If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, congratulations! You’re in for a treat. This Southeast Asian country is filled with natural beauty, friendly people, and delicious food. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve put together a list of dos and don’ts for Vietnam travel. Read on to learn more!
Do: Learn Some Vietnamese Phrases
One of the best ways to make a good impression on the locals is to learn some basic Vietnamese phrases. Even if you only know how to say “hello,” “thank you,” and “goodbye,” you’ll find that people will appreciate your efforts. Plus, it can be helpful when you need to ask for directions or order food. A few other useful phrases to know are “excuse me,” “I don’t understand,” and “how much does this cost?”
Don’t: Rely on English
While most people in Vietnam’s cities speak at least some English, don’t count on being able to get by solely on English. In rural areas, English is much less common. If you can master even a few basic Vietnamese phrases, you’ll find that your trip is much more enjoyable. Plus, speaking the local language is always appreciated by the locals. They may even go out of their way to help you if they see that you’re trying to learn their language.
Do: Dress conservatively
photo: Tri Vo
When packing for your trip, be sure to pack clothes that are modest and conservative. This is especially important if you plan on visiting any religious sites such as temples or pagodas. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and cover up more rather than less. Wear long pants or skirts and shirts that cover your shoulders. And if you do want to visit a religious site, be sure to check whether there are any specific dress requirements before you go.
Don’t: Take photos of people without permission
In Vietnam, it’s considered rude to take photos of people without their permission. If you want to take a photo of someone, simply ask first. Most people will be happy to pose for a photo, but it’s always best to get their permission beforehand.
Do: Haggle
Haggling is a way of life in Vietnam. Whether you’re buying souvenirs at a market or taking a taxi, don’t be afraid to haggle for a better price. It’s expected that you will haggle, so don’t worry about offending anyone. Start by offering a lower price than what you’re willing to pay and then let the seller counter with a higher price. From there, you can continue to negotiate until you reach a mutually agreeable price.
Don’t: Litter
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon to see trash on the streets or even in rural areas. To help keep Vietnam clean, be sure to dispose of your trash properly. If there’s no garbage can around, carry your trash with you until you find one. And when possible, recycle.
Do: Sample the local cuisine
photo: Natalia Mok
One of the best parts about traveling is trying new foods. And in Vietnam, there’s no shortage of delicious dishes to try. From pho and spring rolls to banh mi and bun cha, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So be sure to sample as many different dishes as you can. You might even find a new favorite!
Don’t: Drink the tap water
Tap water in Vietnam is not safe to drink. To avoid getting sick, be sure to only drink bottled water. And when brushing your teeth, be sure to use bottled water as well. It’s also a good idea to avoid ice in your drinks. While it’s usually safe, there’s always a chance that the ice could be made from tap water.
Do: Use sunscreen
Vietnam is a tropical country, so the sun can be quite strong, especially during the summer months. To protect your skin, be sure to wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30. And don’t forget to reapply throughout the day, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.
Don’t: Leave your valuables unattended
When exploring Vietnam, it’s important to be cautious with your belongings. Be sure to keep your valuables close to you and never leave them unattended, even for a moment. This includes things like your passport, money, and credit cards. When possible, carry your valuables in a secure place such as a money belt or shoulder bag. And if you’re carrying a backpack, be sure to keep it close to you at all times.
Do: Try new things
photo: Albin Biju
One of the best parts about travel is trying new things. So, go ahead and order that strange-sounding dish on the menu or take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese food. Embrace everything that Vietnam has to offer and you’re sure to have a trip that you’ll never forget.
Don’t: Forget to enjoy yourself!
Last but not least, don’t forget to enjoy yourself! Vietnam is an amazing country with so much to see and do. So, relax, take your time, and savor every moment.
We hope this list of dos and don’ts has been helpful as you plan your trip to Vietnam! Just remember to dress modestly, learn some basic Vietnamese phrases, and avoid taking photos of military personnel or sensitive infrastructure. If you do all of that, we guarantee you’ll have a great time!
The traffic in Vietnam can be daunting, so be cautious when crossing the street. Also, remember to remove your shoes when entering homes or temples as a sign of respect. It’s these little cultural nuances that make traveling to Vietnam such a remarkable and enriching experience!
It’s essential to keep in view some considerate dos and don’ts when exploring Vietnam. Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases will help you connect with locals and show regard for their culture. Dressing respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites, is also recommended. Lastly, being mindful of customs like removing your shoes will make your experience even more enjoyable. Happy travels!
Vietnam is a breathtaking country in Southeast Asia, renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes, warm-hearted locals, and mouthwatering cuisine. To make the most of your trip, it’s crucial to embrace a few dos and don’ts. Firstly, acquiring some basic Vietnamese phrases will not only impress the locals but also enable you to communicate effectively, especially in rural areas where English might not be as prevalent. Moreover, when exploring sacred sites like temples or pagodas, dressing modestly and adhering to specific dress codes is a sign of respect. By immersing yourself in the culture and showing reverence for the customs, your journey in Vietnam will be enriched with unforgettable experiences.
so many beautiful places to visit in Vietnam, such as Ha Long Bay and Hoi An Ancient Town. Make sure to research and plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your trip. Lastly, don’t forget to try riding a motorbike, as it’s a popular mode of transportation in Vietnam and a fun way to explore the bustling streets. Just remember to prioritize safety and wear a helmet. Happy travels!
Traveling to Vietnam can be an exciting adventure and this article provides great tips to make the most out of your experience. Have you been to Vietnam before? What were your favorite dos and don’ts?
Researching cultural norms before traveling is helpful. Respecting customs enhances your experience. Planning ahead ensures a smooth journey. Embrace the adventurous spirit of Vietnam – it’s time to explore!
I definitely agree with the dos and don’ts of Vietnam travel! It’s so important to be respectful of other cultures when you’re traveling, and I think that’s something that a lot of people forget. Also, being aware of scams is super important. I’ve heard so many stories of people getting scammed while they’re traveling, and it sounds like such a nightmare.
@PopQueen92 I couldn’t agree more with the importance of respecting other cultures while traveling in Vietnam, and it reminds me of the time I accidentally offended a local by not taking off my shoes before entering their home.
Be respectful of the culture and people, stay safe, and have a great time!
@NomadInAsia
That sounds like great advice! What other tips do you have for travelers visiting Vietnam?
Something I think is worth saying is that you need to prepare yourself by looking around online. A lot of areas in Vietnam are not as “new” and there is poverty everywhere but not in the same sense that you would find in other countries. Most people are happy with less and I think for some people, they may not understand that visiting for the first time. Just don’t say negative things or stare.
I’ve been traveling to Vietnam for many years and I agree with most of the dos and don’ts mentioned in this article. However, I would add one more thing to the list: be open-minded. Vietnam is a beautiful country with a rich culture, and being open-minded will allow you to experience all that it has to offer.
As a frequent traveler, I always appreciate learning about the cultural norms and customs of my destination. This guide does a great job of outlining the dos and don’ts of travel in Vietnam. I think it’s important for travelers to be mindful and respectful when visiting new places, and this article provides a great starting point. Thank you!
It seems like littering is an issue in most places. The only place I had gone with minimal to no litter is Japan but they have a very deep-rooted respect for their streets and parks. It takes a long time to get people away from that, especially outsiders.
Why is the tap water considered to be unsafe? Does anyone know? I know they say this of different places around the world but they never say it is outright unsafe, they usually say it may cause stomach problems.
@1988tq the filtration is not the best and if you body is not adapted to drinking the water, you can become sick. Even locals become sick at times. You have a high chance of developing diarrhea, gastroenteritis, typhoid, cholera, giardia, dysentery and hepatitis A. Drinking water from the tap, using ice cubes in drinks, or eating fresh fruit are all not good ideas.
I found this article to be very informative and helpful for those planning to travel to Vietnam. It’s great to see the emphasis on being respectful to the local culture and avoiding actions that may be seen as offensive. Overall, a fantastic resource for any traveler to Vietnam.