Vietnam Answer Forum - Recent questions and answers in Culture, Living

Answered: Why do Vietnamese houses often have narrow designs?

Fri, 02 May 2025 08:31:54 +0000

I am a young architect in Hanoi. As someone who designs urban houses, I can tell you that the narrow house design mainly stems from historical land division and efficient space usage. In old Hanoi, land was divided into long, narrow lots so that every family could have street access. Taxes were calculated based on the width facing the street, not the depth, which encouraged people to build slim but deep homes. Northern Vietnam has four distinct seasons, so tube houses often have skylights or inner courtyards to promote ventilation during the humid summers and help retain warmth during cold winters. When I design today, I often add double-layered doors, backyard gardens, and balconies full of plants to make these narrow houses breathe better amid the dense city.
HCMC, same things

Answered: What are some unique customs at Vietnamese weddings?

Thu, 01 May 2025 12:06:03 +0000

Wedding Reception
Most Vietnamese weddings today end with a large reception held at a restaurant or hotel. It can involve hundreds of guests — sometimes more than 500! Guests are expected to bring a red envelope ("phong bì") with money as a gift. There’s a meal, music, dancing, and sometimes a few rounds of karaoke. The couple will go table to table during the meal, greeting and thanking each group of guests.
https://i.imgur.com/zarLoDo.jpeg

What's the best time to visit Vietnam?

Thu, 01 May 2025 10:06:03 +0000

Vietnam seems to have different climates depending on the region. When is the ideal time to visit for great weather and festivals?

Answered: How do people celebrate Victory Day in Vietnam?

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 16:47:29 +0000

On the occasion of the 10th, 20th, 30th or especially 50th or 100th anniversary of the victory on April 30, Vietnam will hold very solemn ceremonies.

This year 2025

The airborne heat traps, the parade in the middle of the sea of people, the formation of "hundreds as one" of the armed blocks ... are prominent images in the 50th anniversary of the reunification of the country, on the morning of April 30.

https://i.imgur.com/B8mVD7y.jpeg

Click to flip the photo

Around 8:00 on April 30, dozens of fighters and helicopters from Bien Hoa airport advanced to Ho Chi Minh City, began the parade, marching for 50 years of reunification of the country.

When arriving in the city center, the Su-30MK2 fighter squadron acrobatic many rounds, then dropped the heat trap twice in the sky. Heat-trap bait is an active defense system designed to protect the aircraft from anti-aircraft missiles using infrared led. This design is mounted in the tail of the Su-30MK2 fighter. Photo: Hoang Viet

https://i.imgur.com/KH4Ygsp.jpeg

On Le Duan Street - in front of the Unification Hall (Independence Palace), 56 blocks vary including scepter and parade blocks Soldiers, marching. In the photo is the Border Guard block passing through the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, proceeding to the ceremony. Photo: Quynh Tran

https://i.imgur.com/WHWtt1c.jpeg

The Electronic Warfare Department strode through Ben Thanh Market, District 1.

The Electronic Warfare Department of the General Staff of the Vietnam People's Army was established on April 30, 1992. This is the leading agency of the advisory branch to help the Ministry of Defense, the General Staff on electronic warfare among the whole army. Photo: Dinh Van
https://i.imgur.com/JTwplpo.jpeg

Fireworks in HCMC on 30th April 2025

https://i.imgur.com/O6LKU0z.jpeg

https://i.imgur.com/uXAzOlZ.jpeg

How do Vietnamese people celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival?

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 01:06:02 +0000

I've heard about the Mid-Autumn Festival and mooncakes. What are the traditions and customs associated with this celebration?

How do people celebrate weddings in Vietnam?

Sat, 26 Apr 2025 23:06:02 +0000

I'm curious about Vietnamese weddings. What are some traditional customs and ceremonies that are unique to Vietnam?

Why do so many Vietnamese homes have altars?

Sat, 26 Apr 2025 22:06:02 +0000

I've noticed that many Vietnamese homes have altars with incense, photos, and offerings. Can you explain the purpose and meaning behind this practice?

What are the best ways to experience Hanoi's Old Quarter?

Sat, 26 Apr 2025 21:06:02 +0000

I'd like to explore Hanoi's Old Quarter. What are the must-see places, foods to try, and activities to do there?

What is the origin of Ao dai, the Vietnamese traditional dress?

Sat, 26 Apr 2025 20:06:02 +0000

I've seen many people wearing áo dài for special occasions. What is the history of this traditional dress, and when do people usually wear it?

What should I know about the etiquette of visiting pagodas?

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 23:06:02 +0000

I'd like to visit some pagodas, but I'm unsure about the proper etiquette. Are there any customs or rules I should follow when entering these sacred places?

What is the significance of lotus flowers in Vietnam?

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 22:06:02 +0000

I've seen lotus flowers in many places, from decorations to food. What do lotus flowers symbolize in Vietnamese culture?

Why are there so many motorbikes in Vietnam?

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 20:06:01 +0000

I've noticed the streets are filled with motorbikes. Is there a specific reason why they are so popular compared to cars or other forms of transportation?

What is the importance of family in Vietnamese culture?

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 19:06:02 +0000

I've noticed that family seems very important here. Could you explain the role of family in Vietnamese society and how it influences daily life?

What's the best way to travel between cities in Vietnam?

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 10:06:01 +0000

I'm planning to visit multiple cities during my trip. Should I travel by train, bus, or domestic flight, and what are the pros and cons of each option?

What are the best places to visit for nature lovers in Vietnam?

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 21:06:01 +0000

I love exploring natural landscapes. Could you recommend some places in Vietnam where I can enjoy beautiful scenery, mountains, or beaches?

What are the best souvenirs to buy in Vietnam?

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 21:06:01 +0000

I'd like to take home some unique items as souvenirs. What are some traditional or iconic Vietnamese products that I can buy, and where should I look for them?

What is the story behind Hoan Kiem Lake?

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 20:06:01 +0000

I visited Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, and it seems to have a lot of cultural significance. Could you share the history or legend associated with it?

What is unique about Vietnamese coffee?

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 08:06:03 +0000

I've heard a lot about Vietnamese coffee. What makes it different from other types of coffee, and are there any specific varieties or preparation styles I should try?

What is the significance of conical hats in Vietnam?

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 07:06:02 +0000

I've seen many people wearing traditional conical hats (nón lá). Could you tell me about their history and why they are so iconic in Vietnam?

How do you greet locals in Vietnam?

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 14:06:04 +0000

I want to make a good impression while interacting with locals. What is the proper way to greet people in Vietnam, and are there any cultural norms I should be aware of?

What are the best places to experience local culture in Vietnam?

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 20:06:02 +0000

I'd like to immerse myself in Vietnamese culture. Are there any specific villages, markets, or festivals where I can experience the traditional lifestyle?

How do Vietnamese people celebrate Tet?

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 21:06:11 +0000

I heard that Tet is the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. What are the traditions, customs, and foods associated with this celebration?

What are the must-try Vietnamese street foods?

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 20:06:11 +0000

As a first-time visitor, I want to explore authentic Vietnamese street food. Could you recommend some dishes that are popular among locals and where to find them?

What is considered rude in Vietnam?

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 17:06:01 +0000

How to avoid being considered rude in Vietnam

What is life like as a foreigner in Vietnam?

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 02:06:01 +0000

Life in Vietnam as an Expat: A Glimpse into the Foreigner's Perspective

How is the living in Vietnam?

Sun, 07 Nov 2021 23:51:01 +0000

What's it like living in Vietnam?

Why is Vietnam still as poor in your eyes as it was during the war?

Sun, 07 Nov 2021 23:50:23 +0000

Have you ever been to Vietnam? Why is Vietnam still as poor in your eyes as it was during the war?

Why is Vietnam so irreligious?

Sun, 07 Nov 2021 23:48:27 +0000

Why is Vietnam so irreligious?

What do the overseas Vietnamese think about Vietnam?

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 00:41:19 +0000

What do the overseas Vietnamese think about Vietnam?

What is Vietnamese identity and Vietnamese culture?

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 00:38:55 +0000

What is Vietnamese identity and Vietnamese culture?

Why do Vietnamese Americans use the South Vietnamese flag?

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 00:38:47 +0000

Why do Vietnamese Americans use the South Vietnamese flag?

Do Vietnamese Americans hate Northern Vietnamese?

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 00:38:34 +0000

Do Vietnamese Americans hate Northern Vietnamese?

Why do Vietnamese in Vietnam feel offended and annoyed when overseas Vietnamese criticize Vietnam and Vietnam?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:53:17 +0000

Why do Vietnamese in Vietnam feel offended and annoyed when overseas Vietnamese criticize Vietnam and Vietnam?

What is your experience of being a Vietnamese person in America?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:50:23 +0000

What is your experience of being a Vietnamese person in America?

How racist are the Vietnamese?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:50:09 +0000

How racist are the Vietnamese?

How do Cambodians view Vietnamese?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:49:43 +0000

How do Cambodians view Vietnamese?

How do Vietnamese people living in Vietnam view overseas Vietnamese people?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:49:33 +0000

How do Vietnamese people living in Vietnam view overseas Vietnamese people?

When will a lot of Vietnamese overseas stop portraying bad images about Vietnam on the Internet?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:49:20 +0000

When will a lot of Vietnamese overseas stop portraying bad images about Vietnam on the Internet?

How do I date a Vietnamese girl?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:49:08 +0000

How do I date a Vietnamese girl?

What is special about Vietnamese women?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:46:43 +0000

What is special about Vietnamese women?

Why did the Vietnamese name their currency after a slang word for the male organ?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:38:24 +0000

Why did the Vietnamese name their currency after a slang word for the male organ?

What is Vietnam? What makes you a Vietnamese?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:36:58 +0000

What is Vietnam? What makes you a Vietnamese?

Who are the Mang of Northwest Vietnam?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:20:52 +0000

Who are the Mang of Northwest Vietnam?

What are some Vietnamese Nôm characters that you find interesting?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:20:08 +0000

What are some Vietnamese Nôm characters that you find interesting?

Is Lựu a Vietnamese name?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:19:48 +0000

Is Lựu a Vietnamese name?

Vietnamese Americans represent the culture and traditional value of the 100 million Vietnamese living in Vietnam?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:15:32 +0000

Assuming 2 million Vietnamese Americans live in the US, can this 2 million Vietnamese Americans represent the culture and traditional value of the 100 million Vietnamese living in Vietnam?

What are Vietnamese guys like when it comes to dating?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:08:13 +0000

What are Vietnamese guys like when it comes to dating?

Do you think Lotus, the Vietnamese social network, is a tool of government?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:02:59 +0000

Do you think Lotus, the Vietnamese social network, is a tool of government? They ask for personal details, like ID number, picture of you and your ID, right after you register, so they can spy their users.

How do the Vietnamese make Vietnamese coffee?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 15:56:15 +0000

How do the Vietnamese make Vietnamese coffee?

Who is the most beautiful woman in Vietnam?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 15:21:25 +0000

Who is the most beautiful woman in Vietnam?