Drinking is not only a form of entertainment but also an important cultural communication feature of Vietnamese people. Whether meeting friends, family gatherings, signing contracts or simply relieving stress after work, drinking always plays a role in connecting people, strengthening relationships, and showing hospitality
Characteristics of Vietnamese drinking culture:
- Alcohol, beer and drinks: Rice wine (rice wine) is the most traditional and popular drink in casual drinking sessions. In addition, beer is also very popular, especially draft beer and bottled beer.
- Foods: Snacks are very diverse and rich, depending on economic conditions and preferences, they can be simple dishes such as roasted peanuts, fermented pork rolls, peanuts, grilled dried squid, to more sophisticated dishes such as hot pot, grilled seafood, etc. Snacks are not only eaten with alcohol but are also an important factor to prolong the drinking session and create a happy atmosphere.
- Drinking space: Drinking can take place anywhere, from cheap sidewalk stalls, cheap drinking establishments, luxury restaurants, to private homes. Drinking spaces are often comfortable, noisy and bustling.
- Alcohol is not only for getting drunk but also for communication: Vietnamese people consider drinking as an occasion to confide and share life stories, from family to work.
- "Forcing alcohol" culture: inviting and forcing alcohol is an indispensable part. "Forcing alcohol" is not forcing people to get drunk, but a way to show enthusiasm, wanting everyone to have fun and "go all out" during the drinking session. However, the culture of forcing alcohol sometimes also causes unwanted pressure on participants.
- Noise level: Vietnamese drinking sessions are often noisy and bustling, with laughter, shouting, clinking glasses, karaoke singing...
The Vietnamese drinking culture is a unique and interesting cultural feature,
reflecting traditional cultural values such as community, hospitality,
comfort and simplicity. However, there are also many consequences such as
alcohol abuse, health effects and traffic problems.
