A Guide to Saigon's Culture

Welcome to the heart of Southern Vietnam! Saigon is a city of incredible energy, where rich traditions meet modern life. This guide will introduce you to the customs and values that will make your time here more immersive and respectful.

Key Cultural Pillars of Saigon

Vietnamese Etiquette & Manners

Grace and respect are cornerstones of social interactions. A slight bow, using polite titles, and dressing modestly at sacred sites will be warmly received.

Family & Community

The family unit is paramount, with multiple generations often living together. This creates a tight-knit community with a strong sense of collective harmony.

Social Norms

Disagreements are handled with subtlety to avoid "losing face." Giving and receiving items with both hands is a sign of respect.

Festivals & Holidays

Saigon's calendar is full of vibrant celebrations like Tết (Lunar New Year) and the Mid-Autumn Festival, which showcase the city's lively spirit.

Religion & Spiritual Life

A fascinating blend of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and ancestor worship is visible everywhere, from home altars to serene pagodas.

Language Nuances

Vietnamese is a tonal language. While complex, learning simple phrases like "Cảm ơn" (Thank you) and adding "ạ" to sentences for politeness is greatly appreciated.

Cultural Do's and Don'ts

DO

  • Remove your shoes before entering a private home.
  • Use both hands when giving or receiving something of value.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Wait to be seated at a meal; elders are often seated first.
  • Ask for permission before taking photos of people.

DON'T

  • Touch someone's head or pass items over their head.
  • Point with your index finger; use your whole hand to gesture.
  • Lose your temper or show strong negative emotion in public.
  • Stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice.
  • Expect punctuality to be rigid; time can be more flexible here.