What not to wear in Ho Chi Minh?

Don't wear singlets, shorts, dresses or skirts, or tops with low-neck lines and bare shoulders to Temples and Pagodas.

Are there any clothing restrictions in Vietnam?

Vietnam is quite open to dressing so tourists are free to wear whatever they want, as long as it is comfortable and not too offensive to those around them. You should dress modestly in lightweight, breathable clothing that covers shoulders and knees, especially in religious sites and rural areas.

Can females wear shorts in Vietnam?

You can wear shorts, except in temples. You will find though, that the Vietnamese women do not, usually. They wear skirts, long pants, or dresses.

What is frowned upon in Vietnam?

Speaking too loudly and making excessive gestures is considered rude in public places, especially as a woman. Many will not speak or look at others to avoid disrespect in public. Vietnamese culture greatly respects the elderly and, in general, figures of authority.

What are two taboos in Vietnam?

If you are invited to a Vietnamese home, remember the following Vietnamese taboos to ensure a smooth and respectful visit: Take off your shoes before entering: To show respect. Avoid family altars: Do not step over or walk in front of ancestral altars to avoid disrespect.

What to Pack for Vietnam That No One Tells You About?

What colors to avoid in Vietnamese culture?

Avoid wearing red or black clothes when visiting a funeral or a mourning house. These are considered unlucky colors in Vietnamese culture. White, gray, or blue are more appropriate. Avoid wearing military-style clothing or accessories, such as camouflage, khaki, or dog tags.

What not to bring into Vietnam?

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 is considered pretty in Vietnam?

Vietnam still holds the idea of white, flawless, and bright skin as the epitome of beauty. Today, cultural practices like teeth blackening that once were symbols of beauty have died out.

What to pack for a Vietnam female?

Should I wear jewelry in Vietnam?

Secondly, in Vietnam's biggest cities—like in many big cities—if you flaunt your wealth, it may be taken from you. Do your best to not carry a purse, always lock up your motorbike if you have one, and don't wear obviously expensive jewelry that talented pickpockets could slip off you.

How to dress as a tourist in Vietnam?

Wear Light, Breathable Fabrics

In order to cover up and stay comfortable during your trip, it's crucial to find breathable fabrics that can dry quickly if you sweat. Lots of Vietnamese people who live in the city enjoy wearing denim, but following this trend can make sightseeing unpleasant since its so heavy.

Do and don'ts 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 does "fingers crossed" mean 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, as well as Sweden and Latvia, the gesture is a sign of lying. Instead, wishing for luck is gestured by holding one's thumbs.

Do you need toilet paper in Vietnam?

Toilet paper in Vietnam

The little dustbins (which are right next to the toilet ) are usually a swing bin ( so you can't see everyone else's used toilet paper ) and are easy to use. In the towns/cities then you will find toilet paper provided in most toilets, however, out of town you may like to take your own.

Why do Vietnamese avoid eye contact?

Avoiding eye contact demonstrates respect to elders, people of higher status or of the opposite sex.

How to be polite in Vietnam?

Is chewing gum allowed in Vietnam?

It also advises that people not accept chewing gum or snacks from strangers on the street, as they may be laced with drugs. As for petty crime, it advises tourists to be extra-careful during the celebrations for Tet (the Lunar New Year) and Christmas.

What is considered rude in Vietnam?

In Vietnamese culture, displaying anger, raising one's voice, or screaming is considered extremely impolite. You have, in their opinion, displayed weakness by becoming angry and it is considered very poor manners. Anger directed at someone is taken as direct criticism and most often causes people to “lose face”.

What is the toilet situation in Vietnam?

In Vietnam, the phrase “nothing in life is free” sometimes applies to toilets. Public restrooms often charge a small fee of around 2,000 to 5,000 VND (roughly $0.10 to $0.20 USD). It's a tiny price to pay for relief, so make sure you always have a bit of small change handy.

What is the breakfast culture in Vietnam?

About Vietnamese Breakfast Culture

The breakfast style emphasizes communal eating, with families and friends gathering around small plastic stools at sidewalk vendors. Unlike Western breakfast traditions, Vietnamese morning meals are substantial, often including rice, noodles, or bread as the base.

Can female tourists wear shorts in Vietnam?

Yes, girls can wear shorts in Vietnam, especially in cities and touristy areas like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, or beach destinations like Nha Trang and Phu Quoc. The dress code in urban and coastal areas is generally relaxed, and you'll see many locals and tourists wearing shorts in hot weather.

What is the dress code for Ho Chi Minh City?

Men should not walk around shirtless, and swimwear is only appropriate at the beach or pool. If you plan to visit religious sites, dressing modestly is especially important. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. Pants, maxi skirts, or sleeved dresses are good options.

What vaccines do you need for Vietnam?

Courses or boosters usually advised: Diphtheria; Tetanus. Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B; Rabies; Typhoid. Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Japanese Encephalitis.