Vietnamese lifestyle is mostly based on geographical, political and economic conditions, as well as representing the traditional characteristics of ethnic cultures of the Vietnamese. Some of the most established characteristics inbred into the local Vietnamese people are humanism, philanthropic spirit of tolerance, village ties, solidarity in family, cohesiveness in social relationships and patriotism. Much of the thinking for traditional Vietnamese relates to sentiment, and less on dispute. Plus, they can rely on ethics when it comes to behaviours in relations between people.
The lifestyle of the Vietnamese people can differ between the various regions of the country. Plus, there is a difference between the older and younger generations – although there are certain aspects that are relatively similar. Similar to the people in neighbouring countries, the people in this South East Asian country are industrious, hospitable, kind, friendly, and open to tourists on the Vietnam tours. The local citizens are highly respectful and appreciate the importance of family. Vietnam has a few types of typical family existence which can include nuclear family and extended family. In the nuclear family, the living arrangements have parents and children in the home, while the extended family arrangements have more than two generations cohabiting. This can include not only the parents and children, but also the grandparents and grandchildren. Both genders are equal in modern Vietnam. For the married couple, it is likely both go to work and rely on their parents to take care of the children.
To comply with Vietnamese tradition the elder members of the family are respected by the younger generation who display good behaviour and are obedient to the older family members.
Life in the countryside
Vietnam is a nation that is extensively based on agriculture and a lot of the population are located on the coastal line, mountainous areas and lowland. In most of the lowlands, this part of the country is known for its friendly farmers in conical hats, beautiful green paddies and bamboo-hedged villages which are all easily admired on the Vietnam tour packages. The lifestyle adopted is based on traditional life. The villagers in this agricultural nation make a living by working together, making handicraft, raising livestock and of course farming.
The majority of the villages have a communal house that makes it possible for everyone to gather and organize special events. The majority of these events are intended to commemorate celebrities or worship the village god. In certain regions of the country, the structures in the villages consist of stilt houses which are practical for several reasons.
In southern Vietnam the houses built above ground are practical for avoiding floods; while in northwest mountainous areas this style of home is effective for giving protection against wild animals. The local Vietnamese people are patient and hard-working. This is more so in central regions of Vietnam where the locals have to suffer the harsh conditions and even handle seasonal natural disasters. In view of the hard working conditions in the fields, many people in the countryside make the decision to work in big cities or industrial areas.
Life in the City
Vietnam city life is quite different to the countryside, and not seen to be as traditional or simple. For the people living in the city, while the day-to-day live is quite modern, it can also be complicated. In the city, there is a complete mix of people that come from a variety of different regions. By moving to the city to earn their living there is the belief of bettering theirs and their children’s life. But the costs to live in the city are more expensive and the city dwellers have to work hard, especially for those on low incomes. Life in the city is greatly influenced by global integration, modernization and industrialization. Plus, the lifestyles in western countries can have an impact on how the Vietnamese people live.
Today, the daily costume as seen on the Vietnam holidays is mainly fashionable items, like jeans and T-shirt with the more traditional outfits (Ao Dai) reserved more for the special event or occasion.
Vietnamese children
Education is an important role for the Vietnamese people. Children start their early years with a few years at a preschool before enrolling in a primary school. The children start to attend primary school from the age of six. Schools abided by strict rules when educating and children are taught to read and write. Teachers are given respect by their pupils similar to their parents. The children remain at primary school until the age of 11 when they move onto secondary school and remain there until aged 15. Also, it is necessary to pass an exam to start studying at high school.
Vietnamese children that attend primary and high school must wear the appropriate uniform which varies with the different schools. Before a student can progress to a college or university in Vietnam it is a requirement to take and achieve the pass mark for a national exam. An alternative to continuing with full time education at a college or university is the option to move on to a vocational or technical institute after finishing high school. This gives the option to learn the more hands-on skills such as electronics, agriculture or mechanics.
While the children are expected to the obedient and respectful to their parents, they are fully free to express their feelings and thoughts. Also, with the increase in the use of technology, the younger generation are easily able to see the latest global trends in relation to music, fashion, and sharing their feelings with friends via the social networking sites, email, or similar methods.
Overall, the Vietnamese lifestyle is certain to vary with the different regions of the country and great to witness on the Vietnam private tours. Each region of Vietnam has its own distinct customs, religions and culture that are followed. Living in the mountainous areas or lowlands to the countryside or city can lead to local people adopting a cultural identity that is common to the local area.