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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]
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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
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Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services

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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
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Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services

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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
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Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services

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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]
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Let me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel Services

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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

https://www.facebook.com/groups/the

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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In this episode of What About Vietnam, we uncover a hidden gem: Vietnam’s rising reputation as a hotspot for affordable, high-quality dental and cosmetic procedures. My co-host Kelley shares her transformative facelift journey with a trusted hospital in Saigon, which combines expert dental and cosmetic care in one “one-stop shop.” So to speak!

Kelley’s uplifting experience goes beyond surgery—it’s a unique way to pair self-care with a holiday! With her personal tips and stories (and a few giggles along the way), you’ll learn the do’s and don’ts of medical tourism and why Vietnam is fast becoming a top destination in this space.

With Kelley’s personal story, along with another major dental patient’s experience during the same visit, we aim to share why, in our opinion, the Worldwide Dental and Beauty Hospital in Saigon stands out for its exceptional standards of care—and why we’re excited to serve as their introduction agency.

It's a "no holds barred" episode packed with insights that will make you see Vietnam in a whole new light. Plus, join our exclusive Facelifts and Dental Vietnam Facebook Group for more real-life stories and support.

Listen now and discover why Vietnam could be the perfect place to get the procedure you’ve always wanted—at a price you can afford—while turning the whole experience into a memorable holiday!
See more info here from the hospital and listen to more real life stories.
Check out our previous dental episode here:-  https://www.whataboutvietnam.com/series-2/episode-10/vietnam-dental-holiday---save-money-on-dental-while-on-your-holiday

Go to our website page here talking dental and our enquiry page for more info – (Facelift surgery page coming soon) https://www.whataboutvietnam.com/dental-travel-services

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

Send us a text

In this episode we delve into the vibrant yet often misunderstood city of Hanoi. While it is the capital, it often serves more as a transit point for travellers to visit other places like Halong Bay, Ninh Binh and Sapa. This is an opportunity to see Hanoi in a whole new light.
I hope you enjoy this insightful conversation with my close associate, Ha (Hannah), a proud Hanoian with deep roots in the city.

Spoiler Alert: In the show we don’t walk the well-trodden tourist paths of Hanoi.
We go below the surface to uncover its Christian background: Coffee culture, and the history behind the collective living quarters of Hanoi and how the Doi Moi period has shaped Hanoi and essentially the Vietnam you are visiting today.

00:05:31 - Update on Typhoon Yagi
00:12:00 - Discovering Hanoi Below the Surface
00:18:19 -  Catholic Heritage
00:22:15 -  Coffee Culture
00:34:03 - Collective Living Quarters in Hanoi
00:36:26 - The Doi Moi Period

Tours
Churches tour,  Please email me [email protected]

Yagi – Appeals

Links UNICEF - Blue Dragon

Link - The Collective living quarters

 Half a million coffee shops

https://en.vietnamplus.vn/vietnam-home-to-half-a-million-coffee-shops-post292030.vnp

Vietnam rises from deep poverty

Book  -The Bridge Generation of Việt Nam (Spanning Wartime to Boomtime)
Dau Thuy Ha & Nancy K Napier 

Other Hanoi Episodes - S3-E9, S4-E9, S4-E10,

Thank you to Jack Soloman Photography for his contribution.

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

Send us a text

Welcome to another thrilling episode of "What About Vietnam"! 

Today, we’re hitting the brakes for a moment to give you an insider’s glimpse into the exhilarating world of motorbiking around this stunning country. Join us as we explore essential safety tips and uncover unforgettable routes that will make your journey truly remarkable!

Guest Insights

• Ben Mitchell shares expert advice on navigating Vietnam's roads. His years of riding and local knowledge is gold.
• Chris Pantelli recounts his recent tour in northern Vietnam and shares with us his insights and new found passion for Vietnam.

Key Points raised you won’t want to miss:-
Safety First 

• Always wear a full-face helmet 
• Hear advice around the nuances of Vietnamese drivers – bike and car 

Licensing and Insurance

• Vietnamese motorbike licensing required for legal driving
• Fines for riding without a license
• Proper insurance coverage is crucial

Travel Options

• Guided tours vs. self-guided adventures
• Guided tour options for less experienced riders to Vietnam

Best Routes and Experiences

• Ho Chi Minh Highway for scenic views
• Northern Vietnam's stunning landscapes
• Exploring rural villages and fishing communities

Practical Tips

• Best times to travel in different regions
• Packing essentials for long rides

Whether you're an experienced rider or a curious traveller, motorbiking in Vietnam offers an unparalleled adventure. From the bustling cities to remote mountain passes, this mode of transport unlocks the true essence of Vietnam. 

Links to some tour companies, mentioned in the show

Ben’s Top 3 motorbike Tour Companies 

- OnyabikAdventures in Hoi An

- Easy Rider - - https://www.easy-riders.net/

- Adrenaline Rush Trail (ART) In Saigon

- Cuong’s Motorcycle Adventures. Cường is the original offroad outfit and the true King Of The North

Chris’s tour company mentioned:-

ADV motorcycle tours and dirt bike travel - https://www.dirtbiketravel.com/enduro-motorbike-tours

Self touring – Check out https://www.vietnamcoracle.com/

Awesome maps and local advice many riders swear by.

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

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No one travels these days without their phone. So, it makes sense to invest in some extra smartphone skills that can significantly enhance your travel experience if Vietnam.
In this show we arm you with some of the best Tech Tips and Apps to enhance your experience of Vietnam, including : staying in touch with family and friends back home; Not getting caught out with home country phone fees; saving money on tour costs: feeling confident about exploring outer regions, and finding a buddy may be a great way to enhance your stay.

In this podcast episode, I am joined by Michelle Chang from Intentional Travellers, a business offering tutorials in Smart phone upskilling for travel to countries all around the world. Through Michelle’s worldwide travel experiences she is able to explain the benefits of having these skills and how they can help travellers answer unexpected questions, deal with challenges, and navigate unfamiliar places more effectively. 

Michelle highlights the significance of using essential apps such as Google Maps, Google Translate, WhatsApp, and ride-sharing apps like Grab. Additionally, we cover;-

* Currency conversions Apps 
*Phone battery management 
*Making the best use of Google Maps
*Data management 
*The GRAB advantages
*Working remotely in Vietnam
*Online booking tools and Apps to get the best offers
*Using your phone to manage communication with tour operators

Moreover, the conversation on remote work in Vietnam highlights the robust internet connectivity and the extensive use of technology for business. Michelle notes the widespread availability of free Wi-Fi in cafes and co-working spaces. emphasizing the increasing appeal of digital nomadism. By utilizing smartphone modern technology, travelers can effortlessly integrate work with leisure, maintaining productivity while discovering new destinations.

Find out more about Michelle’s tutorials and online programs you can connect directly with her here - https://intentionaltravelers.com/

For a great experience with a buddy to help you enjoy local areas, business situations, translations and possibly medical appointments, why not book a Travel Buddy through https://www.tubudd.com/ Use the Promo code KERRYVN5 on the  TUBUDD App to receive 5% discount.

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