We have been invited to a friend’s family home for a typical Vietnamese meal. We want to bring a gift to them. Is a bottle of wine or flowers appropriate? Or is there anything particular that we are e

Hi,

Thank you for your question.

When visiting a Vietnamese family's home for a meal, there are no strict rules regarding gifts. Even without bringing wine or flowers, guests are warmly welcomed by the graciousness of Vietnamese hosts.

However, presenting fresh fruit is always appreciated. It’s a thoughtful gesture and can serve as a delightful dessert. Additionally, you might consider offering something nutritious for the elders, alcoholic beverages, pastries for the family, or sweets for the children, though these gifts might elevate the formality of the occasion.

It's also advisable to inquire with the host if there's anything you can assist with in meal preparation. A common practice is to wait for the eldest person at the table to start eating before you begin, and it’s polite to ask if everyone is satisfied with the meal once it has concluded.

Enjoy your meal.

Read our updated article "Visiting a Vietnamese Family" for more detailed insights.