Greetings, Photos and Respect in Vietnam

A smile, a small nod and a question before a photo go a long way in Vietnam. Dress modestly at temples, speak softly and ask before you photograph people. These habits are easy for Malaysian visitors, and local people notice and appreciate them.

How do you greet people?

A smile and a nod work anywhere. Learn three phrases and you will manage most small exchanges.

In English	In Vietnamese
Hello	Xin chào
Thank you	Cảm ơn
Sorry, excuse me	Xin lỗi

Offer and receive items with two hands, especially from an older person. If you prefer not to shake hands, put your hand on your chest and nod. It is a recognised and warm gesture.

How do you take photos of people?

Ask first. Smile, point at your camera and wait for a nod. If someone says no or turns away, put the camera down without comment.

Take extra care with children, older people, monks and workers. Do not photograph people who are praying or eating without asking. Show them the picture afterwards if they are curious, and thank them.

How should you behave at temples and pagodas?

Cover your shoulders and knees. Take off your shoes where other visitors do. Speak softly, do not point your feet at an altar and do not touch statues or offerings.

Keep your voice down and your phone on silent. The Hoi An guide is a good place to plan a gentle first day of old-town stops. If a service is under way, stand at the back or come later. Watch what local visitors do and follow their lead.

What about Muslim travellers and families?

Whether to enter a place of worship is a personal decision. Some Muslim travellers visit for the architecture, others prefer to stay outside. If you go in, follow the dress rules and do not take part in rites you are not comfortable with.

Families with young children can use the visit as a quiet stop. Keep children close and explain the rules before you enter. Our guide on Muslim travellers in Vietnam: meal and prayer checks covers prayer planning.

What is the next step?

Table manners come next in chopsticks and table etiquette. For market behaviour, read bargaining in Vietnam. Streets are the other thing first-timers worry about, so see crossing the street in Hanoi and Saigon. The food and daily travel hub lists them all.