culture

Impact Travelers team is off to Vietnam this spring to boost social entrepreneurship activities in Asia. In order to introduce the destination we wanted to gather a few facts about this amazing country. For most of us Vietnam is known for the delicious cuisine and beautiful landscapes but there are a lot more we can learn about.

1. An estimated ten million motorcycles fill the roads of Vietnam every day

The hectic city traffic and curvy coastal roads have made motorcycles the most suitable vehicles for getting around in Vietnam. They do not only carry people but also all kinds of carry on: bags, dogs, furniture, you name it. But always when you’re riding a motorbike, it is essential to wear a helmet.

2. Vietnam is the promised land of cashew nuts

Even though the share of agriculture in the economic output has decreased, Vietnam still holds its place as the leading exporter of black pepper and cashew nuts in the world. The country also remains as the third largest exporter of rice after Thailand and India.

3. Perhaps a glass of Snake Wine?

In Vietnam you may get familiarized with their specialty drink ruou ran. Ruou ran is a rice wine with a snake (preferably venomous) infused in it. It is believed to cure illnesses and give new life.

4. Vietnam has one of the lowest unemployment rates

Among all developing countries, Vietnam has sustained a relatively low unemployment rate around 2-2.5%. However, the employment situation still requires improvement as there are a big number of people with unstable and low-paid jobs.

5. The most common surname in Vietnam is Nguyen

Close to 40% of the Vietnamese population carry the surname Nguyen which is pronounced as “win”.

6. The traditional cuisine of Vietnam combines 5 taste elements

The five fundamental taste elements include spicy (metal), sour (wood), bitter (fire), salty (water) and sweet (earth). The flavors of Vietnam resemble the Chinese and Thai food but adding their own distinct twist. Vietnamese food is recognized as one of the healthiest cuisines in the world with a mix of delicious ingredients such as herbs, vegetables, rice, fruits and seafood.

7. More jobs needed to provide for the growing population

Vietnamese labor force is growing by more than one million people every year, which requires a pressing need to create more jobs. Luckily, there is a young population of engineers, entrepreneurs, coders and students that are driving economic growth and technological innovation.

8. Family is highly valued

Vietnamese families are extended, meaning that several generations live together and care for each other. The eldest members of the family enjoy the highest respect and have the strongest voice. Children are considered as the most valuable assets for the parents and therefore, most people like to have many children.

9. Tea as the source of spiritual purity

Tea is an essential part of Vietnamese culture. In fact it is a drink that is consumed throughout the day and is served in all special occasions. Tea culture tracks back long in Vietnamese history and the hot beverage has been enjoyed for bringing enlightenment and peace of mind for people’s lives.

What a better way to learn about this country and culture than to go there and work on a meaningful project with the locals. If you are interested in the possibility to participate in Impact Travelers program, visit our website www.impacttravelers.com and contact us for more info.

Impact Travelers organized the first program in Cambodia last summer. In order to get you familiarized with the destination, here are 10 facts of Cambodia you probably didn’t know about.

1.It’s impolite to point your feet at others

In many parts of Asia, feet are considered to be the dirtiest and lowest part of the body. Therefore, you should refrain from pointing your feet at others, so keep them tucked in when sitting.

2. Half of the population in Cambodia is under 15 years old

Cambodia has a young population as the median age in the country is only 24 years. Cambodian population age structure is expanding and it is estimated that the population of Cambodia was increased by 728 persons daily in 2015.

3. Tarantula kebabs are part of local cuisine

Fried spider, anyone? Cambodians have specialized in preparing tarantula snacks that are the size of the palm of your hand.

4. Textile industry and tourism are the largest sources of revenue

The tourism and garment industries are accounted for the biggest sources of growth for Cambodian economy. Approximately 600,000 people, the majority of whom are women, are working in the textile and footwear sector. Another half a million Cambodians are employed in the tourism sector.

5. Deforestation is among the highest in the world

The deforestation in Cambodia is growing at an alarming rate. Since 1970’s the rainforest cover has gone from 70% to 3.1%. The drastic loss of forest is due to the increase of industrial plantations, logging and agriculture.

6. Cambodia is in pressing need for electricity

Cambodia’s energy sector is heavily dependent on fossil fuels and the access to electricity is very unstable. Electricity prices are among the highest in the world.

7. You should not touch anyone’s head

Do not touch people on top of their head as it is considered the highest and sacred part of the body.

8. Cambodia has one of the fastest growing economies in Asia

The Cambodian economy has been growing on average 6 percent over the last decade. However, still Cambodia remains one of the poorest countries in Asia and long-term economic development remains a daunting challenge.

9. Cambodia has changed its name more often than almost any other country in the world

Cambodia has formerly also been known as Khmer Republic, Democratic Kampuchea, People’s Republic of Kampuchea and State of Cambodia.

9 facts about Vietnam