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Ever wondered what it’s like to set foot in Vietnam for the first time? 

Is the hype real? Or is it more like overload and no one is really talking about it.

In this episode of What About Vietnam, I’m joined by Meghann – one half of the travel blogging duo behind The Grahlife – as she shares her and her husband Zach’s first impressions of Vietnam during their adventure in March 2025.

From landing in Hanoi to trekking the famous Son Doong Cave, Meghann walks us through the culture shock, the sensory overload, and the unexpected joys that came with their first time in the country. 

We don’t just cover the obvious stuff, we talk about:

• Navigating the infamous traffic (Zach famously declared: "I was born for this!" after only his second street-crossing),
• Ordering local dishes with curiosity and courage as Meghann is Celiac.
• Experiencing the kindness and compassion of the Vietnamese people, unexpected!
• And reflecting on the powerful legacy of Vietnam’s war history and its place in the modern-day tourist landscape.
• Plus the best take away souvenirs you’d never think of! 

This is a candid, light hearted, and insightful conversation about the magic of those first encounters – the planning that went right, and the planning that didn't, the sights, the flavours, the energy – that make Vietnam such an unforgettable destination.

Whether you're seeking inspiration for your next big adventure or simply want to arrive prepared, this episode offers honest insights to help you travel smarter and more confidently.

🎧 Listen now on your favourite podcast platform and don’t forget to check out the The Grah Life to follow Meghan and Zach’s journey’s and their adventure discovering Son Doong.

The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email.

Thank you for listening. Do not send TEXT as I am unable to respond directly. Please email [email protected]
Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
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Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services

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Let’s get real about travel planning to Vietnam.

If you're heading to Vietnam, there’s one big decision you’ll need to make early on:
Should you join a packaged group tour… or plan your own trip?
Do you map it out yourself—or get expert help?

This isn’t a simple yes-or-no answer. It’s one of the most personal choices you’ll make in your travel planning—and one that can completely shape how you experience Vietnam.

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on both options, sharing the honest pros and cons, and helping you figure out which style fits you best.
No fluff, no sales pitch—just personal and professional insights from years of experience as both a traveller and a travel advisor to Vietnam.

Because I consider this decision one of the biggest you’ll make in setting the tone for your trip, I break down these key elements:

• The structure and convenience of group tours—and when they shine
• The freedom and deeper connection that individually planned travel can offer
• Why group tours can sometimes feel like a blur of bucket-list stops
• The trade-offs of a tightly scheduled itinerary versus one you design yourself (or with guidance)
• Real talk: what people loved (and didn’t) about both styles

If you follow this show, you’ll know from other episodes: the best trips happen when your travel style matches who you are. 

Whether that’s with a group or through your own custom plan—choose what fits you.

I truly believe that if you give Vietnam the thought it deserves, it will give you everything you’re looking for—and more.

Link to Food and Textiles Sml Group tour spoken about on show - https://www.brunswickkitchen.com.au/food-and-fabric-tours-vietnam-2025-2026

The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email.

Thank you for listening. Do not send TEXT as I am unable to respond directly. Please email [email protected]
Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
We'd love a review on your podcast channel.
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

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Get ready to discover a side of Vietnam that remains largely unknown to most Western visitors

Vietnam’s northern provinces hold secrets beyond the usual tourist trail—and in this episode, we go “church hunting” to uncover them. Joined by my returning guest, Ha (Hannah) from S5-E18 – Hanoi Below the Surface, we explore the stunning Catholic heritage in regions like Ninh Binh and Nam Dinh.

With roots dating back to the 16th century and flourishing during French colonial times, Catholicism in Vietnam has left behind a breathtaking legacy of Gothic cathedrals, convents, and monasteries. We visit iconic sites like Phú Nhai Basilica and Bùi Chù Cathedral, as well as hidden gems like the Chau Son Monastery. All in flourishing communities.

Ha shares her local insights and personal reflections as we trace the footsteps of history through quiet villages brimming with faith, architectural wonder, and community spirit. If you thought Vietnam was only temples and beaches—prepare to be surprised. These soulful spaces welcome all who seek beauty, history, and a deeper connection to place.

The Churches we visited in our trip are listed below. I urge you to go to the Podcast episode for pictures and video of our journey;- www.whataboutvietnam.com

Church 1 -Bui Chu Cathedral 

Church 2 - Phu Nhai Basilica 

Church 3 - Kien Lao Church.

Church 4 - Hung Nghia Church 

Church 5 – Chau Son Monastery

Church 6 - Phat Diem Stone Cathedral 

I also encourage you to check out this newly released book on churches in Vietnam by Peter Steinhauer - Cathedrals

The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email.

Thank you for listening. Do not send TEXT as I am unable to respond directly. Please email [email protected]
Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
We'd love a review on your podcast channel.
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

Reach out via email - I'd love to hear from you

If you've ever felt put off by wellness retreats that seem more like boot camps — all strict schedules, silent meals, and mandatory sunrise yoga — then this episode is for you.

Join me as I broadcast from the tranquil grounds of Namia River Retreat in Hoi An, where wellness takes on a much more inclusive, luxurious, and deeply personal meaning. In this episode, I sit down with Michelle Ford, GM of Namia and CEO of Lumina Wellbeing, and Dien Pham, Director of Sales and a holistic wellness practitioner in her own right.

Together, we unpack what wellness travel really looks like in Vietnam — and why it's gaining serious momentum.

We talk:

• Why Hoi An is fast becoming a wellness destination (think: beach TRX, vitamin C IV drips, traditional herbal therapy, and no-fuss spa treatments that actually relax you)
• The evolving post-pandemic demand for retreats that prioritise well-being without the rigidity
• What makes Namia’s approach to wellness more about "Inclusive wellness" and less about rules
• Why travellers are sleeping better here — and not just because of the mattresses
• And how Vietnam is carving out its own path in wellness tourism, distinct from its Southeast Asian neighbours

Whether you’re curious about #wellness travel, craving a proper reset, or just want to explore Vietnam in a way that nourishes your mind and body — this episode has something for you.

Tune in now to hear how Vietnam is redefining retreat life — without the hard edges.

The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email.

Thank you for listening. Do not send TEXT as I am unable to respond directly. Please email [email protected]
Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
We'd love a review on your podcast channel.
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

Reach out via email - I'd love to hear from you

Hoi An continues to enchant—and in 2025, it feels overflowing, more layered, and more revealing than ever. That’s why I’ve chosen to revisit one of my most loved conversations on the show—this time with a fresh perspective, and a few heartfelt reflections from my recent trip.

You’ll hear from the delightful Sharon Sweeney, a long-time visitor to Hoi An who once co-created the popular website and map guide HoiAnNow (now retired). Sharon still returns regularly, drawn—as so many of us are—by the town’s old-world charm and enduring spirit.

As Hoi An grows in popularity, it’s evolving in ways that bring both beauty and complexity. With more international travellers comes more diversity, yes—but also more crowds, rising prices, and the ongoing challenge of preserving tradition in a fast-changing world.

In this updated intro, I reflect on my ow personal observations, what’s new, what’s shifting, and what still stops me in my tracks and gives me great joy. This episode isn’t only about ticking 10 boxes ( as per the original show back in 2021 - S2-07)—it’s about finding your rhythm in Hoi An, one authentic experience at a time.

Stay curious, stay open—and let’s rediscover the heart of Hoi An together.

The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email.

Thank you for listening. Do not send TEXT as I am unable to respond directly. Please email [email protected]
Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
We'd love a review on your podcast channel.
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

Reach out via email - I'd love to hear from you

Join me as we uncover Ha Giang, Vietnam’s breathtaking last frontier, with Ying, a local Black H’mong guide, who shares insider tips and cultural insights for an unforgettable adventure! 

If you have ever considered venturing into this part of the country, then this episode is one NOT to miss. ( Please forgive some of the local background sounds)

Key takeaways:-

1. The Ha Giang Loop time allowance – How long do you need for your adventure through stunning valleys, waterfalls, and cultural sites like Lung Cu and Ma Pi Leng Pass. 
2. Best Time to Visit – Times of the year, and days of the week. From September to November, the golden rice terraces are at their most beautiful. Cooler temperatures make this the ideal season for trekking and sightseeing. Find out more.
3. Cultural Immersion – Ying talks us through engagement with ethnic communities; traditional farming practices, and the joy of a communal hotpot meal.
4. Guided vs. Independent Travel – The Pros and cons. The value of a local guide in managing language, safety, navigation, and cultural understanding. Options exist for all fitness levels.

Approx Time stamps:

 00:00:00 –Where is Ha Giang
 00:01:06 - Guest Introduction: Ying
 00:01:26 - Ying's Background and Early Life
 00:12:06 - Common Questions from Tourists
 00:15:24 - Recommended Duration for Ha Giang Loop
 00:16:27 - Modes of Transportation
 00:18:50 - Licensing and Safety for Motorbike Riders
 00:20:00 -Day 1 Itinerary
 00:20:40 -Accommodation Options: Hotel vs. Homestay
 00:22:10 - Day 2/3/4 Itinerary
 00:26:18 - Suitable Travelers - Fitness and Health Considerations
 00:29:17 - Packing Tips
 00:35:06 -Local Cuisine
 00:36:09 -Best Days of the week to Visit & why 

 Reach out to Ying’s website: dragonmountainfamily.com Her WhatsApp number :+84338805995

The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email.

Thank you for listening. Do not send TEXT as I am unable to respond directly. Please email [email protected]
Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
We'd love a review on your podcast channel.
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

Reach out via email - I'd love to hear from you

A Thrilling Underground Adventure – Exploring the Tu Lan Cave System with Oxalis

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to swim through ancient caves, trek through dense jungle terrain, and uncover one of Vietnam’s most pristine underground worlds, this episode is your backstage pass.

In this episode of What About Vietnam, I sit down with my husband, Andrew Newsome, who is still riding the adrenaline rush from his once-in-a-lifetime expedition through the Tu Lan Cave system in Phong Nha, Vietnam. 

Led by the elite Oxalis Adventure team, this four-day trek pushed him to his limits, but he loved every minute. While he says it is both physically and mentally challenging— judge for yourself if you think your fitness and skills are up for it.

What to Expect in This Episode:

• What makes Tu Lan different from its famous cousin, Son Doong
• The fitness factor – Who is this expedition really for? Can a regular traveler take on the challenge?
• Would you consider this kind of outdoor experience in Vietnam?– Jungle treks, river crossings, and nights under the stars
• What does the experience of swimming through caves feel like?– 
• Flawless organization – How Oxalis delivers world-class safety, guidance, and an unforgettable experience
• Food in the wild – Yes, even in the middle of the jungle, the meals were next level

This is not just another travel story. This is an adventure that redefines what’s possible in Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes. In all our years of visiting this country, rarely has anything impressed my husband this much—and that says a lot.

If you're an adventure seeker, nature lover, or someone looking for an epic bucket-list experience, this episode will leave you lacing up your trekking boots to start training, and itching to book your own Tu Lan expedition.

Tune in now, and let’s dive into the adventure of a lifetime. 

[00:04:28] Caving expedition motivation.

[00:07:41] Fitness levels for jungle trekking.

[00:10:15] Expedition planning and organization.

[00:16:30] Hiking through jungle terrain.

[00:21:07] Organised adventure in Vietnam.

[00:22:51] Delicious Vietnamese jungle food.

[00:27:15] The beauty of the caves.

To book tour Andrew did is here.

Find out more from Howard Limbert who inspired Andrew to go. 

The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email.

Thank you for listening. Do not send TEXT as I am unable to respond directly. Please email [email protected]
Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
We'd love a review on your podcast channel.
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

Reach out via email - I'd love to hear from you

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.

The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email.

Thank you for listening. Do not send TEXT as I am unable to respond directly. Please email [email protected]
Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
We'd love a review on your podcast channel.
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

Reach out via email - I'd love to hear from you

With Tet just around the corner, this episode is your ultimate guide to preparing for Vietnam’s most vibrant and culturally rich celebration—don’t miss it!

Tet, or Tet Nguyen Dan, is Vietnam’s most cherished holiday, marking the Lunar New Year with vibrant traditions, family gatherings, and a festive spirit. This magical time lasts over nine days, featuring rituals like home cleaning, flower displays, and the gifting of red envelopes. Being prepared is the difference between acceptance and frustration.

It's like that old saying “Why didn’t someone tell me about this”? 

In this episode, I’ll walk you through the must-know details to navigate Tet in Vietnam, from the bustling pre-holiday atmosphere to the travel challenges you might face. Whether it’s cultural highlights or practical tips, this quick guide has you covered to make the most of your trip during this unique celebration.

Join me as I share 8 essential tips to help you plan your Tet adventure and leave you with a thought-provoking question: With this newfound insight, is Tet in any year, the right time for your Vietnam journey? 

 00:02:14 - Introduction to Tet
 00:03:09 - Common Questions About Tet
 00:03:29 - Understanding Tet: Duration and Importance
 00:05:06 - Travel Considerations During Tet
 00:06:21 - Is Tet a Good Time for Tourists?
 00:08:09 - What's Open and What's Not During Tet
 00:09:57 - Significance of the Zodiac Animal for the Year
 00:11:03 - Summary of Common Tet Questions
 00:12:29 – 8 Tips for Travelers During Tet
 00:17:23 - Post-Tet Travel in Vietnam

I wish to take this opportunity to wish everyone happy holidays and a Merry Christmas.

Thank you for being such a wonderful audience.

See you back here in January 2025.

Thank you for listening. Do not send TEXT as I am unable to respond directly. Please email [email protected]
Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
We'd love a review on your podcast channel.
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

Reach out via email - I'd love to hear from you

If you have the chance to spend a little extra time in Saigon (aka Ho Chi Minh City), you're in for far more than just the usual sightseeing—it’s a whole new adventure! 

Join me In this lively episode, as I chat with Matt Cowan, an expat of 15 years, travel aficionado, and fellow podcaster, as we uncover the hidden gems that only reveal themselves to those willing to go off the beaten path.

Saigon is a city of contrasts, and we recorded this episode in one of its iconic French restaurants, The Refinery. Amidst laughs and our Aussie kinship, Matt shares what casual visitors often miss: the charm of historical cafes, the character of local bars, and the richness of local districts. Beyond the motorbikes and bustling streets lies a city with a unique rhythm and soul.

Join us for a humorous and insightful journey that shows Saigon is more than a stopover—it’s a city worth savoring.

Please enjoy some of the topics we managed to cover during the show.

 00:07:03 - Exploring Saigon's Hidden Gems
 00:12:47 - Nightlife and Expat Hangouts
 00:14:06 - Saigon's Evolution and Modernization
 00:18:10 - French Colonial Influence in Modern Cafes and Bars
 00:20:05 - Exploring Historic Apartment Buildings
 00:25:28 - The Opera House
 00:27:47 - Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours
 00:31:04 - Exploring Japantown and Chinatown
 00:40:04 - Motorbike Tours in Saigon
 00:41:08 - Historic Dining Locations
 00:45:06 - Best Time to Visit Saigon
 
Links as mentioned for you to explore further:-

Continental Hotel video  (The Bureau Asia YouTube Channel)

https://youtu.be/YBqwIGvOuXw?si=lYVTgbhtjT5kRTR_

 Cho Lon Self-Guided Walk 

https://thebureauasia.substack.com/p/cho-lon-self-guided-morning-walk

 The best places to EAT, PLAY, LOVE in HCMC in 2024 - 25 Things to Do in HCMC video

https://thebureauasia.com/2024/03/30/the-best-places-to-eat-play-love-in-ho-chi-minh-city-in-2024/

 Then & Now - Saigon 20 Years On (The Bureau Asia Podcast)

https://podcasts.apple.com/vn/podcast/then-now-saigon-20-years-on/id1478396971?i=1000656875461

 The Bureau Asia Facebook Group

The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email.

Thank you for listening. Do not send TEXT as I am unable to respond directly. Please email [email protected]
Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
We'd love a review on your podcast channel.
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