VIETNAM UNCOVERED: 27 FAST FACTS FOR THE CURIOUS TRAVELLER

Discover Vietnam's allure with 27 captivating facts. Curiosity meets culture, tradition, and intrigue!

These fun facts contribute to the vibrant and diverse tapestry that makes Vietnam a fascinating destination for solo travellers. A country with a rich and diverse cultural tapestry allures visitors from far and wide to experience it for themselves. 

Ignite your wanderlust for Vietnam. Your passport to wonder awaits!

1. Motorbike Culture:

As the primary mode of transportation in Vietnam, motorbikes can make traffic seem chaotic to visitors. Crossing the street may feel like a daring adventure. However, it operates like a well-choreographed dance with an unwritten rule: keep a steady pace, and traffic will flow around you.

2. Longest Alphabet:

The Vietnamese alphabet is the Latin alphabet with additional diacritics for tones. It contains 29 letters and incorporates diacritics, such as an accent, to indicate pronunciation. 

3. Culinary Diversity:

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its diversity and freshness. Each region in the country has its own specialty, from the savoury pho in the north to the banh mi sandwiches in the south.

4. Rice Terraces:

The terraced and vibrant green landscapes of rice fields are not only a breathtaking sight but also an ingenious agricultural system.

5. Coffee Culture:

Vietnam is the second-largest coffee producer in the world, after Brazil. The country is famous for its strong and delicious Vietnamese coffee, often served with condensed milk.

6. The Perfume Pagoda:

The Perfume Pagoda, located near Hanoi, is a complex of Buddhist temples built into the limestone Huong Tich mountains. The site gets its name from the fragrant flowers that bloom in spring.

7. Halong Bay's Mythical Origin:

According to legend, Halong Bay was formed by a dragon who, upon landing, created the towering limestone karsts and islands with its flailing tail. The name "Halong" translates to "Descending Dragon."

8. One-Party State:

Vietnam is a one-party socialist republic, and the Communist Party of Vietnam has been the sole governing party since the country's reunification in 1976. However, in recent years, Vietnam has experienced significant economic growth and openness to the world.

9. Water Puppetry:

Vietnam is famous for its traditional water puppetry, a unique art form that originated in the Red River Delta. Performances take place on water, with puppeteers controlling the intricate puppets behind a screen.

10. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long:

Hanoi's Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has a history dating back over a thousand years. It served as the political centre of Vietnam for eight centuries and showcases various architectural styles.

11. Floating Markets:

The Mekong Delta is famous for its floating markets, where boats laden with fruits, vegetables, and other goods gather to trade. Cai Rang Floating Market is one of the largest and most vibrant.

12. French Influence:

Vietnam was a French colony from the mid 19th century until 1954. The French influence is still evident in the architecture, cuisine, and boulevards of cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

13. Hoi An Ancient Town:

Hoi An is a well-preserved ancient town that served as a trading port from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Its well-preserved architecture reflects a blend of local and foreign influences.

14. Conical Hats:

The traditional Vietnamese conical hat, known as a "non la," is not only a symbol of Vietnam but also a practical accessory for protection against the sun and rain.

15. Dong Ho Paintings:

Dong Ho folk paintings, originating from the village of Dong Ho, are traditional woodcut prints that capture daily life, folklore, and historical events. The art form has been passed down through generations.

16. Red River and Mekong Delta:

The Red River Delta in the north and the Mekong Delta in the south are crucial agricultural regions. The fertile soil in these deltas has supported rice cultivation for centuries. 

17. Unique Lunar New Year Celebration:

Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is the most significant holiday in Vietnam. It is a time for family reunions, honouring ancestors, and enjoying festive foods. The entire country comes alive with colourful decorations.

18. War Remnants Museum:

Located in Ho Chi Minh City, the War Remnants Museum provides a stark and emotional portrayal of the Vietnam War. It displays photographs, artifacts, and exhibits highlighting the impact of the conflict.

19. Egg Coffee:

Vietnam is known for its unique egg coffee (cà phê trứng). The drink is made by beating egg yolks with sweetened condensed milk and coffee, resulting in a creamy and sweet concoction that's a favourite among locals and adventurous tourists. Check out the recipe.

20. Ancient Banyan Trees:

Vietnam is home to some of the world's most massive and ancient banyan trees. These impressive trees, found in places like Hanoi's Temple of Literature, have sprawling canopies and intricate root systems.

21. Unique Zodiac System:

Vietnam follows a zodiac system where each year is associated with one of 12 animals. However, instead of starting the year with the Chinese New Year, Vietnam begins its lunar calendar on the same day as China but adds an additional leap month, causing a slight discrepancy. 

22. Drinking Culture:

Vietnamese social drinking is often accompanied by a unique custom called "nhau." It involves toasting and sharing a drink with friends or colleagues, symbolizing unity and goodwill. The phrase "mot, hai, ba, do!" (one, two, three, cheers!) is commonly heard during these toasts. 

23. Lunar Tides in Mekong Delta:

The Mekong Delta experiences a unique phenomenon known as the "tide of the dragon." During high tide, seawater is pushed up the Mekong River, creating a tidal bore that can be observed in locations like the town of Ben Tre. 

24. Street Vendors:

Street vendors in Vietnam often use unique and ingenious tools for their trades. For instance, mobile street food vendors might have a miniature kitchen on their motorbikes, complete with a charcoal stove, cooking utensils, and fresh ingredients. 

25. A Linguistic Wonderland:

Vietnam is a linguistic wonderland with over 50 different languages spoken, showcasing the country's rich cultural diversity. From the dominant Vietnamese to various ethnic minority languages, each dialect adds a unique hue to Vietnam's vibrant tapestry, reflecting centuries of history and tradition. 

26. Double Delight: The Dual Birthdays of Vietnamese Children

In Vietnam, children celebrate two birthdays – their actual birth date and the universal birthday on New Year's Day (Tet). This unique tradition emphasises the cultural importance of the New Year, adding an extra layer of excitement to the joyous occasion for Vietnamese children. 

27. Cosmic Unions: Fortune-Telling and Wedding Dates
In Vietnam, it's common for couples to consult a fortune teller before setting their wedding date. The belief is that the chosen date, aligning with astrological and spiritual forces, can influence the couple's future happiness and prosperity. This charming tradition adds a touch of mystique to the journey of tying the knot in Vietnam.

JOIN US IN VIETNAM
Vietnam Highlights ‘Solos Only’. Find Out More.

Encounter Travel is 100% Australian Owned. Since 2006 creating small group tours for solo travellers. Find out where you can travel with us.

Multi Award Winners
Read More

Check Out Our Solos Only Tour Groups
For a full list of small group tours.

Getting Started For The First Time?
Check out my book, How To Travel Solo But Not Alone

Something To Share?
Have you got a story to share?  Send us your solo travel story, for inclusion on our blog page. Know anyone that could find some encouraging words from my story? Please share and be a voice for travelling solo.