Hanoi Travel Tips

Hanoi Travel and Cultural Etiquette Tips

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively when visiting temples or pagodas. Avoid revealing clothing, especially when entering sacred sites.

Remove Your Shoes

Remove your shoes when entering homes, temples, or other places where you see locals doing so. It’s a sign of respect and cleanliness.

Use Your Right Hand

When eating, giving or receiving something, use your right hand as the left hand is considered unclean.

Learn Basic Vietnamese Phrases

Learn basic Vietnamese phrases like “Xin chào” (hello), “Cảm ơn” (thank you), and “Tạm biệt” (goodbye). It will show respect for the culture and people.

Respect Elders

Show respect to elderly Vietnamese by bowing your head or using both hands when giving or receiving something from them.

No Public Displays of Affection

Avoid public displays of affection, as they are considered impolite in Vietnamese culture.

Keep Your Voice Down

Keep your voice down when talking to locals, especially in temples or pagodas. Loud voices are seen as disrespectful.

Don’t Touch or Point at People’s Heads

In Vietnamese culture, the head is considered sacred. Avoid touching or pointing at people’s heads, as it’s seen as disrespectful and rude.

Learn About Local Customs

Learn about local customs and traditions to avoid unintentionally offending locals.

Be Prepared for Crowds and Noise

Be prepared for crowds and noise in Old Quarter streets, especially during peak hours.

Bargain Politely

Bargain politely when shopping at markets. Avoid aggressive bargaining, as it’s seen as impolite.

Try Local Food with an Open Mind

Try local food with an open mind. Avoid complaining or showing disgust, as it’s considered rude to the culture and people.

Respect the Environment

Respect the environment by not littering, using public transportation, and avoiding single-use plastics.

Enjoy Your Time in Hanoi! Remember to stay calm, patient, and respectful when interacting with locals. With these tips, you’ll have a more enjoyable and culturally enriching experience in Hanoi.