Daily life in Vietnam intertwines tradition and modernity, creating an intriguing blend of experiences. From bustling cities to peaceful countryside, Vietnamese people embrace activities that showcase their rich cultural heritage. The harmonious sounds of motorbikes weaving through traffic and the serene sight of farmers tending to their fields paint a vibrant picture of daily life in Vietnam.
1. A glance at daily life in Vietnam
Daily life in Vietnam exhibits distinct characteristics between regions, whether it’s the vibrant cities or the serene countryside. However, certain aspects remain constant.
Within Vietnamese society, the family assumes a paramount role, often witnessing three generations coexisting under one roof. Respect holds significant importance within these familial dynamics.
Diligence and industriousness are ingrained in the daily life of Vietnam. Even the elderly actively contribute by assisting in the care of children while parents are occupied with their work.
1.1. Urban Vietnam daily life
Everyday life in Vietnamese cities is always bustling. From early morning, people rush to work or school. Meanwhile, grandparents often stay at home to cook meals and take care of the children while their parents are busy with work. Despite the fast-paced and hectic urban lifestyle, Vietnamese cities manage to convey a warm and hospitable atmosphere, creating a unique blend between the vibrancy of urban life and the charm of culture.
1.2. Rural Vietnam daily life
Roughly three-quarters of the population in Vietnam live in rural areas. Vietnamese daily life in rural regions is generally more peaceful and serene. Families are actively involved in activities such as rice cultivation, fruit tree farming, and livestock raising. Life in the countryside presents challenges as individuals rise early to tend to fields, while children lend a hand with household tasks. The elderly care for fish ponds, fruit trees, and livestock.
Within Vietnam’s rural areas, a strong sense of community prevails, with members united in shared responsibilities to foster community development and well-being. Tranquility, a deep connection to nature, and breathtaking landscapes of lush rice fields, rivers, and mountains further define rural life in Vietnam.
Discover: Vietnamese villages: 15 must-visit villages in the North, Central and South
2. Living standards and average daily expenses in Vietnam
The standard of living in Vietnam has significantly improved in recent years. However, there still exists a disparity between urban and rural areas. Cities typically offer a higher standard of living compared to rural regions due to greater employment opportunities, higher income levels, and better access to services.
The cost of life in Vietnam is influenced by various factors such as location, dining options, and daily expenses. On average, budget-conscious travelers can spend anywhere from 30 USD to 50 USD per day, while mid-range travelers may spend from 50 USD to 100 per day. These expenses typically include accommodation, meals, transportation, and other costs.
Read more: Nightlife in Vietnam: Best places for memorable nights out!
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3. Dining culture in daily life in Vietnam
The daily meals of Vietnamese people are not overly elaborate. A typical meal in Vietnam includes rice, vegetables, and a main dish that can be meat or fish. Vegetables are often homegrown. Common meat options include chicken, pork, duck, beef, and seafood.
In Vietnam, there are three meals in a day, but breakfast is not considered the main meal. The main meals are lunch and dinner, when family members gather together. Vietnamese people eat with chopsticks. Some families still traditionally sit on a mat to dine.
Vietnamese people often serve green tea to guests. During traditional holidays, they can serve rice wine, soft drinks, and beer. One iconic dish of Vietnam that cannot be missed is Pho, which is a beloved dish among both Vietnamese people and international tourists.
5 distinctive eating habits of Vietnamese people:
- Always having a bowl of dipping sauce during meals
- Eating leisurely, not too quickly or too slowly
- Taking just the right amount of rice, not too much or too little
- Using chopsticks
- Engaging in conversation during meals
Explore: Vietnamese food: The FULL list of delicacies to try in 2025
4. Transportation and commuting in daily life in Vietnam
Motorbikes are a popular means of transportation in Vietnam, and you will see them in abundance on the roads. Public transportation options, including buses and taxis, are also the favorite means of transportation for many people every day.
Ride-hailing services like Grab are widely used, providing convenient and affordable transportation. In Hanoi, there are also modern transportation systems such as metro lines.
Vietnam has a well-connected network of roads and highways, allowing for easy travel between cities and provinces.
Discover: Vietnamese People and Their Characteristics: What To Know
After having an idea about “What is life like in Vietnam?”, it is time to plan your Vietnam travel to discover the daily life of Vietnamese people in a vivid and authentic way. During your Vietnam travel journey, you shouldn’t miss out on famous destinations such as Hanoi, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, Ha Long, and Danang.
In these destinations, you can not only indulge in delicious cuisine, admire breathtaking landscapes, but also experience the country’s top entertainment complexes, including: VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium, VinWonders Nam Hoi An, VinWonders Nha Trang, and VinWonders Phu Quoc.
Book tickets of VinWonders Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Nam Hoi An, VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium to enrich your travel experiences!
Daily life in Vietnam is a fascinating tapestry of tradition and modernity. Street food dining, coffee culture, and warm hospitality are integral parts of the Vietnamese lifestyle. From vibrant markets to bustling motorbike-filled streets, the unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary dynamics defines daily life in Vietnam.
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