What to watch out for in Vietnam?

What to be careful for in Vietnam?

How do I prepare my stomach for Vietnam?

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.

What mistakes should you avoid 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.

Do and don'ts of Vietnam?

Most importantly, don't lose your temper in public; try to be cool and collected whenever possible. Never lose your temper in public or when bargaining for a purchase. This is considered a serious loss of face for both parties. Always maintain a cool and happy demeanor and you will be reciprocated with the same.

21 Tips I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Vietnam

Where to avoid in Vietnam?

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.

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 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.

How not to look like a tourist in Vietnam?

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.

Do you not flush toilet paper in Vietnam?

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.

How to avoid traveler's 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 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.

What not to do as a tourist in Vietnam?

What is the best mosquito repellent for Vietnam?

Products containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus are commonly used among travelers. A few more tips, if you use repellent: Make sure to apply the repellent on all exposed skin, especially during peak mosquito activity times, such as early morning and late afternoon into the evening.

Is it common to get sick in Vietnam?

During travel:

Avoid adding ice to your drinks, and check that salad and fruit have been washed with filtered water prior to consumption. Traveller's diarrhoea is common in Vietnam. Important ways to prevent traveller's diarrhoea include: ensure you wash your hands with soap and water regularly.

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 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 are the biggest issues in Vietnam?

The primary social issues in Vietnam are rural and child poverty. Vietnam scores 37.6 in the Gini coefficient index of wealth inequality, with the top 10% accounting for 30.2% of the nation's income and the bottom 10% receiving 3.2%.

Can I 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 the negative list in Vietnam?

According to the new Law on Investment, which came into force on 1 January 2021, Vietnam adopts a negative list approach to identify, on an exception basis, all business sectors to which market access are limited or excluded for foreign investors.

What is one of the biggest mistakes you can make in Vietnam?

Overpacking Your Itinerary

Vietnam is long and narrow, stretching over 1,600 km from north to south. A common mistake is trying to “see it all” in one trip, cramming Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc into just two weeks.

Why do Vietnamese avoid eye contact?

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

What does a thumbs up mean in Vietnam?

Put hands on the chest: Puting hands on the chest is a gesture of sincerity. Thumbs up: This thumb gesture is a sign of agreement. It tells someone to know that they have done well. OK sign: It is also a sign of agreement and shows that everything is very well. The OK sign.

What does mot hai ba mean?

|| a Vietnamese phrase to describe drinking with friends, family, and loved ones. We shout “mot hai ba yo!” with every bottoms up! This is how we connect, let loose, and have some fun🥳