Foreign readers have been voicing their frustrations about certain behaviors of Vietnamese people, sparked by a recent story about selfish behaviors observed at Vietnamese airports.

River Webb referred to these odd behaviors as “just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to bad behavior.”

“The author didn't mention cutting in line, blocking security entrances, crowding ticket desks, pushing in lines, shouting at strangers, kicking others, refusing to follow the commands of immigration officers and fighting flight attendants." 

Another reader, John Fawcett, wrote, “Not to mention queue jumping at immigration!" while Milena Mi notesd, “This doesn't only happen at airports. Apparently, foreigners are afraid to point it out until they leave.”

“Vietnamese people have an odd sense of hygienic awareness (meaning little to none),” Andrew Schultink commented. “I've had waiters pick their nose or feet, and seconds later bring me my plate with food."

"They also have no environmental awareness and are selfish in all facets of life.”

However, it is not those to be blamed, Schultink added.

“You cannot blame someone for not knowing or not being aware of something that has never been taught to them,” Schultink explained.

"I am a guest here"

However, some commenters pointed out cultural differences and urged foreigners to respect local customs.

“I’ve chosen to not get annoyed by any of this, or the extreme sneaking in lines in front of passport and security checks and also ATMs, etc.,” Geir Atle Gussiås wrote. “I've lived here for 9 years+ and smiled. I’m not here to educate people how to behave in their own country.”

“I have to admit: jumping lines/queues is bad - always and everywhere and it still annoys me,” Anders Krystad replied to Gussiås. “Taking a rest on a bench after your flight (again) has been delayed is not a problem.”

“And by the way, I have been here over 20 years and have a lot to say about many issues, but not finding a free seat in an airport is not on the list,” Kystad added. 

“And I agree, I am a guest here, accept the differences and rather embrace than be shocked.”

Others were frustrated by what they might perceive as whining.

“Foreigners coming to Vietnam looking for an authentic experience of life in Vietnam, and then complaining when they experience it,” Rob Lock wrote.

“Every culture is different,” commented someone under the name Out of Office, while Neil Connell pointed out that “a different culture does things differently – Who would've thought?”

“Well, there is some improvement needed as always as anywhere else in the world,” Trinh Dao Mackeno wrote.

“Vietnam! Some who love you will come back, some won't come back. It’s life! Keep doing you and being you.”

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