Essential Travel Tips for Vietnam: Explore Da Nang from a Unique Perspective

Reporter Zheng Shaohua / Reported from Da Nang, Vietnam

When visiting a foreign country, while immersing yourself in the local scenery and relaxing atmosphere, it's also important to familiarize yourself with local customs and taboos to avoid any missteps upon arrival. It’s one thing to be seen as oblivious by locals, but causing negative diplomatic impressions can be quite troublesome. Below are three key things to keep in mind when traveling in Vietnam, serving as a helpful guide for those planning a trip:

1. Remove your shoes before entering temples.

▲Taking off your shoes before entering a temple shows respect for the deities inside. (Photo / Reporter Zheng Shaohua)

When visiting the Sacred Mountain of Da Nang residents—the Son Tra Peninsula—and preparing to enter the highly revered Linh Ung Pagoda on the island, our local guide Anh Ho told us that showing respect to the deities enshrined in Vietnamese temples requires removing your shoes outside the temple (going barefoot symbolizes purity) before entering the main hall.

2. How to find free toilets in Vietnamese cities?

▲Seeing the smiling toilet sign means you can use the restroom for free here. (Photo / Reporter Zheng Shaohua)

After being used to Taiwan, many travelers might find it a bit inconvenient to pay for using the restroom in Vietnam. While guiding us around downtown Da Nang, our local guide Anh Ho pointed out that as long as you find a building with the sign shown in the photo, you can use the toilet and WiFi for free—an incredibly thoughtful service for travelers looking to “answer nature’s call” while abroad.

3. Remember: pedestrians have the right of way when crossing the street.

▲Real-life traffic conditions on the streets of Da Nang, Vietnam. (Video / Reporter Zheng Shaohua)

In Vietnam, many busy intersections and roundabouts lack traffic lights, and vehicle and pedestrian flow rely entirely on “mutual understanding.” Therefore, during our stay, the director of the Da Nang Tourism Promotion Center, H? Ng?ng, advised us that crossing the street in Vietnam requires a decisive and brave mindset. The trick is to watch for the right moment and cross with others. Otherwise, you might end up waiting on the roadside from dawn till dusk without a single gap in traffic.

Aside from joining tours and following guides to visit historical sites and fixed sightseeing routes, how can you experience the “local flavor” of Vietnam on such a rare trip abroad? This is surely a key concern for many independent travelers. Here are four ways to get a more authentic taste of local life in Vietnam:

1. Enjoy a poolside BBQ restaurant full of southern tropical vibes.

▲Enjoying a charcoal-grilled feast at a poolside BBQ restaurant while soaking in the lively atmosphere. (Photo / Reporter Zheng Shaohua)

Much like hotpot restaurants in Taiwan, along Da Nang’s beautiful coastline, you’ll find many BBQ restaurants near the beach. Some more upscale ones even feature pools and stages where DJs liven up the scene. As you enjoy delicious grilled food, the vibrant music creates an electrifying tropical ambiance. Paired with beer, coconut shadows, sea breeze, blue skies, and white sands, it’s the ultimate relaxation in Da Nang.

2. Explore the city by cyclo for a more local experience.

▲Cyclos are a common sight on the streets of Da Nang. (Photo / Reporter Zheng Shaohua)