Some Vietnamese cultural aspects that you should know about!

To blend in with the upbeat lifestyle of Vietnam, check out some of the following Vietnamese Cultural Aspects.

RESPECT & REPUTATION

Living in a cultural environment and customs formed by respect between people, especially for previous generations, has created a habit in the behavior of Vietnamese people specifically and Asians generally. How they are perceived and how they are being treated in their surroundings create an individual’s status in society. Therefore, maintaining order and self-respect for each individual, group, and community is extremely obvious in the Vietnamese lifestyle.

A scene often seen in a Northern family on holidays and New Year Holiday (Tet). Whereas children and grandchildren in the house gather and wish the adults good health to receive lucky money pockets.

Extreme behavior in public places is often rare to be seen. Seldom do people humiliate, swear, question, and argue in public. It is very limited for people to express their discomfort towards someone on the street. Much likely anyone has a big self-esteem out in public and when you constrain it down for yourself is also considered a respectful demeanor towards those around you. No one is willing to make a fuss about themselves unless someone who doesn’t get what is going on finally calls the authorities on you. Any problems will usually be resolved within the family or both parties.

EDUCATION IS NATIONAL TOP PRIORITY

Since Vietnam was invaded thousands of years ago, an individual’s high education is a great source of pride for a lineage and a way to prove they are valuable to serve the nation against foreign invaders. It became common sense until modern times, when from childhood, a child’s education becomes a family’s top priority. From staying up late to waking up early to review, studying after school, and competing to get the best opportunities in today’s competitive era, children become “bookish” warriors through years of training methodically in the professional establishment called “school”. Nowadays, students are naturally familiar with their surroundings and try their best to compete in order to enroll in top schools.

Despite their busy routine, Vietnamese students are generally hyped with school activities, which results in quite good performances in class.

NATIONAL WAR HISTORY IS SACRED

From ancient times until the present peaceful times, Vietnamese people have always fought heroically through great difficulty because of the consequences of war over thousands of years of domination. With the indomitable spirit of resistance and the ideology of bringing independence to the nation has been engraved for many generations here, it is best to maintain an attitude of utmost respect for that. Although the locals have a sense of humor and optimism on almost every topic, sensitive issues related to national history and wartime heroes should be taken seriously.

IS SHOPPING IN VIETNAM A HASSLE?

The shopping culture in Vietnam, especially in popular tourist destinations, will often make you a better negotiator. Understand that this is common in countries around the region of SouthEast Asia, not just Vietnam. Not only does this happen to foreign tourists, but domestic ones also have to negotiate prices if they don’t want to buy a product sold at an exorbitant price.

Busy local daily life of the morning street market in Hanoi, Vietnam.

The best way to do this is to know who you are negotiating with, set a price you think is reasonable, and then take a few steps away as soon as the shop owner refuses the offer. But be aware that this isn’t always possible, and it’s better to avoid big stores that are crowded with shoppers. Foreigners should expect a bit extra fee while traveling abroad. It’s better to consider it as a fun experience and not take it personally.

POSITIVE ATTITUDE AND PROGRESSIVE SPIRIT

The best way to do this is to know who you are negotiating with, set a price you think is reasonable, and then take a few steps away as soon as the shop owner refuses the offer. But be aware that this isn’t always possible, and it’s better to avoid big stores that are crowded with shoppers. Foreigners should expect a bit extra fee while traveling abroad. It’s better to consider it as a fun experience and not take it personally.

Happy Vietnamese children eating a pho bo in local restaurant shows a brightly attitude upon life.

Here are some cultural aspects you should be aware of before coming to travel to Vietnam or plan to stay here for quite some time. We hope this helps in making your way to Vietnamese lifestyle a bit more convenient. 

Marlene Cat