Vietnamese Etiquettes?

Q: Hi, I have been invited for a stay at my Vietnamese friend’s house. Could you please provide me with some information about local etiquette?

A: It is highly advisable to familiarize yourself with the local customs in Vietnam to foster goodwill and demonstrate respect to your hosts. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

Dress code

Maintaining appropriate dress is important: shorts should reach the knees, and women’s tops should cover the shoulders, especially when visiting temples or religious sites. Always remember to remove your shoes before entering someone's home.

Hats off

As a sign of respect to the elders in Vietnam, take off your hat and bow your head slightly when you address them. In many Asian cultures, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body, so avoid patting or touching an adult on the head.

Meet and greet

The traditional Vietnamese greeting involves placing your hands together in front of your body and bowing slightly. However, the Western custom of handshaking is also widely accepted today.

Watch your feet

Similar to the customs in China and Japan, maintaining clean floors is important to the Vietnamese, so it is customary to remove your shoes when entering a home. It is considered rude to point the soles of your feet at others or at sacred items; always show respect in this regard, particularly towards images of Buddha.

For more insights on dining etiquette and dress codes in Vietnam, please check out the updated links below:

Dining Etiquettes in Vietnam

Dress Code in Vietnam