Family is a crucial aspect of life in Vietnam, with a strong cultural preference towards firstborns and a strong emphasis on family customs and traditions. The Vietnamese family plays a multifaceted role in society and culture, serving as a foundational element that influences various aspects of communal life. The majority of families in Vietnam are extended families, with multiple generations co-living to take care of each other.
Vietnamese culture is a tapestry of traditions passed down through generations, from vibrant festivals to diverse cuisine. The principle of the extended family is alive and well in Vietnam, with multiple generations living together to care for each other. A typical extended family in Vietnam often includes grandparents, and the Vietnamese family values unity and harmony among family members.
In traditional Vietnam, children lived with their parents until marriage, then moved to the husband’s father’s household. The extended family arrangement has a kinship system and adheres to the concepts of filial piety. However, these are often regarded as old wisdoms and are considered outdated. Vietnamese people love harmony, so they always try to maintain solidarity and happiness in the family. Each family member must be educated and trained to have this harmony.
The modern Vietnamese family culture is sometimes different from the traditional one, with living together under the same roof with many generations being popular in the countryside. In cities, more parents and children live together, and the traditional Vietnamese family structure is still present.
In conclusion, family is a fundamental aspect of life in Vietnam, with a strong emphasis on ancestor worship, respect, community, and filial piety. The Vietnamese family culture is part of a patriarchal society, but it also has its own unique customs and traditions.
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📹 THE SIDE OF VIETNAM YOU DON’T SEE ON YOUTUBE
This video takes viewers on a journey through the Vietnamese countryside, showcasing the lives of local people and their traditional practices. The video explores the daily routines of farmers, rice cracker makers, mat weavers, and fishermen, offering a glimpse into the realities of life beyond the tourist attractions.
What Does A Vietnamese Family Look Like Today?
Modern American Vietnamese couples actively share household and child-rearing responsibilities, reflecting broader American values. While traditional patriarchy still influences Vietnamese family culture, changing social norms have relaxed some restrictions. Respect and responsibility within families are primarily age-dependent, with strong cultural preferences for firstborns impacting sibling dynamics. The Vietnamese family structure is typically nuclear (two generations) or extended (three generations or more), characterized by defined roles and obligations that all members are expected to uphold.
Family remains central to Vietnamese culture, emphasizing support, respect, and continuity, with traditions like ancestor worship instilling a sense of duty among children. Historically, family roles were strictly delineated by gender, reinforcing patriarchal norms, but modern trends are shifting towards greater equality between men and women. Current family sizes are generally smaller, often comprising two to three generations, with most couples opting for two children.
While traditional hierarchies persist, modern Vietnamese families now involve mothers in decision-making and value elder consultation. The intergenerational family unit remains strong, providing social support and interaction. Overall, the Vietnamese family has evolved from a predominantly large, patriarchal unit to one that embraces contemporary values while still honoring its cultural heritage.
What Was Life Like In A Vietnamese Family?
In Vietnamese families, the patriarch holds the highest status, wielding absolute authority and serving as the primary provider, which exempts him from household chores like cooking. Extended family ties, comprising aunts, uncles, and grandparents, form a vital support network, often leading to three generations living together. Living alone can be daunting for many in Vietnam, as age significantly influences respect and responsibility within the family.
The cultural preference for firstborns affects sibling dynamics, particularly in southern regions like the Mekong Delta. Despite modern influences, traditional family values persist, with a strong emphasis on ancestor worship ingrained in children's upbringing.
The family unit remains a cornerstone of Vietnamese culture, fostering community and continuity. Living arrangements typically include multiple generations—grandparents, parents, and children—highlighting the intertwined nature of familial roles. The patriarchal foundation, rooted in historical codes, defines gender roles and responsibilities. While traditional values emphasize the importance of fulfilling these roles, there’s a gradual shift towards more equal dynamics in modern Vietnamese families.
Overall, family life is characterized by close-knit, interdependent relationships, reflecting deep-rooted traditions that shape contemporary Vietnamese society. The significant involvement of parents in their children's education further illustrates the commitment to familial values.
What Is Daily Life Like In Vietnam?
Life in Vietnam unfolds vibrantly, beginning as early as 7 am with busy streets filled with bikes, motorbikes, and vehicles engaged in food commerce. Offices typically close by 4 pm, with families gathering for meals around 6 or 7 pm. Family dynamics are essential; parents work diligently, grandparents assist with childcare, and children attend school. While many reside in crowded urban apartments, others enjoy life in rural villages.
Vietnamese culture seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, reflected in daily activities. Locals are welcoming to foreigners, often initiating conversation in street-side eateries, as many are learning English and eager to practice. Guesthouse owners provide excellent hospitality, facilitating connections between visitors and residents.
Vietnam boasts a convenient lifestyle, with accessible transportation and amenities, allowing one to navigate without a car. Despite urban pollution challenges, the landscape is captivating, and the rich local cuisine is a highlight for many expats and visitors alike.
Every day in Vietnam offers unique experiences, from exploring bustling markets to enjoying street food. Young city dwellers may sleep in, while older generations often rise early for morning exercises. A relatively low cost of living enables many expats to enjoy comfort even amid higher rents in cities. The lifestyle is characterized by strong family bonds, vibrant street culture, and a deep connection to heritage, making daily life a delightful adventure.
What Is The Culture Of A Vietnamese Wife?
Cultural expectations for Vietnamese wives are deeply rooted, emphasizing respect for in-laws and adherence to social norms. Filial piety is essential, necessitating that wives care for their husband’s parents and preserve family honor. Marriage dynamics in Vietnam are influenced by unique customs; men typically marry between ages 20-30. The role of a Vietnamese wife encompasses various responsibilities which evolve over time, blending tradition with modern expectations. Although Vietnamese women can be traditional and conservative, modern parents generally support their children’s choice of partner, even if there remain cultural norms regarding marriage.
Traditional rituals involving betrothal, dowry, and the bride's procession continue to play a significant role in weddings. Despite changing attitudes towards arranged marriages, cultural expectations endure, including a dual identity for women as mothers and wives, managing household finances while nurturing family ties. Vietnamese women embody the "three obediences and four virtues," focusing on hard work, beauty, refined speech, and excellent conduct.
With one of the highest female labor force participation rates in Asia, Vietnamese women increasingly assert their roles in professional realms. Marrying a Vietnamese woman means entering a vibrant tradition, rich with familial rituals, highlighting the importance of family values and connection to culture.
What Is The Relationship In Vietnam Family?
One of the core values in Vietnamese culture is filial piety, demonstrating deep respect for elders and loyalty to parents and ancestors. This obligation extends beyond cultural norms, ingraining moral responsibilities within the family structure. In Vietnam, age significantly influences respect and responsibilities among family members, particularly favoring firstborns. Sibling relationships often reflect intricate dynamics, with families, especially in the Mekong Delta, maintaining traditional address systems.
Unlike Western families, Vietnamese households typically consist of extended families spanning multiple generations, fostering care and mutual support. As Vietnam evolves, family structures adapt while harmonizing modernity with tradition.
In traditional settings, married women primarily assumed domestic roles. However, contemporary trends show Vietnamese women balancing careers and family responsibilities, differing from past conventions. Despite growing divorce rates, marriage remains integral to family values. Relationships among siblings should embody harmony, love, and support, echoing the saying, "blood is thicker than water."
Modern Vietnamese families still uphold kinship ties and traditions of filial piety, although some view these as outdated. Understanding the complexities in parent-child dynamics is essential, as traditional virtues emphasize respect and obedience. Family cohesion, pivotal in Vietnamese culture, encompasses an extensive network of relationships, reflecting resilience and continuity amid changing societal landscapes.
How Long Do Females Live In Vietnam?
In 2023, the life expectancy at birth for Vietnamese men was estimated at 71. 1 years, while women had a higher average of 76. 5 years. Projections for 2024 estimate a slight increase in overall life expectancy to 75. 91 years. Historically, life expectancy in Vietnam has shown significant growth across genders, with women's life expectancy reported at 79. 29 years in 2022. Various factors contribute to the disparity in life expectancy between genders, including different mortality rates across age groups.
Vietnam ranks as the 16th most populous country globally, characterized by high population density and uneven distribution. Cultural shifts regarding gender roles have evolved, particularly influenced by historical events like the Vietnam War. As of 2022, the life expectancy for women had improved substantially, indicating consistent advancements in health and wellbeing. The primary and lower secondary school life expectancy for females was reported at approximately 9.
93 years in 2019. Continuous growth in life expectancy reflects broader socio-economic improvements, with Vietnam's average life expectancy surpassing the global average. Comparative figures show that between 2000 and 2021, women's life expectancy increased from 76. 1 years to 78 years, while men's remains lower at 71. 1 years in 2023.
Is Vietnam Family Friendly?
Vietnam is a safe and family-friendly travel destination, known for its kind-hearted locals who welcome children warmly in hotels and restaurants. The country boasts diverse landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, making it appealing to families of all ages. Visitors can enjoy a variety of wholesome activities, like street food tours in Hanoi, traditional fishing, and acrobatic shows. With its low crime rate and welcoming atmosphere, Vietnam is ideal for family trips, though travelers should be aware of potential restricted areas.
The comprehensive guide highlights the best family-friendly accommodations and activities throughout Vietnam, including both Northern and Southern itineraries designed for memorable family experiences. Attractions such as pristine beaches, mountainous adventures, and charming countryside ensure a memorable time for families, whether they have young children, tweens, or teens. Vietnam's affordability in terms of transport options and diverse attractions creates a perfect opportunity for cultural exploration and adventure, making it a top choice for those traveling with children.
Is Vietnam American Friendly?
Người Việt Nam rất thân thiện với du khách và người nước ngoài. Nhiều cựu chiến binh Mỹ trở lại Việt Nam để thăm lại các chiến trường cũ và chứng kiến sự thay đổi của đất nước sau nhiều năm. Việt Nam có nhiều điểm du lịch đẹp, di sản thế giới và bãi biển tuyệt đẹp. Trước đây, Việt Nam là một phần của đế quốc thực dân Pháp Đông Dương cho đến khi miền Bắc chống lại Pháp để kiểm soát đất nước. Mặc dù có nhiều lo ngại về sự đối xử với du khách Mỹ, người Việt vẫn chào đón họ nồng nhiệt.
Tình hữu nghị giữa Việt Nam và Mỹ đã tiến xa, với quan hệ kinh tế và an ninh ngày càng sâu sắc. Việt Nam đặc biệt có cái nhìn tích cực đối với Mỹ, trong khi số lượng người Việt gốc Mỹ có cái nhìn không tốt về quê hương chỉ là một thiểu số. Việt Nam là điểm đến an toàn cho khách quốc tế và thu hút nhiều nhà đầu tư. Du khách Mỹ có thể dễ dàng hòa nhập với văn hóa Việt Nam, mặc dù cần lưu ý một số quy tắc ứng xử. Việt Nam luôn sẵn sàng chào đón du khách.
Can I Live With My Girlfriend In Vietnam?
Current Vietnamese laws permit men and women to cohabitate as husband and wife without formal marriage registration. To set up residence together, your girlfriend can help register your cohabitation with local ward police, as the decision ultimately rests with them. Many foreigners have successfully lived with their Vietnamese partners without issues, such as a friend who lived in My Tho for five years.
There are two key visa options for immigrants to Vietnam, and marrying a Vietnamese national grants one a five-year visa exemption, facilitating long-term residence. For marriage in Vietnam, required documents include a passport photo (3×4 cm) for each partner and a notarized copy of the U. S. citizen’s passport.
While visiting Vietnam, advantageous hotel options exist requiring marriage for cohabitation, yet many establishments accommodate unmarried couples. Generally, foreign men seek relationships with Vietnamese women for varying reasons, ranging from casual encounters to serious commitments. Relationships can progress rapidly, with marriage often being an anticipated goal. Understanding and learning Vietnamese enhances communication, signifying respect for culture.
Still, social perceptions around cohabitation differ, particularly affecting women's reputations. Legal changes have made living together acceptable, although hotel regulations may differ. Thus, while informal cohabitation is permissible, specific hotel policies may still impact your arrangements.
What Are Traditional Family Values In Vietnam?
Traditional family values in Vietnam have long been rooted in the fulfillment of defined roles for men and women, particularly in parenthood. These values emphasize male superiority, with fathers holding the highest authority in the household, reflecting a patriarchal, patrilineal, and patrilocal structure. Influenced by Confucian ethics, which permeated Vietnamese culture during Chinese domination, traditional values promote respect for elders, filial piety, community cohesion, and moral integrity.
At the core of these values is the belief that the family unit is a microcosm of society, with a focus on promoting virtues such as reverence, loyalty, and obedience among children. Sibling relationships are characterized by harmony and mutual support, achieving a balance between affection, gratitude, and shared responsibilities.
Furthermore, the Vietnamese value system is anchored in loyalty to family, a desire for a good reputation, a love of learning, and respect for others. Despite evolving societal structures, the essence of family bonds remains vital, creating a yearning for love and connection among family members. Traditional Vietnamese family values also teach subsequent generations to uphold these principles, ensuring a continuity of cultural and familial integrity. Ultimately, these values embody the most cherished aspects of Vietnamese culture, fostering societal harmony and familial wellbeing.
What Is Vietnamese Family Culture?
The Vietnamese family culture is rooted in a patriarchal society, where traditional and modern influences coexist. Central to this culture are three key aspects: age, familial loyalty, and the preference for firstborns. Traditional roles have historically defined family dynamics, with men as heads of the household and women fulfilling nurturing roles. Despite the relaxed social mores in contemporary society, the significance of family remains paramount. Families serve as pillars of support, deeply influencing individual growth and maintaining a strong connection to ancestry.
Filial piety and ancestor worship are core values, teaching children to honor their parents and heritage. Vietnamese families often consist of multiple generations living under one roof, emphasizing close-knit relationships and interdependence. Modern parenting in Vietnam is shifting, with less emphasis on arranged marriages, allowing for more freedom in children's choices.
Overall, family functions as both the cornerstone of Vietnamese society and an insight into its rich cultural heritage, reflecting deep reverence for familial bonds. Despite challenges, especially regarding acceptance of LGBTQ+ identities, the commitment to family loyalty and respect remains a defining trait of Vietnamese culture, evolving while maintaining its traditional roots.
📹 Q&A: Vietnamese Culture 101 (Tipping in Vietnam, Drinking Culture, Why no shoes in the house?)
In today’s video, I will answer your questions about Vietnamese culture. You will learn a lot about Vietnamese tipping culture, …
Moving stories Skye – humble, extremely hard working people – all of whom put worth such tiring physical labor on a daily basis. Provides perspective and makes you reflect upon the many things we take for granted n our own lives everyday. The tour gents seemed great as well! Great article Skye! “take the bait mate!”.
As a guy who grew up in one of those houses, I want to say your article is very authentic and you had an authentic trip. The tour guy you guys had was amazing. He explained very details about everything. Many years ago, they didn’t have this kind of tour. I think it’s new tour that just came out recent years. Thank you for appreciating the culture and gave those hard working men and women little money. I know they were very appreciate it.
I’ve only just stumbled across your article. I live in Hoi An in the countryside and Ben and Huynh are friends of mine. Local Buddy Tours are so knowlegable and contribute so much to local communities. If you come to Hoi An, Local Buddy Tours are a must. It was so refreshing to watch a ‘real’ article about Hoi An instead of the usual narcissitic tourist take on this beautiful town. Well done!
Video tuyệt vời. You are correct. Not many Youtubers go out to the villages without a major tour. Nice to see a change. I live in Viet Nam in Vinh Long, in the Mekong Delta 6 months out of the year, and have a house there. Rarely do we see a tourist in our area. I also do Viet Youtube vids, but just to share with friends. I really prefer to be away from the tourists and crowds. I Love Viet Nam. Hen gap lai..👍👍😊😊
Awesome and very interesting article Skye and thanks for sharing! This reminds me of my month long stay on my wife’s families farm in Rural Thailand in outback Lukkae. I was the only foreigner there for the whole month and wherever I went out to the markets or around the shops I received big smiles and hello hello from the adults and older children whilst the real young ones hid behind the parent and just stared upwards big eyes and expressionless. I guess you would be experiencing something similar in your travels Skye. The magic of SE Asia.
I love your article. You really captured the real authentic daily life of the side of Viet Nam that I truly missed. Your curiosity, authenticity and openness to the experience really showed in your articles. Thank you for capturing the true beauty of Viet Nam and sharing your experience. I am perusal your articles with my 2 years old son and both of us couldn’t look away from the TV screen 😍
We’re off to V.N next month so this article was really useful (along with your Pros & Cons). It’s humbling to see how these people thrive against such adversity- truly puts us in the West to shame. Thank you for the insight, we will try to make time in Hoi An to track your guide down – he was intelligent & empathetic. Rare qualities. Thank you again. Kevin & Suzanne, Essex.
mostly, thats in middle of vietnam, some might be poor, or some might be more comfortable and suit for tourists, but actually they have their own beauty, I love being in the local area, that makes me feel so peaceful. Anyway there are still some that so attractive such as Da Nang, and some others nearby like Hue …
I also love the beauty and in awww how hard the women work there while carrying little one on there backs. Some children are orphans and the work they do as young children. Amazing! My George was stationed there when in the military one of the most beautiful countries. His home is here in the states with me. Work is very hard there and I would love to have there strength and courage and always beautiful smiles. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
The majority of Vietnamese people come from the countryside and most of us always keep our souls towards the countryside. For people aged thirty and over, that place holds our childhood, we still own it. land and house there. When we go to the city to work and earn money, we send it back to build a house to take care of our parents and grandparents. If you stay in Vietnam long enough, you will see that every time there is a big holiday or New Year, we all go back to our hometown, we leave the city and leave the city behind, so your articles touch my heart. ours
The real life in VN is majority are poor and struggling day by day . Lots of are left their home in countryside to go to big city looking for work, any work as long as they can survive, often they end up with poor pay labor job. Life in countryside is not easy either, hard labor work for little profit as you can see vegetables are very cheap in VN . I wish more tourist comes to VN, spend theirs money helping to boost the economy and improve life in rural VN .
This is the side you are still get to see on the YouTube time to time. If you really wanted to see the real side that you don’t get to YouTube is far away at rural areas where a child have no access to school and they have to works on the field to earn their daily meals or support his or her family and they are as young as 9 years old.
😅 Not exactly the real Viet Nam…. this can be misleading about Vietnam agriculture … how the country can be the second rice exporter in the world, the second producer of coffee, first exporter and producer of pepper in the world. 50 years ago, in the middle of the Vietnam war, peasants used already pumps to water their fields! 😳
Nice article.But I am just curious. It’s obvious that the villagers you visited lead a life of drudgery, their monotony lightened by the visit of an occasionsll tourist like you. For the courtesies extended, and the time they graciously made for you…..what did you give them in return as a token of appreciation, as a form of mutual respect for allowing you to walk through their home?
Just like USA you have a beautiful country but still have so many poor and needy people that no one cares to help them. Sad world we live in. Our Father in Heaven did not intend for this to be the way. I must admit that I am guilty as I have more than I need or want. Father God I pray for the needy! 🙏🙏🙏 The sad and lonely the sick and most of all the neglected children and orphans. The unwed mothers that have no alternative other than giving there blessed babies up for a better life.🙏🙏🙏
i see you avoided doing articles at night — because there are no streetlights and everything is too dark to see! how do you manage to charge your cameras and article editing computer lap tops (besides at your hotels and stopovers) do businesses get annoyed if you need to charge your phones or devices ( eg. restaurants, food stalls, etc) ?