The Culture
Vietnamese culture finds its roots in Buddhism and Taoism, much like the spiritual fabric of China. It also bears the historical imprint of communism that emerged in the mid-20th century under Ho Chi Minh’s leadership. Communism emphasizes collective values and community over individualism.
It's a culture where prayer is as common as breathing. You'll witness locals lighting incense sticks, bowing in reverence, and seeking guidance from higher powers for good fortune and prosperity. Strolling through the streets, you'll find it hard to miss the small, ornate altars in Vietnamese homes. These are not mere decorations—they're ancestral altars, a testament to a belief that ancestors bring blessings and protection.
As a traveller, you might be lucky to visit during the spring, when Hanoi hosts the enchanting Pagoda Festival. The city transforms into a whirlwind of colours, traditional music, and the delightful flavours of street food.
Tết, the Lunar New Year, is another unforgettable experience. It's a time when the nation lights up with fireworks and the joyous sounds of laughter. Families gather to welcome the new year, sharing sumptuous feasts and exchanging warm wishes, creating an atmosphere that's both exhilarating and heartwarming.
Vietnamese people welcome travellers with open arms. You'll meet locals who will treat you like an old friend, sharing their stories, respecting you, and ensuring you have a happy time in Vietnam.
What is the visiting etiquette in Vietnam?
Keep your clothing modest, especially when visiting temples and other sacred sites. Vietnamese revere the head as the most holy part of the body while the feet are the least holy, so don’t touch someone’s head without permission and don’t point your feet at someone. Avoid crossing your arms or putting your hands on your hips. Things don’t always go to plan in Vietnam, so keep your cool and keep your criticisms to yourself to minimize hassles. Elders are shown tremendous respect in Vietnam, and the same is expected from visitors.
What is Vietnam best known for?
While Americans might think of Vietnam in terms of the war that ravaged the country for the better part of a decade, Vietnam’s history is long and fascinating. The country has long played an active role in shaping the region, and since loosening its isolationist stance, has risen to become one of Southeast Asia’s modern-day economic powerhouses. It’s also well-known for its healthy, delicious, and endlessly varied cuisine, as well as beautiful regions such as Ha Long Bay and the Mekong Delta.
What are some Vietnamese traditions?
Tết celebrates the Vietnamese new year and is the year’s most important celebration all over the country. It usually takes place in January or February and celebrates the arrival of spring. Locals give gifts and greetings, play traditional games like Tổ tài lộc, and Bầu cua tôm của. You’ll see parades and public celebrations, fireworks displays and spectacularly decorated streets, adding an extra charm to already charismatic neighbourhoods like Hanoi’s Old Town and Hoi An’s historic centre.
Fifty-four different ethnic groups make up Vietnam and each has its own traditions. Ancestor worship is a common practice throughout the country. Literature and folklore also play an important role in Vietnamese culture, so take advantage of any chance to learn about the local stories that shape Vietnam’s identity.
What are Vietnamese people like socially?
At first listen, it can seem like the Vietnamese live life at a breakneck speed, shouting at each other as they go. While their work ethic is undeniable, the Vietnamese also greatly value good times and good food shared with family and friends. While Vietnam’s brand of communism is a pretty loose one in the 21st century, a sense of collective responsibility permeates daily life, influencing Vietnam's family-oriented society. Multi-generational homes are common, fostering solidarity within families for the greater good.
What language do Vietnamese people speak?
The language of Vietnam is Vietnamese, but you’ll hear a lot of diversity, with English, French, and Chinese spoken in cities. This mirrors Vietnam's historical interactions with the world, especially the impact of French colonialism. Learning a few basic Vietnamese greetings like "xin chào" (hello) and "cám ơn" (thank you) can make your interactions with the locals even more immersive.
