Vietnam

Vietnam is a country with stunning scenery and friendly people, and it is a safe place to travel. Vietnam has it own unique character and social standards that might differ from what you are used to. Differences in culture, history and style life… this is part of the reason you make your holiday here. Traveling in Vietnam is easy, relaxing and very enjoyable. Here is some travel advice for your visit. These tips might help you to avoid small problems during your travel here, as well as to share a positive image of yourself in the eyes of the local people. Relax and enjoy your holiday!

Do's

Do smile and be friendly. When talking, local people are normally easy-going and friendly. Displaying a serious countenance (even for a serious matter) will not work. Just take it easy! Things will be alright when everyone stays calm and courteous.
Learn some Vietnamese and practice it when you have the chance. People appreciate a foreigner who can speak a bit of the local language.
Dress respectfully, though there is no need to be too conservative. Your appearance very much helps in gaining people’s respect, particularly when visiting religious sites or national monuments. Observe local dress codes when you are not sure.
Show respect when you meet elderly people. Traditionally in Vietnam, the elderly are held in high esteem.
Pass or handle things to people with both hands, except to children.
Set a good example by keeping the environment clean. Your actions are a good lesson for the locals.
Carry a roll of toilet paper in your daypack on long excursions from your base hotel. You never know when it might not be available! Limit the use of plastic bags and bottles.
Support small local businesses and local cottage industries.
If invited into a home, always remove your shoes at the front door when entering.
Ask for permission when taking a photograph of someone.
Remember that things may not work the same as where you come from. Relax and accept the differences.

Don'ts

Do not display physical affection in public.
Do not appear unkempt. Your appearance will dictate what people think of you.
Never lose your temper in public or when bargaining for a purchase. This is considered a serious loss of face for both parties. Always maintain a cool and happy demeanor and you will receive the same.
Do not talk with people while wearing sunglasses. It is considered to be evasive and rude.
Do not turn your back to an altar or talk loudly in holy places. When in someone’s house, never sleep or sit with the soles of your feet pointing towards the family altar.
Do not sit until shown to your place, nor pick up your chopsticks before the host or oldest person does.
Do not touch on the heads of young children in the minority villages, nor take picture of them.
Do not offer money in exchange for taking a photo. Avoid giving materials directly to local people who are begging as it will encourage this practice. Do not buy items from children selling things on the streets as they need to be in school, not on the road selling things. If you want to support them, do it through charities or company projects.
Do not get involved in any thing illegal like prostitution or drugs, nor buy products made from endangered species.
Do not be critical. Accept the differences and respect local standards. Take these as in-teresting experiences you are lucky to have through your travels.

Vietnam

Newsletter