Vietnam’s culture is a unique blend of Confucianism, Buddhism, and local traditions, creating a society that is both conservative yet remarkably tolerant. While locals are generally forgiving of cultural missteps, following a few simple etiquette guidelines will help you show respect and avoid unintentional offense—especially in rural areas where foreign visitors are less common.

Dress Code & Modesty

  • Casual clothing like shorts and sleeveless tops are fine for the beach and tourist areas but should be avoided at temples, pagodas, and religious sites.
  • When dealing with officials or entering formal places, dressing neatly is a sign of respect.
  • Women should dress modestly, especially in rural areas and ethnic minority villages, where revealing clothing may be seen as inappropriate.
  • Public nudity is strictly forbidden, even at the beach.

Temple & Home Etiquette

  • Remove your shoes before entering Cao Dai temples, pagodas, and private homes. Some pagodas may only require this when stepping onto prayer mats—follow the locals’ lead.
  • It is customary to leave a small donation when visiting temples and pagodas.

LGBTQ+ Awareness

  • While Vietnam has made strides in LGBTQ+ acceptance, the country remains socially conservative.
  • Same-sex relationships are not illegal, and LGBTQ+ communities are growing, especially in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. However, public displays of affection may still draw attention.

Social Behavior & Tipping

  • Stay calm in difficult situations—losing your temper won’t help and may make things worse.
  • Sharing cigarettes (with men) is a common social gesture, often used in negotiations and bargaining.
  • Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory:
    • In restaurants, 5-10% is customary if no service charge is included.
    • In hotels, tipping depends on the level of service.
    • Tour guides and drivers should be tipped at the end of a tour if you’re happy with their service.

Other Cultural Norms

  • Avoid touching a child’s head, as it is considered sacred.
  • Avoid complimenting babies too much, as it is believed to attract jealous spirits that may bring illness.

By respecting these customs and traditions, you’ll have a more authentic and enjoyable experience while traveling in Vietnam.