Knowing some essential Vietnamese phrases can truly enhance your travel experience in Vietnam. The country is full of surprises — from bustling street food stalls and scooter-filled intersections to friendly locals eager to share their culture. But one thing many first-time visitors quickly realize? English isn’t always enough.
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Why Learn Vietnamese as a Traveler?
While many young Vietnamese — especially those working in hospitality — speak some English, daily life often unfolds in Vietnamese. Whether you’re ordering a bowl of phở at a street-side vendor or catching a bus in a small town, English might not get you far. That’s where a few essential Vietnamese phrases can make all the difference.
Locals often light up when visitors make the effort to speak even a little of their language. It’s not about grammar or fluency — it’s about showing respect, curiosity and a willingness to connect. Just a simple “cảm ơn” (thank you) or “cái này giá bao nhiêu?” (how much is this?) can break the ice, ease misunderstandings and often earn you a smile or even unexpected moments of kindness and connection.
As National Geographic notes in their Vietnam travel guide, many people outside the major cities speak limited English — so they’ll genuinely appreciate your effort to use a few local phrases.
Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, mastering some basic Vietnamese will help you travel smarter, safer and more connected. And if you’re eager to learn more, we’ve got some simple tips to go further at the end. Ready to impress locals and save yourself a few awkward moments? Let’s dive into these 10 essential Vietnamese travel phrases.
1. Giúp tôi với!
→ Help me!
A phrase you hopefully won’t need but one that’s important to remember. If you lose something, get into an uncomfortable situation or need urgent assistance, this phrase can help you get attention fast.
2. Tôi không hiểu.
→ I don’t understand.
This phrase helps you handle conversations where you’re overwhelmed or confused. Don’t worry — people usually slow down, smile and do their best to help you understand.
3. Tôi muốn đi đến…
→ I want to go to…
Use this for taxi rides, asking for directions or letting someone know where you’re headed. Just plug in the name of the place: “Tôi muốn đi đến sân bay” (I want to go to the airport) or “Tôi muốn đi đến chợ Bến Thành” (I want to go to Ben Thanh Market).
4. Nhà vệ sinh ở đâu?
→ Where is the restroom?
One of the most useful and urgent questions you’ll need. Restrooms might be tucked behind a staircase or shared with several businesses, don’t be shy about asking.
5. Cái này là gì?
→ What is this?
Vietnam is full of mysterious snacks, street treats and fascinating objects. Asking “What is this?” is a fun way to start conversations, show interest and learn something new. You might even get a free sample.
6. Tôi bị dị ứng với…
→ I’m allergic to…
Vietnamese cuisine is rich in flavors but also in ingredients like peanuts, fish sauce and shellfish. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, learn this phrase. You can fill in the blank with words like “hải sản” (seafood), “đậu phộng” (peanuts) or “trứng” (eggs).
7. Cái này bao nhiêu tiền?
→ How much is this?
An essential phrase for shopping at markets and local eateries. Asking clearly avoids confusion and prevents overcharging. Even if you don’t understand the answer right away, just hearing the number in Vietnamese gets easier with a bit of practice.
8. Có thể giảm giá không?
→ Can you give me a discount?
Haggling is common in many Vietnamese markets. Asking this politely with a smile often leads to a small discount or at least a friendlier price. Just don’t overdo it, know when to stop, especially with handmade goods.
9. Tôi muốn mua cái này.
→ I want to buy this.
Markets are a core part of Vietnamese life. You’ll find fresh fruit, souvenirs, street snacks and clothes—often without price tags in sight. This sentence is a lifesaver when you’re pointing to something interesting and want to let the seller know you’re ready to buy it. Bonus tip: hold the item up and smile as you say it — it works like magic.
10. Tôi muốn trả bằng thẻ/tiền mặt.
→ I want to pay by card/cash.
This phrase is super handy when you’re about to pay for food, a souvenir or a taxi ride. Not all places accept cards, especially in local markets or small vendors. Asking this helps avoid confusion and makes the transaction smoother.
Extra Travel Tips for Using Vietnamese
Speak slowly and clearly: Locals are used to foreign accents and will try their best to understand.
Don’t stress about tones: Get close enough and people will figure it out.
Use body language: Point, gesture, smile — it all helps.
Say “Cảm ơn” (thank you) and “Xin lỗi” (sorry) freely: These basic polite phrases still go a long way.
Practice out loud: The more you say these phrases, the more natural they’ll feel.
Want to Go Beyond These 10 Phrases?
These essential Vietnamese phrases are just the beginning. If you want to feel more confident navigating Vietnamese daily life — ordering at restaurants, asking for help or understanding signs — a short language class can make a big difference.
That’s why VLS offers a Survival Vietnamese class, designed for travelers, short-term visitors and new expats.
You’ll learn:
- Essential everyday phrases and questions
- Cultural tips (like how to show respect or avoid misunderstandings)
- Real-life roleplays: taxis, hotels, emergencies, markets
- Practical vocabulary for eating, moving and shopping around Vietnam
Classes are available online or in person at VLS’s campus in Ho Chi Minh City. Flexible schedule, friendly teachers and no pressure — just the tools to help you enjoy Vietnam more fully.
Join our Survival Vietnamese class today — it only takes a few sessions to make your trip smoother, safer and more fun.
Wrap-up: Speak a Little, Connect a Lot
You don’t have to master Vietnamese to get more out of your travels. Just learning a few useful phrases shows effort and that effort is always appreciated. Locals will smile, strangers will help and your memories will feel richer because you have tried.
So before your flight, take 10 minutes to practice. And if you want a little help, VLS is here for you.
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