When it comes to what to wear in Vietnam, it’s important to keep in mind the country’s cultural norms and weather conditions. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, here are a few things you should avoid wearing:
1. Sleeveless Tops: Though it may be hot and humid in Vietnam, it’s considered inappropriate to wear sleeveless as it’s a sign of disrespect in Vietnamese culture. Women should opt for t-shirts, blouses or long sleeves with lightweight fabrics.
2. Short shorts or mini-skirts: In Vietnam, it’s better to wear shorts that reach your knee or longer, and avoid mini-skirts, which are not allowed in most public places. Rather than denim shorts, choose light fabrics and cotton blends to keep cool.
3. Beachwear: Although you may plan to visit popular Vietnamese beach destinations, it’s recommended that beachwear is restricted to the beach or pool area. If you’re out for a casual stroll or a meal, make sure to wear clothing that is conservative, covering shoulders and legs.
4. Offensive T-Shirts: As a guest in a foreign country, it’s essential to be respectful of the culture, and avoid wearing offensive attire that may include curse words, inappropriate symbols, or images. These types of t-shirts can cause offence to the locals and isn’t acceptable.
5. Over-revealing clothes: Like sleeveless tops and mini-skirts, it’s considered inappropriate to wear clothing that exposes too much skin in Vietnamese culture. Women should avoid deep V-neckline, low-cut dresses or plunging necklines on blouses outside the beach area.
6. Loud Print Clothing: The Vietnamese people are typically modest and prefer understated colours and patterns. When packing for your trip to Vietnam, avoid packing anything with loud and overpowering prints or graphics.
By keeping in mind these considerations, tourists are extending their recognition and appreciation of Vietnamese culture. It’s vital to dress appropriately and make small compromises to respect their values through our clothing choices. It is the key to having a pleasant and peaceful experience in a beautiful country.
Do and don’ts in Vietnam culture?
Vietnam culture is a blend of traditional values and modern practices, and it is essential to understand and respect the local customs when traveling or living in Vietnam. The following are some of the do’s and don’ts in Vietnam culture:
Do’s:
1. Always greet people with a smile and a nod of your head or a handshake.
2. Take off your shoes before entering someone’s home, temple or pagoda.
3. Dress appropriately while visiting religious places or formal events. Sleeveless clothes or shorts are not highly appreciated.
4. Respect the local customs and traditions, and follow the rules and regulations by the authorities, as violating them can lead to legal or social consequences.
5. Show respect towards elderly people and those in positions of authority, such as teachers or local leaders.
6. Try the local cuisine, which is an essential part of Vietnamese culture. Indulge in some of the popular dishes like Pho, Banh Mi, Bun Cha, or Com Tam.
7. Learn some basic Vietnamese phrases as it shows your interest in the local culture and also helps with communication with the locals.
8. Follow the local currency system and avoid creating chaos by bargaining too much or arguing over prices. Tipping is not common in Vietnam, so it is best to check before leaving a tip.
Don’ts:
1. Avoid touching someone’s head or pointing your feet towards them as it is considered highly disrespectful in Vietnam culture.
2. Do not display affection in public like kissing or hugging, as it is not appreciated.
3. Do not wear revealing or tight clothes in religious places, as it can offend the people there.
4. Do not speak loudly, as it is considered rude and impolite.
5. Do not raise your voice, express anger, or criticize someone in public, as it can lead to a loss of face, which is unacceptable in Vietnamese culture.
6. Do not photograph or film anyone without their permission, especially in religious places or private homes.
7. Do not disrespect the national flag or the national symbols, as it is a criminal offense in Vietnam.
8. Do not buy or consume any illegal substances as it is punishable by the law, and it may also put your safety at risk.
Understanding the do’s and don’ts in Vietnam culture is vital to respecting the local traditions and customs. While these pointers are just a few of the cultural norms, always try to be respectful, courteous and observe the locals and follow their lead!
Can you get tampons in Vietnam?
Yes, tampons are available in Vietnam, but they may not be as widely available as pads or menstrual cups. Western-style tampons are more commonly found in larger cities and tourist areas, but they can also be purchased online or at specialized stores. It is important to note that tampon use is not as common in Vietnam as it is in Western countries, so it is important to be aware of local customs and might take time to find your preferred brand.
It is a good idea to bring your own supply of tampons if you plan on traveling throughout rural areas or smaller towns. Additionally, be sure to properly dispose of used tampons as many public restrooms do not provide proper facilities for disposal and it is important to be environmentally conscious.
while tampons may be slightly less accessible than pads or menstrual cups in Vietnam, they can still be easily obtained with some preparation and research.
What is the legal age to date in Vietnam?
In Vietnam, there is no specific legal age to date. However, there are laws in place that govern sexual activities, marriage, and related issues. The age of sexual consent is 16 years old, which means that engaging in sexual intercourse with a person under the age of 16 is considered rape and is punishable by law.
Additionally, the minimum age for marriage in Vietnam is 18 years old for males and 16 years old for females. However, individuals who are under 18 years old can still get married with the permission of their parents or legal guardians. Children who are over 15 but under 18 years old must have the consent of their parents, whereas those under 15 must have the approval of their parents and a judge.
It is important to note that although there is no specific legal age to date in Vietnam, it is advisable for individuals to exercise caution when engaging in romantic relationships, particularly with minors. It is always best to ensure that both parties are of legal age and the relationship is consensual to avoid any legal issues.
In cases where there is a large age gap between two individuals or when one person is in a position of power over the other, such as a teacher-student or an employer-employee relationship, it is important to be aware of the potential for exploitation or abuse.
Can you brush your teeth with water in Vietnam?
Yes, you can brush your teeth with water in Vietnam. However, it is important to note that the quality of the water may vary depending on where you are in the country. In general, tap water in Vietnam is not recommended for drinking, as it may contain bacteria or other contaminants that can cause health issues.
To ensure that the water is safe for brushing your teeth, it is recommended to use bottled or boiled water. Many hotels and guesthouses in Vietnam provide complimentary bottled water for guests, which can be used for brushing teeth as well.
Furthermore, it is important to avoid swallowing water while brushing your teeth to prevent the ingestion of harmful bacteria or other contaminants. Rinsing your mouth with bottled water after brushing can also help ensure that your mouth is clean and free of germs.
In addition, it is advisable to practice good dental hygiene habits while traveling in Vietnam, such as using fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, and visiting a dentist if needed. Maintaining good oral health can help prevent dental issues that may arise from traveling or living in a new environment.
While it is generally safe to brush your teeth with water in Vietnam, taking precautions and practicing good hygiene habits can help ensure that your teeth stay healthy and your overall health is not compromised.
Is there a dress code in Vietnam?
Yes, there is a dress code in Vietnam that is influenced by the country’s culture, religion, and climate. Vietnamese people generally dress conservatively and modestly, and it is appropriate to dress in a manner that reflects respect for the local culture.
In general, it is recommended that visitors dress modestly and cover their shoulders and knees when visiting temples, pagodas, or other religious sites. Additionally, it is important to note that Vietnam is a predominantly Buddhist country, so it is important to dress respectfully when visiting these sites.
Wearing clothing that is too revealing or disrespectful can be seen as offensive.
In terms of climate, Vietnam can be quite hot and humid, especially in the summer months. It is recommended to wear light and breathable clothing, such as cotton or linen, to stay comfortable in the heat. However, it is still important to dress modestly, even if you are wearing lightweight clothing.
In some parts of Vietnam, such as the more rural areas, traditional clothing is still worn by locals. These clothes, which are often made of silk, are beautiful and colorful and are typically worn for special occasions or festivals. While visitors are not required to wear traditional clothing, it can be a fun and unique way to experience the local culture.
When visiting Vietnam, it is important to dress respectfully and modestly to show appreciation for the local culture and customs. By doing so, visitors can have a more enjoyable and respectful experience when in the country.
What do you have to declare at customs Vietnam?
According to the official website of the Vietnam Customs, all travelers entering Vietnam are required to complete a customs declaration form, known as a Declaration for Temporarily Imported/Exported Goods (also known as form HQ/2009). This declaration form is typically provided on the airplane or at the port of entry and can also be found online.
The customs declaration form must be completed truthfully, accurately, and completely. It requires travelers to list all valuable personal belongings they are bringing with them to Vietnam, including electronic devices such as laptops, cell phones, and cameras. It is important to note that if the items are valued at more than VND 10 million (approximately USD 430), they may be subject to import taxes.
In addition to personal belongings, travelers must also declare all high-value items such as jewelry, gold, and foreign currency if the total value exceeds VND 300 million (approximately USD 12,900). Failure to declare these items can result in confiscation or fines.
Travelers are also prohibited from bringing certain items into Vietnam, including drugs, weapons, and explosives, among other restricted items. It is important to review the list of prohibited items before traveling to Vietnam to avoid any potential legal challenges.
To sum up, when entering Vietnam, travelers must complete a customs declaration form, declare all valuable personal belongings, and ensure they are not carrying any prohibited items. It is always recommended to carefully review the customs declaration process before traveling to avoid any potential issues or delays at the port of entry.
What food can you bring through US customs?
The United States Customs and Border Protection Agency (CBP) has specified certain rules and guidelines regarding importing food into the US, which travelers must comply with to avoid any legal penalties.
Firstly, fresh fruits and vegetables are generally prohibited from entering the US unless the traveler obtains an import permit or if they are commercial shipments with phytosanitary certificates. However, travelers can bring dried fruits and vegetables, such as raisins or dried ginger, in permissible quantities as long as they are free from insects or pests.
Meat products such as beef, pork, poultry, and their by-products are not allowed to enter the US, except for cooked and canned meat products, provided they are made from certain countries with no threat of animal diseases. Canned seafood is also allowed, but fresh seafood should be declared and inspected by the CBP.
Cheese and dairy products from certain countries can be imported in small quantities, but they must be declared and cleared by the CBP.
Nuts, seeds, baked goods, salsa, and spices are permitted, but it is advisable to declare them to the CBP to avoid any confusion or delay. Chocolates and confectionaries are also generally permitted, but products containing meat or animal products are prohibited.
Travelers are advised to declare all food items brought into the US to avoid any penalties or fines. It’s always beneficial to check the CBP website or reaching out to them before traveling to the United States to know about all the rules and regulations in advance.
