Things to Avoid in Vietnam: A First-Timer’s Guide

Vietnam stands as one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating destinations, offering visitors an extraordinary blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene waters of Ha Long Bay, this beautiful country provides unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. 

The following things to avoid in Vietnam are not meant to discourage your visit, but rather to enhance your journey and ensure you have the most respectful, safe, and enjoyable adventure possible. By understanding these simple guidelines, you’ll be better prepared to embrace Vietnamese culture authentically and create lasting memories while avoiding common pitfalls that can detract from your experience.

Cultural Etiquette & Respect: Things to Avoid in Vietnam

Understanding cultural etiquette in Vietnam for tourists is essential for showing respect to local customs and ensuring positive interactions throughout your journey. Vietnamese culture places great emphasis on respect, harmony, and proper social behavior, and being aware of these expectations will significantly enhance your travel experience.

Dress Appropriately, Especially at Sacred Sites

The dress code for temples in Vietnam requires conservative attire out of respect for religious traditions. When visiting pagodas, temples, or other sacred sites, always cover your shoulders and knees completely. Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, mini-skirts, or revealing clothing. Pack a lightweight scarf or shawl to cover up if needed, as many temples provide coverings at the entrance. Remember that this dress code applies to both men and women, and some temples may refuse entry to inappropriately dressed visitors.

Be Mindful of Physical Contact and Gestures

What not to do in Vietnam includes several important physical and gestural considerations. Never touch someone’s head, as it’s considered the most sacred part of the body in Vietnamese culture. Avoid public displays of affection, particularly kissing or intimate touching, as these behaviors are considered inappropriate in Vietnamese society. When greeting locals, a slight bow or nod is more appropriate than a handshake, unless they extend their hand first.

Respect Elders and Local Customs

Vietnamese society deeply values respect for elders and authority figures. Always use both hands when giving or receiving items, especially business cards or gifts. Don’t stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles incense offerings for the deceased and is considered bad luck. When entering someone’s home, remove your shoes and wait to be invited to sit.

Be a Responsible Photographer

Photography etiquette is crucial for respectful travel. Always ask permission before taking close-up photos of local people, especially in rural areas or markets. Avoid photographing military installations, government buildings, or police officers. Some temples and museums prohibit photography entirely, so look for signs and respect these rules. Remember that people’s livelihoods and privacy should always be respected over getting the perfect shot.

Common Vietnam Scams & Tourist Traps to Avoid

Beside things to avoid in Vietnam, being aware of Vietnam scams can save you money, time, and frustration during your trip. While Vietnam is generally safe for tourists, certain scams specifically target visitors unfamiliar with local practices.

The Cyclo and Motorbike Ride Rip-off

How to avoid scams in Hanoi / Ho Chi Minh City starts with transportation awareness. Cyclo drivers and motorbike taxi operators often quote reasonable prices but demand much higher payments upon arrival. Always agree on the exact fare before starting your journey, preferably written down or clearly understood. Be wary of drivers who claim their meter is broken or suggest alternative routes that may include commission-based stops at shops or restaurants.

“Friendly” Locals with Ulterior Motives

Some scammers approach tourists with invitations to tea ceremonies, family restaurants, or specific shops where you’ll face high-pressure sales tactics and inflated prices. While genuine Vietnamese hospitality is wonderful, be cautious of overly friendly strangers who immediately suggest visiting particular establishments. Trust your instincts and politely decline if something feels too good to be true.

Taxi Meter Scams

Taxi meter manipulation is common in tourist areas. Ensure the meter is running from the start of your journey and displays the correct rate. Some drivers use rigged meters that run fast or claim the meter is broken to charge flat rates. Use reputable taxi companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun, or consider ride-hailing apps like Grab for transparent pricing.

The “Found” Item or Forced Service Scam

Beware of the classic shoe shine scam or pineapple scam where someone provides an unrequested service then demands payment. Street vendors may place items in your hands or start cleaning your shoes without permission, then insist on payment. Always say “no, thank you” firmly and keep walking. Never accept services you didn’t specifically request.

Food & Drink: What to Be Cautious Of

Vietnam travel tips for dining safely include being selective about food and beverage choices while still enjoying the incredible local cuisine. Street food is an integral part of Vietnamese culture and generally safe when you follow basic precautions.

Avoid drinking tap water throughout Vietnam, even in hotels. Stick to bottled water, and ensure the seal is intact when purchasing. Be cautious with ice in drinks unless you’re confident it’s made from purified water – machine-made ice at reputable establishments is typically safe. Don’t be afraid of street food, but choose busy stalls with high turnover where food is cooked fresh and served hot. Avoid pre-prepared dishes that have been sitting out for extended periods.

Safety & Security: How to Stay Safe

Is it safe to travel in Vietnam is a common concern, and the answer is generally yes, but like any destination, awareness and preparation are key. Vietnam safety largely depends on taking sensible precautions and staying alert to your surroundings.

Be particularly aware of your belongings in crowded areas, especially in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi where snatch-and-grab theft targeting tourists’ phones, cameras, and bags can occur. Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items openly. When crossing busy streets, maintain a steady, predictable pace – Vietnamese drivers expect this behavior and will navigate around you accordingly.

Avoid discussing sensitive political topics or criticizing the government, as this can lead to uncomfortable situations or legal issues. Never leave drinks unattended in bars or clubs, particularly in tourist areas, as drink tampering occasionally occurs.

General Travel Mistakes to Avoid

Things tourists should not do in Vietnam extend beyond cultural and safety considerations to include practical travel planning mistakes. Over-scheduling your itinerary is one of the most common errors – Vietnam’s attractions deserve time to appreciate properly, and rushing between destinations can leave you exhausted and stressed.

Underestimating travel times between cities is another frequent mistake. Vietnamese roads can be congested, and weather conditions sometimes affect schedules. Build buffer time into your plans and remain flexible with your itinerary.

Don’t forget to check visa requirements well in advance of your trip. Many nationalities can obtain visa exemptions or visa-on-arrival, but requirements change periodically, and having proper documentation sorted early prevents last-minute stress.

FAQs About What to Avoid in Vietnam

Is Vietnam safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Vietnam is generally safe for solo female travelers who take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas, dress modestly especially in rural regions, and trust your instincts about situations and people. Many solo female travelers have wonderful experiences in Vietnam by staying alert and following basic safety guidelines.

Is it okay to haggle/bargain in Vietnam? 

Yes, bargaining is expected in markets, with street vendors, and for services like cyclo rides. However, don’t haggle in restaurants, established shops with fixed prices, or for small amounts where the difference is insignificant to you but meaningful to the vendor. Approach bargaining with respect and a smile.

What should I do if I get scammed?

Stay calm and try to resolve the situation peacefully. If you’ve been overcharged, negotiate politely but firmly. For serious issues, contact tourist police or your embassy. Document the incident with photos or receipts if possible. Prevention through awareness is always better than dealing with scams after they occur.

Can I drink the tap water in hotels?

It’s not recommended to drink tap water anywhere in Vietnam, including hotels. Use bottled water for drinking. Most hotels provide complimentary bottled water, and it’s widely available and inexpensive throughout the country.

Experience Vietnam Authentically with Joy Journeys

After understanding what to avoid, the next step is planning meaningful experiences that showcase Vietnam’s true beauty and culture. Joy Journeys, a leading licensed tour operator specializing in premier small group and private tours, offers expertly crafted experiences that help visitors navigate Vietnamese culture respectfully while discovering the country’s most captivating destinations.

Ho Chi Minh City Tour: Urban Heritage Discovery

Joy Journeys’ comprehensive Ho Chi Minh City tours provide the perfect introduction to Vietnam tourism by blending historical insights with authentic cultural experiences. Their one-day city tours feature essential landmarks including the Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, War Remnants Museum, and Independence Palace, while also exploring hidden gems like the secret weapon bunker and local handicraft workshops. With expert local guides sharing nuanced historical perspectives and small group sizes limited to 10 participants, visitors gain a deep understanding of Saigon’s colonial heritage and modern transformation while avoiding tourist traps and crowded attractions.

Mekong Delta Tour: Rural Life Immersion

The Mekong Delta represents the heart of Southern Vietnam’s agricultural traditions, and Joy Journeys offers authentic full-day experiences that prioritize cultural immersion over superficial sightseeing. Their carefully crafted itineraries include boat rides through narrow canals, bicycle tours of rural villages, tropical fruit tastings, and interactions with local families engaged in traditional crafts like brick-making and coconut processing. Visitors enjoy homemade meals prepared by local families and learn about sustainable farming practices while supporting community-based tourism initiatives.

Cu Chi Tunnels Tour: Historical Understanding

Joy Journeys’ Cu Chi Tunnels tours provide comprehensive historical context about Vietnam’s independence struggle while exploring this remarkable underground network. Beyond simply crawling through tunnels, their expert guides explain the ingenious construction techniques, daily life during wartime, and the broader historical significance of this site. The tour includes demonstrations of traditional crafts and authentic Vietnamese lunch, creating a well-rounded educational experience that honors the site’s historical importance.

Embrace Your Vietnamese Adventure

By keeping these essential Vietnam travel guide tips in mind, you’re well-prepared for an incredible adventure in this fascinating country. Remember that these guidelines exist to enhance your experience, not limit it. Vietnam’s welcoming people, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural heritage await your discovery.

Travel to Vietnam with confidence, respect local customs, stay aware of common pitfalls, and remain open to the unexpected joys that make every journey memorable. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities, tranquil countryside, or historic sites, Vietnam offers transformative experiences for every traveler willing to engage with its culture authentically.

Ready to experience Vietnam’s magic responsibly and authentically? Contact Joy Journeys to craft your perfect Vietnamese adventure with expert guidance, local insights, and essential tips on things to avoid in Vietnam, ensuring meaningful cultural connections and lasting memories of this extraordinary destination.