The richness of Vietnam ‘s origins is evident throughout its culture. The spiritual life of Vietnamese people has been shaped by four great philosophies and religions namely Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism and Christianity. Over the centuries, Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism have melded with popular Chinese beliefs and ancient Vietnamese animism to form what is known as Tam Giao (or ‘Triple Religions’).

Despite dialectic variations throughout the country, Vietnamese (Kinh) still confirm its status as the official and normative language. However, there are dozens of different languages spoken by various ethnic minorities and Khmer and Laotian are spoken in some parts. The most widely spoken foreign languages in Vietnam are Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), English, French and Russian, more or less in that order.

Along with these, popular artistic forms including traditional painting on frame-mounted silk; an eclectic array of theatre, puppetry, music and dance; religious sculpture; lacquer ware and ceramics are also mainstays of the country’s culture.

In addition, Vietnamese cuisine itself varies greatly by its regions. Even dishes that are staples throughout Vietnam are prepared differently in the north, centre, and south. Vietnam ’s cuisine is like much of its culture in reflecting its many contacts with other cultures over the centuries – Chinese, Khmer, and French the most notable.

General speaking, there are nearly 500 different traditional dishes that include exotic meats (but consider carefully before you eat a rare animal) and fantastic vegetarian creations (often prepared to replicate meat and fish dishes).

However, the staple of Vietnamese cuisine is plain white rice dressed up with a plethora of vegetables, fish (which is common in Vietnam ), meat, spices and sauces. Spring rolls, noodles and steamed rice dumplings are popular snacks, and the ubiquitous soups include eel and vermicelli, shredded chicken and bitter soups. Fruit is abundant; some of the more unusual ones include green dragon fruit, jujube, khaki, longan, mangosteen, pomelo, three-seed cherry and water apple. Vietnamese filtered coffee (ca phe phin) is very good; it’s usually served very strong and very sweet.

Like the other countries of Indochina, Vietnam has been influenced by its neighbours such as China and also by the colonial powers, particularly the French.

Chinese confucianism still has as strong influence in Vietnam, providing society with a strong sense of hierarchy. They should show respect to their elders and even ancestors are held in high esteem and worshiped at important festivals and anniversaries.

The family is the centre of life for the Vietnamese and the father is held to be the head, providing for the family and making all family decisions. It is normal for extended families to live together and three generations under one roof is normal. Outside the family, one’s position is defined by age and status.

In common with many Asian countries, the concept of face is extremely important to the Vietnamese. This is not easy to explain but we can say that respect for a person’s reputation, dignity, and prestige is to be maintained at all times. Criticising someone publicly will lead to them losing face. It is also possible to give face by praising someone.

When meeting Vietnamese people it is usual to shake hands, using both hands. It is also normal to bow slightly to show respect to someone older or of higher social status. If you hand something to someone, you should do so with both hands. Giving with one hand is somewhat insulting. Never touch anyone’s head or point bare feet at anyone. This is extremely insulting.

Men and women do not show affection in public, although members of the same sex may hold hands.

When you are invited to a Vietnamese family’s home for a meal, then it is polite to bring a small gift such as fruit, sweets, or flowers. Gifts should be wrapped in colourful paper. Never give handkerchiefs, anything black, or yellow flowers.

It is normal to eat family style with all the dishes in the centre of the table. Pick up your rice bowl in the left hand – if you eat from the bowl on the table.

Vietnamese people tend to dress conservatively and shorts are only acceptable on the beach. Women wearing heavy make-up or revealing clothes are very much looked down on.

If you do find yourself inadvertently breaking the ‘rules’, then don’t worry too much. A swift, sincere apology will be accepted. The Vietnamese know that their culture and etiquette is not shared around the world, but it is polite to try to fit in with your hosts’ customs.