4. Vietnam is home to the world’s largest cave
Tucked away in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park lies Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world and a true wonder of nature. Located in Quang Binh Province’s dense forests, this geological marvel hosts its own vibrant ecosystem with its own river, jungle, and climate.
Discovered in 1991 and only fully explored in 2009, Son Doong Cave offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s natural treasures.

A view inside Sơn Đoòng Cave.
5. The lotus is Vietnam’s national flower
Among the diverse flora of country at the south China sea, the lotus was voted the national flower in 2010. Esteemed for its purity and beauty, the lotus holds a special place in Vietnamese culture and spirituality. This enchanting flower’s ability to rise gracefully from muddy waters and bloom into a stunning spectacle symbolizes the nation’s resilience and strength amidst adversity. The lotus is more than just a flower in the country; it embodies the essence of Vietnam’s character, reflecting the enduring spirit and cultural richness of the Vietnamese people.
6. Vietnam has an egg-cellent coffee culture

Kopi luwak, also known as civet coffee or weasel coffee, is produced from coffee berries that have been eaten by the civet, a nocturnal animal, that only eats the highest quality coffee berries.
After Brazil, Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee exporter. Introduced by the French, coffee production increased significantly after the Vietnam war ended.
However, what’s truly unique is the invention of the “egg coffee”, a popular drink that combines hot Robusta coffee with a creamy mixture of whipped egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk, making Vietnam’s coffee scene truly one of a kind.
Besides the famous egg coffee, the “Weasel coffee”, which involves a digestion process, is ranked among the top 10 most expensive coffees in the world.
7. Vietnam is highly influenced by the French
From 1887, the entirety of Vietnam was part of French Indochina. During this period under French rule, there was a rapid transformation, turning small villages into modern industrial hubs.
Today, even after six decades of independence, traces of French influence are still visible throughout the country. Numerous instances of French architectural style endure, featuring balconies, columns, and grand arches. The Saigon Notre Dame in Vietnam’s biggest city Ho Chi Minh City exemplifies this influence, constructed in the 19th century as a prominent symbol of the city.
Vietnam’s culinary traditions have also embraced French flavors, with baguettes, croissants, coffee, and dishes using potatoes and butter becoming integral to local cuisine. The beloved Banh Mi sandwich showcases this fusion perfectly.

The Siagon Notre Damme in Ho Chi Minh City
8. Vietnam has 54 million registered motorbikes
When arriving in the major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you will be confronted with buzzing motorbike traffic like nowhere else. With around 54 million motorbikes in the country, they are the most common form of transportation.
In bustling Ho Chi Minh City alone, a staggering 7.4 million motorbikes serve its 8.4 million citizens, with 1.5 million entering the city daily! That’s nearly a motorbike for every other person in the city. Despite this incredible volume, helmet laws have only been enforced in the last four years, making the streets a fascinating and chaotic symphony of two-wheeled action.

9. Floating markets are a way of life in Southern Vietnam
In the Mekong River Delta, floating markets are a way of life. These bustling markets, set on the waterways, offer a unique and vibrant experience where vendors sell their good directly from one boat to another. You can find a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and other goods, creating a colorful and dynamic scene. The markets are not only places of commerce but also social hubs where locals and tourists alike can enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Two popular floating markets are:
- Cai Rang Floating Market: The largest and most famous market in the Mekong Delta. Located about 6 kilometers from Can Tho, it operates from early morning until around 9 AM. It is recommended to visit Cai Rang best at dawn to experience the market at its peak activity.
- Ca Be Floating Market: Located in Tien Giang Province, this well-known market is slightly smaller than Cai Rang but equally vibrant. It operates all day, making it more accessible for those who can’t make early morning trips.

10. Speed dating originated in Vietnam’s hill tribes
Thinking speed dating is a modern concept? While speed dating only made its US debut in the 1990s, the hill tribes in Vietnam have been practicing their own version for decades.
In the picturesque northern regions around Sa Pa, “love markets” serve as the local singles’ hotspot. These bustling marketplaces provide villagers with a rare chance to socialize and connect beyond their immediate community, all in a central and festive setting.
Once love is found, it is celebrated on July 7th, known as the “Day of Love,” where couples express their affection with gifts and heartfelt gestures.
11. Nguyen is the most common surname in Vietnam
Have you ever met someone named Nguyen before? The name holds a rich history and a strong sense of culture pride, dating back to the Nguyen Dynasty, which reigned from 1802 to 1945.
During this period, many people adopted the surname, leading to its widespread use today. Nguyen symbolizes a shared heritage and identity among the Vietnamese people, representing the unity and deep-rooted traditions of Vietnam’s society.
12. Vietnam is the world’s largest exporter of cashew nuts
Vietnam consistently ranks at the top of the list of cashew nuts exporters worldwide, renowned for its high-quality cashew products. This thriving industry significantly boosts Vietnam’s economy, creating numerous job opportunities and the country’s status as a leading agricultural exporter.
The success of the cashew industry highlights the hard work and dedication of Vietnamese farmers and producers, who ensure their cashews meet the highest standards of quality. The next time you enjoy a handful of delicious cashews, there’s a good chance they came from Vietnam, the cashew king of the world!
13. Vietnam is a tropical country where it snows
Vietnam is known for its tropical regions with temperatures typically range between 63 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit (17 to 29 degrees Celsius). This climate supports the growth of a wide variety of tropical fruits and vegetation. However, Vietnam’s climate is not uniform. The country is divided into different climatic zones, each offering unique weather patterns and experiences.
One of the most interesting facts about Vietnam is the possibility of snowfall in certain areas despite its tropical nature. In Sa Pa, a mountainous town in the North of Vietnam, temperatures can drop significantly between December and February, creating the rare opportunity to witness snowfall. This phenomenon attracts both locals and tourists eager to see a winter wonderland in a country better known for its hot and humid conditions.