Remove shoes indoors
Always remove shoes when entering homes and some businesses. Look for a pile of shoes at the door as your cue.
🤝 Etiquette in Vietnam
Etiquette in Vietnam is mostly invisible until you break it. Greetings, gestures, dining manners and the social cues locals expect are worth learning before you arrive.
In Vietnam, etiquette comes down to a few things: remove shoes indoors, respect elders, and bargaining is expected.
Respect elders
Age commands deep respect. The oldest person eats first, is served first, and is addressed with specific honorifics. Stand when an elder enters the room.
Bargaining is expected
In markets and with street vendors, negotiate politely. Start at 40-50% of the asking price. Smile throughout — aggression backfires. Fixed prices exist in shops and malls.