The Vietnamese language is notoriously difficult because of its tonal complexity. In Vietnamese, pronunciation is everything. Seemingly trivial pronunciation errors can result in major misunderstandings.
But don’t let that stop you playing around with a few words. There’s no better way to connect with local people when you travel.
A few words go a long way. And a larger vocabulary will take you even further. The Vietnamese may struggle at times understanding your attempts at their language, but they’ll love you for trying.
Over the past few years I’ve created three language classes designed to give travellers a basic grounding in Vietnamese.
They’re designed to both provide travellers with some basic vocabulary and to provide a few cultural insights at the same time.
The first is a general introduction and the second two are mainly about the vocabulary of food.
I should disclose that I am completely unqualified to teach Vietnamese. I have not studied the language formally. After many years of living and working in Vietnam however, I am comfortable that these lessons are correct and useful for travellers and others looking to make sense of Vietnamese at a rudimentary level.
Enjoy the lessons and I hope they add a little more to your experience of travelling in Vietnam.
1 comment so far
I recently finished watching the 3 sets, and have been going over and practicing a bunch of times. they are really great, and cannot wait for part IV. I know the world is big, time is limited, but your language/cultural videos are the best I've seen so far, and make a real difference (i know, i tested tonight at a vietnamese restaurant and was finally understood!). Cảm ơn Bạn:-)