What not to do when visiting Vietnam?

What are you not allowed to do in Vietnam?

While Vietnam is very open and friendly to travelers it's still a culturally conservative country with a few rules you should know and follow. What is Illegal in Vietnam? Some things that are illegal in Vietnam include Gambling, Prostitution, Drug Use and Distribution, and Pornography.

What is considered disrespectful in Vietnam?

As a general rule, keep your cool and avoid loud arguments, making a scene, berating others for mistakes, or pointing out anything that may cause the locals to feel shamed. TIP: Vietnamese dislike public displays of affection, and men and women often do not touch in front of others.

What should I know before traveling to Vietnam?

What to avoid eating in Vietnam?

7 Things NOT to do in Vietnam - MUST SEE BEFORE YOU GO!

Can you brush your 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.

Can you wear jeans in Vietnam?

For men, casual jeans and shirts are the normal dress code, but they are advised not to take off their shirts in public places if it gets too hot. Especially in cities like Ho Chi Minh can be very hot in summer. You should be properly covered up and wear appropriate clothes. This is applicable to both women and men.

Is Vietnam friendly to American 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.

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.

Is it rude to tip in Vietnam?

Tipping isn't mandatory or customary in Vietnam, but it is always appreciated. If you're happy with the services provided by waiters, drivers and other service workers, leaving a small tip is a good way to show your appreciation.

Is eye contact rude in Vietnam?

Vietnamese people typically avoid direct eye contact and may gaze downward when talking. Avoiding eye contact demonstrates respect to elders, people of higher status or of the opposite sex. Speaking in a loud tone with excessive gestures is considered rude, especially when done by women.

Can you get tampons in Vietnam?

Tampons/pads

These types of toiletetries in Vietnam are available in a wide range, from the standard to special wings. Tampons on the other hand are incredibly hard to find and are of poor quality- typically only offered in the one standard small size.

Are Vietnamese friendly to foreigners?

The Vietnamese people are welcoming, sincere, generous, and genuinely curious about foreigners; it's an ideal place to make local friends. It's not unusual to meet a stranger, and soon find yourself invited to visit their home or their village.

Can we wear shorts 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.

How do I 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.

Are tattoos frowned upon in Vietnam?

Tattoos have long been frowned upon in Vietnam, but it wasn't always this way. In ancient times, fishermen used to tattoo their entire bodies to resemble a sea monster for protection against aquatic predators. During the Ly and Tran dynasty, tattoos became an official entry requirement for the imperial court.

Is Vietnam welcoming to foreigners?

Vietnam not only attracts visitors, tourists, and travelers. It has also become an attractive destination for expats. The Vietnamese are usually very welcoming to foreigners and expats.

Is Vietnam visa free for US citizens?

Do American Passport Holders Need a Visa to Go to Vietnam? Americans require a visa to travel to Vietnam. You can obtain the visa ahead of time from the Vietnam Embassy in the US, or process a visa on arrival in Vietnam.

Is English common in Vietnam?

In tourist centres many Vietnamese will speak some English, but a lot will speak none. In more remote areas, English speakers can be very rare. Some older Vietnamese will speak more French than English.

How should a visitor to Vietnam behave?

Vietnamese Values

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.

How much money do I need for 2 weeks in Vietnam?

While accommodation, transport, and food are cheap in Vietnam, activities and excursions are likely to eat up a good portion of your budget. Depending on your personal travel style, you should aim to budget anywhere from 460 GBP/560 USD to upwards of 820 GBP/1000 USD for a two-week trip to Vietnam.

How much cash should I bring to Vietnam?

For a more comfortable backpacker experience in Vietnam, it's best to budget around $50 per day. This way, you'll have more money to spend on things like food, drinks, activities and hotel rooms. For a comfortable mid-range experience in Vietnam, it's best to budget $60 to $100 per day for your entire costs.

Should I bring cash to Vietnam?

Credit cards are widely accepted but, in rural areas particularly, you should carry cash as a back-up. It may be difficult to cash travellers' cheques. ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas.

How do you prevent diarrhea in Vietnam?

Here are other ways to reduce your risk of traveler's diarrhea: Make sure dishes and utensils are clean and dry before using them. Wash your hands often and always before eating. If washing isn't possible, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to clean your hands before eating.

Can you eat salad in Vietnam?

Many Vietnamese eat uncooked vegetables as a salad with a meal, but this is often discouraged for tourists.