What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Vietnam?
We asked people in Vietnam if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"I probably did, but you get away with a lot in Vietnam. They just figure you're weird because you're a foreigner. For example, Vietnamese women don't drink or smoke unless they're prostitutes. But I could do both without consequence because I'm a foreigner," commented one expat who made the move to Bien Hoa, Vietnam.
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William RussellWilliam Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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"It is important to respect the local culture and traditions of Vietnam, so visitors should strive to be mindful of different customs. For instance, it is considered inappropriate to show public displays of affection, as well as dress too provocatively. Gesturing with your fingers is also seen as impolite and it is important to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as Vietnam's political regime and past wars. Additionally, it is best to take off your shoes before entering someone's home, and always accept an offer of food or drinks when offered, as it seen as disrespectful to turn it down," remarked another expat in Vietnam.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Vietnam?
- How do I meet people in Vietnam?
- What is life like in Vietnam?
- Is there a lot of crime in Vietnam?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Vietnam accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Vietnam like?
- Is the cost of living in Vietnam high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Vietnam?
- What are healthcare services like in Vietnam?
- Is the cost of living in Vietnam high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Vietnam?
- What is the weather like in Vietnam?
- Are there good restaurants in Vietnam?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Vietnam?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Vietnam?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Vietnam?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Vietnam?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Vietnam?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Vietnam?
If you live in Vietnam, newcomers to Vietnam would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.