6 interesting facts about Vietnam you didn’t know
1. The unique S-shape of Vietnam
Our personal favourite interesting fact about Vietnam is its S shape. Not only because we love our funky shaped countries (like the ones that resemble glamorous high heels – Italia), but because it honours both our first names: S for Stefan, S for Sebastien and S for S-shaped Vietnam!
When you think about it, it's actually quite a remarkable shape for a country, long and thin, just like Chile in South America. The top of the narrow S curve starts in the North with the capital, Hanoi, bordering China, and Laos in the West.
The S then trails down passing Hoi An, Hue (both must-see cities for any traveller to Vietnam!), sharing a border with Cambodia to the West and a long narrow coastline to the East with the South China Sea. The S then curves out at its southern tip which is where you find the economic and transport hub of Vietnam – Ho Chi Minh City (also referred to as “Saigon” locally).
And that also sums up our month-long trip through Vietnam! Beginning with Saigon, we flew up to Hanoi, visited the famous limestone cliffs of Halong Bay, then headed to the central region to explore Hoi An and Hue, before returning back south to the bustling Saigon.
2. Motorbikes are EVERYWHERE!
We really weren't kidding about the hectic traffic in Vietnam, particularly the abundance of motorbikes. In Vietnam, motorbikes are everywhere, hence it's nickname: “The Kingdom of Motorbikes“!
To give you an idea, the population of Vietnam is almost 100 million. According to Vietnam's Ministry of Transport, there are almost 60 million motorbikes in the country and only 2 million cars. This is largely down to cost and practicality.
Owning a car is incredibly expensive because the tax is around 100-200%, so it’s a luxury reserved for the very wealthy. The tax for motorbikes is far cheaper, making it a more affordable means of transportation for everyday folk.
Motorbikes are also a handy way to get around, particularly in the tight narrow streets and tiny alleyways. They're also much easier to park than cars.
Interestingly, Vietnam is the country with the 4th highest number of motorbikes after India, China and Indonesia. But with all the air pollution and traffic congestion this all causes, where is this heading? Well in 2017, the government announced it will ban all motorbikes in the capital, Hanoi, by 2030 and invest more in public transport, such as a Sky Train, much like the ones in Bangkok and Vancouver.
3. Crossing your fingers is super rude!
…not so in Vietnam!
Do not, I repeat, do NOT cross your fingers to a Vietnamese. It is seen as an obscene gesture, akin to raising your middle finger and saying “F*** You!”
4. A unique coffee made with egg
We're both coffee addicts, especially Stefan who can't seem to function as a normal human being until he's had around 6 cups of coffee…
Coffee in Vietnam (called ca pheI locally) is actually serious business. Just like many countries in Latin America, Vietnam is a huge exporter of coffee beans. It is, in fact, the world’s second-largest coffee-producing nation after Brazil, producing 16% of the world’s total coffee (Brazil’s is 40%).
As well as exporting it, the Vietnamese also love to consume it and have accordingly developed a rich culture for consuming coffee. The most common is through a small metal drip filter called a “phin cà phê”, which is then served (either hot or cold) with condensed milk used as a sweetener.
The most unique way of drinking coffee in Vietnam, and possibly one of our favorite ever coffees we've ever tried is the famous egg coffee of Hanoi. You read right – the “ca phe trung” is served with egg yolk whipped into the condensed milk.
It originated in the 1940s when milk was scarce and egg yolks provided a convenient replacement.
5. Vietnam is The Queen of the cashew
Vietnam is the world's largest exporter of cashew nuts, producing 37% of the global number. Cashew is big business here, hence why we added it to our list of interesting facts about Vietnam.
In 2018, the country produced 339,700 tons of cashew nuts worth $3.09 billion, exporting mainly to the US, China and the Netherlands.
Interestingly, the cashew nut itself is, in fact, the seed that grows at the bottom of the cashew fruit unlike other nuts which grow inside of the fruit. The cashew's fruit is called a “cashew apple” and is super healthy, containing five times the amount of Vitamin C found in oranges.
6. Ong Tao the Vietnamese god of the kitchen
Vietnam is the only country we know of that has its own deity for the kitchen! His name is Ong Tao or “the Kitchen God”!
According to legend, Ong Tao makes his appearance just before the Vietnamese New Year (Tet) festival, which is usually in mid-February. During this time he rushes up to heaven to give his annual report to the Jade Emperor (the King of Heaven) on the activities of the family, which determines the fate of each household in the new year.
But spare a thought for poor old Ong Tao who doesn't have much money to buy new clothes, so he simply goes around clad in a long robe and shorts. Another legend claims he wears a robe because he's always rushing around and forgot to do up his trousers properly!
Related tour
The panoramic view of Ha Long Bay on Bell helicopter will definitely be a wonderful feeling not to be missed in your life.
Departure day: 4D3N
Departure: Hanoi City
Arrival: Ha Long Bay
Regions: Northern Vietnam
Type: Classic Tours
Departure day: 7D6N
Departure: Hanoi City
Arrival: Ba Na Hills
Regions: Northern Vietnam
Type: Classic Tours
Departure day: 8D7N
Departure: Hanoi City
Arrival: Mekong river
Regions: Northern Vietnam
Type: Classic Tours
Departure day: 1D0N
Departure: Hanoi City
Arrival: Hanoi City
Regions: Northern Vietnam
Type: Daily Tour
Begin the third day with a comfortable transfer from your hotel in Hanoi to Ha Long Bay. Arrive at Ha Long Bay's Tuan Chau Pier, where you'll board your cruise ship
Set sail across the emerald waters of Halong Bay, surrounded by towering limestone karsts and islets. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views as you make your way towards Bo Hon Island, one of the bay's most scenic spots.
Departure day: 5D4N
Departure: Hanoi City
Arrival: Hanoi City
Regions: Northern Vietnam
Type: Classic Tours
Countinue your journey to Halong Bay, surrounded by towering limestone karsts and islets. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views as you make your way towards Bo Hon Island, one of the bay's most scenic spots.
The end of the tour, you will visit Da Nang where considered the symbol of urban hustle and bustle in the Central region of Vietnam. Visiting this city, you can get a lot of exciting tourism experiences and have a chance to enjoy many unique dishes.
Departure day: 6D5N
Departure: Hanoi City
Arrival: Ba Na Hills
Regions: Northern Vietnam
Type: Classic Tours
Departure day: 7D6N
Departure: Hanoi City
Arrival: Ha Long Bay
Regions: Northern Vietnam
Type: Classic Tours
Departure day: 7D6N
Departure: Hanoi City
Arrival: Mekong river
Regions: Northern Vietnam
Type: Classic Tours
Departure day: 10D9N
Departure: Ho Chi Minh City
Arrival: Ha Long Bay
Regions: Northern Vietnam
Type: Classic Tours
Departure day: 1D0N
Departure: Hanoi City
Arrival: Huong pagoda
Regions: Northern Vietnam
Type: Daily Tour
Departure day: 12D11N
Departure: Ho Chi Minh City
Arrival: Hanoi City
Regions: Northern Vietnam
Type: Luxury Tour,Classic Tours
Departure day: 1D0N
Departure: Ha Noi City
Arrival: Ha Noi City
Regions: Northern Vietnam
Type: Food Tour
Departure day: 1D0N
Departure: Ha Noi City
Arrival: Ha Noi City
Regions: Northern Vietnam
Type: Food Tour
Departure day: 1D0N
Departure: Ha Noi City
Arrival: Ha Noi City
Regions: Northern Vietnam
Type: Food Tour
Related posts
8 must-visit tourist attractions in Hue
8 must-visit tourist attractions in Phu Quoc in a lifetime.
Traveling experience in Nha Trang from A to Z.
Getting lost in fun at the 10 hottest team building spots near Hanoi.
7 resorts offer ideal team building activities for this summer
This summer, let's go to Cu Lao Xanh - Why not?
Hanoi Pho - the epitome of Northern Vietnamese cuisine.
Hanoi Banh Mi - an iconic street food delicacy.
Enjoying the distinctive flavor of Hanoi Bun Cha in the capital city.
Hanoi - 36 Old Streets: A Travel Handbook for the Capital City
Hoan Kiem Lake - A precious destination in the heart of the capital.
The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - a grand historical landmark of the capital city.
Hanoi's green rice flakes - the elegant gift of the capital.
When visiting Hanoi, buying lotus tea as a delicate gift is a thoughtful choice.
Hang Duong salted dried fruit - a specialty worth buying as gifts in the capital city
Explore the Tuan Chau tourist area in Quang Ninh province
Why is Ha Long Bay an ideal destination in Vietnam
Why is Ha Long Bay an ideal destination in Vietnam? It is not only a natural wonder but also a place where you can immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture.
Explore the pristine natural beauty of Co To Island.
Sam Son - A coastal city with many attractive tourist destinations.
Discover the pristine and mysterious beauty of the Fairy Fish Stream in Thanh Hoa.
Experience the beauty of nature in Pu Luong.
Hoi An Ancient Town - A venerable city adorned with the beauty of time
My Son Sanctuary - The century-old beauty of World Cultural Heritage
Cu Lao Cham and the fascinating experiences it offers.
Discovering Thien Mu Pagoda - the spiritual and cultural beauty in Hue.
Some facts you need to know about the Imperial City - Forbidden City.
The Great Wall is not reached by just wishing
Born in Suzhou, live in Hangzhou, eat in Guangzhou, die in Liuzhou.
The Bund in Shanghai, both in the past and present, holds romantic memories for many travelers.
Hue Imperial City: Exploring Vietnam's Unique Cultural Heritage
Thuy Xuan Incense Village - a source of inspiration from folk culture.
Explore Phu Quoc Island - Vietnam's Pearl
The Nam Du Islands - The raw gem of the East Sea
Explore the beauty of U Minh Thuong National Park.
Touring Ban Gioc Waterfall - a masterpiece of nature in Cao Bang.
Exploring the mystical Nguom Ngao Cave
Pac Bo Historical Site - A journey to find the roots.
Vinpearl Nha Trang: An ideal destination for families.
Ninh Thuy Fishing Village - Timeless Beauty in Simplicity
Ponagar Tower - a hidden treasure trove of mysteries
Exploring the scenic complex of Trang An
Lunar New Year in Vietnam - the most important festival
Top 10 best attractions in northern Vietnam 2023
The Imperial City of Hue - always alive!
Hanoi Night Tour Best Tours to Explore the Capital City's Nightlife
Best Day Trip From Hanoi That You Can Actually Go
Top 10 handicraft villages in Hanoi: the traditional beauty of the capital
Find the best Vietnam tour packages from Singapore? We are here to help you!
Best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City in our Vietnam tour packages
Experience the best Danang tour package from Singapore with our guide
Our Danang tour package from Singapore is the perfect way to explore the best of Danang in a hassle-free and convenient way. Book your tour today and embark on a journey of a lifetime!
Yearly festivals in Vietnam
With many activities taking place such as singing and dancing, boat racing, street parades, etc., creating special features for festivals in Vietnam.
15 activities to discover Sapa for foreign tourists
Discover the Top 4 most beautiful idyllic fishing villages in Ha Long
10 Most Amazing Landscapes in Vietnam
We’ve compiled a list of the 10 most amazing landscapes in Vietnam, each of which offer truly unique photo opportunities and experiences
10 Best Beaches in Vietnam
Y Ty village - The beauty of culture makes the difference of Ha Nhi people
Phu Quoc is listed in Time magazine's top 100 best destinations
10 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
Mu Cang Chai's on top 50 most beautiful destinations in the world
6 must do activities in Ninh Binh
Interesting experiences in Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh
Discover the wild beauty of Na Hang ecological lake
The best time to visit Vietnam
Hanoi Food: A Top 10 List of Old Quarter Delicacies
Top 8 Photography Spots in Hanoi
8 Best Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City
6 Best Things To Do In Hue
Vietnamese Traditional Costumes & Dresses Origin & Uniqueness
Getting a haircut in Hanoi
6 Best Things To Do in Da Nang
All You Need Before Going To Sapa
Experience bathing with Dao Do herbal bath in Sapa
6 Vietnam Off-the-beaten-track Destinations: From North To South
Hue Citadel: Journey back in time to learn about the last dynasty of Vietnam
All You Need to Know About Currency in Vietnam
Characteristics of Vietnamese People
Motorbikes still the popular vehicle in Vietnam
5 strange fruits you must try when visiting Vietnam
Come to Ha Giang to see Nho Que River: The scenery is as beautiful as getting lost in a movie
The reason why Phu Quoc is among the top 100 best destinations of Time
Travelling to Moc Chau in the summer - Escape from the heat and escape from the epidemic
Y Ty - Cultural beauty makes the difference of Ha Nhi people
Top 3 spiritual tourist destinations in Tay Ninh must definitely go to
The Legend of Banh Chung - Tet food of Vietnamese people
Vietnam’s 8 strangest dishes, do you dare to try?
The beauty of Nam Cuong sand dunes near Phan Rang city
Vietnam's best outdoor activities
Top 6 Best Restaurants in Hanoi, Vietnam
What to do in Hanoi so early in the morning?
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi
Steep slope on the way to Ba Den mountain
Fall in love with the beautiful bamboo forest like a swordplay movie in Mu Cang Chai
Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho, Vietnam
3 Of the best things to do in Can Tho City
Best Nightlife In Hanoi - Top 6 Things to Do
Shopping In Hanoi: 6 Ideal Places
Top 6 Nightlife Experiences in Ho Chi Minh
5 Best Nightlife in Hue - Most Popular Nightlife Spots
Top recreational activities in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park
See the silent ancient capital of Hue during the epidemic time
Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh
Ho Chi Minh Golf Courses - Vietnam
Bình Hưng Island, Khanh Hoa
Cu Chi Tunnels, Ho Chi Minh City
Garlic Kingdom Ly Son, Quang Ngai
6 Best Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
Non La - Vietnamese's Famous Conical Hat
Top 5 Best Destinations for Vietnam Honeymoon Packages
Da Nang's Golden Bridge
Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc - The paradise of semi-wild animals for the first time in Vietnam
Phu Quoc shows its determination to control the pandemic and welcome international tourists
Amazing thing to do in Con Dao Island
Inbound Vietnam Travel strives to build a safe tourism image in Vietnam
Quang Nam develops tourism with a set of green tourism criteria
Vietnam is 'Asia's Best River Cruise Destination'
Light up Hoi An to welcome the New Year
Khanh Hoa welcomes more than 300 Russian tourists with vaccine passports
Stuttgarter Nachrichten Newspaper: 5 reasons to travel to Vietnam
Membership Benefits on Vietnam Airlines
Why is autumn in Hanoi so special?
5 Must-Visit Destinations in Vietnam
Da Lat a Wonderful Land!
Explore Ha Long Bay Trip with Ha Long cruise
Experience the pure air of Tan Uyen tea hill
Experiencing the peaceful life in Si Thau Chai Village
Sin Ho Plateau: Your next adventure awaits in the heart of Northwest Vietnam
Visiting the Independence Palace: A Journey Through History
The Independence Palace symbolizes Vietnam's victory, peace, and territorial integrity.
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral: A Must-Visit Landmark
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral stands as an iconic landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, steeped in a rich and mysterious history.
Cu Chi Tunnels: A Testament to Vietnam's Heroic Past
Tam Coc - Bich Dong: Exploring Majestic and Romantic Beauty
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital - An Attractive Tourist Destination in Ninh Binh
Explore Ninh Kieu Wharf, the cultural heart of the Western Delta
Cat Ba Island - An Ideal Vacation Paradise
Truc Lam Pagoda in Can Tho: A renowned pilgrimage site
Visiting the sacred Munir Ansay Pagoda in the heart of Can Tho
Do Son Beach: A Delightful Seaside Getaway in the City of Flowers
Bach Long Vi Island - A Painted Paradise in Hai Phong
Chua Kho Temple - A Sacred Shrine in Bac Ninh
Phu Lang Pottery Village - A Traditional Treasure in Bac Ninh
Phu Lang Pottery Village - A captivating tourist destination in Bac Ninh for those who love Vietnamese culture and traditions.
Phat Tich Pagoda - An Ancient Temple in the Heart of Bac Ninh
Phat Tich Pagoda is a famous spiritual destination in Bac Ninh city with unique architecture and a long history.
Discovering Mai Chau: A Paradise for Nature Lovers
Thung Nai Tourism: Discover the "Halong Bay on Land" in the Heart of Hòa Bình
Admiring Go Lao Waterfall: A Gem of the Northwest Mountains
Ganh Da Dia: A Unique Masterpiece Gifted by Nature
Mui Dien, Phu Yen: A Must-Visit Destination
What makes a day trip to Hon Yen, Phu Yen so exciting?
A Beautiful Coastal City: Quy Nhon
Eo Gio Quy Nhon: A Natural Masterpiece
Cu Lao Xanh Island: An Emerald Gem in the Ocean
Son La Prison: A Testament to the Nation's Spirit
Discover the Dreamy Beauty of Moc Chau Plateau
Cloud Hunting in Ta Xua: Conquering the "Roof" of Son La
Mui Da Vach: A popular tourist attraction in Ninh Thuan
Hang Rai Ninh Thuan: A must-visit tourist destination
The Beauty of Sapa - A Majestic and Romantic Natural Painting
Discover Bac Ha: A Peaceful Haven in the Northwest Mountains
Nam Cuong Sand Dunes is a famous photography spot in Ninh Thuan
Discover Muong Khuong: An Ideal Destination for Those Who Love Majestic Nature
Discover Dong Van Karst Plateau - The Northernmost Corner of Vietnam
Discover the Poetic Nho Que River Amidst the Northwest Mountains
Conquering Ma Pi Leng Pass - A Winding Road Among the Clouds of the Northwest
Things to do when traveling to Da Lat
Discover Cu Lan Village - A paradise amidst the Da Lat mountains
Exploring Huu Nghi International Border Gate
Discover the Stunning Beauty of Bac Son Flower Valley
Discover Na Lay Mountain - A Magical Misty Land
Explore the beauty of Mu Cang Chai with its stunning terraced rice fields
Thac Ba Lake Trip: A perfect experiential journey in Yen Bai
Conquering Khau Pha Pass: Pushing your boundaries to the limit.
Hung Temple in Phu Tho - The cradle of the Vietnamese people
May Waterfall in Phu Tho: A mysterious beauty attracting adventurous travelers
Long Coc Tea Hill - A dreamlike destination in Phu Tho
Son Tra Peninsula: A Stunning Natural Landscape of Da Nang
The Golden Bridge of Da Nang: Vietnam's Pride
Sun World Da Nang: Vietnam's Premier Tourist Destination
Ba Danh Pagoda and Ngoc Mountain: A long-standing famous tourist destination
Nha Xa Silk Village: A Magnetic Destination for Tourists
Tam Chuc Eco-Tourism Area - A popular spiritual tourist destination
The Enchanting Beauty of Phong Nha - Ke Bang Cave
A fascinating experience at Nga Nam Floating Market, Soc Trang
Khmer Museum - A treasure trove of distinctive history and culture
Exploring Paradise Cave: A Magical Journey
Explore the distinctive beauty of the ancient Doi Pagoda architecture
Nhat Le Beach - A Wonderful Seaside Destination
My Khe Beach - A Wonderful Summer Vacation Experience in Quang Ngai
Con Dao: A bucket-list destination for any traveler
A Tour Around Ly Son Island - A Blue Ocean Paradise in Quang Ngai
Discover the enchantment of Nghinh Phong Cape
Sa Huynh Salt Field: A Rustic Beauty of a Coastal Village
Ngoc Island, Vung Tau: A tranquil retreat for travelers
Don Village - The perfect destination for those who love to explore
Dray Nur Waterfall - A majestic masterpiece of Central Highlands
Conquering Yang Tao Elephant Rock: Vietnam's Largest Monolithic Rock
Da Han Waterfall: A dreamy picnic spot in Dong Nai
Buu Long Tourist Area: An enchanting escape from the city
Tre Viet Tourist Village - A top tourist destination in Dong Nai
Cape Ca Mau - The ultimate destination in Vietnam's southernmost point
Hon Da Bac - A heavenly gem at the southernmost point of Vietnam
A memorable journey along Trem River in the Mekong Delta
Sa Pa - A Gem of the Northwestern Region
List of luxury resorts in Nha Trang
Best things to do in Nha Trang
Hanoi in autumn - where to go?
Van Phuc Silk Village: The Cradle of Vietnamese Silk Elegance
It is the perfect place for anyone who wants to visit a handicraft place that has characteristics typical of a Northern Vietnam’s village.