What about Vietnam - Traveller Insights – Details, episodes & analysis

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 whataboutvietnam@gmail.com 
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

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Xin chào and welcome to What About Vietnam.

As 2025 draws to a close, I wanted to take a moment to pause — to thank you, to reflect on this journey that began back in 2020, and to share a few lasting lessons for travellers heading to Vietnam.

What started during lockdown as a way to “travel through stories” has grown into more than 100 episodes shared across 70 countries. Together we’ve explored Vietnam’s hidden gems, met local legends, and uncovered stories far beyond the guidebooks and Instagram.

To my guests — you give this show its heartbeat.  Thank you.

To my listeners — your messages, feedback and travel plan requests continue to keep me inspired every step of the way. I couldn’t do this without you.

Now, after three incredible years, it feels right to take a short pause — to breathe, to rediscover Vietnam with fresh eyes, and to think about what What About Vietnam might become in 2026.

While the podcast takes a short rest, I will continue to create privately guided journeys throughout Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. Check out some of the testimonials and request your trip plan including all services as in domestic trains, flights, accommodation and experiences fully tailor made to you and your budget.;- https://www.whataboutvietnam.com/request-form

In this final episode, I share five key lessons drawn from my real life experiences— and lived truths about travelling well in Vietnam:

1. Stay curious – Vietnam will surprise you every time.
2. Travel slow – the magic happens in the quiet moments.
3. Connect deeply – even a simple Xin chào can open unexpected doors.
4. Support local – your choices help communities thrive.
5. Keep dreaming – Vietnam’s story, like life, is always unfolding.

So whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for more, I hope these insights help you experience Vietnam with a little more heart and a lot more wonder.

What About Vietnam – where stories live on.

Merry Christmas and Happy New years everyone.

Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to whataboutvietnam@gmail.com 
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 

What About Vietnam – Kicking Off 2025 with Ian Paynton

To start the year with a bang, I wanted to explore some essential insights for travelers to Vietnam—things that first-time visitors might not know but, if they did, could make their experience even richer.

Joining me for this deep dive is Ian Paynton, a Vietnam enthusiast who has spent years uncovering the country’s hidden gems. Through his podcast, You Don’t Know Vietnam, and his agency, We Create Content, Ian focuses on helping international brands build authentic and engaged audiences in Vietnam.

But that’s not all—he’s also gained fame in Vietnam’s music scene as a rap star. Be sure to check out some of his tracks:

• Oi Gioi Oi
• The Charming Beast

In this episode, we explore 10 fascinating things about Vietnam that might surprise you, including: 

[00:02:59] (1) Surprising perceptions of Vietnam

[00:06:23] Cities worth exploring in Vietnam..

[00:15:08] (2) Pho variations in Vietnam.

[00:20:05] (3) Expect the unexpected in Vietnam.

[00:23:31] (4) Things are done differently in Vietnam.

[00:28:36] (5) Social media's impact on Vietnam.

[00:30:45] Train Street's social media impact.

[00:35:02] Ha Giang Province exploration.

[00:41:11] (6) Next big tourism attraction.

[00:46:03] (7) Vietnamese music festivals

[00:48:50] (8) Tinder scene and how to avoid scams

[00:52:27] (9) Pronouns and hierarchical addressing in Vietnam.

[00:57:09] (10) Ethnic diversity in Vietnam – where to find those 54 minority groups

[01:00:31] Respecting local cultures in Vietnam.

[01:04:45] Value for money in Vietnam.

This episode offers a fresh take on Vietnam’s culture, quirks, and evolving identity, making it a must-listen for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers. Start your 2025 journey with new insights and a deeper appreciation for this dynamic country. Link to Ian's favourite Pho restaurant in Hanoi TBA.

Thanks for listening and don’t forget to reach out via “message speak” on our website or via email if you have any questions.

Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to whataboutvietnam@gmail.com 
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 

Today we take a peek into one of the worlds most famous cave systems located in Phong Nha National Park.

Characterized by mountains, tropical forests and underground rivers, it’s known for its ancient limestone karsts and vast network of caves including the world-famous Son Doong Cave, the largest Cave in the world.

After talking with my guest today, I think you will be convinced there is a lot more than meets the eye about this place. A place you just have to experience to believe it.

Please let me introduce you to my guest today, Ben Mitchell. 
Ben lives with his wife and family in the historical region of Cu Nam Village just outside of the main town of Phong Nha. A more down to earth Aussie guy you’d never meet. And one who has had front row seats to the development of the region over the last 10 years.

The caves are so new that information has up until now been a bit scant, and focused on reaching the ardent trekker, explorer and high adrenalin super fit traveller. 

What you will love about this episode is how Ben demystifies the urban myth that you have to be the super-fit traveller to enjoy the caves and the National Park. He breaks the caves down into types, which helps us understand what skills you need for each one. If any.

Ben has a lot to share. And I can’t give it all away here. You will just have to listen for yourself.

Ben and his wife have lived in Phong Nha since 2010, and during that time they have built their own homestay called Phong Nha Farmstay. It’s a cosy homestay with all the traditional elements you will come to love in Vietnam, with some highly desirable creature comforts, including a swimming pool looking over a perfect vista of rice paddy fields; a spa and bar pouring the perfect gin and tonic after a busy day exploring.

Since living in the region Ben has become very active working with major tour groups like Oxalis and local operators, to boost tourism to the area, including working with others to build luxury accommodations to attract a more discerning long stay traveller. You might like to also check out the Victory Road Villas which he and a friend built in 2017.

Stay tuned, for a truly valuable experience if you are keen to check out this region like I am.

If you would like to contact Ben, click on the link here https://phong-nha-cave.com/contact/

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https://whataboutvietnamtripplanning.buzzsprout.com/

Check out our website for further Traveller information, Tours, Tips, Hints and Experiences to consider. www.whataboutvietnam.com

Email me for further information. I am happy to help: whataboutvietnam@gmail.com

Please rate, review and share your thoughts through my Facebook page – I’d love to hear what you think. https://www.facebook.com/whataboutvietnam
 
Do you have a topic, destination or experience you would like featured on the show? Email me now - whataboutvietnam@gmail.com 

Phong Nha, more than just caves!

Check out the following accommodation links Ben mentions in the show.

PNKBVillas - https://www.pnkbvillas.com/

VISITPHONGNHA-  https://www.visitphongnha.com/about/

PHONG-NHA-CAVE - http://phong-nha-cave.com/

VICTORYROADVILLAS - http://www.victoryroadvillas.com/

 You Tube Channel 

- Ben Phong Nha Embassy

Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to whataboutvietnam@gmail.com 
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Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam  - See our Travel Services

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Inspired by love, this episode focuses on Vietnam as an idyllic wedding destination. 
Despite Covid, brides and grooms are invited to hold out for their dream wedding and consider Vietnam in 2021 /22 as the perfect location.
In this episode, I speak with Nadine Zeigeldorf, a wedding planner who elaborates on the kinds of things a wedding program can include to make the event incredibly special.  

Imagine a beautiful sunset and beach wedding. Fabulous tasty food. Chilled long stem glasses overflowing with bubbly served to you while curling your toes in the sand. 

After listening to this episode you will find yourself easily transported mentally into the romanticism of a 16th-century old town, or atop a mountain staring aimlessly at the amazing views of a Unesco World Heritage bay.

As a wedding events manager of her own events company for 10 years, Nadine has a wealth of knowledge to share and a vested interested in making the wedding program, everything the bride and groom want it to be. 
You are going to want to get married after you listen to this episode and you are certainly going to want to plan it in Vietnam.

If you would like to contact Nadine and access her services, click on the link here:-https://vietnambeachweddings.com/
SUBSCRIBE to this Podcast.  It's FREE  - (this way you get notified when a new episode is published, usually every fortnight), rate, review and share my podcast with any of your friends or fellow travelers who are considering a visit to this beautiful country.

Choose your favourite channels - Apple, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Iheart Radio -
https://whataboutvietnamtripplanning.buzzsprout.com/

Check out our website for further Traveller information, Tours, Tips, Hints and Experiences to consider. www.whataboutvietnam.com

Email me for further information. I am happy to help: whataboutvietnam@gmail.com

Please rate, review and share your thoughts through my Facebook page – I’d love to hear what you think. https://www.facebook.com/whataboutvietnam

Do you have a topic, destination or experience you would like featured on the show? Email me now - whataboutvietnam@gmail.com 

Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to whataboutvietnam@gmail.com 
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 

Hoi An hits your visitor radar! Again. You have limited time, and you want to know what are the best things to see and do in Hoi An? 
Who do you trust to give you the best advice? Give me a local anytime?
I love to get the unfabricated, hidden gems, and the inside story from a local. A local Expat is even better, as most likely they have similar tastes, and  standards, maybe even expectations; and there isn't the language or translation barrier to overcome.
Today's episode is a gift. I guarantee you, you will be transported by Sharon Sweeney to those Top 10 things to enjoy in Hoi An, over and over again in your mind. Even before you set foot in Vietnam. 
A well-traveled lady, Sharon is one of the founding partners of Hoi An Now, a trusted website and resource for visitors and locals. Sharon offers up her best suggestions and vivid descriptions of the experiences you can have. It is a feast for the senses!
Sharon joins the program as a talented storyteller, writer, publisher, actor, teacher and journalist. You will resonate with her instantly.
If you would like to know more about Hoi An, please get in touch and I will be happy to plan your trip and local experiences.

Please note the website hoiannow.com referenced in the show is no longer operational.

SUBSCRIBE to this Podcast.  It's FREE (this way you get notified when a new episode is published, usually every fortnight), rate, review and share my podcast with any of your friends or fellow travelers who are considering a visit to this beautiful country.

You can listen on any of your favourite channels - Apple, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Iheart Radio

Check out our website for further Traveller information, Tours, Tips, Hints and Experiences to consider. www.whataboutvietnam.com

Email me for further information. I am happy to help: whataboutvietnam@gmail.com

Please rate, review and share your thoughts through my Facebook page – I’d love to hear what you think. https://www.facebook.com/whataboutvietnam

Do you have a topic, destination or experience you would like featured on the show? Email me now - whataboutvietnam@gmail.com 

Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to whataboutvietnam@gmail.com 
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 

Who doesn't want to take great photos of their trip to Vietnam??
If you are keen to visit Vietnam, chances are you have already seen some amazing pictures. I know myself, the pictures had me inspired from the start. The scenery is often breathtaking, and the people are gorgeous. One of the things you will learn to love about your visit to Vietnam is that the people are super friendly, and very welcoming. However, taking photos of them is an art, and one my guest today will explain to us, as his speciality, and love, is people photography.
In this episode, you will meet Etienne Bossot a French professional photographer living in Hoi An, who makes the art of travel photography his business.
Etienne shares with us his local knowledge gathered over 8 years of living in Hoi An and his best tips for taking great photos. Folks, we are getting FREE tips from the master as he takes us around this fascinating country.

Stay tuned for his "Top 5 photography locations in Vietnam" These are the places to go, to get those amazing photos. your friends and family will be drooling over and wishing they were with you!

If you are a professional photographer or like many of us, a rogue amateur, you will love this episode.

Find out more about Etienne and his tours, by popping over to his website here at https://www.picsofasia.com/ or https://www.hoianphototour.com/

Please SUBSCRIBE to this Podcast.  It's FREE (this way you get notified when a new episode is published, usually every fortnight), rate, review and share my podcast with any of your friends or fellow travellers who are considering a visit to this beautiful country.

You can listen on any of your favourite channels - Apple, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Iheart Radio

Check out our website for further Traveller information, Tours, Tips, Hints and Experiences to consider. www.whataboutvietnam.com

Email me for further information. I am happy to help: whataboutvietnam@gmail.com

Please rate, review and share your thoughts through my Facebook page – I’d love to hear what you think. https://www.facebook.com/whataboutvietnam

Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to whataboutvietnam@gmail.com 
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 

Today we delve a little deeper into the cultural side of Vietnam as we traverse an area where many of the minority groups still live, as they have done for many hundreds of years. 

Our program today takes us to a place called Mai Chau, Located in the Hoa Binh Province, about 135 Kms or 3 hours drive from Hanoi. 

We get to explore this rustic location with my guest traveler Cynthia Mann who managed to complete a trip there recently when the Covid-19 Lockdowns were suspended and travel was open to locals and ex-pats.

Cynthia chats with us about the amazing villages in the area, home to the ethnic Thai and Hmong people. Due to Cynthia’s main business being in textile and design, she will talk to us about the vibrant local markets such as Muong and Pa Co Markets. Here, you can find traditional colourful handicraft products made using skills developed and passed down over many generations. We find out there is much to learn about those amazing handwoven scarves and bedspreads we see in our travels throughout Vietnam. 

Mau Chau is a surprising delight. Not as overrun with tourists, as in places like Sapa, and offers a very authentic view of local village life. Surrounded by beautiful forests, and a major reservoir with its own sense of beauty, you will be charmed by this little idyllic location and Cynthia's experience.

Cynthia highly rated a new place to stay called Mai Chau Hideaway – details here if you are interested - http://maichauhideaway.com/

I mention a very lovely Eco Lodge which I stayed at and highly recommend for its location, quality of rooms and views - https://maichau.ecolodge.asia/

Cynthia Operates a gorgeous textile designer showroom in Hanoi – Called Future Traditions and you can find all her details here. Pop in or order online through her Facebook page here ;- https://www.facebook.com/FutureTraditions/

Please SUBSCRIBE to this Podcast.  It's FREE (this way you get notified when a new episode is published, usually every fortnight), rate, review and share my podcast with any of your friends or fellow travellers who are considering a visit to this beautiful country.

Check out our website for further Traveller information, Tours, Tips, Hints and Experiences to consider. www.whataboutvietnam.com

Email me for further information. I am happy to help: whataboutvietnam@gmail.com

Please rate, review and share your thoughts through my Facebook page – I’d love to hear what you think. https://www.facebook.com/whataboutvietnam

Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to whataboutvietnam@gmail.com 
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 

Vietnam has so much to offer the tourist. You have all heard this said before!
However, not all of its lively cities, or tranquil beaches, are played out in mainstream media or travel guides.
Tam Ky is the capital of Quang Nam ( The same province Hoi An is located in) and Tam Thanh Beach are two of those places the tourist's HAVEN'T overrun or for that matter know much about.
Meet Sander Seymour, my guest, today on the program. A fun American guy who came to Vietnam over 4 years ago, and try as he did, couldn't leave, He literally fell in love. With Vietnam and a lovely local girl from Tam Ky.
Sanders joins me today as he runs a consultancy business advising the hospitality and tourism industry in the region. He is the person in the know.  To find out more what Sander does, you can reach him here:- https://www.facebook.com/keywayconsulting/
Sit tight as Sander takes us through some of the history of the region, and what a tourist should expect on a visit.
This could be your 'sneaky' best-kept secret when you come to Vietnam. Stay tuned.
Some key links Sander mentioned in the Episode:-
You-Retreat - https://www.facebook.com/pg/youretreatvietnam/posts/
The Mural Village - https://www.facebook.com/tamthanhmuralvillage/
The Heroic Mother Monument - A must to visit  http://english.quangnam.gov.vn/CMSPages/BaiViet/Default.aspx?IDBaiViet=4566&fbclid=IwAR0o6QB7jzBnR5_LbLekAH55kqzbqBLwpS1KwNG_bzt-i3qaYV-easqmWsY
Baco Boutique Hotel recommended by Sander - https://en.bacoboutiquehotel.com.vn/?fbclid=IwAR1Hs2Kgie9zjAeo8aw7SSg_yaFENv4_S3DQ9HRmu0QRu8rHZbxrq585i7M
Moung Thanh Hotels recommended by Sander - http://grandquangnam.muongthanh.com/en/home.html?fbclid=IwAR3g01LU8phjENoFLYWld9g-gOFLXbz3oIBT6675OY7UwgdFAxvTjmyNA_w
Tam Than Beach Resort and Spa - https://www.expedia.com.au/Tam-Ky-Hotels-Beach-Hotel.0-0-d6347736-tBeachHotel.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels
Please SUBSCRIBE, it's FREE ( this way you get notified when a new episode is published, usually every fortnight), rate, review and share my podcast with any of your friends or fellow travelers who are considering a visit to this beautiful country.

Check out our website for further Traveller information, Tours, Tips, Hints and Experiences to consider. www.whataboutvietnam.com

Email me for further information. I am happy to help: whataboutvietnam@gmail.com

Please rate, review and share through my Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/whataboutvietnam

Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to whataboutvietnam@gmail.com 
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 Vietnam family-friendly? The answer is a resounding YES.
Our guest today, Suzie Slingsby shares with us her tips from the many trips she has done to Vietnam with her husband and daughter Bella, who is now 8 years old.
If you are thinking about Vietnam, but not sure if the kids will enjoy it and have plenty to do that's fun and affordable? Then you are going to love this episode.
In my chat with Suzie we cover off some of those most asked questions:- Is it safe? Is it expensive? Is it culturally too diverse? What about the food?
You will hear what Bella rated as her best things to do!  And Suzie shares some insights into what parents should consider when they travel to Vietnam with a young family.
Let this be the beginning of your research into Vietnam as a great destination to take a family.

Suzie talks about the Hoi An Memories show - see my blog link here https://www.whataboutvietnam.com/post/hoi-an-impression-cultural-show-a-hit

Please SUBSCRIBE, it's FREE ( this way you get notified when a new episode is published, usually every fortnight), rate, review and share my podcast with any of your friends or fellow travelers who are considering a visit to this beautiful country.

Check out our website for further Traveller information, Tours, Tips, Hints and Experiences to consider. www.whataboutvietnam.com

Email me for further information. I am happy to help: whataboutvietnam@gmail.com

Please rate, review and share through my Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/whataboutvietnam

Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to whataboutvietnam@gmail.com 
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