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Sustainable Travel in Vietnam

About Vietnam


  • Officially called the Socialist Republic of Vietnam
  • Population: Over 92 million 
  • Capital: Hanoi, with a population of 6.5 million
  • Currency: Dong
  • Traditional Vietnamese culture involves focusing on humanity (nhân nghia) and harmony (hòa), with family and the community highly valued
  • Vietnamese cuisine traditionally combines 5 fundamental taste elements: spicy (metal), sour (wood), bitter (fire), salty (water) and sweet (earth) and uses fresh ingredients like herbs, seafoods, fruits and vegetables along with soy sauce and rice

Green Travel


  • Take public transportation. Vietnam has a terrific and inexpensive bus system, as well as a train that runs from Hanoi to Saigon. Walking, bicycle rentals or cyclo (traditional rickshaws powered by bicycles) are also great ways to get around 
  • Bring reusable, packable daypack or grocery bag to avoid plastic shopping bags
  • Limit the use of non-organic waste, such as plastic water bottles (most of Vietnam doesn't have a recycling system in place)
  • Tap water isn't drinkable in Vietnam - see our list of more sustainable water options in the Sustainable Travel Guide

Responsible Travel


  • Support restaurants and shops that have a community giveback in place 
  • Always chose locally owned and operated hotels and restaurants 
  • Donate or pay when visiting historical/cultural landmarks - the money usually goes toward protection and preservation of the landmark
  • Remove your shoes when entering someone's home
  • Don't ride elephants - all have been through a horrible "taming" process in order to be ridden by tourists
  • Limit public displays of affection (traditional Vietnamese are not fans of kissing or even holding hands in public
  • Point with your hand, not with your finger
  • Stay away from the head - do not touch someone’s head in any Buddhist culture, including Vietnam
  • Familial hierarchy is important - respect elders
  • Avoid crossing your arms across your chest or resting hands on hips, both are no-no’s
  • Give someone something with both hands
  • If you’re lucky enough to be invited to someone’s house, bring a gift
  • When finished eating, rest chopsticks on top of rice bowl

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