Gentry Hale, a traveler from the United States, spent the last three weeks of 2025 on an inspiring journey across Vietnam. Despite thorough preparation, she was still amazed by the majestic scenery, vibrant street food , and unique local culture. However, the trip also left her with many valuable lessons about adapting to the pace of life and the people of this country.
The art of bargaining and networking at local markets.
One of Gentry's favorite experiences is wandering through colorful traditional markets. In Hoi An, she chooses to have ao dai (traditional Vietnamese dress) and dresses made by hand, while in Hanoi , she searches for exquisite leather goods. Initially, Gentry admits she was quite hesitant and often paid the exact price the seller quoted because she was afraid of confrontation.
However, she soon realized that bargaining wasn't simply about price, but a distinctive aspect of communication. As she became more confident, Gentry not only saved money but also felt truly integrated into local life. According to her, bargaining should be done politely, respectfully, and sometimes with a few lighthearted jokes to create a relaxed atmosphere for both parties.
A costly lesson about climate differences between regions.
Gentry was most surprised by Vietnam's rapidly changing climate with latitude. In Ho Chi Minh City in early October, she faced intense heat and high humidity. Conversely, when she arrived in Hanoi two weeks later, the cool air and scattered rain rendered her summer clothes unsuitable.
Gentry advises travelers to check detailed weather forecasts for each destination rather than just general forecasts. Layering clothing, choosing quick-drying materials, and always carrying a light jacket or compact raincoat are essential to cope with the unpredictable weather changes between the South and the North.
Vietnam is much larger than what is shown on maps.
Before setting off, Gentry thought 21 days would be enough to travel across the country. In reality, the geographical distance and traffic conditions took her much longer than expected. Sixteen-hour overnight train journeys and day-long bus trips forced her to cut some plans, including the much-regretted Ha Giang Loop trek.
Her takeaway is that it's better to choose a slow travel approach, focusing on a few specific areas to gain a deeper understanding of the culture instead of trying to move around constantly. "Travel less but stay longer to fully experience the rhythm of life," Gentry shared.
Small tips for a more enjoyable trip.
Besides planning her trip, Gentry also emphasized the importance of understanding local etiquette. She learned that using a whole hand to signal instead of just one finger is a more respectful gesture in Vietnamese culture. Additionally, learning a few basic Vietnamese greetings helped create a great impression with locals, making conversations more intimate and warm.
Source: https://baonghean.vn/viet-nam-qua-goc-nhin-du-khach-my-tu-nghe-thuat-mac-ca-den-bai-hoc-xuyen-viet-thuc-te-10324371.html
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