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.
Can you brush your teeth with tap water in Vietnam?
Brushing Your Teeth: Safe or Not? The good news is, yes, you can usually brush your teeth with tap water in Vietnam—particularly in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and popular tourist destinations like Ninh Binh.
Yes, you read that right—no flushing that tissue, folks. 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.
Generally, showering with tap water in Vietnam is considered safe for most people, as the water undergoes treatment at municipal plants. However, the risk of infection via skin contact is minimal compared to ingestion, as bacteria do not typically penetrate intact skin.
Start taking probiotics for one week before you leave for Vietnam. I use Optibac's For Travelling Abroad and Allergy Research Saccharomyces Boulardii. The latter is not only researched for diarrhoea but is supportive of the immune system which helps your digestive system fight any incoming bugs that may slip in.
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.
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.
While Vietnam doesn't enforce a strict dress code, modesty is very much appreciated—particularly in Northern Vietnam and more traditional or rural areas. When visiting religious sites such as temples and pagodas, it's important to cover your shoulders and knees. That means shorts and mini skirts are a no-go.
What are some taboo conversation topics in Vietnam?
Discussing Sensitive Topics: Topics such as politics, religion, and personal finances are generally avoided in conversations to prevent conflicts and maintain social harmony.
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.
Not tipping is not typically seen as rude in Vietnam, especially in non-touristic areas. However, for excellent service, a small tip is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation.
Crime. Petty theft is the most common type of crime for tourists in Vietnam. Thieves often operate on motor scooters in the most crowded parts of the largest cities and target tourists' cellphones, purses, cameras, and backpacks. The State Department recommends you hold on to your phones and purses tightly.
Many Vietnamese use filtered or boiled water for drinking. In rural areas, the situation is worse, with tap water often sourced from unreliable and contaminated sources. Therefore, both locals and visitors are advised to drink bottled, boiled, or filtered water to avoid health risks associated with unclean tap water.
What should I wear? In Vietnam, modesty is respectful. Cover your shoulders and knees in areas of religious or cultural importance, like temples and people's homes, and keep any undergarments out of sight – watch out for bra straps poking out of a vest top and avoid sheer fabrics.
There is generally no separate shower stall in the bathroom - you stand in the middle of the floor (over the drain) and wash. That means the walls, ceiling, and fixtures gets wet.
Why are toilets called a WC? To start, WC is an abbreviation standing for 'water closet', a name used in the 1900's for a toilet, due to most being fitted in a spare closet or cupboard.
TIP: Many businesses and taxi services in Vietnam now accept Visa contactless payments, done by tapping your card directly on a terminal. These payments add peace of mind and reduce health risks, as your card never leaves your hand.
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.
Don't burp in public: Unlike some neighboring Asian countries, Vietnam does not condone public burping. It is seen as vulgar and uncivilized. If you have to burp, do it discreetly and cover your mouth.
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.
