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VIETNAM

General Tip

Get an E-Visa: This visa issuer is pretty quick, but secure your visa at least a month before your trip. When filling out your personal information (PNR), "Surname" is your LAST NAME and "Given Name" is/are just your FIRST NAME and MIDDLE NAME (if you have one). Otherwise, your application will be amended for "incorrect full name." Trust me. :))

Hà Nội

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HANOI: Click here for my Google Maps list

Where to Stay

  • Hotel de l'Opera: A stylish hotel offering a mix of colonial charm and modern luxury.
     

What to Do / Sights to See

  • Old Quarter: Wander through narrow, bustling streets that each specialize in a particular trade, offering a lively glimpse into everyday life. It’s also a great area to try street food, shop for souvenirs, and soak in the city’s energy.Enjoy a gentle yoga session at a serene Buddhist temple by the Red River.

  • West Lake (Tây Hồ) & Tran Quoc Pagoda: Head to Hanoi’s largest lake for a tranquil escape. Visit the beautiful Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of the city’s oldest Buddhist temples.

  • Take a day trip to Halong Bay and see iconic sights, such as the Cock Fighting Island and Ba Hang Floating Village. Also, explore Sung Sot "Surprise Cave," a UNESCO-recognized wonder. Then cruise to Hang Luon "Luon Cave" where you can choose to kayak or take a bamboo boat ride.


Where to Drink

  • Nê Cocktail Bar: Inventive, locally-inspired cocktails.

  • Polite & Co.: Speakeasy vibe and sophisticated décor with a touch of old-world charm.

  • Mad Botanist: Herb-infused cocktails and unique concoctions, often highlighting Vietnamese ingredients. Plus rooftop setting overlooking the city.

  • The Haflington: An eclectic cocktail list that often includes quirky twists on classics

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Where to Eat

  • Bún Cá Sâm Cây Si: A humble, street-side establishment with plastic stools and a bustling local crowd, perfect for soaking in everyday Hanoi life. Located near the Old Quarter, it can be busy during peak meal times, so arriving early is recommended.

  • Bún Chả Hàng Quạt: Bún Chả (grilled pork with rice noodles and fresh herbs), often hailed as some of the best in the city. Tucked down a small alley in the Old Quarter, look for smoke and crowds to guide you.

  • Chả Cá Lã Vọng: Chả Cá (turmeric-marinated catfish fried tableside with dill and green onions), one of Hanoi’s most famous signature dishes. The original Chả Cá Lã Vọng restaurant is on Chả Cá Street, and while there are many imitations, the original is still considered the gold standard.

  • Refer to my Google Maps list for more recommendations since some are hard to find.

Huế

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HUE: Click here for my Google Maps list

Where to Stay

  • Azerai La Residence: A riverside retreat steeped in French colonial charm.


What to Do / Sights to See

  • Dong Ba Market: Wander through this vibrant local market to discover fresh produce, regional snacks, and traditional crafts. It’s an excellent place to pick up souvenirs and get a feel for daily life in Hue.

  • Imperial Citadel: Once the political and cultural center of the Nguyen Dynasty, this UNESCO-listed fortress features impressive palaces, pavilions, and courtyards. It’s a perfect introduction to Hue’s royal past.

  • Thai Hoa Palace (within the Citadel): The grand throne hall of the Nguyen emperors.

  • Thien Mu Pagoda: Perched on a hill overlooking the Perfume River, Hue’s oldest pagoda is an essential stop for understanding the spiritual side of this historic city.

  • Phuoc Tich Village: Venture beyond the city center to explore this 500-year-old riverside village, known for its traditional garden houses and rich pottery heritage.

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Where to Eat

  • Bún Bò Huế Sen: Their specialty is the classic Bún Bò Huế, a hearty, spicy beef noodle soup that’s a breakfast staple in the city.​

  • Cơm Hến Bé Liêm: Hến (baby clam rice), a Hue specialty featuring rice topped with sautéed baby clams, herbs, peanuts, and crispy pork rind, served with a flavorful broth.

  • Quán Hạnh: A variety of Hue’s signature small plates such as bánh bèo, bánh nậm, and bánh lọc—delicate steamed rice cakes and dumplings served with savory toppings. Don't leave without getting the passion fruit flan!

  • Chè Hẻm: Great Chè — Vietnamese dessert soups, puddings and beverages — made with ingredients like lotus seeds, beans, coconut milk, and seasonal fruits.

  • LAPH.QUỐC HỌC: Get the salted coffee!

Hội An

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HỘI AN: Click here for my Google Maps list

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Royal Hội An: A luxurious boutique hotel with a prime location.

 

What to Do / Sights to See

  • Drive the Hai Van Pass for stunning views en route to Hoi An.

  • Visit Hoi An’s Old Town and meet a local lantern craftsman.

  • Take a bike ride to Cam Thanh Village and experience a basket boat trip in the Water Coconut Palm Forest.

  • Explore Tra Que Village’s organic gardens and participate in farming activities.

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Where to Eat

  • Cam Coffee n More: Get the coconut coffee or salted coffee.

  • Vy’s Market Restaurant: Participate in cooking lessons and enjoy local dishes like bánh mì and Cao Lau.

  • Bánh Mì Phượng: Best banh mi ever!

  • Chè Bà Thọ: A humble, local dessert spot. Stopping by after dinner gives you a chance to experience Hội An’s evening street life.

Ho Chi Minh City

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HO CHI MINH CITY: Click here for my Google Maps list

Where to Stay

  • Hôtel des Arts Saigon: A chic, art-inspired hotel blending French colonial elegance with modern design.

 

What to Do / Sights to See

  • Explore the Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office to admire their French colonial architecture.

  • Visit the War Remnants Museum for an in-depth look at Vietnam's history.

  • Take a cyclo ride to iconic landmarks like the Opera House and City Hall.

  • Check out the Mekong Delta for a day trip featuring river cruises, local crafts, and village life.

  • The bustling Cai Be floating market and tranquil Tan Phong Island in the Mekong Delta.

 

Where to Drink

  • The Hermit Cocktail Bar: A cozy, tucked-away speakeasy feel

  • Hybrid Saigon - My favorite cocktail bar.

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Where to Eat

  • Vina Chuối: Best fried banana!

  • Bánh Xèo Bánh Khọt Phương Nga: Get the Bánh xèo (crispy rice flour pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts) and bánh khọt (bite-sized coconut milk pancakes with savory toppings).

  • Xôi Gà Number One (Chính Gốc): Try the Xôi Gà — sticky rice topped with savory shredded chicken, fried shallots, and often a side of pickled vegetables.

  • Bún Mộc THANH MAI: Pork soup is amazing! Bún mộc is a delicate, pork-based noodle soup with pork meatballs (mộc), mushrooms, and fresh herbs.

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