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Vietnam tipping culture – tipping in 2024

Vietnam Tipping in 2024 – What You Need to Know

A small tip can make a big difference. Tipping in Vietnam varies from one region to another. The country has its unique way of doing things. Vietnamese tipping culture is not as common in Vietnam as it is in some countries.

Tipping is a gesture of appreciation and is always welcome. It goes a long way in building positive relationships with locals. In the bustling streets of Hanoi or the serene landscapes of Sapa, understanding the tipping etiquette can make your experience enjoyable and less stressful. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered in this complete guide to the tipping culture in Vietnam.


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When to Tip in Vietnam

Tipping in Vietnam is not mandatory however it is gradually becoming common. This is especially true in the service industry. For instance, in hotels, restaurants, spas, and tour guides, a small tip is a great way to show appreciation for good service. In local markets and street food stalls however tipping is not expected comparatively, bargaining is common.

How Much to Tip

The amount of the tip usually depends on the quality of service. In tourist-oriented restaurants, a service charge is included in the bill. if there’s no service charge however, you can leave a tip. For a meal in a restaurant, a tip of 5-10% of the total bill is considered generous comparatively in spas, a tip of 50,000 – 100,000 VND (around $2-$5) is appreciated. For tour guides, a tip of 50,000 VND is usually a good starting point but remember, these are just guidelines – feel free to tip more if you are impressed with the service.

Service AreaAmount to Tip
RestaurantsService charges may be included in the bill, typically around 5-10%. If there’s no service charge, you can leave a tip, rounding up the bill is sufficient.
Street Food and Local EateriesTipping is not expected at street food stalls or local eateries. You can leave small change.
Bars and CafesThere is a tip jar, leave a small amount.
HotelsTipping is common for housekeeping staff, bellhops, and porters, around 5,000 to 10,000 VND per day.
Tour Guides and DriversTipping is common for the tour guide and the driver at the end of the tour: 50,000 to 100,000 VND per person.
Spas and SalonsA tip of 50,000 – 100,000 VND (around $2-$5).
Taxi DriversIt is common to round up the fare to the nearest convenient amount.
Street Vendors and Market SellersTipping isn’t customary at street stalls.

Exceptions to the Rule

There are places and situations where tipping is not expected in Vietnam. In local markets, for example, bargaining is common. In rural areas, the locals may refuse a tip because it is not part of their culture. Similarly this aligns with the tipping culture across Japan where comparatively the difference is that the Japanese see a tip as disrespectful. For this reason always use your discretion and gauge the situation before reaching for your wallet.

Vietnamese dong and a calculator
Vietnamese dong is measured in the hundreds of thousands
Vietnamese dong on a table
A small tip can go a long way in Vietnam

Conclusion

When in doubt, round up your bill to show appreciation. Understanding the Vietnamese tipping norms will enhance your travel experience. It will help you navigate the social customs and also allow you to show appreciation in a meaningful way. So, whether you’re exploring the vibrant nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City or enjoying the tranquillity of Halong Bay, remember – when it comes to tipping in Vietnam, it is about the gesture rather than the amount.

Remember, every journey is an opportunity to learn and grow. So, embrace the Vietnamese tipping culture, and add a new dimension to your travel experience. Happy travelling!

Tipping in Vietnam FAQ

Can I tip in US dollars in Vietnam?

Yes, tipping in US dollars is accepted in Vietnam however you can also tip in the Vietnamese currency which is the dong.

How much do you tip an easy rider in Vietnam?

If you have had a great adventure with your easy rider, you can tip 100,000 VND or $3-5 per guide per day.

Is it rude not to tip in Vietnam?

In Vietnam – tipping is about appreciation however it is not an obligation. Tipping is not mandatory in Vietnam nevertheless the gesture is well appreciated in service areas. Use tipping to enhance your travel experience and build positive connections.

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Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on our site are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. This helps us to continue providing valuable content and supports our efforts in bringing the travel community together. We only recommend products and services we believe in and think you’ll find useful. Complete details are included in our affiliate disclaimer. Thank you for your support!


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