Birthday Gift For A Vietnamese Friend

Gifts are a universal response to invitations. A present is not only an expression of gratitude and a sign of politeness from attendees to the host, but also a reflection of social expectations within the larger context; in essence, this relationship embodies a reciprocal mentality.

As straightforward as it may seem, gift-giving is still an art that transcends geographical boundaries and varies across cultures. For instance, consider Vietnam and its approach to birthday celebrations. With its rich cultural history and frequent instances of cultural exchange, gift etiquette in this Southeast Asian country is slightly more nuanced than in many Western societies. Vietnamese sincerity does not equate to a hastily selected, last-minute option; purchasing a gift is an art form that requires careful consideration of the recipient's tastes and interests.

Photo: @giaygoiqua.vn

Moreover, flowers are not seen as a substitute for a gift; rather, they serve as an elegant addition or accompaniment to the birthday present. While a locally made souvenir may be well-regarded, a gift from your home country is often more appreciated, provided that it comes with a thoughtful explanation or context. In addition, giving an excessively expensive gift to a new acquaintance can create an uncomfortable situation, particularly when it involves female friends.

Photo: @sientobonito

Furthermore, a birthday gift should be wrapped in colorful paper. It is advisable to avoid black, which, while fashionable in Western cultures, symbolizes mourning in many Asian countries including Vietnam. Plain white is also best avoided, although an elegant ivory wrapper adorned with tasteful patterns is generally acceptable. The practice of opening a gift in the presence of the giver should be approached with sensitivity, as it depends on the comfort level of both parties.

Thus, choosing a birthday present in Vietnam can be just as challenging as selecting one in your own country, with culturally specific expectations to consider. Generally speaking, money does not play a significant role in determining the value of a gift; Vietnamese people hold to the saying, “Plenty of money does not count; the heart does” (Của nhiều không quan trọng, quan trọng là tấm lòng).