Gay in Vietnam: 12 Alarming Mistakes Tourists Keep Making!

Summary

Visiting Vietnam as a gay tourist can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to be aware of cultural differences. Public displays of affection are rare, and dressing too flamboyantly might attract unwanted attention in more traditional areas. People may stare out of curiosity, but it’s not about being gay. While English isn’t widely spoken outside tourist zones, learning some Vietnamese phrases is helpful. Vietnam’s gay scene is growing, but not all places are equally welcoming. Overall, Vietnam is laid-back about LGBTQ issues, and staying mindful of regional differences and general tourist challenges will ensure a great trip.

Takeaways

• 😀 Public displays of affection are rare in Vietnam, even for straight couples. Keep it low-key to avoid awkward stares.
• 😀 In larger cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, fashion is more relaxed, but in traditional areas, it's best to dress down to avoid attracting unwanted attention.
• 😀 People in Vietnam may stare a lot, but it’s out of curiosity rather than judgment about being gay. Don’t take it personally.
• 😀 While English is common in tourist areas, outside those zones, it can be rare. Learn basic Vietnamese phrases to help you get by.
• 😀 Vietnam’s gay scene is small but growing, especially in big cities. Always check reviews before heading to LGBT-friendly places to ensure they’re welcoming.
• 😀 Be careful when holding hands in public. Motorbikes in chaotic traffic pose more of a risk than judgment from others.
• 😀 Vietnam is laid-back regarding LGBTQ issues, with violent hate crimes being rare. Most people mind their own business.
• 😀 Locals generally don’t care about your sexual orientation, so don’t be overly cautious or hide your identity unnecessarily.
• 😀 The south of Vietnam (e.g., Ho Chi Minh City) is more progressive and open-minded, while the north (e.g., Hanoi) is still more conservative.
• 😀 Vietnam doesn’t have flashy pride parades, so avoid going overboard with rainbow flags or bold LGBTQ gestures.
• 😀 Be mindful of common tourist challenges such as scams, overpriced vendors, and tricky taxi drivers. Stay alert in all situations.

Q & A

What is the general attitude toward public displays of affection in Vietnam?

Public displays of affection, such as making out, are rare in Vietnam, regardless of gender. While holding hands or hugging is generally fine, it's best to keep any more intimate displays low-key to avoid awkward stares.

Is it okay to wear loud clothing in Vietnam?

In big cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, the fashion scene is more relaxed, and flamboyant clothing is common. However, in more traditional areas, it's advisable to dress modestly to avoid drawing unwanted attention.

Why do people stare at foreigners in Vietnam?

In Vietnam, it's common for people to stare at foreigners due to curiosity, not because of their sexual orientation. It's a cultural norm, and it's not something personal. You can either smile back or ignore the attention.

Is English widely spoken outside of tourist zones in Vietnam?

Outside of major tourist zones, English can be rare. Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases can make your experience smoother and help you communicate better.

What should a gay tourist know about the Vietnamese nightlife scene?

Vietnam’s gay scene is growing, especially in big cities with LGBT-friendly bars and drag shows. However, not all places may be welcoming, so it's a good idea to check reviews and do some research before heading out.

What is the biggest danger for tourists holding hands in Vietnam?

The biggest risk for tourists holding hands in Vietnam is not judgment, but rather the chaotic traffic. Motorbikes can weave through crowds, so holding hands could put you at risk of getting in the way of passing vehicles.

Are hate crimes common against LGBTQ individuals in Vietnam?

Hate crimes against LGBTQ individuals are rare in Vietnam. The country tends to be laid-back on LGBTQ issues, and confrontations are uncommon. People generally mind their own business.

Is it safe for LGBTQ individuals to be themselves in Vietnam?

Yes, it is generally safe for LGBTQ individuals to be themselves in Vietnam. While some tourists may feel the need to hide their identity, locals are often not concerned, and LGBTQ people can even be seen on popular TV shows.

How does the cultural vibe differ between the south and the north of Vietnam?

The southern region of Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City, is more progressive and relaxed, while the northern region, especially Hanoi, is more conservative. It's important to adapt to the local cultural vibe depending on where you are.

What are some common challenges for all tourists in Vietnam?

All tourists in Vietnam face challenges such as scams, overpriced street vendors, and tricky taxi drivers. Staying alert and cautious can help avoid these issues, regardless of one's sexual orientation.

Is it appropriate to wave rainbow flags or make bold LGBTQ gestures in Vietnam?

Vietnam doesn't have large pride parades or celebrations like some other countries, so making bold gestures like waving rainbow flags might feel out of place. It's best to be natural, respectful, and blend in with the local culture.