Religion

The most widespread religions are Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism,

Catholicism and Cao Dai. Ancestor worship is one of the oldest religious
practices in Vietnam and most Vietnamese have an alter to remember the
dead regardless of their religion. Buddhism is the leading religion of the
country, with 55% identifying as Buddhist. Confucianism and Taoism denote
an ancient and profound Chinese influence. The first Portuguese missionaries
arrived in Vietnam in the sixteenth century and today Catholics represent
about 7% of the population. Cao Dai is a comparatively new religion (it formed
in Vietnam in the 20s), and unites the principles of Confucianism, Daoism,
Buddhism and Roman Catholicism.

National Holiday

September 2: National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Holiday Schedule

 January 1: New Year's Day.

 Between mid-January and mid-February: celebration of Tet (Vietnamese New
Year) – this is undoubtedly the most important holiday of the calendar, as it
marks the beginning of the lunar year and brings with it a sense of renewal.
 May 1: Labour Day.
 19 May: Anniversary of Ho Chi Minh.
 April 30: Anniversary of the end of the war (1975) and reunification.
 December 25: Christmas.

Etiquette

Tipping was not common practice within Vietnam until the arrival of mass
tourism and it still remains at your discretion, rather than expected. Tipping is
more common in bigger cities and towns and with most Vietnamese workers
earning a lower than average salary, it’s is an essential way for them to
supplement their income. Align your tips with the local economy – the price of
a cup of tea or a beer will outline the standard of living and give you a natural
guide for tips. Keep smiling at all times in Vietnam, even in the face of conflict
– losing face is an important part of Vietnamese culture – so stand firm and be
polite. In Vietnam, a pleasant approach always trumps an outraged one.
Ensure you cover shoulders and legs in places of worship and always remove
shoes. Do not touch the heads of adults, or children, and don’t point using
your feet. Although the use of electronic cigarettes is fairly widespread in
bigger towns and cities in Vietnam, they are officially banned throughout –
those who cannot do without an e-cigarette should exercise discretion.

Shopping

Now opened up to the market economy, there are two types of institutions and
mentalities that meet in Vietnam. In the shops of the state visitors can find
traditional Vietnamese handicrafts including ceramics, embroidery, jewelry,
textiles, leather goods and clothing, and it is not customary to haggle. There
are also a host of private entrepreneurs to suit all your souvenir desires and
here haggling is a must!

Food

Vietnamese cuisine is delicious and varied. From tempting street stalls at

every corner to high-end fine dining, it hits all bases and is tantalizingly good.
Rice in various forms constitutes the basis of many dishes and fish sauce is
the main condiment. Salt water and fresh water provide plenty of fish and
shellfish and vegetables and herbs are in bountiful supply. The most
consumed meats are pork and chicken, while beef is rare and more
expensive. There are culinary differences to the food of the north and south –
in the north the Chinese influence is felt more readily, while the south serves
up sweeter and often spicier food. The most common dish in Vietnam is
undoubtedly pho, a hearty, comforting beef or chicken broth with noodles,
sliced meat and vegetables. It’s a warming, delicious dish that’s often enjoyed
as a full meal on its own. Noodles, dumplings, barbecued pork and crunchy
spring rolls are just some of the classics to be found on Vietnamese menus.

Drink

Tap water is unsafe to drink, so rely on bottled during your stay and avoid ice.
Green tea is consumed en masse in Vietnam and there is all manner of juices
to enjoy, including fresh coconut juice, sugar cane juice and various fruit
smoothies. Local beers you may come across include: Saigon Red, Saigon
Special, Hanoi Beer, 333, Huda, and Su Tu Trang. Rice wine is made using
rice that’s fermented with yeast – the result is a wine that’s very strong and
often enjoyed with dinner. Coffee in Vietnam is excellent – it’s made strong
and sweet, with the addition of condensed milk.