The miles and miles of world-class beaches may put Mui Ne on the map for many, if not, all of its visitors, but palm-lined stretches of sand aren’t only what the charming coastal city has to offer but also a rich cultural heritage. As responsible travellers, it is only right that you respect the local customs and values that make Mui Ne and the Southeast Asian nation unique. Here’s everything that you need to know on how to navigate Vietnamese cultural etiquette for a delightful time in Mui Ne.

Image via Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa

Vietnam, like many other countries in Southeast Asia, has culture and tradition rooted deeply in local etiquette and manners. Therefore, understanding and respecting the nation’s customs and values also means learning and following local etiquette and manners. For instance, when at a family dinner table or any family gathering for that matter, etiquette starts with showing respect to the elders present, particularly greeting them by bowing and addressing elder brothers of the family with an "anh" and elder sisters with a "chi". Taking off shoes when entering homes is also customary, which shows respect for the space.

Table manners specifically also hold deep cultural significance. Chopstick placement is characteristic of Vietnamese dining etiquette; chopsticks should never be left sticking upright in a bowl, as it resembles incense offerings to the deceased. It is always after the eldest person at the table starts eating that everyone else will begin. While you are not required to follow any traditional etiquette when dining at any of the Mui Ne resorts, including the likes of Anantara Mui Ne Resort, not following these local dining etiquette in a traditional, family setting could come off as impolite.

If you think following local etiquette and manners can make you master Vietnamese customs and values, you are actually only halfway there. Body language, gestures, and how you interact with other people, especially family, elders, and members of the opposite sex, also play a much bigger role than one would expect. For example, trying to speak Vietnamese as a foreigner would be greatly appreciated by locals, but it is also important that you follow a certain locally established tonal language, as the same word can give off different meanings if your voice goes up or down at the end of pronunciation.

Saying "Xin Chao" (hello) when you meet people is an appropriate form of greeting in both formal and informal settings. Handshakes are also common when greeting and parting ways, but you should only shake a woman’s hand if they extend their hand or initiate the handshake. If a woman doesn’t show interest in a handshake, the socially established form of greeting is to bow your head instead, with your hands pressed together on your chest.

Pointing with one figure is considered rude; use your whole hand instead. Public displays of affection, or PDA, are to be avoided at all times and should never make physical contact with a local of the opposite sex. Standing with your hands on the hip is also considered not very decent.

The Southeast Asian nation of Vietnam is brimming with sacred Buddhist and Hindu religious sites, so it is imperative that you follow the right etiquette when visiting those places of worship. Wearing conservative or modest clothes is undoubtedly the most important. Clothes that cover your knees and shoulders are a must for both men and women. Tank tops, shorts, short skirts or tight-fitting clothes should always be avoided. Keeping quiet to preserve the peaceful and quiet atmosphere at places of worship is also essential.