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Welcome to What About Vietnam – One Question at a Time. This award-recognised podcast has spent five years listening closely to travellers, locals, and those who live and work on the ground in Vietnam. For Series 6, the format is sharper and more focused — one real question per episode, answered honestly, simply, and without the fluff. These are the questions travellers actually ask before they book, pack, or board a plane. Short episodes. Clear answers. Real context. And when it matters, practical guidance drawn from lived experience, not headlines. Episode 1 Question: Is it safe to travel to Vietnam as a solo traveller? In this opening episode, I get up front and personal, Practical advice, and sensible strategies that get to heart of this question  Safety is often the first — and loudest — question solo travellers ask, especially first-timers. From personal experience travelling solo across Vietnam, to what visitors commonly misunderstand, this episode breaks down what “safe” really means on the ground, how Vietnam compares to expectations, and what solo travellers should know before they arrive. No scare tactics. No sugar-coating. Just perspective, nuance, and the kind of insight that helps you decide with confidence. If Vietnam is on your radar — or already in your plans — this series is designed to meet you exactly where you are. One question at a time. Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to [email protected] Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services Do you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what’s possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

Is TẾT a Good Time to Visit Vietnam? What travellers should know before deciding to visit Vietnam during the TET holiday. Tết, Vietnam’s Lunar New Year, is the most important cultural period of the year — but is it actually a good time to visit? Just to be clear from the outset - Tết dates relate to the Lunar New Year Calender and are usually between Late January and February. You should check the dates for the year you are travelling as each year is different. Tết New Year's eve usually marks the beginning of the holiday but it can be a day or two before. In this episode, I focus on what Tết means for travellers and how it affects transport, accommodation, tours, and daily life across Vietnam. Rather than diving into history or ritual, I share the real-world impact on your trip, along with practical travel tips to help manage expectations — especially if this is your first time visiting Vietnam. This isn’t a simple yes or no. Whether Tết works for you depends on how you travel, what you expect, and how flexible you’re willing to be. I cover what really happens during Tết, when the slowdown starts, which places cope best, what commonly closes, and when travelling during the middle of Tết can work. I also explain why I usually recommend travelling well before Tết or about a week after for a smoother, more enjoyable experience. My honest take: Tết isn’t a bad time to visit Vietnam — but it’s not an easy one. Timing your trip matters just as much as choosing your destination. Tết is one of those moments where thoughtful planning makes all the difference — and it’s something I regularly help travellers get right in trip plans through my Travel services offering. Please reach out if I can be of assistance - https://www.whataboutvietnam.com/trip-plan-request-form Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to [email protected] Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services Do you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what’s possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

In this episode of "What About Vietnam," Kerry Newsome shares some exciting news about the visa situation for entering Vietnam. As of August 15th, travelers will be able to extend their stays from 30 days to 90 days. Kerry recommends using the official immigration website here to apply for your visa and shares the details in the show. However as this change is NOT effective till 15th August, the website has not been updated to reflect this change. See source here for full announcement. Welcome to Series 5 of the the What About Vietnam Podcast!  In this episode, we invite you to sit back, relax, and embark on an exciting journey through Vietnam by train. We'll not only explore the beautiful landscapes this country has to offer but also introduce you to various overland travel options available in Vietnam as in the city of Hue, Phan Thiet, and HCMC. By hopping on and off a train, you can experience the country in a rewarding and cost-effective way while connecting with locals in their own backyards. Our guest today is Simon White, an expert in bilateral business between Australia and Vietnam. Despite his professional background, Simon is a passionate advocate for Vietnam's travel scene. He loves discovering new venues, sampling street food, and exploring local food markets. Together, we'll delve into the option of booking just the first couple of days upon arrival and then improvising the rest of your trip. We'll discuss how easy it is to utilize local transport, such as Grab, to get around and the joys of strolling through towns, trying local cuisine, and immersing yourself in the culture. Simon will share his experiences in various locations, including Hue, Phan Thiet, Quy Nhon, and HCMC. From recommending restaurants to exploring the diverse range of foods and uncovering hidden alleyways, we'll uncover the vibrant and colorful backyards of Vietnam. Simon's own brand of experiences, starting from early mornings at 5:00 am, will surely entertain and inspire you. Make sure to listen to the entire episode, as we'll reveal some valuable insights that will make you fall in love with Vietnam, its people, and, most importantly, its food. Simon's advice to not fear scams and understand that most people are simply trying to make a living resonates throughout the episode. This is a must-listen for anyone who craves an in-depth exploration of a country to uncover its hidden charms. The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email. Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to [email protected] Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services Do you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what’s possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

I’m thrilled to have such an engaging conversation with our guest today about the digital nomad lifestyle. Whether you're a seasoned nomad or just curious about this exciting way of life, this episode is a must-listen! I am fortunate to be joined with Florian Rucker who inspires nomads by providing a unique, friendly, and well fit out co working space in Hoi An called The Hub, to perform this kind of work. If you can imagine having high speed internet, in a glass workspace, in the middle of rice paddy fields, you have it right there!  We get down to “tin tacks” as we talk through the evolving landscape of digital nomading and the transformation since Covid. No longer is it just for the youthful adventure seekers, employers are now funding some people to work this way, as they now recognise working remotely doesn’t have to impact output given the right set up. Hoi An and the The Hub provide workers a unique experience in Vietnam and now that the E-Visa stays are being extended to 90 days this looks like being a very viable option for more people. Flo is uniquely qualified to speak to this topic having lived abroad since he was 16. Originally a Berliner, he has a Cambridge education, and has lived in 7 other countries throughout his life. With a background in Development Aid and a IT Agency owner he fell in love with Hoi An after being a customer of the The Hub back in 2017. He bought the space in early 2021 and rebuilt it nearby, in the middle of the rice fields in ‘22/’23. If you would like to know more about The Hub – You can contact Flo here –  Website: https://www.hubhoian.com/ The Hub social links: https://www.instagram.com/hubhoian/ https://www.facebook.com/hubhoian [00:01:39] Digital nomading in Vietnam. [00:04:07] Whats great about  the community in  Hoi An. [00:09:14] Internet connectivity surprises digital nomads. [00:11:15] Remote work and diversity. [00:19:27] Border runs and visa situations. [00:28:29] Ice bathing with the members. [00:40:03] Life as a digital nomad in Hoi An   The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email. Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to [email protected] Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services Do you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what’s possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

In this podcast episode, I have the opportunity to introduce you to Vicki Thai, a Health Care Sales professional living in Utah, USA, with Vietnamese heritage.  Vicki's family immigrated to the United States from Vietnam when she was four years old, and during her growing up, she had never given much thought to her Vietnamese background. However, a moment of vulnerability in her mother's health led her to realize the importance of experiencing her heritage. She decided to plan a trip to Vietnam with her mother and reached out to the "What About Vietnam" podcast for assistance. As I knew the background to the tour, I took great pleasure in planning this trip for Vicki and her mum, which included visits to Saigon, the Mekong Delta, and Dalat. These locations held special significance for Vicki and her mother, allowing them to explore their roots and connect with their heritage. Unexpectedly, the trip evoked strong emotions and a newfound appreciation for their Vietnamese identity. During their stay in Vietnam, Vicki and her mother engaged with the local people, immersed themselves in the country's culture, and marveled at the landscapes. This experience transformed Vicki's perception of her birthplace, instilling a deep sense of pride in her heritage. She also praises the warmth and thoughtfulness of the Vietnamese people, particularly their tour guides, and one in particular in Saigon, Ms Thuy. The episode highlights Vicki's journey through Saigon, the Mekong Delta, and Dalat, showcasing her awe and discovery of these places. I think for those who don’t live in their country of birth, you will relate to Vicki's story.  Despite the trip going mostly smoothly, there was a minor glitch, illustrating that while many aspects can be controlled, some factors remain unpredictable.  From the bustling vibrant city of Saigon, Vicki takes us by the hand as she describes her love of the bustling city of Saigon, to her awe and disbelief cruising through the Mekong Delta and then to discovering through the forests, the city of Dalat. A city she totally didn’t expect, while being her mothers’ birth city. At a deeper level this episode offers insight into the transformative power of heritage exploration and the deep connections it can foster.  Time stamps: 02-00-  History and background to Vicki's reason to visit Vietnam 27.00 - Saigon  30.00 - Tour Guide review of guides in general - starting with Saigon 35.06 - Happy Birthday Vicki 36.06 - Mekong Delta 40.29 - Dalat  The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email. Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to [email protected] Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services Do you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what’s possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

Welcome to another exciting episode of The What About Vietnam Podcast. In today's episode, we're diving deep into the world of expat life in Vietnam, shedding light on the importance of doing your homework before taking the plunge into this vibrant Southeast Asian nation. Vietnam is a country that's been capturing the imaginations of many with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and a rapidly growing economy. But, before packing your bags, it's crucial to consider the vital aspect of due diligence. Our guest today, Kate Boardman, an experienced expat in Vietnam, shares invaluable insights on the need to verify job opportunities and ensure that you meet the legal requirements for working in the country. The last thing you want is to encounter legal troubles or job scams. However, it's not all cautionary tales in this episode. Vietnam's expat landscape is changing rapidly. The rise of digital nomadism has opened up new avenues for professionals to explore Vietnam while working remotely. With its booming tech industry and dynamic startup scene, Vietnam has become a hotspot for those looking to combine work and travel. Kate takes us through the journey, highlighting the incredible opportunities this evolving expat scene offers. From sipping Vietnamese coffee in Hanoi's quaint cafes to exploring the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, there's so much to discover in this diverse country. So, if you're considering a move to Vietnam or are simply intrigued by the idea of combining work with wanderlust, this episode is a must-listen.  Join us as we uncover the nuances of becoming an expat in Vietnam. Tune in now! NEW:_ Please contact us here for more detail about the beauty and dental surgery travel services we are just launching - [email protected] If you need an easy guide to the new Evisa Process  go here Book now for the 2024 Girls Getaway Follow Kate and her travels here: IG -https://www.instagram.com/wildkat.wanders TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wildkat.wanders YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@wildkatwanders The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email. Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to [email protected] Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services Do you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what’s possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

If you're planning a holiday in Vietnam and have a penchant for motorbike rides and scenic routes, your quest will inevitably lead you to the iconic Hải Vân Pass (Đèo Hải Vân). The Hải Vân Pass is more than just a road; it's a legendary motorbike route nestled in the heart of central Vietnam. In 2008, it garnered global recognition as the BBC and the Top Gear crew ventured through its winding trails, cementing its reputation as a must-visit destination for motorbike enthusiasts and adventure seekers. But what sets the Hải Vân Pass apart is not just its breathtaking landscapes. It holds a pivotal place in history as a crucial route during the Vietnam War, bridging the north and south of the country. Today, it stands as a symbol of Vietnam's resilience and progress. To uncover the hidden gems of the Hải Vân Pass, I had the privilege of speaking with Chris Moonie,  a seasoned media professional, and traveller, with over eight years of living in Vietnam and multiple explorations of the Hải Vân Pass, Chris's first-hand experiences and deep understanding of the region make him an invaluable source of information for anyone contemplating a journey along this iconic route. Together we unpack all the ways to explore this route, and all the hidden gems along the way. Travelling by bike is not the only way to do this route. Chris's own odyssey in Vietnam began in 2013, when he ventured to Hoi An with his son. He was instantly captivated by the country, its people, and the irresistible charm of Hoi An. A chance encounter with a special lady during his visit further cemented his decision to relocate to Hoi An. Since then, he has been a resident of An Bang, a once-sleepy village that has transformed into a bustling tourist destination only 10 mins out of Hoi An. The Hải Vân Pass, no doubt, is a paradise for Instagram enthusiasts, but what sets it apart is the array of unique stops along the way. From oyster farms to the Dream Springs, this motorbike excursion offers more than just scenic beauty. But we will let you decide after listening. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast, leave us a review, and share it with your fellow adventurers. You can reach Chris directly here  https://www.facebook.com/chrisminvietnam Watch Chris's Video here - https://www.facebook.com/chrisminvietnam/videos/866528168426706/ Thank you for joining us on this exciting episode, and until next time, may your travels be filled with adventure and wonder. The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email. Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to [email protected] Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services Do you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what’s possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

Bac Giang, is a picturesque place that often remains under the radar until the Lychee Festival, typically featured in social pages and news around June. This lively event commemorates Bac Giang's distinction as the "Land of Lychees." In today’s episode Bac Giang and the subject of lychees are front and centre, as I get to share the story of a photographer named Jessie Pearlman, a previous guest on the podcast, who embarked on a return trip to Vietnam, driven by his love for the country and his desire to reconnect with friends and explore new experiences.  This show delves into the motivations behind his journey; the significance of the lychees to the region and the community, and how best to navigate a visit there. Jesse has a wonderful gift for self-expression and description which will immediately transport you to the experiences he had during his time in the heart of Bac Giang province, Luc Ngan, the township designated as the biggest growing township for lychees. He provides valuable tips on organizing your trip and strongly recommends it as a destination to visit, just a short 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi, especially for photographers and tropical fruit enthusiasts. This is an off the beaten track location and experience, so information is as Jesse describes, hard to find. Therefore, we have the following links to the people who helped him create his trip, which we hope will help you too. Phung Lan, Tour Guide for Luc Ngan Lychee Harvest in Bac Giang Province: https://www.facebook.com/kalydao.phung Lan's Tour Company: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076182891385 By visiting lesser-known regions like Bac Giang, we can contribute to the local economy and make a positive impact on the community. Let's make a conscious effort to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and give back to the places we visit. Please feel free to reach out if you would like a trip plan to include this region, see Request a Trip Plan HERE Follow Jesse or get in touch via his IG page here - https://www.instagram.com/pearlmanj1/?hl=en The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email. Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to [email protected] Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services Do you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what’s possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

In our show today we get to explore the evolving food culture in Vietnam, with a focus on the growth of new culinary experiences and the expansion of dining options beyond just street food. Don’t get me wrong, Street Food is still something you must try, but don’t stop there!  Stick around to find some of the up and coming places to eat in Vietnam. My wonderful guest, Jovel Chan a food writer and consultant, shares her insights on the influx of chefs from Vietnam and abroad, the rise of upscale establishments, and the overall refinement and enhancement of the dining scene in cities like Saigon and Hanoi. Listen to the end as as you will want to know about Jovel's favourites in those 2 cities. Many talented chefs have come to Vietnam, particularly in cities like Saigon and Hanoi, to set up their own restaurants and cater to both tourists and locals looking for something different. These chefs bring with them their expertise and creativity, introducing new flavors, techniques, and cuisines to the Vietnamese food scene. Additionally, the rise of five-star hotels and the opening of more malls in Vietnam have further diversified the dining scene. This has led to a wider variety of cuisines being available, catering to different tastes and preferences. It was pure joy to have this time with Jovel as we laughed and agreed on so many topics and shared experiences. I hope you can forgive the slight ‘cross talk’ in places, but I think if I didn’t leave that in, you would miss out on the connection we had, and wanted to share with you. Listen to the end as Jovel shares her favourites in Hanoi and Saigon. You can find all about Jovel’s Saigon Social, dining guides and so much more on her website here Follow Jovel here: Website: https://jovelchan.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jovel.chan/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jovel.chan.7/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joveleugeniachan/We wish you a happy festive Christmas season and a Happy safe New Year. This is the last show for 2023, but I am back in February 2024 with a new style of show that I hope you will love. Stay tuned and check out over 90 shows on this podcast channel. Thank you for being such wonderful listeners.   The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email. Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to [email protected] Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services Do you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what’s possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

Join us for an insightful journey into the pressing issue of human trafficking in Vietnam, and discover how, as a traveller, you have the ability to effect real change. In this episode, I'm joined by Kim Miller, who offers firsthand insights into the challenges and the remarkable efforts undertaken by Blue Dragon, an organization dedicated to combatting human trafficking. As a listener, you'll gain a profound understanding of the poverty and vulnerabilities that fuel human trafficking, along with practical guidance on recognizing and responding to situations where individuals are exploited or in need of assistance.  We start off by talking about Kim’s experiences of Vietnam since 2016—Kim shares her deep affection for Vietnam, recounting her experiences living there and highlighting her favorite Vietnamese cuisines like Phở chiên phồng and destinations you may not have heard about just outside of Hanoi called – Ho Dong Do lake district  Kim shares her bold ambition of raising $200,000 by swimming the English Channel this July to support Blue Dragon's vital community initiatives.  Lets get behind Kim in this endeavour. See link to donate and support her swim  here Tune in as she outlines actionable steps travellers can take to aid vulnerable individuals they encounter. From simply reaching out or alerting organizations like Blue Dragon, travellers can ensure prompt assistance for those in need, empowering them to play an active role in combating human trafficking. This is an episode that I'm confident will offer you valuable insights and takeaways. Finally, you are one click away from supporting Kim's cause, please check the link here and let’s unite in making a positive impact during our journeys through Vietnam. The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email. Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to [email protected] Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services Do you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what’s possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

Hello, I'm Kerry Newsome, and welcome to my podcast, "What About Vietnam." In this episode, I'm thrilled to introduce you to a mini-series "Out & About in Vietnam" that will take you along on my holiday adventures in Vietnam. Over the next 60 days, I'll be sharing my experiences, destinations, and the fascinating people I meet along the way. Today, we're starting with "Out & About in Saigon", my first stop on this journey. Vietnam is a country that benefits from research and preparation, and through this podcast and series, I aim to help you navigate the overwhelming amount of information out there. I also wrote an Ebook and self published it on Amazon to help guide your plans. Cheap as chips, you can buy HERE, and read it in a day. As a precursor, as you will hear in the show, please double-check your visa details meticulously. See my Link HERE  which explains the process for E-Visa to ensure you get it right FIRST GO! In Ho Chi Minh City, I recommend taking the first day to orient yourself. Use Apps  ( See You Tube I did talking about Apps here ) like Grab for transportation, Exe for currency conversion, and Google Maps for navigation. Decide whether you want to hit the top attractions, explore the outskirts for a taste of history and nature, or simply wander the streets and get lost in the local scene.  Stay tuned for more episodes in the "Out and About" series, where I'll take you to my next destination, Hoi An. You can find all episodes on your usual podcast channels and on whataboutvietnam.com. Thank you for joining me on this adventure, and I look forward to sharing more of Vietnam with you. 00:01:02 - Purpose of the Mini-Series 00:01:44 - "Out and About" Series Context 00:02:06 - Starting with Ho Chi Minh City 00:03:19 - Importance of Research for Vietnam Travel 00:11:10 - First Day Orientation Advice 00:15:28 - Approaches to Exploring Ho Chi Minh City 00:18:39 - Exploring Ho Chi Minh City's Attractions 00:21:12 - Day Trips Outside Ho Chi Minh City 00:23:37 - Personal Approach to Experiencing the City 00:27:26 - Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City I hope you find this series interesting and helpful. Follow along with our social pages as I will post during my journey. My "Full trip planning"  services will resume in July 2024.  Please send me your feedback and questions vai the message App on the WAV website. The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email. Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to [email protected] Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services Do you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what’s possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

Welcome to the premiere of "What About Vietnam" – the Uncut Edition!  This marks the second instalment of our Out & About mini-series, where I, Kerry Newsome, along with the ever-adventurous Kelly McCarthy, take you on a journey through the vibrant streets of Saigon.  Get ready for a deeply personal and unforgettable experience as we share candid anecdotes and insider tips. From quirky mishaps to heart-warming moments, we're laying it all bare – glitches and all.  You'll hear some laughable moments as we navigate the uncharted territories that guidebooks overlook. We do it with frankness and open sharing. Our goal? To inform, enlighten, and hopefully bring a smile to your face.  We guide you through its bustling markets and upscale boutiques. From the glitz and glamour of Takashimaya to the hidden treasures of Vincom Plaza.  Of course, no trip to Saigon would be complete without a taste of its diverse cuisine. Join us as we sample mouth-watering dishes from mid-range eateries to high-end restaurants, uncovering hidden gems along the way.  And let's talk personal care. We've got the inside scoop on high-quality and affordable dental services available in Saigon, courtesy of our partners at Worldwide Hospital. Get 5% discount on any dental services by mentioning us. Plus, we'll share our own quest for the perfect hair salon, with a special “shoutout” to Tommy's for their European techniques that cater to even the pickiest of blondes. In essence, this uncut episode of the Out & About mini series of "What About Vietnam" is your ticket to an unforgettable adventure in Saigon.   [00:02:35] Breakfast options in Saigon. [00:08:03] Find out what makes one Saigon shopping center different from another [00:11:58] Some of the best food options in shopping malls [00:16:51] Concept stores and local goods. [00:20:31] Packing underwear essentials. [00:23:14] Tailoring tips and experiences in Saigon ver Hoi An [00:30:41] Foodie Havens in Saigon.  [00:42:01] Book Street discovery. [00:46:02] Dental check up  [00:49:29] Hair and beauty challenges in Vietnam.  [01:02:12] The importance of SIM cards. [01:05:27] Currency exchange tips.   The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email. Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to [email protected] Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services Do you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what’s possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

The “Out & About in Vietnam” series continues with Kelley McCarthy and I deciding to go in search of a beach escape from Saigon. Not many people know about this place, and with a new highway making it so much easier to access, it may just be the ticket! Today we're exploring a different kind of vacation experience—one where the hotel itself is the main destination.   Our destination is Hồ Tràm, located about 125 kilometres from Saigon. Just a 2-hour shuttle bus trip away. Our home away from home for this trip is the stunning Melia Ho Tram Beach Resort. ( Please note this is an unpaid review) While Hồ Tràm is known for its golf course, namely The Bluffs Ho Tram, Kelley and I are here to indulge in the luxuries of a resort vacation. We're faced with the delightful dilemma of choosing between lounging by the infinity pool overlooking the beach, pampering ourselves with day spa treatments, or simply enjoying cocktails by the shore. Throughout the episode, we highlight the romantic ambiance of the resort, perfect for couples seeking a getaway or even a picturesque spot for a proposal. From intimate dining experiences to leisurely walks on the beach, the Melia Ho Tram offers a serene setting for quality time together. But we don't forget about families either. We discuss the amenities available for kids, including the kids' club, and how the resort's accessibility features make it suitable for all guests, including those with mobility impairments. One of the standout features we touch upon is the affordability of the resort, especially when opting for mid-week packages that include meals. By choosing a half-board package, guests can enjoy breakfast and dinner at the resort, making it a cost-effective yet luxurious experience. In essence, this episode showcases the beauty of a vacation where the focus is solely on relaxation and unwinding, without the need for additional excursions or activities.  So, grab your favorite drink and join us as we escape to Ho Tram. [00:06:29] The importance of relaxation. [00:09:32] The best day spa experience. [00:14:37] Affordable dining options and packages [00:25:14] Exploring the culture and cuisine. Check out the show talking with Alexandra Hepworth about other luxury brand stays in Vietnam  Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to [email protected] Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services Do you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what’s possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

Here I am, "Out & About in Mui Ne," determined to share with you my findings as experienced through my eyes.  It's a down-to-earth exploration of Mui Ne's hidden treasures and unique vibe. This is as authentic as it gets! Drawing inspiration from a previous episode  S3- E17 I did with Nikki Cornish, I set out to explore this famous beachside location, known for its luxurious resorts like the Sailing Club Resort and its unique sand dune landscape. An Instagram favourite known to be very popular with travelling Russians, it is just a short three-hour drive away from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Thanks to improved highways, reaching Mui Ne was a breeze. I cover other other transportation options like trains and buses on the show however I opted for a private driver due to the bulk of luggage I had in tow. Lets just say, we let the winds be our guide to an interesting stay. The must see tourist attractions covered are: The Sand DunesThe Fairy StreamThe LighthouseI hope the detail I provide helps you with your trip planning. My stay gets very personal to me,  as we visit a close friend's family farm near Phan Thiet, providing a firsthand glimpse into Vietnam's agricultural heart. Having a local friend show us around made all the difference during our stay. This intimate connection not only enhanced our exploration of local seafood cuisine but also deepened our understanding of Vietnamese culture and the city's main population. Without my friend Linh’s guidance, I can candidly say we would have missed a lot. Her insights added layers of meaning to our experiences, turning an ordinary trip into a rich journey of discovery.  She really made the trip for me and she took the role as guide for the 3 days we were there. Travel Tip:- Mui Ne is not as Westerner-friendly as other cities, with a strong Russian presence and limited English-speaking locals. I advise doing research or consulting with a Travel agent or Guide to make the most of your visit. Or get in touch with yours truly to plan your Vietnam holiday complete. 01:00 - Inspiration for Visiting Mui Ne 02:18 - First Impressions /Getting There 03:57 - The wind factor/ Accommodation Tips 05:44 - Tourist Attractions  12:34 - How long to stay  20:31 - Mui Ne's ideal tourist The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email. Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to [email protected] Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services Do you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what’s possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

Welcome back to What About Vietnam!  Get your ears ready for another insightful episode in our mini-series, Out & About in Vietnam where I check out what Nha Trang has to offer, in a 3 day stay. Nha Trang is not just another beautiful beach destination; it's a cultural melting pot. From the moment you step foot in Nha Trang, you're greeted by its buzzy, somewhat noisy atmosphere along the promenade. For the best stunning beach shoreline view, in the evening, I suggest heading to the Skylight roof top bar.  An even better idea is to get up early and enjoy a mesmerising  sunrise in the quietness of the day. A quick mention about the lovely Potique Hotel who sponsored this episode. A relatively new elegant city hotel, offering spacious well-designed rooms in that rich Indochine style with amazing beach views. Private access arranged at the beach and cafés, and restaurants right at your front door. We loved our stay.  Go direct to the hotel LINK HERE for the best offers and mention this podcast. But there's more to Nha Trang than meets the eye. Beyond the beaches, I briefly touch on the variety of cuisines available to tantalise your taste buds. I forget to mention the amazing feast I had of lobster. So cheap and so delicious, you can find the restaurant HERE. For those adventure seekers, Nha Trang is a treasure trove of adrenaline-pumping activities. From exhilarating water sports, including top-notch diving, to the excitement of island hopping, which we tried as it included the mud baths experience!!! Let’s just say,  – it's an experience unlike any other! Journey beyond the city centre to uncover it’s real gems; like the Po Nagar temple, offering insights into Vietnam's fascinating Cham history and Salt mining in the salt fields about an hour out of town. Please refer back to previous episodes:- S4-E5 – With Colm Hutchinson from Halo Digital Media - Talks 10 best things to do in Nha Trang  S3-E06 – With Jeremy Stein -  Padi diving Until next time, happy travels from What About Vietnam!   Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to [email protected] Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services Do you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what’s possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital