Understanding and respecting local norms and etiquette can add a lot to your experience while traveling in Vietnam. Here are some common practices and cultural norms to keep in mind:
### 1. Greetings and Communication
Greetings: The common greeting usually involves the slight bowing or nodding of the head with a smile. Handshaking is also common, especially in business situations. When handshaking, use both hands or your right hand, but never your left hand since this is considered impolite.
Names: Traditionally, Vietnamese names start with a family name, followed by a middle name, and a given name. When addressing or writing to somebody, the given name is used in front, while adding an appropriate title: "Anh" for Mr., "Chị" for Ms., "Cô" for Miss, and "Bác" for elder person.
Respect for Elders: In Vietnamese society, elderly people are accorded respect. Always greet the eldest first and give precedence to them in social situations.
2. Dress Code
- Modesty: Dress moderately, especially when visiting religious sites, temples, and pagodas. Shoulders and knees should not be seen. Generally, one should not wear very revealing clothing.
- Casual Wear: Casual wear is acceptable for almost all urban areas; however, people need to dress more conservatively in the rural areas or when they visit a traditional community.
### 3. Temples and Religious Sites
- Shoes: Take off your shoes when entering temples, pagodas, or even private homes, for that matter. You will normally find a special spot for putting your shoes.
- Behaviour: Be silent and respectful inside temples; do not allow your feet to point toward Buddha statues or sit with your feet pointing toward him.
- Offerings: If you encounter offerings, just let them be and don't fiddle with them. You can feel free to observe but do so from a distance respectfully.
### 4. Dining Etiquette
Sharing Meals: Mealtimes in Vietnam are for sharing. When possible, wait for a host to indicate where to sit and begin eating after he or she does.
Chopsticks: Forgo leaving your chopsticks vertically upright in a rice bowl, as this is the pose given to incense sticks in rituals for the dead, an omen of bad luck. You may put your chopsticks across your rice bowl or on a chopstick rest while you are not using them.
- Inviting Others: One invites others to eat by inviting, "Mời mọi người ăn cơm" literally: "Please, everyone, eat" before starting your meal.
- Paying the Bill: In Vietnam, the bill is normally paid by the host. When going out with friends or colleagues, the one inviting always pays.
### 5. Social Interactions
- Presents: When you come to somebody's place, it is included in good manners to bring a small present with you. Examples are fruits, tea, or sweets. Presents are given and taken with both hands.
- Body Language: Never point to something using your index finger. Generally speaking, you use the whole hand to point at things. And above all, it is considered impolite when you point at a person.
Public Displays of Affection: The Vietnamese basically avoid public displays of affection. Holding hands is generally considered acceptable, but anything more intimate than this can be frowned upon.
### 6. Bargaining
- Markets and Street Vendors: Most of the markets and street vendors will haggle. It is part of shopping, but make sure to keep it friendly and in a polite manner. A smile goes a long way in negotiations.
Fixed Prices: Prices are usually fixed in malls, supermarkets, and established stores; hence, bargaining is not expected.
### 7. Transportation and Public Spaces
Queueing: At busy areas, say at bus stations or at ticket counters, a queue might not always be formed. Be patient, and when necessary, push your way politely.
- Public Behavior: Never raise your voice high or make a big scene in public. Patience and calmness are always preferred over aggressive exchanges of words among Vietnamese.
### 8. Tipping
- Tipping Culture: Tipping is not expected but highly appreciated for restaurants, hotels, and services that include tour guides/drivers. A small percentage of around 5-10% is considered generous.
### 9. Photography
- Asking for permission: Always ask permission well in advance of people shots, especially if you are going to rural areas or photographing monks or any other ceremonies, whatever the religion. In some places, there may be a ban on photography, so watch out for signs.
By being mindful of these customs and respect for local tradition, warm hospitality becomes most likely well assured, further enhancing your experience in Vietnam.
