What not to do in Vietnam?

To have a smooth trip to Vietnam, avoid public affection, touching people's heads, and disrespecting temples by wearing revealing clothes; stay safe by using official transport, watching for spiked drinks, and steering clear of drugs; and respect local laws by not discussing politics or taking unauthorized photos of military sites.

What mistakes should you avoid in Vietnam?

Vietnam Travel Guide: 10 Common Tourist Mistakes to Avoid

• Underestimating the Size of Vietnam. ...
• Disrespecting Cultural Norms at Temples. ...
• Getting Scammed by Taxis or Cyclo Drivers. ...
• Assuming There's No Good Food for Vegetarians. ...
• Drinking Tap Water. ...
• Not Haggling at Markets. ...
• Not Doing Proper Shopping Research.

Do and don'ts in Vietnam?

In Vietnam, DO dress modestly at religious sites, remove shoes when entering homes/temples, use both hands for giving/receiving, try street food, and stay calm in public; DON'T show public affection, touch heads, point with feet, raise your voice, or disrespect national symbols like Ho Chi Minh, while being wary of traffic and scams.

What is not allowed in Vietnam for tourists?

You should avoid purchasing liquor or cigarettes from street vendors or strangers, as the authenticity cannot be assured. Vapes and related products are banned. You cannot buy vapes in Vietnam or bring them into the country.

What to be careful for in Vietnam?

Petty crime, street crime and harassment happen, especially in larger cities. Bag slashing is common in tourist areas, at markets, on crowded trains and buses, and at supermarkets. It increases in the lead up to and during Vietnamese and Western holiday periods.

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

Is it okay to wear red in Vietnam?

Delicate suits and jackets are recommended, especially when you have to visit your friend's houses during the festival. We recommend you to pack some red clothes or jackets as this colour is considered as the appearance of luckiness according to Vietnamese culture.

What can't you wear in Vietnam?

Dress as the Vietnamese do

Visible undergarments, sheer fabrics and skimpy attire will not endear you to your Vietnamese hosts and acquaintances. Observing the locals where you are staying will give you a good idea of what is acceptable in terms of clothing and coverage.

How do I prepare my stomach for Vietnam?

Many travelers experience no stomach troubles on a visit to Vietnam. Still, it's a good idea to keep diarrhea medicine with you. If you're feeling uncertain, there are medications like Travelan that you can take before a meal. Rehydration salts and Pepto-Bismol can help alleviate symptoms faster.

Can I use toilet paper in Vietnam?

Flushing Toilet Paper in Vietnam

Unlike Western sewer systems, many in Vietnam simply aren't built to handle paper waste, which can lead to all kinds of plumbing headaches. Instead, there's a handy trash bin right next to the toilet where you should toss your used tissue.

What are the unspoken rules in Vietnam?

Unspoken rules in Vietnam emphasize respect, harmony, and modesty, requiring visitors to remove shoes indoors, dress conservatively (especially at religious sites), stay calm in public (avoiding loud confrontation), and show respect for elders. Key etiquette includes mastering chopsticks (don't pass food, stick them upright), accepting offers of food/drink gracefully, using both hands for transactions, and understanding that public affection is generally frowned upon.
 

How long would $100 last in Vietnam?

Your $100 can go a long way in Vietnam. Budget travelers can expect to spend up to $25 a day on food and lodging. Middle-budget spenders can enjoy good restaurant food, hire cabs, and stay comfortably in good hotels for about $35-65 a day.

What to avoid eating in Vietnam?

TOP DRINK OR FOOD TO AVOID IN VIETNAM FOR A SAFE FOOD TOUR

• Tap Water. ...
• Block Ice. ...
• Uncooked Vegetables and unwashed herbs. ...
• Uncooked seafood. ...
• Raw Blood Pudding (Tiet Canh) ...
• Dog Meat. ...
• Wild animals and strange meat. ...
• 8. Fruits with edible skins.

Are bed bugs common in Vietnam?

Bed bugs are not only in Vietnam but also other Asian, African countries. These pests are most often encountered in budget hostels, older guesthouses, shared dormitories, and occasionally even in hotels with insufficient pest control.

Can you brush your teeth with tap water in Vietnam?

Brushing Teeth with Tap Water in Vietnam

Brushing teeth is a basic hygiene activity, yet in Vietnam, its safety hinges on the source of water used. Many people brush with tap water without issue, but for travelers and sensitive individuals, caution is advised.

How to avoid traveler's diarrhea in Vietnam?

Prevention

1. Don't consume food from street vendors.
2. Don't consume unpasteurized milk and dairy products, including ice cream.
3. Don't eat raw or undercooked meat, fish and shellfish.
4. Don't eat moist food at room temperature, such as sauces and buffet offerings.
5. Eat foods that are well cooked and served hot.

What not to bring into Vietnam?

Prohibited items include:

• Explosives and items containing explosives.
• Flammable substances in the form of gases, liquids or solids.
• Oxidizers, organic peroxides and related items.
• Corrosives, infectious or toxic substances and related items.
• Radioactive materials, magnetized materials.

What is the 3-3-3 rule for clothes?

The "333 rule" in clothing refers to two popular minimalist fashion concepts: the viral TikTok trend of using 3 tops, 3 bottoms, and 3 shoes to create numerous outfits (9 items total) for styling practice, and the more extensive Project 333, where you select 33 items (including clothes, shoes, and accessories) to wear for three months, excluding essentials like underwear, workout gear, and sleepwear, to simplify your wardrobe and reduce decision fatigue. Both methods focus on versatility, quality over quantity, and creating a functional capsule wardrobe.

What does crossing fingers mean in Vietnam?

Crossing two fingers (considered “good luck” in the U.S.) is a vulgar way of indicating intercourse in Vietnam.

What things are considered disrespectful in Vietnam?

Use both hands when giving something: It shows respect. Use your whole hand to point or gesture, not your finger: If not, it is considered rude. Avoid touching others' heads or shoulders: This one shows disrespect. Don't stand with hands on hips or in pockets, especially when talking: It shows disrespect.

What does 444 mean in Vietnam?

444 Angel Number Death

In certain cultures, the word for the number 4 and the word for death are surprisingly similar. "Four" in Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese and Korean all sound almost the same as the word "death." For this reason, the number 444 is sometimes seen as a not-so-positive thing.

Why do they always beep in Vietnam?

Understanding the use of the horn

Locals use noise instead of sight to signal their position on the road. When arriving in Vietnam, motorcycle horns' constant beeps is one of the first things you will notice. The horn is not a sign of aggression but a signal that you are here.

What does 9 mean in Vietnam?

For the Vietnamese, number 9 has been a symbol of kingship and royal power for generations. Modern Vietnamese are also always looking for and choosing items containing the number 9 with the expectation of a peaceful life, longevity, prosperity in business, and convenience in life.