8 Little-Known Facts About Vietnam

Have you ever heard about Vietnam? This country, with its unique "S"-shaped form, is not only beautiful because of its landscapes but also boasts a rich culture and fascinating facts that will leave you in awe.

From exciting local traditions, unique daily habits, to extraordinary natural wonders uncommon for a tropical country, Vietnam has it all. 

For those who love exploring new and exciting things, Vietnam is definitely a destination you shouldn't miss. Let's dive into the cool facts about this surprising country!

Interesting Facts About Vietnam

1. The Most Common Last Name in Vietnam is Nguyen

In Vietnam, the name Nguyen is extremely popular, much like "Rahman" or "Wijaya" in Indonesia. Nearly 40% of the Vietnamese population shares this last name.

It's no wonder that the name Nguyen is frequently found across various fields, from politics to the arts. So, if you meet many people named Nguyen while in Vietnam, it's completely normal.

2. Snow in a Tropical Country

Although Vietnam is known as a tropical country, there are regions where it snows, specifically in the northern mountainous areas like Sapa.

Besides the snow phenomenon, this area also offers stunning natural scenery. Tourists often come here to enjoy the cool air, go hiking, and, of course, capture moments in the snow, which is unique for Southeast Asia.

Read Also: List of Currency Names in Asian Countries with Their Exchange Rates

3. Traditional Water Puppetry Art

One of the unique cultural aspects of Vietnam is the "Water Puppetry" performance. This traditional art form has existed for thousands of years, where wooden puppets are manipulated on water, accompanied by local legendary stories. The performances are usually set to traditional Vietnamese music, creating a magical atmosphere that you wouldn't want to miss.

4. The Tradition of Drinking Beer After Work

Vietnamese culture is very relaxed, as seen in the locals' habit of enjoying beer after work. They usually gather at roadside stalls accompanied by local snacks like fried peanuts or shrimp chips.

The atmosphere becomes lively, filled with laughter, especially at night. Additionally, beer in Vietnam is very affordable, making it a tradition enjoyed by many.

5. A Nation of Motorbikes

If you visit big cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, be prepared to see a sea of motorbikes on the streets. With over 60 million motorbikes, these two-wheeled vehicles are the primary mode of transportation for the Vietnamese people. Crossing the street can be thrilling, but you'll get used to the unique rhythm of Vietnamese traffic.

Read Also: What are Vietnam's export and import commodities?

6. Long and Slim Vietnam

Vietnam's geographical shape is very unique, resembling a long and slim "S," stretching over 1,600 kilometers from north to south.

This gives each region in Vietnam its distinct characteristics. The north offers green mountains and cool air, while the south boasts stunning tropical beaches.

7. A Major Rice Producer

Vietnam is one of the world's largest rice producers, ranking fifth globally. Vietnamese rice is exported to various countries, making it a crucial commodity for the nation's economy. Additionally, Vietnam is famous for its unique rice dishes like "pho" and "com tam," which you must try.

8. One of the Safest Tourist Destinations

Vietnam is known as a safe and friendly tourist destination. The locals are famously warm, the local cuisine is delicious, and there are plenty of interesting tourist spots to visit.

Vietnam is suitable for all types of travelers, whether solo or family trips. With a relatively low cost of living compared to other Southeast Asian countries, Vietnam is an ideal destination for a budget-friendly and memorable vacation.

Vietnam is indeed full of interesting facts, from unique traditions to stunning natural beauty. This "S"-shaped country not only offers memorable travel experiences but also a cultural warmth that's hard to forget. From the daily habits of its people to its traditional arts, Vietnam is a place that always has a story to tell.

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