Traveling to Vietnam would be a lifetime trip as Vietnam is a beautiful country that attracts millions of visitors each and every year with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique culture.
Whether you’re interested in exploring bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, relaxing on the country’s pristine beaches, or hiking through national parks, Vietnam has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll share 5 fun facts about traveling in Vietnam that visitors must discover. So, let’s dive in!
1. Understand some Vietnamese language when traveling to Vietnam
Vietnamese is the official language of Vietnam and one of the most widely spoken languages in Southeast Asia. The history of the Vietnamese language dates back over 4,000 years, with the earliest known writings found on oracle bones.
Over time, the language evolved and was influenced by Chinese, French, and other languages. During the colonial period, French became the official language of Indochina, but Vietnamese continued to be spoken by the majority of the population. In the mid-20th century, the Vietnamese language underwent a standardization process and a new writing system based on the Latin alphabet was introduced. Today, Vietnamese is spoken by almost 90 million people worldwide.
2. Exchange some Vietnamese Dong for your travel trip
One US dollar is equivalent to approximately 24,000 VND at the time of writing, making Vietnam a relatively inexpensive country to travel in, with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation options.
The Dong comes in colorful and vibrant banknotes, making it an interesting and visually appealing currency to handle. As a traveler in Vietnam, it’s important to be aware of the dong’s value and have enough of it on hand to make purchases, as credit cards are not widely accepted in the country.
3. Vietnam is one of the countries with the most traditional craft village
Vietnam is a country steeped in traditional craft and artistry, and it boasts some of the most vibrant and diverse craft villages in the world. Each village specialized in a distinct craft that has been passed down through generations and generations of artists, from weaving and ceramics to embroidery and lacquerware.
Visitors to Vietnam can explore these villages to witness the intricate and skillful processes involved in creating these beautiful crafts. Some of the most famous craft villages in Vietnam include Bat Trang for ceramics, Van Phuc for silk, Nga Son for sedge mat and Dong Ky for wooden furniture. Travelers can immerse themselves in Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage by experiencing these traditional craft villages firsthand.
4. Vietnam food is considered one of the most diverse in the world
Vietnam’s food scene is one of the most diverse and healthy in the world. With a mix of fresh herbs, vegetables, meats, and seafood, the cuisine bursts with bold flavors and colors. Vietnamese cuisine is also known for its focus on balance and nutrition, with many dishes featuring a variety of ingredients and textures to create a harmonious meal.
In addition to its delicious food, Vietnam is also the second-largest exporter of coffee in the world, after Brazil. The country’s coffee culture is an important part of daily life, with many locals enjoying a cup of strong, sweetened coffee in the morning. Egg coffee is also one of the must-try delicacies of Vietnam, with a layer of whipped egg yolk on top of the fragrant coffee, mixed together and you will have a delicious creamy drink that is loved by both travelers and locals.
5. Vietnam is home to some of the world’s most extraordinary nature sites
Vietnam is a country blessed with some of the most extraordinary natural sites on the planet. From the lush rice terraces of Sapa to the towering limestone cliffs of Halong Bay – One of the newly listed New Seven World’s Wonders, visitors will be left in awe of Vietnam’s stunning scenery. Hanoi, the country’s capital city, is surrounded by lush countryside and is the perfect starting point for exploring the country’s natural wonders.
Hoi An’s picturesque old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is situated near the stunning Marble Mountains. Hue, once the imperial capital of Vietnam, is home to the Perfume River and the UNESCO-listed Citadel. Ho Chi Minh City, in the south, serves as the entry point to the Mekong Delta, where tourists may see floating markets and learn about the intriguing way of life in the area.
Whether you’re looking to go hiking, kayaking, or simply soak up the scenery, Vietnam has plenty of options for nature lovers. It’s no wonder why this Southeast Asian gem continues to be a top destination for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
6. Vietnamese people are considered the most friendly locals
As a fun fact for travelers, it’s worth noting that Vietnamese people are widely considered to be one of the friendliest in the world. Visitors to Vietnam often remark on the warmth and hospitality of the locals, who are always eager to share their culture and help visitors feel at home.
In 2021, a British nurse tested positive for COVID-19 during her time visiting Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. She was then treated with utmost care from the Tropical Hospital here, completely recovered and left with wonderful memories that she later on wrote in a book “A Diverse Nurse Thanks Vietnam”.
Whether you’re exploring a bustling city or a remote village, you’re likely to encounter kind and welcoming people who are eager to show you around and share their way of life. From offering directions to recommending the best local dishes, Vietnamese people are known for their hospitality and generosity, making travel in Vietnam a truly unforgettable experience.
Final thoughts
Traveling to Vietnam is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers much more than meets the eye. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an experienced traveler, these fun facts about traveling in Vietnam will help you better understand and appreciate this incredible destination and inspire you to plan your next adventure in this amazing country.
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