This is an exciting time to visit the land of the dragon people. Although in years past there was a certain stigma for westerners visiting this beautiful region near the ring of fire, times have changed. A growing economy and an increased interest in tourism have led many to visit Vietnam in search of tropical climes, pleasant people, fantastic food, historical sites, and gorgeous scenery. Plus, the country is still relatively low on tourist travel, so you’re not going to be crowded out by throngs of visitors from across the globe. And security is a relatively high priority for the government, which would like to encourage an influx of tourists (and the money they bring). Finally, travel expenses are still outrageously low for those seeking a bargain retreat. In short, Vietnam should definitely be on your list of future vacation destinations. But you need to go armed with a few dos and don’ts in mind when you visit.
DO:
1. Dress appropriately. This concerns not only the weather, but the customs as well. You must be properly covered when entering a shrine or temple (or risk offending) and you should always remove your shoes when invited into a home.
2. Hide cash. This is a good idea any time you travel, but when you’re in a country that is largely considered to be poor by our standards, it’s probably unwise to tempt fate. Wear a money belt under your clothing and leave expensive jewelry at home.
3. Carry water. Because of a tropical climate, the temps can have you sweating out a lot of fluid (especially if you’re walking around). So make sure to take a couple bottles of water with you wherever you go (and be thoughtful enough to carry them back to a location where they can be properly disposed of).
4. Bring TP. In a land where “western” toilets are rare, you’ll be happy you had the forethought to cart this item along. In many cases, you’ll have to go outdoors (as public facilities in general are hard to find), so you may want to bring some sealable baggies along, as wel,l to hold your used paper until you can find a trash can.
5. Take a business card. When you leave the hotel to go on your adventure for the day, grab a business card on your way out. This will make returning a lot easier.
DON’T:
1. Take photos without permission. This mainly pertains to people and military property. The government won’t take kindly to potential security breaches and the people are just like you; they’re living their lives and they don’t necessarily want to be camera fodder for insensitive foreigners.
2. Fight with vendors. Getting aggressive or losing your temper during a business negotiation is considered a serious breach of conduct and it will probably end with you leaving sans whatever you were trying to buy.
3. Give candy to kids. There is limited access to health care in some areas, so resist the urge to hand out sugary sweets to the local population. It will cause more harm than good.
4. Carry a lot of valuables. Not only will flashing cash and sporting ostentatious jewelry make you a target for mugging, it is also considered extremely rude to flaunt wealth in public and the locals will not take kindly to this affront.
5. Get paranoid. If you’re smart and aware of your surroundings, you don’t need to worry about becoming a victim. Just do your homework so you know which areas are safe and if you’re really concerned, hire a guide to help you steer clear of trouble.
Leah Ryan writes for Adiamor Engagement Rings where you can find loose diamonds, engagement ring settings, diamond pendants, and other fine diamond jewelry.
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