A friend of mine was asking and I honestly do not know because I am not a smoker. I couldn't find a clear answer online either unless I was overlooking something. Does anyone know what the laws are?
https://www.holidify.com/pages/smoking-in-vietnam-2622.html
Basically, smoking is a part of the culture but there are rules and regulations you have to follow as a visitor. You can read about all that in detail on the article I posted above.
Smoking laws are pretty relaxed. I would say of all the places I have been to, they are the most smoker-friendly however there are growing concerns for health so some areas no longer allow smoking.
Just check into the general areas you plan on staying in prior to going. Some places are more strict than others. I would say it is not as strict as places like the UK or US but you will get looks if you smoke in crowded public spaces.
In most cases, you don't have to worry too much about it. Just be sure to avoid smoking near building doors and in crowded spaces. A lot of people still smoke in Vietnam but the numbers are starting to go down.
Be respectful. No smoking indoors or just outside businesses. If you are going to smoke outside, do so away from crowded areas. If you notice a spot where you see people smoking, assume that is a safe smoking space. Some areas have them set up to keep everyone happy.
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