10+ Unique Birthday Gifts for Expat Coworkers

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A colleague’s birthday is approaching, but they’re from another country—what should you gift them? You want something warm and heartfelt, deeply cultural yet unique enough to leave a lasting impression. Don’t worry! Chus has curated a list of birthday gifts for foreign colleagues that embody Vietnamese culture while being perfect for a multicultural workplace.

Gifts That Share Vietnam’s Traditional Culture

Traditional Games – Connecting Through Play

Traditional Vietnamese games are not only entertaining but also an engaging way to introduce the country’s culture. A gift like a wooden Ô Ăn Quan set will captivate foreign colleagues as they learn to play this historical game.

Another great option is the Saigon Monopoly board game, which takes players on a journey from Bến Thành Market to modern city streets. It’s a fun and interactive way for foreign colleagues to explore Vietnam’s history and urban charm.

A traditional board game set featuring distinct Vietnamese designs.
(Photo: THE CRAFT HOUSE – Chus)

The best part about these games? They don’t require complex language skills, making them perfect for international teams to enjoy and bond over.

Vietnam-Inspired Accessories – The Art of Handicraft

Handcrafted accessories reflecting Vietnamese heritage make ideal birthday gifts for foreign colleagues. Consider lacquer earrings with intricate Huế motifs or a silver jewelry set shaped like the iconic nón lá (conical hat). These are more than just fashion accessories—they are wearable pieces of art showcasing Vietnam’s craftsmanship.

Elegant silver jewelry inspired by the iconic Vietnamese conical hat.
(Photo: Tiệm Bạc Minh Tâm – Chus)

For a stylish yet practical gift, a hand-painted leather lighter case featuring Vietnamese tile patterns is a perfect fusion of function and tradition. Each design reflects the country’s architectural artistry, making it a distinctive and personalized present.

Practical Gifts for Everyday Use

Wellness Products – A Natural Approach to Health

If you’re unsure what to give, natural wellness products make an excellent choice.

The "Hương Gió" herbal pillow gift set introduces Vietnamese holistic healing traditions, emphasizing harmony with nature.

For a sustainable self-care option, a handmade natural soap and tray set provides a soothing skincare experience while aligning with the growing eco-conscious lifestyle that many expats appreciate.

Office Essentials with a Cultural Twist

A beautifully designed ceramic mug featuring summery gotu kola (rau má) motifs makes for a functional yet artistic gift, perfect for an office setting.

A ceramic cup with refreshing gotu kola motifs.
(Photo: Tu Hú Ceramics – Chus)

For a stylish and eco-friendly gift, a woven grass tote bag with linen accents blends traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. It’s both fashionable and environmentally responsible—a win-win!

Vietnamese Delicacies as Thoughtful Gifts

Vietnamese Tea and Beverages

A box of traditional Vietnamese tea is not just a gift—it’s an invitation to experience Vietnam’s tea culture.

Vietnamese tea is a meaningful gift for foreign colleagues interested in local traditions.
(Photo: Dotea Vietnam – Chus)

For those who prefer sweet beverages, Vietnamese cocoa milk powder sourced from high-quality cacao farms is a delightful treat.

Traditional Vietnamese Sweets

A box of assorted traditional sweets—made from peanuts, sesame, and cashews—provides an authentic taste of Vietnamese culinary heritage. These crunchy, flavorful treats serve as an enjoyable introduction to the diverse flavors of the country.

Tips for Gifting Foreign Colleagues on Their Birthdays

  • Be mindful of cultural differences. Learn about your colleague’s background to avoid unintended faux pas, such as certain colors or numbers with specific meanings.
  • Include a thoughtful note. A small birthday greeting card in English or their native language adds a personal touch and shows sincerity.
  • Explain the significance. A brief introduction to the cultural meaning of the gift will help them appreciate it even more.

>>> Read More: Happy Birthday in 10 Languages & Cultural Do’s & Don'ts

Conclusion

Birthday gifts for foreign colleagues are more than just material presents—they are cultural bridges. Each item carries a story of Vietnam’s history, traditions, and people, helping expat coworkers feel more connected to the country they live and work in.

Choosing the right gift is also a way to demonstrate respect and cultural understanding. The best gifts can spark meaningful conversations and strengthen workplace relationships in a diverse environment.

Chus hopes this guide helps you find the perfect gift to make your colleague’s birthday special and memorable. Visit Chus today to explore even more unique gift ideas!