1. Greetings and forms of address
In Vietnam, greetings reflect respect and an awareness of social hierarchy. A slight bow or nod with a smile is common, especially when meeting someone older or in a formal setting. While handshakes are increasingly popular, they are usually reserved for men or formal interactions. Women, especially older women, may prefer a simple nod or smile instead of physical contact.
Using titles like “Anh” (older brother), “Chi” (older sister), or “Ba” (aunt/Ms.) is a sign of respect and acknowledgment of someone’s age and status. These titles are often followed by the person’s first name. In Vietnamese culture, addressing someone incorrectly or failing to use a title can be perceived as impolite or overly casual.
Tip for Travelers: Learn a few Vietnamese phrases and practice polite greetings like “Xin chào” (hello) or “Chào cô” (hello, madam). Using titles appropriately, even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, will show respect and effort, leaving a positive impression.
2. Respect for elders
Respect for elders is a cornerstone of Vietnamese culture. This respect is displayed in many ways, such as serving elders first during meals or standing up when an elder enters the room. Younger individuals are expected to listen attentively and speak politely in conversations with elders, often avoiding direct eye contact as a sign of deference.
Family gatherings, especially during Tet or other celebrations, often center around honoring older family members. Elders are seen as the keepers of wisdom and tradition, and their opinions often hold significant weight in family decisions.
Tip for Travelers: When visiting a Vietnamese home or interacting with locals, prioritize greeting and acknowledging the oldest person in the room first. Simple gestures like standing when they enter or offering them a seat can go a long way in showing cultural sensitivity.
3. Dining etiquette
Sharing meals is central to Vietnamese culture, symbolizing connection and hospitality. Dishes are typically served family-style, and everyone uses chopsticks to take food from shared plates. It’s customary to let the eldest or host begin eating first as a sign of respect. Chopsticks should always be handled properly—never point them at someone or stick them upright in rice, as this resembles offerings made at funerals and is considered deeply disrespectful.
Offering food to others at the table before serving yourself is a thoughtful gesture that reflects the communal spirit of Vietnamese dining.
Tip for Travelers: Observe how locals handle chopsticks and wait for cues before starting to eat. When in doubt, follow the host’s lead, and remember to express gratitude by saying “Cảm ơn” (thank you).
4. Gift-giving practices
Gift-giving in Vietnam goes beyond material exchange; it’s a way to show appreciation, celebrate milestones, or honor relationships. Common occasions for giving gifts include Tet (Vietnamese New Year), weddings, or visits to someone’s home. Red and gold wrapping paper are considered lucky and festive, while black or white wrapping is avoided due to its association with mourning.
Practical gifts like fruits, sweets, or alcohol are well-received, especially if they are of high quality. However, avoid overly expensive items, as they may cause discomfort for the recipient.
Tip for Travelers: If visiting a Vietnamese home, bring a small token of appreciation, like a box of sweets or fresh fruits. Present the gift with both hands as a sign of respect and avoid wrapping it in colors linked to mourning.
5. Speaking and tone
In Vietnam, maintaining politeness and harmony in speech is highly valued. Direct or confrontational communication is often avoided to preserve relationships and social harmony. Instead, Vietnamese people favor subtlety, and even when disagreeing, they often use soft, indirect language.
Raising one’s voice or speaking harshly is frowned upon, even in stressful situations. A calm demeanor and respectful tone can help diffuse misunderstandings and build rapport with locals.
Tip for Travelers: Keep a calm and neutral tone, especially in public or when interacting with elders. Avoid using gestures or loud voices to emphasize a point, as this may unintentionally come across as rude.
6. Shoes indoors
Removing shoes before entering a home is a deeply ingrained custom in Vietnam, symbolizing respect for the host and maintaining cleanliness. This practice is also followed at certain religious sites, such as pagodas or temples. Guests are expected to leave their shoes outside the door or on a designated rack, and entering without doing so is considered disrespectful.
Tip for Travelers: Watch for cues like shoe racks or locals removing their shoes at the entrance. To avoid inconvenience, wear slip-on shoes or sandals when visiting homes or temples.
7. Business etiquette
Vietnamese business culture emphasizes respect, modesty, and building trust. Exchanging business cards is an essential ritual, and they should be presented and received with both hands, accompanied by a slight bow. Punctuality is highly appreciated, and being late may leave a negative impression. During meetings, a reserved demeanor and a focus on relationship-building are more important than assertive negotiation.
Tip for Travelers: Bring enough business cards printed in English and Vietnamese, and handle them respectfully. Present your card with both hands, and take a moment to read the card you receive as a sign of interest and courtesy.
8. Visiting temples
Temples and pagodas are sacred spaces, and proper etiquette is expected when visiting. Modest clothing is required; shoulders and knees should be covered as a mark of respect. It’s common practice to bow slightly when entering or passing altars and to keep conversations low to maintain the serenity of the space. Photography may be restricted in certain areas, so always check for signs.
Tip for Travelers: Carry a lightweight scarf or shawl for covering up when visiting religious sites. Observe locals for cues on proper behavior, such as bowing or lighting incense, to enhance your understanding of the rituals and show respect.
9. Public displays of affection
In Vietnam, cultural norms lean towards conservatism when it comes to physical affection in public. While holding hands, especially among friends or family, is generally acceptable, acts like hugging, kissing, or prolonged physical contact are considered private matters. Such gestures may attract unwanted attention or make locals feel uncomfortable, especially in rural areas where traditions are more strictly upheld.
Tip for Travelers: Keep displays of affection subtle and respectful in public spaces. When in doubt, observe the behavior of locals and follow suit to ensure you’re adhering to cultural norms.
10. Sharing and hospitality
Hospitality is a deeply ingrained aspect of Vietnamese culture, reflecting the importance of kindness and community. Guests are often welcomed with tea, fruits, or light snacks, even during unplanned visits. Sharing meals or drinks is a way of expressing generosity and strengthening bonds. Refusing an offering may unintentionally come across as impolite or distant.
Tip for Travelers: Graciously accept any refreshments offered to you, even if it’s just a token sip or bite. Express your appreciation with a simple “Cảm ơn” (thank you) to acknowledge the host’s gesture of goodwill.
