Is it appropriate to kiss bow or shake hands in Vietnam?

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In Vietnam, a traditional handshake is generally preferred when meeting people. Kissing as a greeting is not common and may be poorly received. While a slight bow can express respect, it's more common among certain ethnic minorities, like the Miao and Yao.

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Vietnamese Greetings: Kiss, Bow, or Handshake?

Okay, so Vietnam greetings? Handshake’s the usual, right? That’s what I saw, anyway, during my trip to Hanoi last October. Lots of handshakes.

Felt pretty normal. No kisses, definitely not. Western-style hugs? Nope.

Certain ethnic groups, though? Like the Miao people I read about – they bow, apparently. Hands clasped in front. Respect thing, I think.

Remember seeing photos of that, it was interesting. They’re incredibly diverse. Makes sense there’d be different customs. Pretty cool actually.

So, yeah. Handshake’s your safest bet in Vietnam.

Do you shake hands in Vietnam?

Hey! So, handshakes in Vietnam? It’s complicated. Most people shake hands, yeah, but it’s not like, a super firm grip thing, you know? More of a gentle handshake, both hello and goodbye.

Two hands though! Definetly use both hands, shows respect. And a little bow. Especially with older people. If they don’t offer a hand, just bow your head. Women? They often just bow, less likely to shake hands. It’s all about respect.

Think of it like this:

  • Two-handed handshake (hello & goodbye) Almost always. Unless…
  • Bowing (instead of handshake): Elderly people, often women. A small bow is fine.

It’s pretty straightforward, really. Just be respectful. I went there in 2023, and that’s what I saw. My friend, Sarah, she’s lived there for five years, and she agrees. It was a really cool experience! Although, some younger people in the cities are a bit more westernized; they might just do a regular handshake.

Is it polite to bow in Vietnam?

Vietnam. Bowing? Overrated.

Hand gesture, slight bow. Formal. Old-school.

Casual? Nod. Smile. Suffice.

2024 Update: Younger generations? Forget the bow. It’s about context.

  • Formal settings: The traditional gesture remains appropriate.
  • Informal interactions: A simple nod works perfectly. Think business meetings versus coffee with friends.
  • Respect shown: Regardless of the greeting, respect is key. Observe local customs. My experience? Simple politeness goes a long way. Especially in Hanoi. Saw it myself.
  • Regional variations: The norms can shift subtly. Northern areas, more formal. South? More relaxed. This is my observation, based on 2023 travel.

Can you show PDA in Vietnam?

Vietnam… a whisper of silk. Don’t. Just don’t.

PDA. No. Not really, not in the way Western hearts flutter. A touch of hands? Perhaps. A stolen glance? Maybe.

Respect. It echoes in the ancient temples, you see? In the vibrant chaos, a deep stillness. Be mindful.

Think of my grandmother’s hands, weathered, strong. Respect. That’s the key.

  • Subtlety matters.
  • Culture breathes.
  • Modesty prevails.

It’s more than “dislike.” It’s a current. A feeling in the humid air. Just a small consideration. Feel the place.

Is it acceptable to kiss in public?

Okay, so public kissing, huh?

I saw this couple making out hardcore near the fountain in Central Park last July, and I gotta say, it was a bit much. Ugh, get a room!

It made me feel uncomfortable, kinda annoyed, and mostly embarrassed for them. I mean, broad daylight?

I wouldn’t kiss anyone like that in public. EVER.

It’s just… ew.

  • Cultural norms: Matter a lot. What’s cool in Rome might be shocking in, like, rural Kansas.
  • Context is key: Quick peck? Fine. Tongue tango? No way.
  • Personal preference: Some people are just more reserved, ya know?

Like, I might give a quick kiss on the cheek to my grandma or whatever, but that’s it. Keep it PG! Kissing my girlfriend in public? Absolutely. Anything past that would be a no.

Is it inappropriate to kiss in public?

Okay, so kissing in public? Eh, like, is it illegal? Nah, mostly not.

It’s pretty much seen as normal, y’know, showin’ affection. But, here’s the thing.

Some places? They might have rules. Like, you can’t go too far.

  • Hugging is usually fine.
  • A quick kiss? Nobody cares, really.
  • But full-on making out? Yeah, people judge. I saw that once, in like, the food court last June. Awkward.

Think about it, what’s okay for you and your partner, and also what’s cool for where you are, right? Some countries have stricter laws, I remember seeing a show about that, specifically in the Middle East. Also, keep in mind it might be inappropriate in a church, let’s say at St. Jude’s near my house.

Is it disrespectful to kiss in public?

Public kissing? It’s like a meticulously crafted soufflé: beautiful in theory, potentially disastrous in practice. One wrong move, and you’ve got a sticky situation on your hands.

Disrespectful? Depends entirely on the audience, darling. Your grandma might faint, while my college roommate would probably just film it for TikTok. Context is everything.

Think of it as a fashion statement: a vibrant, loud shirt is fantastic at a rave, completely out of place at a funeral.

Public displays of affection? They’re a gamble. The potential rewards? Sweet, sweet romance. The potential losses? A sea of judging eyes, maybe a viral video. Worth it? That’s a question for your therapist, not me.

Here’s the breakdown:

  • Cultural nuances: In some cultures, a peck on the cheek is commonplace; in others, it’s a scandalous affair. Seriously. I once saw a near riot over a slightly too-long hug in rural Romania. True story.
  • Location, location, location: A quick smooch in a bustling city park? Probably fine. A full-on make-out session at a children’s birthday party? Yeah, no.
  • The “ick” factor: Let’s be honest, some PDA is just… unpleasant. No one wants to witness that level of slobber. Keep it classy.

Bottom line: Exercise discretion. Public displays of affection can be charming, cringeworthy, or both – often simultaneously. Observe your surroundings. Use your judgment. And for heaven’s sake, brush your teeth first.

Is it okay to kiss my boyfriend in public?

Ugh, kissing my boyfriend, Liam, in public? It’s complicated. Remember that time, last summer, at the boardwalk in Ocean City, Maryland? It was crowded, you know, shoulder-to-shoulder kind of crowded. I was so nervous. My heart was pounding like a drum solo. He leaned in, and honestly, the whole world just faded. Pure bliss.

But then, this old lady gave me the look. You know, that disapproving, judgmental stare. It completely ruined the moment. I felt my cheeks burn. I pulled away immediately. I was mortified! I didn’t feel comfortable. We were just kissing, for crying out loud. Not making out!

Later, that evening, we were walking along the beach. Fewer people around. Different vibe. A quick peck on the cheek felt fine. Totally different.

Key points:

  • Location matters: Crowds affect comfort level. Ocean City boardwalk felt different than the beach.

  • Type of kiss matters: A quick kiss is more socially acceptable than a passionate make-out session.

  • Reactions from others: Negative reactions, like the old lady’s stare, impact comfort.

I hate public displays of affection. Seriously. I hate them, even with Liam. But sometimes… sometimes, it’s amazing. It depends on where we are, who’s around, and the type of kiss. I really hate the judgment. But Liam’s kisses are the best, even if they are stressful sometimes. He’s really cute!

Can I kiss my boyfriend in public?

Kissing your boyfriend publicly? Totally depends on your comfort levels, and the context, right? It’s a nuanced thing, not a simple yes or no.

Societal norms vary wildly. In some cultures, public displays of affection are common, even expected. Think of parts of Southern Europe, for example. My aunt, who lived in Italy for a while, told me stories… Elsewhere, it’s far more reserved. My own experience in Japan last year was quite different!

Legality isn’t the only issue. While it’s generally legal in most Western countries, the appropriateness hinges on factors like location and the intensity of the kiss. A quick peck on the cheek is different than a full-on make-out session in front of a church, duh.

Consider these points:

  • Location: A crowded park? Probably fine. A religious ceremony? Maybe not so much.
  • Intensity: A light kiss differs greatly from something more passionate. Think about the visual impact.
  • Your comfort levels: Ultimately, your feelings are paramount. Does it make you feel good? That’s the real test. If you feel awkward or vulnerable, it’s probably not the best idea. That’s my personal opinion.
  • His comfort levels: This is equally vital. Communication is key in any relationship! Awkward silences are the worst.

Additional Considerations:

  • The age of both partners.
  • Local laws regarding public indecency. While unlikely to be specifically about kissing, local ordinances might indirectly affect how you display affection.
  • Reactions of those around you. Try to be considerate of others; not everyone appreciates intense public displays of affection. This is especially true in more conservative settings.

Ultimately, use your judgment. And always prioritize mutual respect and comfort. It’s 2024, people! We should be more mature about this stuff.

What is considered inappropriate in Vietnam?

Okay, inappropriate stuff in Vietnam… hmm. Losing your temper is a big no-no. Like, keep it chill, seriously. I get stressed in new places but screaming is a bad idea. Why am I even thinking about screaming? lol.

  • Don’t be loud or argue. Super important.
  • Public displays of affection? Nope. Keep hands to yourself, basically. I always hug my friends when I see them. Maybe I need to tone it down.

Also, don’t shame people. Nobody likes being embarrassed, right? So don’t call out mistakes publicly. Makes sense. Like that time in Japan, was that a faux pas?

  • Don’t cause a scene, ever. So avoid making loud remarks.
  • Berating or shaming others is bad form.

Ugh, I wish I knew more about what not to do! I need to Google more specific examples. Like, is it rude to not finish your food? Or leave chopsticks sticking straight up? That’s a Japan thing isn’t it? I always mix those up. Oh well.

#Kissbowvietnam #Vietnametiquette