By Kerry Newsome
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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
Key Points raised you won’t want to miss:-
Safety First
Licensing and Insurance
Travel Options
Best Routes and Experiences
Practical Tips
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
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
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
Send us a text
In this episode of the What About Vietnam podcast, I had the pleasure of uncovering Yen Bai and Tu Le—a region and destination resort I’d describe as a true “diamond in the rough” in Vietnam. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and minimal development, Yen Bai is perfect for those seeking tranquillity and a break from city life. Imagine being able to hear your own breath, surrounded by minimal noise and almost no traffic—just the occasional local cows and chickens.
My guest, Hylton Lipkin, the General Manager of Le Champ Tu Le Resort Hot Spring & Spa Yen Bai, provided an in-depth look at what makes this area so special. I stayed at his resort, the only one of its kind in the region, offering a luxury experience in what I am calling - the heart of nature. That is not to say there aren’t other types of Homestay options in the region, however for that kind of experience you might like to check out the show S3-E2
My journey from Hanoi to Yen Bai (being the province) was a comfortable 4.5 to 5-hour drive, making it a convenient escape for Hanoians. From my personal experience, I’d suggest a stay of at least 2 nights, so you can enjoy the surrounding walks, hotel facilities and relaxation.
Hylton highlighted nearby attractions like Mù Cang Chải,( 1.5hrs drive) famous for its terraced rice fields, and the unique cultural heritage of the Hmong, Thai, and Kinh people who inhabit the region. Well worth driving to for the amazing scenery around every corner.
We also discussed the local food delicacies and accommodation options at Le Champ Resort, from glamping-style rooms to luxurious bungalows. The resort offers a blend of comfort and natural beauty, with natural hot springs, an exhilarating 1 km zip line, and an infinity pool with stunning mountain views.
Hylton also mentioned a new property he manages in Mù Cang Chải called Garrya, set to open in August. This new destination will allow guests to explore both regions in one trip.
My thanks to Le Champ Tu Le Resort Hot Spring & Spa for sponsoring this episode and the Garrya property which is luxury and wellness on whole new level!
Reach out direct to receive special corporate rates valued up to 20% off R/Rates.
Email us today - [email protected]
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
Hey there, fellow adventurers! Today's episode comes straight from my recent Out & About escapade in Phong Nha, and let me tell you, it's a tale worth sharing – but we'll save that for another day. For now, I'm dedicating this special episode exclusively to families, because trust me, you're in for a delightful surprise once you discover all the incredible activities beyond the caves.
Believe me, you won't want to miss out on this "life-changing" experience – one kid even described it as "EPIC"!
Today, I have the pleasure of chatting with Ben Mitchell, an all-around family man and the mastermind behind the beloved Phong Nha Farmstay. Nestled in northern central Vietnam, Phong Nha is the perfect blend of rich history, cultural immersion, and unforgettable family fun. Plus, it's conveniently situated halfway between the bustling hubs of Hoi An and Hanoi, making it a an adventure in itself getting.
What makes Phong Nha truly shine is its breathtaking natural beauty, boasting stunning landscapes and mesmerizing limestone karsts just waiting to be explored. From cave tours to jungle treks, kayaking to river cruises, there's no shortage of adventures to be had here. And let's not forget about the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to some of the world's most jaw-dropping caves, including the legendary Son Doong Cave.
But wait, there's more! Beyond the caves, Phong Nha offers a plethora of activities like biking through picturesque countryside, discovering the charms of Bong Lai Valley, and soaking in the tranquil rural vibes of Vietnam. And lets not forget the Duck Stop. Trust me, the journey to these wonders is just as incredible as the destinations themselves, with each day trip offering a chance to learn, explore, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Phong Nha. Ben really opens up about the kinds of experiences he has witnessed families have during their stay. His tips for travellers are sheer GOLD.
Okay, it's time to seize the moment! Whether you're tuning in with your earbuds or blasting it through your stereo this weekend, get ready to be inspired.
Ooops - I nearly forgot to mention. Contact The Phong Nha Farmstay to book directly; mention this podcast, and receive - One FREE dinner for two adults at the Chefs Table- Mon/Wed/Friday.
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 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!
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
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:
I 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.
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
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
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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