Sample introduction to Vietnam in English

1. Introduction format about Vietnam in English

The format for introducing Vietnam in English will require candidates to write or speak about Vietnam. In the IELTS Speaking test, this type of topic appears with various aspects, such as Describe a part of your country that you find interesting, Describe a holiday in your country, Describe a tourist attraction that you have visited, Describe a good law in your country, etc …

Additionally, you may encounter introductions about Vietnam in English everywhere, not just confined to English exams in general and IELTS in particular.

For example, when meeting and conversing with colleagues, customers, or foreign friends, you may be asked about your country. In such cases, preparing ideas about introducing Vietnam in English will certainly be very useful.

Here, Mytour invites you to the outline and sample introduction to Vietnam in English.

2. Outline for introducing Vietnam in English

• Vị trí địa lý và khí hậu: thuộc Đông Nam Á, thủ đô là Hà Nội, có khí hậu nhiệt đới gió mùa, quanh năm nóng ẩm và nổi tiếng là nước xuất khẩu gạo lớn thứ 2 thế giới. Miền Bắc có 4 mùa, miền Nam có mùa khô và mùa mưa.
• Địa hình: hình chữ S, ¾ địa hình là núi, nhưng chủ yếu là đồi núi thấp với 3260 km đường biển, đồng bằng rộng lớn và nguồn tôm cá phong phú.
• Con người: Cả nước có 54 dân tộc anh em, trong đó dân tộc Kinh là dân tộc lớn nhất. Nét tính cách truyền thống là lòng yêu nước, tinh thần đoàn kết, coi trọng tình nghĩa, cần cù, hiếu học.
• Lịch sử: Việt Nam có bề dày lịch sử nghìn năm văn hiến với các cuộc chống giặc ngoại xâm, là đất nước có truyền thống đoàn kết, kiên cường bất khuất. 
• Văn hóa & ẩm thực: Đặc sắc với nhiều phong tục tập quán, lễ hội thú vị, thể hiện nét văn hóa, ấn tượng riêng. Ví dụ như lễ Tết, tâm linh đền chùa.
• Danh lam thắng cảnh, những địa điểm du lịch nổi tiếng: Sapa, vịnh Hạ Long, Ninh Bình, cố đô Huế, Hội An, động Phong Nha, Quy Nhơn, biển Nha Trang, Phan Thiết, đảo Phú Quốc, Sài Gòn (TPHCM), etc.

3. Sample article introducing Vietnam in English

Depending on the topic requested, you will introduce an overview or specific aspects of Vietnam.

3.1. Sample 1: Introduction to Vietnam in English (general)

Situated in Southeast Asia, Vietnam, my beloved homeland, is a small yet stunning country with a triumphant history, deep-seated patriotism, and breathtaking landscapes, with its capital in Hanoi. Despite enduring the ravages of war, Vietnam remains a peaceful and picturesque nation in the eyes of the world.

Since July 2, 1976, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam has been the official name of my homeland. Vietnam is currently a socialist state under the governance of a single political party, the Communist Party of Vietnam. 

Being a country with 54 ethnic groups, Vietnam boasts a diverse culture rich in traditional customs and cultural identities. Religions such as Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, Roman Catholicism, and Cao Dai have profoundly shaped Vietnamese culture. Although many Vietnamese identify as atheists, they regularly visit temples and pagodas to pray for happiness and prosperity.

Throughout history, numerous ancient temples and pagodas have been erected across Vietnam. The nation strikes a delicate balance between ancient and contemporary architecture.

Despite the influences of Chinese governance, French colonization, and American involvement, Vietnam has retained a vibrant tapestry of diverse cultural legacies evident in its towns, architecture, and cuisine. Hoi An, an ancient trading port, showcases the architectural influences of Asian merchants, while Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City boast wide boulevards reminiscent of French design.

Furthermore, Vietnam places great importance on major holidays, festivals, and life milestones. Tet Nguyen Dan, or Tet, stands as Vietnam's most significant festival. The country also observes various rites such as birth, engagement, marriage, funeral, and ancestor commemorations, all contributing to Vietnam's unique cultural identity.

3.2. Sample 2: Introduction to Vietnam in English (cuisine: pho)

When discussing Vietnam's traditional cuisine, Pho stands out as the nation's iconic dish, featuring rice noodles in a savory broth with meat and various greens, accompanied by chili sauce.

A typical bowl includes beef or chicken, garnished with bean sprouts, lime wedges, and fresh herbs like basil, mint, cilantro, and onions. Depending on the eatery or street vendor, you might find more exotic additions such as beef tendon or thinly sliced pig stomach, known as sach and ve don (flank with cartilage). Pho is commonly enjoyed for breakfast, priced around VND 35,000 at local restaurants or street markets in Vietnam.

Pho has not only secured its place in Vietnamese cuisine but also gained recognition on the global culinary stage. This dish can be savored everywhere, from street stalls to upscale restaurants.

3.3. Sample 3: Introduction to Vietnam in English (tourist attractions)

Vietnam boasts a captivating landscape with a diverse array of stunning vistas, many of which are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and national treasures. Travelers can explore numerous iconic attractions spanning from the northern mountains to the Mekong Delta. For those seeking an immersion in local mountain life and breathtaking scenery, Sapa is a must-visit destination.

Mount Fansipan, Vietnam's highest peak, looms majestically over Sapa in Lao Cai province. My first encounter with Sapa left me enchanted by its misty ambiance, cool climate, and fresh air. It attracts countless international tourists who journey there from Hanoi by bus, train, or even motorcycle.

Many ethnic minorities, such as the Hmong, Muong, Thai, Tay, Nung, and Dao, reside in Sapa, each with their unique customs and cultural practices. Staying in a homestay offers an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in and learn about local traditions.

The locals are exceptionally hospitable. Engage in various activities to experience authentic mountain life, such as planting rice on terraced fields, tending to cattle, and crafting intricate handicrafts. Additionally, conquering Mount Fansipan is a thrilling endeavor.

I highly recommend visiting Sapa for one of the most enriching experiences. Its climate makes it an ideal retreat to unwind after a busy day. In Sapa, you can witness all four seasons in a single day: a crisp autumn morning, a sunny spring afternoon, a balmy summer evening, and a chilly winter night. These elements make Sapa a preferred destination for international tourists eager to explore Vietnamese culture.

If you ever get the chance, travel to Sapa, one of Vietnam's most stunning natural landscapes, and relish the sensation of conquering Indochina's roof.

3.4. Sample 4: Introducing Vietnam's Geography in English

Vietnam, officially known as the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, is a Southeast Asian nation situated on the eastern edge of the Indochina Peninsula. It shares borders with China to the north, Laos to the northwest, and Cambodia to the southwest. To the east, Vietnam is bordered by the South China Sea, which plays a crucial role in its geography and economic activities.

Vietnam boasts diverse topography characterized by mountains, hills, plateaus, and coastal plains. The country is traditionally divided into three main geographical regions:

1. Northern Vietnam: This region is dominated by the Red River Delta, where the Red River flows into the Gulf of Tonkin. It is known for its lush rice paddies and fertile farmland. Northern Vietnam is also home to the country’s capital, Hanoi, and the iconic limestone karst landscapes of Halong Bay.
2. Central Vietnam: The central region features the Annamite Range, a series of rugged mountains running parallel to the coastline. It is known for its scenic beauty and historical significance, with cities like Hue and Hoi An showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage.
3. Southern Vietnam: The southern part of Vietnam is characterized by the Mekong Delta, a vast network of rivers, swamps, and islands. This delta is one of the world’s most fertile agricultural regions and plays a crucial role in Vietnam’s economy. Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s largest city, is located in the southern region.

Vietnam's coastline spans over 3,200 kilometers (2,000 miles), adorned with numerous stunning beaches and coastal areas. The East Sea, which borders Vietnam to the east, is also significant for its strategic and economic importance.

The nation's geography profoundly influences its climate, dominated by a tropical monsoon climate across most of Vietnam. The distinct wet and dry seasons bring variations in temperature and rainfall across different regions.

In essence, Vietnam’s geography is characterized by its diverse terrains, encompassing mountains, deltas, and an extensive coastline along the South China Sea. This geographical diversity has significantly influenced the nation’s culture, economy, and way of life.

3.5. Sample 5: Introducing Vietnamese culture in English

Vietnamese culture embodies a captivating fusion of tradition, diversity, and enduring values that have evolved over millennia. This intricate cultural fabric is deeply shaped by the nation’s history, religion, and ethnic diversity.

Language: Vietnamese is the official language and the cultural linchpin of the nation. While English is becoming more prevalent, especially in urban areas, the Vietnamese language remains at the heart of cultural identity and communication.

Family and Respect: Vietnamese society places a strong emphasis on family and respect for elders. Family is considered the cornerstone of Vietnamese culture, and familial bonds are cherished. Confucian values, such as filial piety, shape these traditions.

Cuisine: Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated globally for its freshness and complexity of flavors. Dishes like pho (noodle soup), spring rolls, and banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) reflect the culinary diversity of the country. Meals are often communal affairs, emphasizing social connections.

Festivals: Vietnam boasts a wide array of festivals, many based on the lunar calendar. Tet, the Lunar New Year, is the most significant festival, marked by reunions, special foods, and traditions like giving lucky money to children.

Traditional Dress: The “ao dai,” a graceful, long tunic with loose trousers, is the traditional dress that symbolizes Vietnamese elegance. It’s commonly worn on formal occasions and represents cultural pride.

Art and Crafts: Vietnamese art encompasses traditional paintings, lacquerware, silk embroidery, and ceramics. Water puppetry, a unique art form, features puppet shows performed on water to traditional music.

Religion: While Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism are influential, Vietnam’s religious landscape also includes Catholicism, indigenous beliefs, and syncretic practices, contributing to its cultural diversity.

Literature and Folklore: Vietnamese literature includes timeless works like “The Tale of Kieu” by Nguyen Du. Folklore and legends, often rooted in the countryside, are cherished and passed down through generations.

Music and Dance: Traditional Vietnamese music employs instruments like the dan bau and bamboo xylophone, while dances often depict rural life and historical stories.