors and affordability. From Cơm Tấm (Vietnamese broken rice) to aromatic Phở (noodle soup), Bánh Mì (Vietnamese bread), and crispy spring rolls, sampling street food is an essential part of experiencing Vietnamese culture. Street vendors often serve delicious meals at a fraction of the price you’d pay in a restaurant, and the food is freshly made right in front of you. Make sure to explore different stalls and try a variety of dishes to fully appreciate the local culinary delights.

The foundation of Ho Chi Minh City’s street food culture is embodied by the indispensable dish Pho

In Ho Chi Minh City’s street food scene, Com Tam is a favorite dish of locals and tourists.

Saigon bread – eat and remember

2. When visiting sacred sites such as temples, pagodas or churches, dress modestly

When visiting sacred sites such as temples, pagodas, or churches, it is important to dress modestly as a sign of respect. This means wearing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees; for example, opting for long pants or skirts and shirts with sleeves. Avoid wearing anything too revealing or casual like shorts or tank tops. This not only shows respect for the sacredness of the place but also aligns with the cultural norms of the local communities.

Remember to dress modestly when you visit sacred sites

3. When you enter a temple or someone’s home, remember to remove your shoes

In Vietnam, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering a temple, someone’s home, or certain traditional establishments. This practice is rooted in the respect for cleanliness and cultural etiquette. When you approach a temple or enter a private residence, you will often find designated areas for shoe removal. Make sure to follow this practice to show respect and to adhere to local customs.

4. Show respect for the people living there and their traditions

Vietnam is a country rich in traditions and cultural practices. It’s important to approach these with an open mind and show genuine respect. Whether it’s participating in local festivals, understanding traditional customs, or observing social norms, demonstrating respect for the local way of life will enhance your experience and foster positive interactions with the people you meet.

5. Use Vietnamese Dong with small denominations in order to transact easily

When handling money in Vietnam, it is convenient to use Vietnamese Dong (VND) in smaller denominations. This is especially useful in markets, street food stalls, and small shops where transactions are often for small amounts. It helps avoid the inconvenience of needing change and makes transactions smoother. Carrying a variety of small bills can also help you manage your budget more effectively. You can exchange money at exchange money stores near your hotel or at jewelry stores.

Vietnamese currency

6. Experience the local market

Vietnamese markets are vibrant and bustling with activity, offering a wide range of goods from fresh produce to handcrafted items. Visiting these markets allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with vendors, and discover unique products that might not be available in tourist shops. It’s a great way to experience the daily life of locals and find souvenirs that have a true sense of place.

Here are the top markets in Ho Chi Minh City: Ben Thanh Market, Tan Dinh Market, Binh Tay Market, and Ba Chieu Market. You can search for the locations of these markets on the internet or the Google Map.

Ben Thanh Market

Address: Le Loi Street, District 1.

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM (Ben Thanh Night Market) every day.

Tan Dinh Market

Address: No. 336, Hai Ba Trung Street, District 1.

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily

Binh Tay Market

Address: No. 57A, Thap Muoi Street, District 6.

Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 7:30 PM daily

7. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat and sunscreen

The tropical climate of Vietnam means it can get quite hot and sunny. To avoid sunburn and heat exhaustion, it’s wise to protect yourself by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, applying sunscreen with high SPF, and opting for light, breathable clothing. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water will help you stay comfortable and healthy during your explorations.

In summer, the temperature in Ho Chi Minh City ranges from 27 – 35C

8. Learn a few simple Vietnamese words to demonstrate your appreciation for the culture

You can travel more comfortably if you try to pick up a few simple Vietnamese words, such as greetings and polite expressions. It demonstrates respect for the community’s culture and may result in deeper conversations with the locals. Sayings such as “Xin chào” (Hello), “Cảm ơn” (Thank you), and “Tạm biệt” (Goodbye) are small yet meaningful gestures that leave a good impression.

9. Do plan ahead for traffic, particularly in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City

Traffic congestion is a common challenge in major Vietnamese cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The streets can be busy with motorbikes, cars, and other vehicles, so it’s essential to plan your travel time accordingly. Allow extra time for travel between destinations, and consider using local transportation options such as taxis or rideshare services to navigate the city efficiently.

10. Do bargain the costs when you go to markets.

Bargaining is a common practice in Vietnamese markets and is often expected. When shopping for goods, especially in local markets, don’t hesitate to negotiate the price with vendors. It’s a part of the shopping experience and can be a fun way to engage with locals. Approach bargaining with a friendly attitude and remember that it’s meant to be a positive interaction rather than a confrontation. Prices at the market can range from 20.000 to 60.000 VND (0.8 to 2.4 USD), so consider carefully before buying anything.

10 Don’ts when you visit Vietnam

1. Do not disrespect the nation’s leaders and the flag of the country

Vietnam has great reverence for its national leaders and symbols, including the flag. It’s imperative to refrain from saying or doing anything that could be interpreted as being disrespectful to them. This entails abstaining from disparaging political personalities or acting in a way that could be seen as defacing the flag of the country.

President Ho Chi Minh’s statue

2. Don’t take photos of people without their permission

While Vietnam offers many picturesque scenes, it’s important to ask for permission before taking photographs of individuals. This respect for personal privacy is valued, especially in rural or traditional areas where people might be more sensitive about having their images captured. Always seek consent and be mindful of local customs regarding photography.

3. Do not littering

Maintaining cleanliness is important in Vietnam, and littering is considered disrespectful and harmful to the environment. Dispose of your trash properly by using designated bins and recycling when possible. This helps keep public spaces clean and shows respect for the local community and its efforts to preserve natural beauty.

4. Wearing skimpy clothing and improper conduct when visiting the temple

When visiting religious sites such as temples and pagodas, avoid wearing skimpy or revealing clothing. It’s important to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, to show respect. Additionally, behave respectfully within these sacred spaces by keeping noise levels low and avoiding disruptive behavior.

5. Avoid speaking out loud in public

In public spaces, it is customary to maintain a moderate volume of discourse in Vietnam. Loud talking or overly promoting oneself might be interpreted as impolite or disturbing. Retaining a more subdued and courteous tone fosters a more peaceful environment and facilitates your integration with the local norms.

6. Refrain from touching the head without permission, this is impolite

In Vietnamese culture, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body, especially for children. Touching someone’s head without their consent is seen as impolite. Be aware of this cultural norm and avoid any physical contact that might be construed as disrespectful.

7. Don’t discuss delicate subjects like politics or war

Sensitive topics such as politics, the Vietnam War, and historical conflicts can be uncomfortable or controversial for many people. It’s best to avoid bringing up these subjects in conversation unless you know the individuals well and are certain it’s a suitable topic. Focus on more neutral and positive discussions to ensure a pleasant interaction.

8. Avoid displaying excessive affection in public

Public displays of affection, such as hugging and kissing, are generally discouraged in Vietnam. While holding hands is usually acceptable, more intimate gestures might be viewed as inappropriate or uncomfortable in public settings. Respect local norms by keeping physical interactions private.

9. Do not use tap water, choose bottled water

Drinking tap water in Vietnam can not always be safe, so it’s best to stay hydrated by sticking to bottled water. Before making a purchase, make sure the bottle’s seal is unbroken to prevent contamination. It’s crucial for your health to drink healthy water while traveling in order to stay hydrated.

10. Avoid pointing with your finger at objects or people

In Vietnam, pointing directly at individuals or objects is frowned upon as disrespectful or unpleasant. Instead, indicate anything with an open hand or a more subtle gesture. This promotes courteous communication and is in line with regional norms of decency.

These are 20 helpful tips for your trip to Vietnam. I hope you have a nice experience in this city.