What is the hype around Vietnam? Part 2
Vietnam is a country that is filled with its rich culture and history. Its culture is one of the oldest in Southeast Asia and despite many changes over the years many elements of the culture remain the same today. Below is a brief insight into some of the elements that exists within this fascinating culture.
The Vietnamese people respect their elders: when travelling across Vietnam last year meeting and getting to know lots of Vietnamese people, one common theme emerged. Whether it be in a formal working situation, at dinner time or even during day-to-day life, the elders within each family were respected. This was particularly evident at each of the ‘family dinners’ we attended up and down the country whilst we were exploring various small villages and towns. Dinner would always be served to the elders first; their opinions would carry more weight and their instructions were listened to carefully and respectfully.
The War: The Vietnamese War which lasted almost 20 years during the period of 1955-1975 is something that is often talked about when someone mentions the country Vietnam. However, for the locals that live today and their families, the Vietnamese War is a particularly distressing topic to talk about. As many as 2 million civilians were killed and the country destroyed in many vast areas. Avoid any conversations about this topic as it can be very upsetting for the Vietnamese people. (Be sure to visit the war museum in Ho Chi Minh City as it gives you a deep insight into the history of the war and is likely to answer any unanswered questions that you may have).
Tipping: There is no tipping culture in Vietnam. Locals here earn very little money and pride themselves in great service for their customers. They love serving and allowing you to try their local dishes but are never out there to get your money. Of course, if you’d like to tip, they would gratefully accept, but they never expect additional monies to what they are owed.
Prices are negotiable: Like many Asian destinations, Vietnam is no different when it comes to haggling. Unfortunately, like us all, you too WILL get charged ‘Tourists Prices’. However, you should always haggle wherever possible, but also respect the locals and avoid doing anything that will embarrass or diminish a person in public.
TIP: Use your feet as your ammunition. Step 1- Ask a price. Step 2- State how much you are willing to pay. Step 3- Negotiate. Step 4- If you are not happy with the price you walk away (Likelihood is you’ll be back as the vendor would have given in and is willing to reduce their price in order to get a sale). Step 5- Buy and say thank you.
Money Saving Tips
Eating: As mentioned in my previous blog on Vietnam, eating out is a very affordable way to save your money when travelling around. Utilise the market stalls at every opportunity and indulge in the food that the locals have on offer.
Transport: When travelling from one destination to your next, always check the routes available. If the bus is the cheapest route and you are happy doing this, opt for a night bus as it will save you a night’s accommodation! Most hotels across the country will also allow you to check in early too so if you really do struggle to get a good night kip, you can have a nap when you arrive at your destination!
Booking in advance: Most of the time in Vietnam and like most of the world, booking ahead of time can save you not only money but time and hassle as well! Be ahead of the game and pre-book your next accommodation and transfer to get the ‘best’ rates and not leave it until the same day to make the booking!
Hire Bicycles: In most of the small towns and cities across Vietnam, and providing you stay in central locations, most of the city’s attractions will be within walking/cycling distance. Therefore, always be sure to check in to see if your accommodation offers FREE bicycles before opting to get a taxi to your next attraction!
This concludes part 2 of my Vietnam blog. I hope this blog has given you a deeper insight into the Vietnamese culture, and the money saving tips will help you travel for longer when you next visit Vietnam! In a few weeks time I will release my last part (part 3) and will provide you with some recommendations of the best places to see and travel to in Vietnam! Stay posted!
Please get in touch in the meantime so I can help you create your perfect Vietnam adventure itinerary.
Elliott.rouse@travelcounsellors.com
01603 360095