One custom which is hard for Americans particularly to understand, is that the Vietnamese do not celebrate individual birthday s. Rather, everyone celebrates his or her birthday on the Vietnamese New Year, known as Tet. Tet falls sometime between January 19 and February 19 and lasts three days. Your hosts will be gratified if you make an attempt to extend your wishes to them on this special occasion. An exchange of gifts is common, however, do not give your gift in a white envelope or wrapped in white paper.
Every culture has certain symbols and rituals surrounding death.
Colors associated with death vary, however, from one country to the next. In Vietnamese culture, the color white is associate with death and the color red is a symbol of life. It is common for adults to give unmarried children money in red envelopes for the celebration of Tet. Businesses exchange pink flowers, however, fruit is also an acceptable gift. Business people should note that businesses may close for seven to ten days in honor of Tet and shop keepers may consult fortune tellers to determine when is the best day to reopen.