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Shopping for souvenirs from Vietnam can be a lot of fun. You’ll find all sorts of interesting and unique items to bring home with you, from traditional conical hats and Ao Dai to Lotus tea and propaganda posters.
HO CHI MINH CITY WEATHEROf course, you’ll want to be mindful of what you’re buying and how much it costs to avoid paying too much.
So, here are a few tips for shopping for souvenirs in Vietnam.
- Don’t be afraid to bargain with the vendors, especially in markets where it is expected. And although some ‘fixed priced’ shops won’t budge too far on price, many will be willing to negotiate on price, especially if you’re buying multiple items.
- Be prepared to spend some time shopping around. You will get a better feel for the prices and there are always multiple vendors selling similar products.
- Do some research online, especially for the items with a higher price tag. Look for tips on how to recognise it as genuine and an approximate price.
- Have fun. Keep a ‘smile on the dial’ and keep your sense of humor. It will make your souvenir shopping all the more enjoyable.
Table of Contents
- 17 Quality Souvenirs from Vietnam
- Summary of Souvenirs from Vietnam
- Cookbooks as Souvenirs From Vietnam
17 Quality Souvenirs from Vietnam
Here are a few ideas when looking to buy souvenirs from Vietnam:
1. Lacquerware Sơn Mài
Lacquerware is a type of decorative art that originated in Vietnam.
It involves coating a piece of wood with lacquer, which is a type of resin, and then polishing it to a high shine. Lacquerware can be found in a variety of colors and designs, and makes for a beautiful and unique souvenir.
When shopping for Vietnamese lacquerware, it is important to check for quality. Make sure that there are no cracks or chips in the lacquer and that the design is well executed.
Also, be sure to ask about the care instructions, as some types of lacquerware require special care.
2. Ao Dai
The Ao Dai is a traditional Vietnamese dress and makes for a beautiful and elegant souvenir. Ao Dai are usually made from silk, and come in a variety of colors and designs.
You can find Ao Dai at markets or tailor shops throughout Vietnam.
3. Musical Instruments
Vietnam is home to a wide variety of musical instruments, many of which are unique to the country. The dan tranh is a 16-string zither that originated in Vietnam and is used in both traditional and modern music.
The dan bau is a single-stringed instrument that produces a range of sounds by using a bow or by plucking the string with the fingers.
The dan nguyet is a two-stringed instrument that is similar to the Chinese erhu (pictured).
The k’oni is a type of flute that has been played in Vietnam for centuries.
Other traditional Vietnamese instruments include the tam thap luc, a percussion instrument, and the đàn nhị, a two-stringed bowed instrument.
These unique instruments play an important role in Vietnamese music and culture.
4. Lotus Tea
Lotus tea is a type of green tea that is brewed with lotus flowers. It has a light, floral flavor that is unique to Vietnam.
Lotus tea makes for a refreshing and healthy Vietnamese souvenir and can be found at markets or tea shops throughout Vietnam.
5. Lanterns
When it comes to souvenirs from Vietnam, one of the most popular items is the lantern.
Lanterns come in all shapes and sizes, and they can be made from a variety of materials, including paper, metal, and even glass.
The best place to shop for lanterns is in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, the night market in Hoi An, and markets in Ho Chi Minh City.
6. Coffee and Phin
Vietnam is well-known for its delicious coffee, and Vietnamese coffee is a favorite among coffee lovers around the world.
Vietnamese coffee is typically made with a dark roast coffee bean, and the beans are ground very fine.
One of the traditional methods of making coffee is to allow the water to drip through a ‘phin’, a small metal filter that sits over a glass.
For a coffee with condensed milk, ca phe sua, the condensed milk is placed on the bottom of the glass before the coffee filters through.
The best coffee in Vietnam is from the Highlands region and a decent bag will be about 70,000 VND with a phin costing around 40.000 VND.
7. Puppets
Vietnamese puppets are some of the most beautiful and intricate in the world. They are often made of wood, with painted faces and elaborate costumes.
Many of them are inspired by elements of Vietnamese folklore, such as dragons or monkeys. Vietnamese puppets can be both practical and decorative; they can be used in performances or simply hung on a wall as art.
Whatever their use, they make wonderful reminders of a trip to Vietnam.
8. Masks
Another popular souvenir from Vietnam is the colorful masks traditionally used in theatre and dance performances, and each one is uniquely designed.
Many of the masks feature intricate carvings and brightly-painted details, making them a beautiful addition to any home.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, Vietnamese masks are also believed to have protective powers. It is said that they can ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to those who wear them. So whether you’re looking for a decorative item or a lucky charm, Vietnamese masks make an excellent choice.
9. Silk products
Silk has been produced in Vietnam for centuries, and it remains an important part of the country’s economy and culture today.
Vietnamese silk is prized for its quality and durability, and it is used to make a wide variety of products, ranging from traditional clothing to modern home furnishings.
Silk products are available as souvenirs including items such as scarves, shirts, dresses, and quilts.
In addition to being beautiful and long-lasting, Vietnamese silk products are also usually very reasonably priced.
10. Propaganda posters
For visitors to Vietnam, one popular Souvenir is a propaganda poster. These posters were used extensively during the Vietnam War as a way to boost morale and rally support for the Communist cause.
Today, they provide a vivid reminder of this turbulent period in history.
Original Propaganda posters are highly collectable and can be found in both specialist shops and regular markets.
Copies printed on paper are the type usually bought as souvenirs.
11. Chopsticks
Vietnamese chopsticks are a popular souvenir for visitors to the country.
Made from bamboo or wood, they are smooth and strong, with tapered ends that make them perfect for picking up food.
Many chopsticks are decorated with traditional Vietnamese designs, making them both beautiful and functional.
In addition to being used as eating utensils, chopsticks can also be used as tools for cooking and cleaning.
They make an excellent gift for anyone who enjoys cooking or entertaining, and they are sure to bring back memories of Vietnam every time they are used.
12. Guoc Mocs (Ô đồng)
These traditional shoes have been worn by Vietnamese people for centuries.
The shoes are comfortable and durable, making them ideal for everyday wear. Guoc mocs are available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find a pair that suits your taste.
In addition, the shoes are relatively inexpensive, so they make a great souvenir from Vietnam for those on a budget.
When choosing a pair of guoc mocs, be sure to select a size that is comfortable for you. The shoes should also be well-made, as poorly constructed guoc mocs can fall apart quickly.
13. Bamboo Products
When it comes to finding the perfect souvenir, bamboo products from Vietnam are hard to beat. These beautiful and unique items are both practical and stylish, making them the perfect reminder of your trip.
From traditional baskets and bowls to contemporary t-shirts and accessories, there is something for everyone.
And because bamboo is such a versatile material, the possibilities are endless.
14. Coconut Candies
Although the food of Vietnam is delicious, the only real way to take it away as a souvenir is through coconut candy, which is a popular sweet treat in Vietnam that is made from coconut milk, sugar, and salt.
The candies are often shaped into flowers or other designs, and make for a delicious souvenir. Coconut candy can be found at markets or sweet shops throughout Vietnam.
15. Embroidery
Vietnamese hand embroidery is a form of craftsmanship that dates back centuries.
Unlike other forms of embroidery, it is not done with a needle and thread but instead uses a special bamboo stick with a blunt needle at the end.
The needle is dipped in colored thread and then used to create intricate designs on fabric.
This type of embroidery is often used to decorate clothing, such as traditional Ao Dai dresses, and is also used in the construction of tapestries and other textile products.
Vietnamese hand embroidery is renowned for its beauty and intricacy and has become increasingly popular as a souvenir from Vietnam in recent years as a result of its unique aesthetic.
16. Conical Hats
Conical hats are another traditional Vietnamese item and are worn by both men and women. They’re usually made from straw or palm leaves, and help to protect against the sun and rain. Conical hats can be found at markets throughout Vietnam.
Prices for a plain conical hat start at 40.000 VND
17. Ceramics
Ceramics are one of the many art forms that have been a part of Vietnamese culture for centuries.
Traditionally, Vietnamese ceramics were made by hand using clay that was sourced from local rivers. The clay would then be formed into various shapes and designs, and finally glazed and fired in kilns.
Today, Vietnamese ceramics are still made using traditional methods, but they also incorporate modern techniques and materials.
As a result, Vietnamese ceramics are characterized by their distinctive colors and patterns. In addition to being used for practical purposes, Vietnamese ceramics are also highly valued as works of art.
Summary of Souvenirs from Vietnam
Many great souvenirs can be purchased in Vietnam with the above 17 being a good representation. Tea and coffee will help re-live your trip for a short time, while other souvenirs such as ceramics and lacquerware will remind you of your time in Vietnam long after you’ve left.
