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"In Hue, you’re never more than 15 minutes away from nature, history, or a great meal." – Brad Hirsch

Talking with Brad was an absolute highlight to start A Vietnam Podcast Season 12. Hearing about his journey, his deep love for Hue City, and the way he has immersed himself in the culture and community was truly inspiring. 

This episode reminded me why Vietnam has such a magnetic pull on people from all walks of life. Brad’s passion for Hue’s natural beauty, its fascinating history, and its rich culinary traditions brought the city to life in a way that makes me want to pack my bags and head there immediately. 

It’s episodes like this that reignite my love for this incredible country and remind me there’s always more to discover. – Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways

1. The Hue Citadel and Royal Recipes
   • Experience Vietnam’s rich imperial history at the Citadel. Hue’s royal cuisine features dishes inspired by its emperors.
2. Nature Adventures in Hue
   • Discover Bach Ma National Park, home to Vietnam’s tallest waterfall and rare bird species. 
3. Unique Culinary Delights
   • Try Bun Hen, a local specialty made from tiny clams harvested from the Perfume River. 
4. Unmissable Boat Rides
   • Take a serene boat ride on the Perfume River, perfect for families and nature lovers. 
5. Hidden Gems: Brackish Water Ecosystem
   • Explore brackish lagoons near Hue for a unique blend of salt and freshwater ecosystems. 

Chapters and Timestamps

01:50 - Brad shares his story of moving to Vietnam and falling in love with Hue.
06:50 - Hue’s Underrated Charm
10:10 - Adventures in Bach Ma National Park
15:00 - Biking and Brackish Water Ecosystems
19:00 - The Citadel and Royal Recipes
25:40 - Tips for Visiting Hue
31:20 - Comparing Cities: Hue vs. Saigon and Hanoi
37:30 - Hue’s Culinary Delights
42:50 - Why Hue deserves a place on every Vietnam traveler’s bucket list.

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Every time we've been to Da Lat, we've been probably six times and you can always find something different to do - Adrie

There's so much depth to what you can do in Da Lat that people don't initially realize. Even after five visits, we're still discovering new experiences - from unexplored coffee shops to sunrise cloud hunting adventures. 

What's fascinating about Da Lat is its versatility - while the city center and night market might get crowded, especially during holidays, the moment you venture out on a bike, you discover this whole other world. 

The contrast between being in the busy center and finding peaceful spots just a short ride away is remarkable. I think both tourists and expats in Saigon don't fully appreciate just how much Da Lat has to offer.
- Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways:

- Most expats who've visited rate Da Lat highly, but many tourists might not even know about it.
- Temperature difference between day and night is dramatic - visitors should always pack a jacket.
- Da Lat is notably dog-friendly and offers various activities from cable cars to flower gardens.
- The night market, while popular, is considered the least appealing aspect of Da Lat.

Chapters and Timestamps:
01:00 - Initial Ratings Discussion 
04:00 - Weather and Climate Insights 
06:00 - Food and Drink Spots 
08:00 - Activities and Attractions 
11:00 - Night Market Discussion 
13:00 - Final Thoughts and Ratings 
15:00 - Holiday Season Discussion 

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“Saigon’s energy makes you feel ten years younger—it’s like being awake for the first time in years.” - Niall Mackay

One of the things I love to do the most is take visitors to District 4 - the most “dangerous” district in Saigon!

District 4 is real, raw, and gritty and it’s so different from the rest of Saigon.

Walking or riding through the backstreets of District 4, seeing life spill out onto the roads, the markets, the food stalls—it’s like being thrown into the Saigon of the past.

In this episode I take Nick McGregor, a visitor to Saigon for the first time around District 4, on the back of my bike as I show him my favourite spots and what to do during a monsoon…

• Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways : 

• District 4's Transformation - What was once known as Saigon's most dangerous area is now a hub of local life and affordable street food.
• Street Food Gems - Fried rice cakes with egg (bột chiên), local juices, and strong Vietnamese coffee are must-tries!
• Cultural Observations - The chaos of Saigon’s streets and the unique rhythm of life—grandmas in pajamas, anyone?
• Safety in Saigon - While Saigon might feel chaotic, the city is incredibly safe with mostly opportunistic petty crimes.

Chapters and Timestamps:

06:30 – First impressions of Saigon: Hanoi on crack
13:45 – The gritty charm of District 4
21:10 – Street food break: Fried rice cakes & fresh juices
30:10 – Cultural quirks: Traffic, grandmas in pajamas, and Saigon’s rhythm
34:00 – Debunking myths: Is District 4 really dangerous?
37:00 – Conclusion: Saigon, the city that never sleeps

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 "It seems like everyone has a bike... In Singapore, where you don't have that much traffic and everyone's in a car, they will honk at literally everything." - Charlotte 

Visiting Cheo Leo—felt like stepping back in time—the oldest coffee shop in Saigon, reminded me of my first days in this city and how much I’ve come to love its energy and culture. 

Navigating the crazy traffic, exploring the dense streets of District 4, and tasting that incredibly strong stocking coffee—it was like a time capsule of everything that makes Saigon unique. 

It’s chaotic, vibrant, and beautiful all at once, and sharing that experience with Charlotte made it even more special.

- Niall Mackay

 Key Takeaways:
* The Legacy of Cheo Leo - Learn about the oldest coffee shop in Saigon and its iconic “stocking coffee.”
* Navigating Saigon’s Streets - Why traffic in Vietnam flows like “water” and the art of smiling through chaos.
* The Old vs. New Saigon - Exploring how tradition and modernity collide in the heart of the city.
* The Expat Experience - Saigon as a “big college town” and the evolution of expat routines.
*Cultural Food Habits - From chicken feet to pho, a look at how food shapes local and expat perspectives.

Chapters:
02:00 – District 4: Past and Present
09:00 – Navigating the Chaos of Saigon Traffic
12:30 – Old vs. New Saigon: A Unique Blend
16:00 – Cheo Leo: The Oldest Coffee Shop in Saigon
24:00 – Expat Life in Vietnam: Adjusting to the Culture
26:00 – Vietnamese Food Habits: From Pho to Chicken Feet
30:00 – Reflections on Saigon and What’s Next

 --------------------- Comments & Community: I love hearing from you! Drop a comment below and let me know what you think about this video! Subscribe: If you enjoyed this video, make sure to subscribe for more episodes about life in Vietnam, food adventures, and insightful conversations. Follow On Insta: https://www.instagram.com/a_vietnam_podcast/ Website: avietnampodcast.com Join our community! Become a Bắp Xào Đâyer today with others who love Vietnam and love A Vietnam Podcast : https://www.patreon.com/AVietnamPodcast More About Me: I'm Niall Mackay, aka The Podcast Guy, founder of Seven Million Bikes Podcasts and host of a Vietnam Podcast. I love sharing my passion for podcasting and the incredible stories from Vietnam. Thanks for joining me on this journey! 

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This episode was such a joy to record because it felt like rediscovering Saigon all over again. Walking through the markets, tasting the local food, and getting lost in the buzz of Saigon with Kim, Adrie, and Lewis made me realize just how much this city has to offer. 

There’s a vibrant energy here, a mix of tradition and modernity that’s unique to Saigon. I love how you can go from a centuries-old market like Ben Thanh to a hidden Gen Z hotspot above the girly bars, or step from a crowded, chaotic street corner into a peaceful spot along the river. 

This city has quirks and charms that you wouldn’t expect until you see them yourself.

Saigon’s layers go deep—whether it’s the story behind the Opera House or the thrill of a $1 noodle soup at a street stall. Even after all these years, I’m constantly discovering new places, foods, and people. 

My hope is that this episode gives listeners a taste of that excitement and inspires them to step off the beaten path when they visit. Because the best parts of Saigon aren’t always on the map—they’re in the little moments, the street life, the contrasts that make this city such a one-of-a-kind experience.
- Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways:

• Ben Thanh Market: Discover local flavors and artisan goods at Saigon’s iconic market.
• Navigating Vietnamese Street Food: Essential dishes to try and how to enjoy them like a local.
• The Contrast of Shopping Options: From luxury malls to budget-friendly markets.
• Exploring Nguyen Hue Walking Street: A local hangout with a unique cultural atmosphere.
• Saigon’s Historic Sites: Insights into the city’s colonial architecture and cultural landmarks.

Chapters and Timestamps:

01:00 – Ben Thanh Market: A Glimpse into Saigon’s Local Scene
05:30 – Vietnamese Street Food: Dishes You Must Try
14:00 – Shopping in Saigon: From Markets to Malls
20:00 – Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Saigon’s Vibrant Heart
31:00 – Saigon’s Architectural Wonders: Post Office and Opera House
40:00 – Reflecting on Saigon’s Blend of Past and Present

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In this exciting episode of the Seven Million Bikes podcast, Adrie and I share our first-ever ride on the long-awaited Saigon Metro, a significant infrastructure development in Vietnam. 

We then dive into the electrifying atmosphere of watching the final football match between Vietnam and Thailand in the ASEAN Football Cup. 

As Vietnam secures a dramatic win, the episode captures the ensuing Đi bão celebration, illustrating the incredible national pride and festive chaos that envelops the city.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:10 Riding the Saigon Metro for the First Time
02:14 Vietnam's Football Fever
03:49 Exploring the City and Finding a Place to Watch the Game
11:09 The Thrilling Football Match
21:29 Celebrating Vietnam's Victory
21:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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"Efficiency, quality, and guest satisfaction—those should always come before flair." – Tyler

Saigon’s cocktail scene truly opened my eyes to see how dynamic and underrated it is. It’s fascinating to see how the city has evolved from humble street-side setups with plastic stools to becoming a budding hotspot for world-class mixology. 

Saigon’s charm lies in this juxtaposition of old and new—where you can enjoy a mojito for under 100k VND on a bustling street one moment and sip a perfectly crafted Negroni in a chic rooftop bar the next. It’s a testament to the city’s unique ability to blend tradition and innovation seamlessly.

Talking with Misha and Tyler gave me a deeper appreciation for the passion, creativity, and resilience that drive this industry. From the effort local bars put into earning spots on Asia’s prestigious cocktail lists to the hurdles of oversaturation and staying authentic, it’s clear that Saigon’s bartenders and owners are crafting more than just drinks—they’re shaping a culture. 

This episode was an eye-opener and a reminder that Saigon’s cocktail bars aren’t just places to grab a drink; they’re experiences that encapsulate the city’s essence.

Key Takeaways:

Saigon’s Cocktail Scene Evolution - From street cocktails on plastic stools to high-end mixology.

International Recognition - How Saigon bars are pushing to make Asia’s Top 50 list.

Quality Over Flair - The debate over efficiency and substance versus showmanship.

Diversity of Experiences - The charm of pairing rooftop cocktails with street-side mojitos.

Cost Perception - Why cocktail prices in Vietnam reflect more than just cheap living costs.

Chapters:

02:00 – The History of Saigon Cocktails
05:30 – Pushing for International Recognition
09:00 – Quality vs. Flair
12:30 – Rooftops, Street Bars, and Everything in Between
18:00 – Cost and Value in Saigon’s Bars
20:00 – Final Verdict: Underrated

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7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!

Support the show

This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.

If you would like to work with them too check out their website!

I embark on a challenge to find a satisfying, delicious lunch in Saigon for just $1—or 25,000 Vietnamese Dong. 

This episode is more than just a food hunt; it’s a snapshot of life in Vietnam, from the quirks of local health and safety practices to the enduring charm of friendly vendors. Along the way, I reflect on cultural differences and why Vietnam’s food scene is unbeatable—even when working with a tight budget.

– Niall Mackay

5 Key Takeaways
1.The $1 Lunch Hunt – Finding affordable meals in Saigon isn’t as easy as it seems. Inflation and rising costs are challenges even in the land of cheap eats. (00:01:00)
2.Local Favorites and Hidden Gems – Exploring options like bánh mì, cơm tấm, and other iconic dishes reveals what makes Vietnamese street food so special. (00:04:00)
3.A Lesson in Safety Culture – Witnessing tree-cutting practices and construction techniques in Vietnam highlights unique cultural approaches to risk. (00:07:00)
4.Bánh Mì Breakdown – A deep dive into the ingredients and the magic behind one of Vietnam’s most beloved dishes, the shredded chicken bánh mì. (00:12:00)
5.Cultural Connections Through Food – Reflecting on how Vietnamese people’s friendliness and passion for food make every dining experience unforgettable. (00:14:00)

Episode Chapters

00:00 – Introduction: The $1 Challenge and the Mission Behind It
02:00 – Exploring the Neighborhood for Cheap Eats
04:00 – Struggles and Success: The Unexpected Cost of Cheap Meals
07:00 – Cultural Insights: Observing Vietnam’s Health and Safety Practices
12:00 – Victory! The Perfect Bánh Mì and Its Delicious Story
14:00 – Reflections: Inflation, Food, and Vietnam’s Evolving Economy

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“Vietnam isn’t becoming Western; it’s becoming modern—on its own terms.”

Cedric’s journey is one of the most unique and inspiring stories I’ve ever had on the podcast. This episode completely blew me away. 

From being adopted by a French family and growing up across continents to returning to Vietnam and building his own business, Cedric embodies what it means to embrace every part of your identity while carving out your own path. His perspective on Vietnam’s rapid development, cultural pride, and the future of this incredible country left me reflecting deeply. 

It’s conversations like this that remind me why I started this podcast—to share stories that challenge perspectives and inspire listeners.

• Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways:

Cedric’s Adoption Story – Growing up as a Vietnamese adoptee in a French family shaped Cedric’s perspective on culture, identity, and belonging.
Vietnam’s Rapid Development – From motorbikes to malls, Cedric details how infrastructure and societal shifts have transformed Vietnam since 2016.
The Cultural Pride of Vietnam – Despite modernization, Cedric highlights how Vietnam retains its cultural roots and blends them with global influences.
The Work Ethic in Vietnam – Cedric and Niall discuss how Vietnamese people balance their hard work with a love for life and learning.
Vietnam’s Future Identity – Cedric shares his thoughts on Vietnam’s need to define its global role, whether as a tech hub, manufacturing center, or tourist destination.

Chapters & Timestamps:

01:00 - Adoption and Early Life – Cedric shares his adoption story, growing up with a French family, and living in Africa and Europe.
09:00 - Cultural Identity as a Third-Culture Kid – Cedric reflects on being a third-culture kid and navigating identity across cultures.
18:00 - Work Ethic and Culture – [00:18:00]
Niall and Cedric explore the hard-working yet fun-loving spirit of Vietnamese people.
22:00 - Returning to Vietnam – Why Cedric moved back to Vietnam in 2016 and his experience working in his family’s business.
28:00 - Vietnam’s Transformation – From infrastructure to lifestyle, Cedric discusses Vietnam’s rapid development over the past eight years.
34:00 - Vietnam’s Future on the Global Stage – Cedric shares his thoughts on Vietnam’s need to define its identity in manufacturing, technology, and tourism.

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7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!

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