Vietnam is one of those places that hits you with a sensory overload—in the best way possible. From the hum of scooters to the sweet smell of sizzling street food, every corner feels alive. But here’s the thing: Vietnam is also full of quirks that no guidebook will prepare you for. These little oddities—fromraffic madness to delightful traditions—are what make Vietnam unforgettable.
So, buckle up! Here’s an unfiltered look at the weird, wonderful, and “wait, what?!” moments you’ll only find in Vietnam.
1. Traffic Rules? What Traffic Rules!
If you think driving in London or New Delhi is chaotic, Vietnam will give you a reality check. Crossing the street here isn’t just a skill; it’s an art form. Thousands of scooters zip by, seemingly ignoring traffic lights, lanes, and sometimes, logic.
The trick? Walk slowly and confidently. The scooters will weave around you like you’re part of a real-life video game. If you panic and run, that’s when chaos strikes.
Personal anecdote: The first time I crossed a street in Hanoi, I froze like a deer in headlights. A local woman, balancing groceries on a bicycle, laughed, grabbed my hand, and walked me across as if to say, “Relax, tourist—this is normal!”
2. Ice Cream in the Rain? Absolutely!
While many of us run for cover when it rains, in Vietnam, locals will happily eat ice cream—even during a downpour. Rain isn’t a mood-killer here; it’s part of daily life. You’ll spot teenagers under umbrellas enjoying their cones, while street vendors cover their carts with plastic sheets and continue business as usual.
3. The Legendary Vietnamese Coffee (Egg Coffee, Anyone?)
Forget your vanilla lattes. Vietnam takes coffee to another level. The iconic egg coffee—yes, whipped egg yolk on top of strong, black coffee—is surprisingly silky and delicious. It’s like drinking liquid tiramisu.
Then there’s ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk)—sweet, strong, and exactly what you need to power through the day. Don’t be surprised if you end up drinking three cups before lunch.
4. Karaoke Isn’t Just a Hobby—It’s a Lifestyle
If you hear someone belting out 80s ballads at full volume, it’s not your neighbour losing their mind—it’s just karaoke night. Karaoke bars are everywhere in Vietnam, and some families even have their own karaoke machines at home. Don’t be shy; if you’re invited to sing, grab the mic and go for it. Bonus points if you can handle a Vietnamese love song.
5. Street Food: Plastic Stools, Big Flavours
You know those tiny plastic stools that look like they belong in a kindergarten classroom? In Vietnam, they’re a street food staple. Squatting on a low stool while slurping a steaming bowl of pho is a rite of passage.
Pro tip: The smaller and more crowded the street stall, the better the food usually is. Don’t miss banh mi (crispy baguette sandwiches), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and banh xeo (savoury pancakes).
6. The Curious Case of the Train Street
In Hanoi, there’s a narrow street where a train runs through just inches away from houses and cafés. Locals are completely unfazed—they simply pull their scooters and chairs aside as the train roars by. Watching it is both terrifying and oddly beautiful.
7. The Motorbike Obsession
There are over 45 million motorbikes in Vietnam, and it shows. Everything happens on two wheels—from transporting entire families (yes, five people on one bike!) to carrying pigs, furniture, and even refrigerators.
Culture shock moment: I once saw a man casually balancing a glass fish tank on his scooter, sipping iced tea with his free hand. If that’s not talent, I don’t know what is.
8. Shoes Off, Please
When entering someone’s home in Vietnam, it’s customary to take off your shoes. Many locals even have indoor slippers ready for guests. It’s a small but lovely tradition that makes you feel instantly at home.
9. The Chaotic Yet Beautiful Markets
Vietnamese markets are a feast for the senses—colourful fabrics, sizzling snacks, fresh herbs, and endless chatter. But be ready for some quirky finds, too. Frogs tied together, live fish in buckets, or baskets of silkworms are all part of the experience.
Fun tip: Don’t be afraid to haggle. Bargaining is expected and often done with good humour.
10. The Nap Culture
Vietnamese people know the value of a good nap. Around lunchtime, don’t be surprised to see workers stretched out on hammocks, café chairs, or even parked motorbikes catching 20 minutes of shut-eye. It’s completely normal—and honestly, we should all take notes.
11. Superstitions Run Deep
Vietnam is full of fascinating traditions and superstitions. For instance, cutting your hair before exams is considered bad luck. Weddings, funerals, and even house-warming parties follow specific dates and rituals chosen by fortune tellers.
12. The Local “Yes” Doesn’t Always Mean Yes
This one will make you chuckle. Vietnamese people are incredibly polite, so they might say “yes” when they mean “maybe” or even “no,” just to avoid disappointing you. It’s not misleading—it’s just cultural kindness.
13. The “Beer Culture” is Like No Other
Beer (bia hoi) is not just a drink—it’s a way of life. Hanoi’s bia hoi corners are legendary, with locals sitting on tiny stools, sipping fresh draught beer for as little as ₹50 a glass (yes, really!). The atmosphere is lively, and strangers quickly become friends over clinking glasses.
14. Public Workouts in Parks
Visit any park in the early morning, and you’ll spot groups of locals doing tai chi, dancing, or using outdoor gym equipment. It’s a refreshing, communal vibe—and you’re welcome to join in.
15. The Soundtrack of Vietnam: Honking
Scooters don’t just drive; they communicate. Honking isn’t aggressive here—it’s simply a way of saying, “I’m coming through.” After a few days, the constant honking becomes part of the charm (though you might want earplugs at night in busy areas!).
Why These Quirks Make Vietnam Magical
These odd, delightful quirks aren’t annoyances—they’re what make Vietnam so vibrant and unforgettable. It’s a country where tradition meets chaos, where every street corner tells a story, and where the unexpected is always around the corner.
If you embrace the quirks instead of fighting them, you’ll fall in love with Vietnam’s charm—just like I did.
