Responsible Travel to Vietnam

Participating in a responsible trip to Vietnam allows you to not only witness the country’s natural and cultural wonders but also contribute positively to its people and environment. As specialists in sustainable Asian journeys, Shanti Travel encourages you to integrate thoughtful, responsible practices into every stage of your holiday.

Travelling in Vietnam offers countless opportunities to minimize your environmental impact, respect cultural traditions, and support local communities. Here are practical, expert-backed tips you can easily adopt during your holiday to Vietnam:

Practical Tips for a Responsible Trip to Vietnam

1. Reduce Single-Use Plastics

   • Don’t bring plastic wrappings or items you’ll discard at your destination.
   • Use a bamboo or metal straw, and always refuse plastic straws.
   • Bring your own cloth bag for purchases, refusing plastic bags.
   • Carry a refillable water bottle to avoid plastic waste. (Worth noting: 89 billion plastic water bottles are sold globally each year—each takes over 450 years to decompose!)

2. Travel with a Low Carbon Footprint

   • Rent bicycles in cities like Hoi An for scenic, eco-friendly travel.
   • In Hanoi, take advantage of electric minibuses for a fun, sustainable tour of the capital’s highlights.
   • Use trains or licensed taxis for longer distances rather than private cars.

3. Respect Local Culture and Traditions

   • Dress modestly, especially at pagodas, temples, and in rural areas—a sarong from a local market is a handy, respectful option.
   • Learn and follow basic local customs. For instance, greet elders with a smile and avoid public displays of affection.
   • Follow your Vietnam Travel Expert's guidance and seek out activities that help preserve traditional crafts and customs.

4. Support Local Communities

   • Hire local guides to ensure your tourism benefits families and small businesses, and to deepen your cultural understanding.
   • Choose homestays or community-run accommodations with ethnic minority families for meaningful exchange and a taste of everyday Vietnamese life.
   • Shop at markets or directly from local artisans. Buy handwoven textiles, lacquerware, or pottery—but skip souvenirs made from endangered wildlife.

5. Engage Responsibly with Nature and Wildlife

   • Join community-based tourism and conservation projects, like rice harvesting or traditional fishing.
   • Only participate in wildlife tours (snorkeling, diving, trekking) operated with clear conservation commitments—never support activities involving animal mistreatment, or buy souvenirs from protected species (like ivory, shells, or animal skins).

Quick Reference: Responsible Do’s and Don’ts

Further Responsible Travel Insights

• Politely decline street vendors if uninterested. Courtesy goes a long way.
• Participate in local festivals or traditional workshops—these experiences directly support cultural preservation.
• Avoid giving gifts or money to children; instead, support reputable local charities working in education or community development.
• Always follow safety advice from guides, especially on boat tours or adventure trips.
• Carry photocopies of passport/visa, and keep valuables secure.
• Take health precautions such as recommended vaccinations before travel.

A responsible journey through Vietnam offers a richer, more meaningful experience for you, and leaves a positive imprint on the people and places you visit. At Shanti Travel, we build our trips around these principles to ensure your holiday creates good—both for you and for Vietnam.