People, food and culture

The origins of the Vietnamese people are a combination of the Mongol races of north and east Asia, with Chinese and Indian influences. About seven million of these ethnic minorities or montagnards (French for mountain people) live in remote, lightly populated mountain regions in northern and western Vietnam. Spiritual life in Vietnam is a grand panoply of belief systems, including Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Tam Giao. The most important festival of the year is “Tet”, a week-long event in late January/early February that heralds the new lunar year and the advent of spring. The celebration involves a contrast of feverish and raucous festivity (fireworks, drums, gongs) as well as quiet meditation. In addition to Tet, there are about twenty other traditional and religious festivals each year. Vietnamese cuisine is one of the most popular in the world. Deeply influenced by the national cuisines of France, China, and Thailand. One of the most unique flavorings is the national condiment Nuoc Mam, a piquant fermented fish sauce that is served with every meal. Cha Ca is another unique dish made of sizzling chunks of fish seasoned with garlic, ginger, turmeric. This dish is so popular that there is a street in the capital dedicated to it! If you are visiting Vietnam in the summers, don’t forget to try Che, a dessert made of layers of bean jelly, coconut milk, fruit, and ice.