A Bengaluru couple’s account of an unusual experience during a cruise in Vietnam has gone viral on social media, prompting a wider conversation about civic sense, travel etiquette and the reputation of Indian tourists overseas.
In an Instagram video, Hanna Soosan and Athul Thej recounted how they were part of an all-Indian group on a popular cruise to Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh. According to the couple, Indian tourists were seated separately from a mixed-nationality group and were given a briefing on basic manners before the trip began.
Unexpected instructions
The couple said they initially expected a standard safety briefing but were surprised when the tour guide began explaining buffet etiquette and behavioural guidelines.
According to Athul Thej, passengers were instructed on how to use serving tongs, avoid handling food directly and maintain proper conduct during the cruise.
At first, the couple felt the treatment was unfair and interpreted it as discriminatory towards Indian tourists.
Incident changes perspective
However, their views reportedly changed shortly after the buffet service began.
The couple said an elderly passenger allegedly began shouting at cruise staff over a delay in food service despite explanations that meals required time to be brought from the kitchen.
Hanna Soosan described the incident as embarrassing and said it helped them understand why the tour operators may have felt the need to emphasise etiquette to the group beforehand.
Call for responsible tourism
Reflecting on the experience, the couple urged Indian travellers to be mindful of their behaviour while visiting other countries.
They stressed that tourists often become representatives of their nation abroad and that respectful conduct can help create positive impressions.
The video has attracted widespread attention online, with many users agreeing that civic sense and public etiquette play an important role in shaping perceptions of travellers. Others argued that the actions of a few individuals should not define an entire nationality.
The discussion has once again highlighted the importance of responsible tourism and cultural sensitivity in an increasingly connected world