It's very easy to learn the basics of Vietnamese for your travels or first months
Vietnamese language and cultural etiquette guide
Language Basics
Greetings: The most common greeting is "Xin chào" (pronounced "seen chow"), which translates to "hello" or "goodbye."
To show respect, address older people with "Anh" (for men) or "Chị" (for women) followed by their name. For example, "Xin chào Anh Nam" means "Hello Mr. Nam."
Basic Phrases: Learning a few basic phrases can go a long way in establishing rapport with locals.
Some useful phrases include:
"Cảm ơn" (pronounced "kam uhn"): Thank you
"Không, cảm ơn" (pronounced "comb kam uhn"): No, thank you
"Xin lỗi" (pronounced "seen loy"): Excuse me or sorry
"Bao nhiêu?" (pronounced "bao nyew?"): How much?
Tonal Language: Vietnamese is a tonal language, where the meaning of a word can change depending on the tone used. While mastering all six tones might be challenging for beginners, making an effort to pronounce words with the correct tone shows respect and can lead to better communication.
Cultural Etiquette
Respect for Elders: Respect for elders is deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture. Always greet older people first and use polite language when addressing them. Avoid interrupting or disagreeing with elders in public.
Modesty: Vietnamese people value modesty in dress and behavior. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, especially when visiting temples or pagodas. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.
Gift Giving: If you're invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift, such as fruit, flowers, or sweets. Avoid giving gifts in sets of four, as the number four is considered unlucky in Vietnamese culture.
Eating Etiquette: When dining with Vietnamese people, wait to be seated and allow the elders to start eating first. Use chopsticks to eat most dishes and avoid sticking them upright in your rice bowl, as this is associated with funeral rituals.
Tipping: Tipping is not expected in Vietnam, but it's appreciated if you receive exceptional service. Rounding up the bill at restaurants or giving a small tip to tour guides or drivers is a common practice.
Bargaining: Bargaining is common in markets and small shops. Start by offering half the asking price and negotiate from there. Remember to be respectful and avoid being overly aggressive.
Shoes and Hats: Remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a temple. Also, remove your hat when talking to someone older or in a place of worship.
Non-Verbal Communication: Avoid pointing with your index finger, as it's considered rude. Instead, use your whole hand to gesture. Maintain eye contact during conversations, but avoid staring, as it can be perceived as aggressive.
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