Monday 11 April 2011

'Nam V: Vietnamese Etiquette.

An British fellow in Vietnam ought to be aware of the following etiquette;

Smoking- Vietnamese ladys do not smoke, but most Vietnamese gentlemen smoke a great deal. A gift of a cigarette between smokers can be quite significant, one can dine out on it, or make a friend for life. In addition, one may smoke almost anywhere; in a taxi carriage, in a cafe, in a hotel, almost anywhere- this is a most civilised and agreeable situation.
Rubbish- When in a street side cafe, of the type patronised by locals, it is poor form to put rubbish of any kind on the table; packaging, cigareete butts and such like are to be thrown under the table. The staff do not clean the floors untill closing time and a floor covered in rubbish is a sigh of good business.
Hands- when giving or taking something, such as money or a business card, one ought to use both hands.
Smoking- 'Tis import to smile in Vietnam, especially during an arguement, failure to do so may result in bloodshed.
Drinking- Very few Vietnamese ladys drink and the gentlen tend to drink small quantities in the evenings (they know that drinking ale everyday is good for a fellow), but they only drink heavily on special occasions. For this reason, bartender may refuse to serve a fellow after he had drunk as little as six or seven pints. 'Tis best not to argue, for the Vietnamese are Stubborn fellows. On the other hand, the Vietnamese gentlemen like to down their drinks, and it is a sign of friendship to do so with them.

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