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Essential Travel Guide for Vietnam

Do's and Don'ts in Vietnam

Do's:

  • Respect Local Customs: Always greet locals with a smile and show respect for elders.

  • Dress Appropriately: When visiting temples or religious sites, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.

  • Use Both Hands When Giving/Receiving Items: This is seen as a sign of respect.

  • Support Local Vendors: Purchase handmade goods and souvenirs directly from artisans.

  • Follow Traffic Rules: Cross the streets cautiously; traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic.

 

Don'ts:

  • Don’t Point with Your Finger: Use your whole hand to gesture, as pointing is considered impolite.

  • Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Vietnamese society is conservative in this regard.

  • Don’t Touch Someone’s Head: The head is considered sacred in Vietnamese culture.

  • Don’t Discuss Politics: Avoid discussing sensitive political topics, especially regarding the government.

 

Understanding Vietnamese Culture and Destination


Vietnam’s culture is deeply influenced by Confucian values, emphasizing respect for elders, family bonds, and harmony. The country also has a rich history blending ancient traditions, French colonial influences, and modern growth. Festivals like Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) are central to their cultural identity.

 

Combating Child Exploitation


Vietnam is committed to eradicating child exploitation, and responsible travelers can help by:

  • Avoiding businesses that use child labor.

  • Reporting any suspicious behavior to local authorities or international organizations like ECPAT.

  • Supporting NGOs working to protect children’s rights in Vietnam.

 

Health and Safety

  • Vaccinations: Consult your doctor about vaccines such as Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Japanese Encephalitis.

  • Food Safety: Stick to freshly cooked food and avoid tap water; drink bottled or filtered water.

  • Traffic Awareness: Be cautious of motorbike-heavy traffic in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Emergency Numbers: Dial 113 for police, 115 for medical emergencies, and 114 for fire.

 

Traveling Responsibly

  • Eco-Friendly Choices: Use reusable water bottles and say no to plastic bags.

  • Choose Ethical Tours: Avoid tours that exploit wildlife or damage the environment.

  • Support Community Tourism: Opt for homestays and local guides to directly benefit communities.

  • Conserve Resources: Be mindful of your water and energy usage in hotels and accommodations.

 

Geography and Climate


Vietnam’s geography ranges from the rugged mountains in the north to the lush Mekong Delta in the south. The climate has three distinct regions:

  • North: Four seasons, with cold winters and hot summers.

  • Central: Warm temperatures year-round with a rainy season from September to December.

  • South: Tropical climate with dry (November–April) and rainy (May–October) seasons.

 

Activities and Must-Visit Sites

  • Hanoi: Explore the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Temple of Literature.

  • Halong Bay: Cruise through breathtaking limestone karsts and emerald waters.

  • Hue: Discover the ancient imperial city and its historical citadel.

  • Hoi An: Visit the UNESCO-listed Old Town, known for its lantern-lit streets and tailors.

  • Ho Chi Minh City: Experience the vibrant urban life and visit the Cu Chi Tunnels.

  • Sapa: Trek through terraced rice fields and visit ethnic minority villages.

  • Mekong Delta: Witness floating markets and life along the waterways.

 

Vietnamese Cuisine


Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for its balance of flavors and fresh ingredients. Must-try dishes include:

  • Pho: A flavorful noodle soup with beef or chicken.

  • Banh Mi: A Vietnamese baguette sandwich filled with meats, vegetables, and sauces.

  • Bun Cha: Grilled pork served with noodles and herbs.

  • Cao Lau: A noodle dish unique to Hoi An.

  • Vietnamese Coffee: Try it with condensed milk (Cà Phê Sữa Đá).

 

Entry Requirements

  • Visa: Many nationalities can obtain an e-visa or visa on arrival. Check specific requirements for your country.

  • Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry.

  • Customs Declaration: Declare valuable items and currencies over $5,000 USD.

 

Currency

  • Vietnamese Dong (VND): The official currency.

  • Exchange Tips: Use authorized currency exchange services for the best rates.

  • Cash or Card: While major cities accept cards, rural areas may require cash.

 

Language


Hello: Xin Chào (Sin Chao)
Thank You: Cảm Ơn (Gahm Uhn)
No Bag: Không Lấy Túi (Khom Lay Too-ee)
How Much?: Bao Nhiêu? (Bao Nyu?)


Learning basic phrases will enrich your interactions with locals and show respect for their culture.

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