Greetings and Communication
First impressions are important in Vietnamese culture, which values politeness and respect. While a simple smile is universally understood, formal greetings differ slightly. Handshakes are common, especially for men, but they are often gentler than in other
cultures. For women or elders, a slight bow of the head with a smile is a more traditional and respectful greeting. A key concept is 'saving face', which involves avoiding public confrontation or causing embarrassment to others. Because of this, communication is often indirect. If you have an issue, approach it with a calm, gentle tone rather than a loud or demanding one, as raising your voice is considered highly impolite.
Respect at Temples and Pagodas
Phu Quoc has several beautiful temples and pagodas that are active places of worship. When visiting these sacred sites, dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. While some major temples might offer shawls, it's best to come prepared with your own scarf or by wearing long pants and a sleeved shirt. Before entering a main prayer hall, remove your shoes and hat. Speak softly and avoid loud conversations. When moving around, be mindful not to point your feet at religious icons or other people. If you choose to take photos, be discreet, avoid using a flash, and never pose with your back turned directly to an altar or Buddha statue.
Dining and Tipping Etiquette
Vietnamese dining is a communal and lively affair. When dining in a group, it is polite to wait for the eldest person at the table to begin eating first. When using chopsticks, never stick them upright in a bowl of rice, as this gesture resembles incense burned at funerals and is considered a bad omen. Tipping is not a traditional custom in Vietnam and is generally not expected, especially at local street food stalls or family-run restaurants. However, in upscale restaurants and hotels in tourist-heavy areas like Phu Quoc, a small tip of 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated but not mandatory. Any service charge added to the bill usually covers this.
Shopping and Bargaining Gracefully
Shopping at local markets, like the Phu Quoc Night Market, is a must-do experience. Bargaining is a common and expected part of the culture at these markets, particularly for souvenirs, crafts, and clothing. However, it's viewed as a friendly social interaction, not a confrontation. Approach it with a smile. A good starting point is to offer around 50-70% of the initial asking price and negotiate from there. It's important to keep the interaction light and be prepared to walk away politely if you can't agree on a price; this is a standard negotiating tactic and not considered rude. Remember to carry cash, preferably in smaller notes, as this is the primary mode of payment and can make bargaining easier. Fixed-price items are usually found in convenience stores, supermarkets, and for prepared food at market stalls.
General Social Conduct
There are a few general rules of public behaviour to keep in mind. The head is considered the most sacred part of the body, so avoid touching anyone's head, including children's. Conversely, feet are considered the lowest part of the body, so avoid pointing them at people or sacred objects. When giving or receiving something, especially from an elder, it is a sign of respect to use both hands. Public displays of affection are not common in Vietnam and are best avoided. Finally, be mindful when taking photos of local people. Always ask for permission before taking a close-up shot, especially of older individuals or during private moments.
