English
French
Spanish
Italian
Don’t let the culture shock in Vietnam deter you from visiting this beautiful country. Traveling to an unfamiliar country can bring joy, but also problems when it comes to cultural differences. Let’s keep reading with Asia King Travel to stay prepared for the experiences on your trip to Vietnam!
.jpg)
Don’t let the culture shock prevent you from visiting Vietnam
Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country that is strongly influenced by Eastern cultures. Therefore, it may be a culture shock for tourists, especially Western first-time travelers, when traveling in Vietnam. Some behaviors that are considered weird in other countries may be the norm in Vietnam, and vice versa. It’s simply the result of cultural differences, but you may still feel offended or uncomfortable if you encounter this.
Regarding that problem, this blog is to prepare you for some potential situations that may happen when you travel in Vietnam. Let’s check out the most see culture shock in Vietnam below!
Working out at a gym or going jogging on the street sounds common enough. But have you ever seen a group of people, varying in ages, gather at a park or around the lakeside, put on some catchy music, and do a workout together? Many first-time travelers find this scene weird, but also interesting during their travel in Vietnam.
.jpg)
Local people exercise together
In fact, it’s quite a normal thing here. The Vietnamese people are generally socially attached and have a collective norm, resulting in strong community bonding. This characteristic is expressed through many aspects, especially group activities. Not only a public exercising, but even in a wedding or a funeral, you can easily catch the scene of neighbors helping the host to prepare dishes or set up the reception.
In brief, working out in public places is a unique and interesting aspect of Vietnamese community life. If you ever want to join in, don’t hesitate! Just step in and follow along with the others. The locals here are super friendly and always happy to welcome tourists. Exercising to lively music with local people will surely become a memorable part of your trip to Vietnam!
.jpg)
The Swedish Crown Princess and her husband worked out with the locals during their visit in 2019
Suggestion for you: Cultural Insights: Things to Avoid During a Vietnamese Meal
This experience is kinda a creepy culture shock in Vietnam for tourists. The most common scene is, let’s say, for example, when you’re going on a cable car with a group of elderly Vietnamese people. There’s a good chance of hearing their chanting. But no worries! There’s nothing bad about that.
In fact, many elderly people in Vietnam are Buddhists; therefore, they often chant to show their sincerity and pray for bad luck to turn into good luck. That’s why in some potentially dangerous situations, like traveling by a cable car or airplane, they may chant to remain calm, and as a way to avoid any possible bad luck (spiritually only, of course!)
.jpg)
Don't worry if the person next to you starts...chanting
For your information, a Vietnamese wedding is often celebrated at either an event venue or simply a large public space near their houses. While the former is private and the guest list is strictly controlled, the latter (also a long-standing custom) is more open and flexible, and is now most seen in the countryside or suburban areas.
If you’re using TikTok or any other social platform, there might be a chance you’ve seen this! Some tourists share their exciting experiences of being invited to attend a wedding and enjoy the feast while traveling in Vietnam. This may be considered abnormal in many countries, but that’s how Vietnamese people share their joy and happiness with strangers, as well as expressing their hospitality!
.jpg)
Vietnamese people are super friendly and hospitable
In this situation, if you’re comfortable and have time, feel free to join in! Attending a local event is a good way to understand the Vietnamese people and community life. You’ll experience the common rituals and activities inside a Vietnamese wedding, and savour delicious dishes.
And here’s a small tip: The locals don’t expect anything in return; a sincere thank you is enough. But if you’d like to show your appreciation and send your best wishes to the newlyweds, you can offer a gift, either a monetary contribution or something thoughtful they might like.
The next common culture shock in Vietnam is the high party spirit, as we often say to our customers. When dining at local restaurants, especially Vietnamese casual beer shops, there’s often the loud sound of “Mot Hai Ba Yooooo” from other tables. This is kinda a must-know “traditional slogan” for any Vietnamese, even a kid, when they’re partying.
According to Vietnamese norms, this action is often not considered rude or annoying, even if the high pitch of “Mot Hai Ba Yooooo” occasionally causes some discomfort. Instead, this slogan is “the spirit” of any fun. It lifts up the party atmosphere and gets participants involved.
.jpg)
Australian Prime Minister tried Hanoi draft beer during visit to Vietnam
If you’re on your trip to Vietnam, try joining in this fun and unique way of partying at least once! Grab your glass, stand up, and invite everyone to raise their drinks. Let one person set the rhythm, and the group follows by chanting: “Mot, Hai, Ba... Yooo!”, then everyone takes their shot in one go. It’s a joyful and energetic part of Vietnamese gatherings that you won’t forget!
Suggestion for you: Vietnam Food Tour 10 days: Vietnamese Cuisine Experience
This is not quite a culture shock in Vietnam, but many tourists may find it uncomfortable, the small plastic chairs. Vietnamese food and beverages are tasty to enjoy, and exploring local culinary streets is an unforgettable part of your travel in Vietnam. However, if you’re a first-time traveler, you may feel surprised because numerous casual diners, especially street food booths, only offer these low, small chairs and an equivalent small table.
It’s mostly because these chairs are lightweight, stackable, and easy to move, which makes them a perfect choice for roadside dining. While they might feel a bit uncomfortable at first, you can always ask the vendor if they have higher chairs available for a more comfortable seat. After all, any minor inconveniences will be well worth it once you get a bite of unique and flavorful local dishes. It’s worth trying anyway!
.jpg)
Small plastic chairs are commonly used in Vietnam's casual dining
One more thing that sounds like a fun fact more than a culture shock for tourists: Vietnam is a true paradise for coffee lovers. Coffee shops are everywhere. No matter where you are, you’re never far from a cafe. Especially in crowded streets and around tourist spots, these shops are just a few steps from one to another.
What makes it even more interesting is the variety of styles and vibes. Some places are cozy and nostalgic, others are modern and aesthetic, and many are inspired by nature. People don’t just go there for coffee; they might be catching up with friends, studying, working remotely, or even playing with pets. Plus, menus often include herbal teas, sweet teas, juices, and more. So whatever your vibe or taste, you’re sure to find a coffee shop that suits you.
.jpg)
The famous Hanoi Railway Coffee Street
That’s a quick wrap of possible culture shock that is most likely to happen when you travel in Vietnam. As you can see, not every culture shock in Vietnam is annoying. In contrast, many of them offer a fun and fresh experience. If you’re ready to fact-check and explore Vietnamese culture, chat with us and let Asia King Travel suggest the best tailor-made vacations for you!
Suggestion for you: Vietnam Travel FAQ: Answers to All Travelers' Questions
