Vietnamese phrases for your Vietnam trip

No, but a few phrases help every day. English works in tourist areas, hotels and airports, and these greetings and questions cover the daily situations where English thins out.

Xin chào. It is the polite hello at any time of day, and adding cảm ơn (thank you) covers most short interactions with hotel staff, drivers and shopkeepers.

Say tôi ăn chay (I eat vegetarian) or point to the word chay in this guide. Vietnam has a strong Buddhist chay tradition, so vegetarian restaurants and dishes are easier to find than in many countries.

Vietnamese uses six tones, but everyday listeners are forgiving with visitors. Speak slowly, keep the short pronunciation notes in this guide nearby, and show the written line on your phone when a word does not land.

Say không cay (not spicy). Central Vietnam, especially Hue, likes heat, so even a mild-looking dish can be hot by Indian standards; asking first is normal and polite.

Yes, politely, in markets and small shops; malls, convenience stores and restaurants have fixed prices. Ask bao nhiêu (how much) with a smile and settle before you buy.