Located in the South China Sea, Vietnam is one of the most gorgeous countries in Asia. The country is rich in culture and heritage which is highly evident in the food, beaches, monasteries, Buddhist pagodas, and many more areas. The huge marble mausoleum in the city is a must-see. The marble is built to pay tribute to the greatest Communist-era leader of Vietnam called Ho Chi Minh. The city has gorgeous landscapes offering explicit beauty. The place is very affordable for all the globe trotters, but please note that the people of Vietnam are very particular about certain customs. So here is what you should not do when in Vietnam. Please read further to find the list of 10 things of what not to do in Vietnam.
1. Don't get involved into political issues ( Vietnam War or government affairs)
The concept of freedom of speech doesn’t operate in Vietnam. You are not allowed to discuss the Vietnam War and comment on the corruption around the city. These discussions can provoke a negative response from the public which can then land you in an unpleasant situation. You are allowed to blog about sensitive issues associated with the country, but you have to be very careful while addressing government authorities. Also note you are not allowed to click pictures of military installations in the country, this is considered a punishable offense. So avoid photographing such places.
2. Don't expect to sleep late
Vietnam is a place for all the early birds. People expect you to rise early and get on with your daily routine as the country wakes at 6 am. People here believe in the policy of ‘early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise’. Since everyone wakes up the early, you get to hear a whole lot of noise which may be overwhelming for some. So always wake up on time when in Vietnam.
3. Don't show off your expensive belongings
Never show off your valuable belongings in public, if you don’t wish to become an easy target of pickpocketers. Keep your valuables like iPods, mobile phones, cameras as well as your bags carefully. Travelers are often the target of petty crimes happening all over the country. So always be aware of people around and make sure to keep your stuff safe.
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4. Don’t stop when crossing a road
Crossing a road is a matter of concern. It is really important to make sure you follow the rules laid down by the authorities. Do not cross the road in whatever manner you want. The trick lies in the “beeping”, yeah you read it right! The way you are beeping, tells the direction you are moving in and this how you understand when to stop while walking on the road. The concept of crossing roads differs in many places, at first you might find it tricky, but you will learn quickly.
5. Don't sit with your feet pointing towards a family altar
Make sure you never sit or sleep with your feet pointing towards the altar of the family house you chose to reside in. The pointing of toes is considered to be disrespectful. Never disrespect your host. Don’t disrespect their hospitality. People of Vietnam are very particular towards the way others treat them, so always ensure to treat them with respect as no one is less than anyone in any manner.
6. Don't rush people
Walking around the streets of Vietnam is the best way to explore all the astonishing sites. The streets of Vietnam are very crowded, and you will always find hundreds of people walking here and there especially during the day time. However, people here have learned to deal with the crowds, and they make sure not to rush anyone even accidentally. Please avoid rushing people on the streets or anywhere as it is a symbol of recklessness and disrespect.
7. Don't wear shorts or old T-shirts to visit a pagoda
Pagodas are highly significant and great historical sites of Vietnam. The people of Vietnam are very particular about how people dress up during their visit to the pagodas. As per the rules, you are required to dress up very conservatively when entering a historic pagoda. Not only in the pagodas but people wearing any dresses, shorts or T-shirts which are revealing or inappropriate are not allowed inside any temples or any site of historical significance. This is a very important thing in the list of what not to do in Vietnam.
8. Don't attempt to drive
Don’t attempt to drive alone. The traffic rules in Vietnam are entirely different from what you must have seen or followed anywhere else in the world. Always remember not to be alone on the road. Never lead the way as it can land you in trouble since you are new to the place. Make sure your motorbike or car is not alone on the road with heavy trucks around you.
9. Avoid being too camera-friendly
A camera is an essential aspect of every traveler’s list but in Vietnam avoid being a camera-friendly person. Don’t click pictures of anything related to the military of Vietnam, as it will be considered as a security breach and you might land yourself into prison for a heinous crime. Also, don’t take cameras into small villages of Vietnam as it is considered an unnecessary intrusion into their personal life. People might also politely ask you to stop filming themselves.
10. Don't display any personal affection
Expressing affection towards your loved one is the most beautiful expression, but only indoors. Yes, you read it right. Public display of affection is considered wrong. You are allowed to hold hands but anything more than that is a big “no.” People may file a complaint against you for indecent behavior in public. So, avoid finding yourself behind bars and find a private space with your loved one.
Bad manners alert
The above list of customs must have informed you how to ensure a happy and comfortable trip to Vietnam. Vietnam is a gorgeous place with great historical importance. Hence, they are a little particular about the way travelers act and behave. All you need to avoid is a few actions mentioned in the list above which are considered bad manners and make the most of your trip to Vietnam.
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