Fact 1: World’s Largest Cave
The Son Doong Cave in Vietnam is known as the largest cave in the world. It was discovered by a local man named Ho Khanh in 1991 and was made public by the British Cave Research Association in 2009. The biggest chamber of Son Doong is over five kilometers in length, 200 meters high, and 150 meters wide. Inside the cave, there are large fast-flowing subterranean rivers, huge stalagmites, and stalactites.
Fact 2: Love for Business
Visitors to Vietnam might notice that the street numbers don’t progress in a logical manner but skip dozens of numbers and then revert back to a lower number. This is because in Vietnamese culture the number 9 is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. So, many business owners will purchase number 9, regardless of where their business might be located on a street.
Fact 3: World’s Second Largest Producer of Coffee
Not many will be knowing that Vietnam holds the second place in producing coffee in the world. The country produces over 20% of the world's coffee output, second only to Brazil. Despite its adolescent coffee industry, the high production can be attributed to the favorable climatic conditions of the regions.
Fact 4: A Land of Pho and Rice
Rice is a staple food in Vietnam and is included in virtually every meal. Apart from that, the nation is one of the largest exporters of rice globally. Another famous dish from Vietnam is Pho, a noodle soup that is consumed any time of day - breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Fact 5: Multitude of Motorbikes
With motorbikes outnumbering cars by a ratio of roughly 15:1, the streets of Vietnam are filled with two-wheelers. The country has the fourth-highest number of motorbikes in the world, which is commonly attributed to its relatively low cost compared to cars and suitability for the narrow streets in Vietnamese cities.
Fact 6: The Golden Bridge
The iconic bridge located at the Ba Na Hills, near the city of Da Nang, is supported by gigantic hands that are made of fiberglass and mesh wire frame. It has been a major tourist attraction since it opened in June 2018, with people flocking to see the unusual design and enjoy its panoramic views.
Fact 7: Half of Population Under Age of 30
Vietnam has a very young population, with approximately half of its citizens being under 30 years of age. This demographic is a testament to a high birth rate and increased life expectancy, playing a significant role in driving the country's economic development.
Fact 8: Home to a Unique Water Puppet Theatre
Water Puppet Theatre is a tradition that dates back to the 11th century in the villages of North Vietnam. The puppets are made out of wood and then lacquered to become waterproof. The shows are performed in a waist-deep pool and depict scenes of rural life and national history.
Fact 9: Consistent With Chopstick Usage
Vietnamese people are known as the Southeast Asian country with the most consistent use of chopsticks. They use them for almost every meal, and it's not uncommon to see locals carrying their own set of chopsticks with them to preserve hygiene.
Fact 10: Ao Dai, The Traditional Dress
Vietnam’s traditional dress, known as the Ao Dai, is one of its most recognizable and enduring symbols. It's a tight-fitting silk tunic worn over trousers by women which reflects the modesty as well as elegance of the Vietnamese culture.
Fact 11: A Nation With Two New Year Celebrations
Vietnam celebrates its New Year (Tet) at the same time as Chinese New Year in late January or early February depending on the Lunar calendar. But they also celebrate the 'Western New Year' on the 1st of January.
Fact 12: UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Vietnam boasts of five UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Ha Long Bay, the Imperial City of Hue, Hoi An Ancient Town, Central Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Hanoi, and the Citadels of the Ho Dynasty.
Fact 13: The Country's Uncut Hair Tradition
Ruong houses in Vietnam are a part of the country's long tradition where women aren't supposed to cut their hair. For them, long hair is a symbol of strength and luck.
Fact 14: The Land of Floating Markets
The Southeast Asian country is home to several floating markets, especially in the Mekong Delta region. The vendors sell all kinds of goods - from food and spices to local handicrafts and clothing - all while rowing their canoes.
Fact 15: A Haven of Exotic Fruits
Vietnam is known for its wide variety of exotic fruits that might seem strange to foreigners. Dragon fruit, custard apple, rambutan, and even durian which is often known for its pungent smell, can be found throughout its markets.
Fact 16: Snake Wine is a Thing!
You probably didn't know that snake wine, a popular drink in Vietnam, is believed to enhance virility. It's typically made with rice wine and whole snakes soaked in the jar, adding a hint of venom to the drink.
Fact 17: The River Smashing Game
Vietnam has a unique sport called Đá Cầu, which can loosely translate to "foot shuttlecock" or "river-smashing game". This game involves kicking a shuttlecock back and forth. It's also a national sport in the country.
Fact 18: The Land of the Descending Dragon
The name of Ha Long Bay means ‘the bay of the descending dragon’. Legend has it that a great dragon descended into the sea here and created the stunning limestone karst formations found in the bay.
Fact 19: Fan Dance, a Colorful Tradition
The Vietnamese fan dance is a beautiful tradition in the country. Using large, brightly colored fans, dancers tell stories and celebrate various events and holidays. It is often performed during Tet, the Vietnamese New Year.
Fact 20: Currency Chaotic Confetti
The Vietnamese dong ranges in denominations from 200 to 500,000, making it common for locals and visitors to carry stacks of what looks like a lot of money. It often takes time for newcomers to get used to handling such a variety of notes. One interesting note though - it often makes you feels like a millionaire in Vietnam!