Travelling to Vietnam offers a great learning experience as its culture is distinctively different from those of the West. In this Cultural Insight Series, I aim to explore facets of Vietnamese culture that even I, a native, find intriguing.
A common observation among foreign visitors is the remarkable friendliness of the Vietnamese people. My friends from the United States and Australia, in particular, were often surprised by the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality. Such positivity may seem unexpected, given the country's tumultuous history. Initially, I would attribute this warmth to the Vietnamese people moving on from the war. However, upon further reflection, I realized it wasn't about forgetting. What enables them to move beyond the shadows of the past?
Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi) - Portraying the horrors of captivity during the French colonial period.
One underlying truth is that Vietnamese culture places great emphasis on community over individualism. With a population exceeding 100 million in 2024, Vietnam epitomizes densely populated living. To put it in perspective, Vietnam's population is almost four times that of Australia, despite being 23 times smaller in landmass. In such close-knit quarters, communal harmony is imperative for societal function.
Endless wars have imprinted upon Vietnamese people the importance of solidarity. Centuries of conflict and colonialism have taught individuals to lean on families and neighbors through times of extreme hardship and poverty. When the wars passed, people were simply grateful for peace. Friendly relations with foreign countries bring other benefits. In recent years, the U.S. has emerged as one of the most important import markets for Vietnam, as well as a potential ally in territorial disputes with China. Tourism is another major sector in Vietnam’s economy, contributing around 6% to the nation's GDP. The local people consistently ensure that foreign visitors feel welcome in their country—a significant factor that entices visitors to return time and again.
Golden Bridge (Da Nang) attracts countless visitors with its striking design and stunning views.
By embracing a forward-looking perspective, Vietnam moves beyond the shadow of its history to focus on economic growth and development. This mindset, rooted in resilience and optimism, serves as a guiding principle, a lesson I strive to apply in various aspects of my own life.
The influence of Buddhism further explains the Vietnamese inclination for forgiveness. Recognizing that holding onto grudges hinders personal happiness and prosperity, the ethos of letting go is ingrained in Vietnamese culture, paving the way for reconciliation and progress.
Bai Dinh Pagoda (Ninh Binh) - the largest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia.
In essence, the warm hospitality of Vietnamese people is not merely a surface-level accident, but a choice adopted by individuals and communities for collective advancement. It is a testament to the enduring resilience, positivity, and communal spirit ingrained in the fabric of Vietnamese society.
Have you experienced Vietnamese friendliness and hospitality? Do you resonate with the insights shared in this post? I’d love to hear your thoughts and personal experiences in the comments below!
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