Vietnam is a beautiful place with many interesting and beautiful destinations waiting for you to explore. However, don’t let culture shocks ruin your trip experience. Here are six tips to help you fall in love with this country, respect its culture and people, and avoid problems you may have. 

1. Do not drink tap water or eat raw food in Vietnam

The tap water here is not safe to drink, so you should always opt for bottled water or boiled water. You should also avoid ice cubes, unless you are sure they are made from purified water. Similarly, you should be careful with raw or undercooked food, such as salads, fruits, seafood, or meat, as they may carry bacteria or parasites that can cause stomach problems or worse. Stick to cooked food from reputable restaurants or street vendors that have good hygiene standards.

2. Do not wear revealing clothes when entering pagodas

Vietnam has a rich religious heritage, which many temples and pagodas that are worth visiting. However, you should be mindful of the dress code and etiquette when entering these sacred places. You should cover your shoulders and knees, remove your shoes and hat, and avoid loud noises and gestures. You should also ask for permission before taking photos of monks or worshippers.

3. Bargain for goods and services

Bargaining is a common practice in this country, especially in local markets, street stalls, souvenir shops, and taxis. You can expect to pay less than the initial asking price if you negotiate politely and firmly. However, you should also be reasonable and respectful, and not haggle over small amounts or items that are already cheap. A good rule of thumb is to offer about half of the price and work your way up until you reach a fair deal.

4. Learn some basic Vietnamese phrases

Vietnamese is the official language of Vietnam and while many people in the cities and tourist areas can speak some English, it is always appreciated if you try to communicate in the local language. Learning some basic phrases like xin chao (hello), cam on (thank you), xin loi (sorry) and bao nhieu (how much) can go a long way in breaking the ice and showing respect. You can also use online apps or tools to help you with pronunciation and translation.

5. Respect traffic rules and customs.

Being respectful towards locals and their customs is a must-do in Vietnam. Vietnamese people are friendly and hospitable, and showing respect towards their culture and traditions can help create a positive and enjoyable experience for both travelers and locals.

If you want to cross the street in Vietnam, you should walk slowly and steadily, without stopping or changing directions, letting vehicles move around you. If you want to drive or ride a motorbike, you should wear a helmet, obey traffic rules and always stay alert.

6. Don’t get involved in illegal issues

You probably shouldn’t miss the great bars and pubs when you visit Ho Chi Minh City at night. However, make sure you stay away from drugs and prostitution. There is no denying that they are illegal in Vietnam and you can get in real trouble if you mess with them.

In conclusion, you have just learned about some “Dos” and “Don’ts” in Vietnam. If you are planning to travel or have a long business trip to visit your partners or sourcing suppliers here, this article will be extremely useful for you to quickly integrate into the interesting culture of this beautiful country.

If you have any concerns, do not hesitate to contact AM Industries Vietnam via contact us