20 Myths and Truths About Vietnam That You Should Know

Here, I'm happy to debunk all of the myths that you may hear about Vietnam. Hope it helps you understand more about this country.

1.

Myth: Most of the time, I would be eating rice dishes or phở.  

Truth: There are many yummy dishes in Vietnam, not just phở, rice dishes, and bánh mì. These foods you have heard are internationally famous. That’s why they may be mentioned every time people tell about Vietnam’s foods.

2.

Myth: Vietnam sees much air pollution.

Truth: Ah yes, the typical means of transport in Vietnam is motorbikes. This has not just worsened traffic congestions but severely deteriorated the air quality. On a positive note, it’s not true in the countryside, but a contrast from the busy cityscapes. You may admire rice terraces against the backdrop of natural vegetation there. Also, the air is  nsurprisingly much fresher! 

3.

Image credit: Pixabay

Myth: The locals wear traditional clothes and the typical conical hat daily.

Truth: The Vietnamese are modern when it comes to their fashion sense! Modern Vietnamese do keep up with the most current fashion trends. You can find international brands effortlessly in the cities aside from local brands. Of course, traditional clothes are available in specialty markets.

4.

Myth: Vietnam is a poor and dirty country.

Truth: Vietnam isn’t an underdeveloped country anymore, but has been among middle-income nations. Also, facilities have been much improved with new roads, modern transportation, and skyscrapers. You can find just about everything you could ever need – for example, restaurants, cafe, free wifi, hotels, and automatic payment systems. These are not just in large cities like Hanoi but in the downtown area. They look nice because extra attention to recreate the whole country’s face is paid by the government.

5.

Myth: Vietnamese have dogs and cats for the meal.

Truth: No, absolutely no. It’s true that some Vietnamese eat them and you can sometimes run into a restaurant that sells dog or cat meat on the street. Still, it’s sure not at an extensive level or on a regular basis.

6.

Myth: Trứng Vịt Lộn (Half-hatched duck egg) is scary to try. 

Truth: Trứng Vịt Lộn is familiar to the Vietnamese, and delicious and healthy to many locals. In contrast, it may be a bizarre dish for foreign travelers. 

7.

Myth: It is not safe.

Truth: There are absolutely no gunpoint robbery and terrorism in Vietnam. But you should be aware of cheating and robbing. Don’t forget to learn about scams that are popular in Vietnam, and have an idea of dangerous areas and activities. 

8.

Myth: Don’t eat street food as they’re unsanitary.

Truth: Street food somewhere isn’t sanitary. It’s true. If you worry about hygiene, observe the street stall you plan to eat. That way, you can see how they make food. Reading reviews is another good idea to avoid getting ill. You know, a trip to Vietnam is not complete without trying the street food.

9.

Myth: If you don’t know Vietnamese etiquette, you’ll offend people.

Truth: Yes and no. Newcomers may be confused by Vietnam’s culture. If you’re not paying attention, you may cause offense inadvertently. Still, the good thing is, the Vietnamese are known as friendly. They don’t necessarily expect foreigners to understand Vietnamese etiquette. Sometimes, you just need to smile, be polite and observe.

10.

Myth: It’s hard to get around if you can’t speak Vietnamese.

Truth: Language barrier is often one of the biggest concerns for foreigner visitors. Aside from the fact that Vietnamese is not easy to learn and not popular, this concern has to do with common misperception that the Vietnamese don’t speak English at all. Still, everyone in Vietnam gets to study English at school. Also, to be successful, the locals must learn some foreign language.  You can have a peace of mind that the baseline level of English is pretty high here. Learning a few words of Vietnamese language is a good idea to impress the locals and help yourself.

11.

Myth: The roads are super dangerous.

Truth: For those from a country with relatively organized roads, they will be sure shocked by the road system in Vietnam. Still, as the traffic flows are so unpredictable, people are often cautious. To cross the street in Vietnam for the first time, you should follow the locals or ask them for help. 😊

12.

Myth: Riding a motorbike is a pleasant experience.

Truth: You may have driven a motorbike before, but you’re advised not to hop on one right away. As international licenses are invalid in Vietnam, any police officer may stop you and take your bike. Also, the chaotic traffic is too dangerous for any first-time driver. 

13.

Myth: All the clothes in Vietnam aren’t in good quality. 

Truth: Vietnam is home to some of the world’s most talented designers and tailors. It’s possible for you to find great clothes here. You can also trust famous international and local brands.

14.

Myth: Vietnam is oppressive and controlling as it’s a communist country.

Truth: Well, Vietnam isn't a free society due to corrupted power and lack of accountability. But as a foreigner, you’re mostly oblivious to government policies. 

15.

Myth: It’s super cheap.

Truth: Vietnam is a low-cost destination to visit and stay by Western standards. Still, in comparison to the surrounding countries, it may be just about the same. 

16.

Myth: It’s always hot.

Truth: There are four seasons (spring, summer, autumn, and winter) in Hanoi and Northern provinces. While it can be astoundingly hot in summer, it can be extremely cold in winter. 

17.

Myth: Western cuisine isn’t existent in Vietnam.

Truth: It’s possible for you to find various and numerous international fast-food chain outlets – for example, KFC, Burger King, and Popeyes along the same street!

18.

Myth: Products are more expensive when it comes to foreigners.

Truth: Some locals may increase the item price when the buyers are from another country. The same goes for taking taxies and motorbike taxies (xe ôm). Make sure you bargain.

19.

Myth: Vietnamese girls are beautiful.

Truth: There are good-looking people and otherwise in every country. Vietnam isn’t an exception. It also depends on the eye of the beholder.

20.

Myth: The Vietnamese love football.
Truth: Yes!!!