- Avoid drinking tap water and ice cubes if you have a sensitive stomach.
- When visiting a temple or pagoda, wear long trousers and dress respectfully.
- Leave your valuables in the hotel safe deposit box before heading out into town, especially on a night out or when going to the beach.
- When crossing the road, walk steadily and slowly in the same direction, always looking to the left and right. Do not run or make sudden movements.
- Always ask permission first before taking photographs of people, especially in minority areas and border control zones.
- Try not to lose face in public - hold your temper and put on the biggest smile you have.
- Do not offer money to begging children or minority people. Donate or, even better, volunteer at a local charity instead. When travelling in remote areas, it is okay to offer small gifts, such as pens, paper, soap and other useful utensils.
- Sample local food, but patronise only those food stalls which are busy with locals.
- Try not to compare Vietnam to other Asian countries. Vietnam has its own identity, culture and history. The Vietnamese are extremely proud of their heritage.
- Do not go naked or topless on beaches or in the water. Culturally, this is incredibly innappropriate and offensive.
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