Is pointing rude in Vietnam?

Using the middle finger to point, with other fingers closed is a common gesture and is not a sign of disrespect. Pointing to other people while talking is considered disrespectful.
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Is it rude to point in Vietnam?

As in many places, it's rude to point with your index finger in Vietnam. To be polite, use your pinky finger when you want to point to something. Pointing with an open hand, palm facing down, is even more polite, but it's a bit overboard for most situations.
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What are rude gestures in Vietnam?

Avoid Public Touching: Public displays of affection are not seen as appropriate. Avoid hugging, holding hands, and especially kissing in public. Even touching a member of the opposite sex is looked down upon. Modesty: It is important to keep your body covered.
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What is disrespectful to Vietnamese?

To common Vietnamese people, too much make-up, brightly painted nails, heavy tattoos, too much jewelry will create an impression that you're not a decent, educated kind of people, or rather, a trọc phú (an empty-headed rich person). It is considered impolite to flaunt wealth in public.
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What hand gestures are offensive in Vietnam?

To use a single forefinger with the palm facing up has offensive and threatening connotations to adults and children. Arms: It can be considered rude to stand with your hands on your hips or cross your arms when having a regular conversation with someone.
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VIETNAMESE PEOPLE ARE RUDE? | Hanoi, Vietnam



What is forbidden in Vietnam?

Some things that are illegal in Vietnam include Gambling, Prostitution, Drug Use and Distribution, and Pornography. Vietnamese law is built based on the long-standing culture and the characteristics of the local Vietnamese lifestyle.
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How to not look like a tourist in Vietnam?

Wear particularly conservative clothing if you visit a culturally sensitive area such as a temple or pagoda – generally, the less bare skin the better and specifically no shorts, short skirts, tops with low neck lines, or bare shoulders. Opt for long pants and a long-sleeved cotton shirt.
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What you should not do in Vietnam?

Don'ts when visiting Vietnam
  • Don't end up in jail. Don't take photos of any military installations and equipment, it is a breach of national security and you could end up in jail, and you do not want to spend your vacations …and a bit … at a Vietnamese jail.
  • Watch your tootsies. ...
  • Observe the altars. ...
  • No chopstick playing.
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Is Vietnam friendly to foreigners?

Attitudes towards foreigners in Vietnam

The Vietnamese people who expats have to deal with on a day-to-day basis are usually warm, welcoming and helpful. However, Vietnam is a popular tourist destination, so there are often times when Western expats find that some locals view them as outsiders.
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Is crossing your fingers Offensive in Vietnam?

In Vietnam the gesture is considered rude, especially to another person. Referring to female genitals, it is comparable to the middle finger in American culture. In German-speaking countries and also Sweden and Latvia the gesture is a sign of lying. Instead, wishing for luck is gestured by holding thumbs.
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How do you show respect to Vietnamese?

The Vietnamese consider the following respectful:
  1. Bowing is a greeting and shows great respect.
  2. Nodding is used as another way to say hello and yes.
  3. Avoiding eye contact shows respect to older people or to people of the opposite sex.
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How do you curse in Vietnam?

Anyway, Vietnamese natives usually say 'cặc' or 'buồi' either alone or with other words to swear. The phrases that have the words include but not limited to 'cái con cặc ấy!
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Can I wear sleeveless in Vietnam?

Wearing shorts is acceptable in most situations for both men and women. However, Vietnam's traditional culture is somewhat conservative, so avoiding sleeveless shirts, tank tops, or short shorts—especially while visiting Buddhist temples—shows the greatest respect for it.
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What is the middle finger in Vietnam?

Middle finger: This gesture is impolite and will make others very angry. Pointing finger to the forehead: When you point your finger to the forehead, you are trying to say that someone is crazy.
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Is tipping normal in Vietnam?

Tipping is not part of the culture in Vietnam, and you are not required to tip anywhere. There will be a service charge for more upscale restaurants. People more accustomed to receiving tips are tour guides and in Western style hotels.
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Is it polite to burp in Vietnam?

Don't burp in public in Vietnam

Discrete, natural burps are okay in Vietnam among very close friends and family. But, unlike in some neighbouring Asian countries, Vietnamese culture does not condone public burping.
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Is Vietnam friendly to Americans?

Twenty-seven years after the establishment of bilateral relations in 1995, the United States and Vietnam are trusted partners with a friendship grounded in mutual respect.
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What do Vietnamese say before eating?

Xin mời (Please)

During a meal, everyone can say “Xin mời” to invite each other to dig in. In a way, this is one of the many Vietnamese versions of the phrase “Bon appetit”. Specifically, children and younger individuals at the table are expected to invite everyone to eat before they can start eating.
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How long can an American stay in Vietnam?

How Long can American Citizens Stay in Vietnam? Americans can stay in Vietnam for a maximum of 30 days in Total then will have to leave or do an in-country extension.
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What are some weird laws in Vietnam?

  • TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS, VIDEOS, DRAW at some places are not allowed. ...
  • LARGE CROWD in which you can get caught up in the moment. ...
  • MOTORBIKE can not drive more than two people or bulky items. ...
  • DRINKING AGE is 18. ...
  • DO NOT DRIVE AFTER DRINKING. ...
  • SPEAKING AGAINST Vietnam, government and Communist Party may bring problems.
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Is Vietnam friendly to tourists?

Vietnam is a wonderful country in South East Asia. It's generally known to be one of the most visited by travelers and backpackers when you think about this part of the country. Compared to other continents, Asia is easy to travel to and people are very friendly. Vietnam makes no exception.
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What should I be careful of in Vietnam?

What are the common security risks in Vietnam?
  • Petty crime. As a victim of petty crime in Vietnam, I can confirm that it is something that you need to be wary of throughout the country. ...
  • Scammers and opportunists. ...
  • Corruption. ...
  • Road accidents. ...
  • Lack of rural healthcare. ...
  • Typhoons and storms. ...
  • Earthquakes. ...
  • Subscribe to CloseCircle.
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Can you wear crop tops in Vietnam?

Remember that short shorts, crop tops and tank tops are not considered appropriate in Vietnam. Loose, long clothing is both respectful and tends to keep you cooler in hot climates.
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Can I brush my teeth with tap water in Vietnam?

Yes, you can brush your teeth with the water in Vietnam. You can be sure that the tap water in urban areas is safe to brush your teeth and bathe. In most rural areas, the water is going to be safe as well for bathing and brushing your teeth.
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Do and don'ts in Vietnam culture?

The Vietnamese people value humility, restraint, and modesty. Avoid being boastful or showing off wealth. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon so try to avoid touching people of the opposite sex. Dress conservatively and keep your body covered.
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