Vietnam is a country rich in culture, traditions, and deep-rooted customs. For travelers, understanding local etiquette enhances the experience and fosters meaningful connections. Whether you’re visiting bustling cities or remote villages, respecting Vietnamese customs helps you navigate social interactions smoothly. From greetings to dining manners, each aspect reflects the country’s history and values. This guide explores essential customs of Vietnam, ensuring you enjoy a respectful and immersive journey.
1- Greetings and social etiquette
[ Customs of Vietnam ] Vietnamese greetings are often simple yet respectful. A slight nod or a handshake is common in formal settings. Older generations may prefer a polite bow instead of handshakes. Unlike Western cultures, hugging or kissing on the cheek is uncommon, especially with strangers.
When addressing someone, titles and family names are important. Instead of using first names, Vietnamese people use titles based on age and gender. For example, calling an older man “Ông” (Grandfather) or “Bác” (Uncle) shows respect. Similarly, an older woman is often addressed as “Bà” (Grandmother) or “Cô” (Aunt). Using “Anh” (older brother) or “Chị” (older sister) is polite when addressing younger adults.
2- Table manners and dining etiquette
Vietnamese cuisine is a highlight for many travelers, but dining customs may differ from what you’re used to. Before eating, wait for the elders to start first, as age is highly respected in Vietnamese culture. When passing dishes, use both hands or your right hand for politeness.
Chopsticks are the primary utensils, and placing them upright in a bowl of rice is considered rude, as it resembles incense sticks used for funerals. Instead, rest them on the chopstick holder or on the side of the bowl. [ Customs of Vietnam ]
Drinking culture is also significant in Vietnam. If you’re invited to a meal with drinks, it’s polite to clink glasses and say “một, hai, ba, dzô!” (one, two, three, cheers!). Avoid pouring your own drink—let someone else do it for you, and return the favor.
3- Customs of vietnam: Dress code and modesty
Vietnam is a modest society, especially in rural areas and temples. While cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are more relaxed, dressing respectfully is still appreciated. Avoid wearing overly revealing outfits, particularly in religious sites.
When visiting temples or pagodas, cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect. Shoes should be removed before entering religious places or someone’s home. In everyday life, clean and well-maintained clothing reflects good manners and social respect.
4- Visiting homes: Dos and Don’ts
If invited to a Vietnamese home, it’s a great honor. Bring a small gift like fruit, tea, or sweets to show appreciation. Avoid giving handkerchiefs, yellow flowers, or black items, as they are associated with funerals. [ Customs of Vietnam ]
Shoes should be removed before stepping inside. During meals, wait for the host to invite you to eat. Leaving food unfinished may suggest you didn’t enjoy the meal, so take only what you can finish. After the meal, a polite “Cảm ơn” (thank you) is appreciated.
5- Respect for elders and family values
Family is the cornerstone of Vietnamese society. Elders hold a revered position, and their opinions are highly valued. When interacting with older people, show respect by slightly bowing your head.
In conversations, avoid interrupting elders and listen attentively. If offered a seat, sit after the elders do. When giving or receiving something, use both hands for added politeness.
6- Customs of vietnam: Bargaining and market etiquette
Bargaining is common in markets and small shops, but it should be done respectfully. Start by asking for a fair discount rather than aggressively pushing prices down. A friendly attitude and a smile often lead to better deals.
Once a price is agreed upon, it’s considered rude to walk away without buying. However, if you’re not satisfied, politely decline and move on. In supermarkets or fixed-price stores, bargaining is not acceptable. [ Customs of Vietnam ]
7- Superstitions and taboos
Vietnamese culture is deeply rooted in superstitions and spiritual beliefs. Certain numbers, colors, and actions hold symbolic meanings. The number four (“tứ”) sounds like “death” in Vietnamese, so some people avoid it in addresses or gifts. In contrast, the number nine is considered lucky.
Pointing at someone with your index finger is seen as impolite. Instead, use an open hand or nod in their direction. Avoid touching someone’s head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body.
During Lunar New Year (Tết), people believe that the first visitor to a home determines the family’s luck for the year. It’s a big honor to be the first guest, but also a great responsibility.
8- Public behavior and personal space
Vietnamese people are friendly but reserved in public spaces. Public displays of affection like hugging and kissing are rare, even between couples. Holding hands or linking arms is acceptable among close friends.
Speaking too loudly in public is seen as disruptive, especially in temples or formal gatherings. When sitting, avoid pointing your feet at someone, as feet are considered the lowest and least respectful part of the body. [ Customs of Vietnam ]
When taking photos, always ask for permission, especially in rural areas. Some ethnic minority communities believe that taking their photo steals part of their soul.
9- Customs of vietnam: Gift-giving traditions
Gift-giving is a common practice in Vietnam, especially during celebrations and family visits. However, there are rules to follow. Avoid giving handkerchiefs, knives, or sharp objects, as they symbolize cutting ties. Gifts should be wrapped in red or yellow, which represent luck and prosperity. Black or white wrapping is usually reserved for funerals.
When receiving a gift, do not open it immediately in front of the giver. Instead, thank them and open it later. This custom prevents any embarrassment if the recipient dislikes the gift.
10- Religious and spiritual practices
Vietnam is home to a mix of Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and folk beliefs. Temples and pagodas play a significant role in daily life. When visiting, dress modestly and speak softly. If offering incense, avoid sticking only one stick in the holder, as it is meant for funerals. [ Customs of Vietnam ]
Vietnamese people also practice ancestor worship, where families offer food, incense, and prayers to honor their deceased relatives. During important festivals like Tết (Lunar New Year), homes are decorated with altars filled with offerings to invite ancestral spirits home.
Customs of Vietnam – Vietnamese Etiquette
Understanding customs of Vietnam enriches your travel experience and fosters meaningful connections with locals. By respecting traditions, practicing good manners, and embracing cultural differences, you gain deeper insights into the soul of Vietnam. Whether you’re enjoying a home-cooked meal, bargaining in a lively market, or exploring ancient temples, these cultural nuances shape every interaction.
For travelers eager to explore Vietnam beyond tourist attractions, a local perspective makes all the difference.
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