Vietnam travel podcasts featuring stories and interviews about the culture of Vietnam Cultural S1-07 8 Tips for travel during Tet Go to Episode S1-06 Culture and Visas Go to Episode S1-01 Vietnam Travel Planning Go to Episode S2-24 Explore Bac Ha Markets Go to Episode S2-07 Hoi An Top 10 must dos Go to Episode S2-14 Social Enterprise Travel Go to Episode S2-04 Tam Ky and Tam Thanh Beach Go to Episode S2-05 Explore Mai Chau Go to Episode S2-06 Top 5 Photography locations Go to Episode S4-22 Trekking in Sapa A wide lens view Go to Episode S4-16 Mystical Ninh Binh Go to Episode S4-07 Hue the city Past Present Future Go to Episode S4-21 Beyond the Phong Nha caves Go to Episode S4-12 Contemporary Art in Vietnam Go to Episode S4-05 Nha Trang 10 best things Go to Episode S4-18 Luxury Brand Travel Experiences Go to Episode S4-10 Hanoi A Foodies Paradise P2 Go to Episode S4-01 Art in Vietnam Go to Episode S4-17 Vietnam Traveller Insights 2022 Go to Episode S4-09 Hanoi A Foodies Paradise P1 Go to Episode S3-23 Your next wellness destination Go to Episode S3-07 Positive tourism Go to Episode S3-11 Saigons Covid Recovery Outlook Go to Episode S3-04 Dishes of Danang Go to Episode S3-10 Top 5 Travel Podcasts Go to Episode S3-03 Saigon HCMC Districts Go to Episode S3-09 Photographic experiences Go to Episode S3-02 Mu Cang Chai Go to Episode S5-E27 Discovering Catholic Treasures of Vietnam Go to Episode S5-E22 - 10 things travellers may not know Go to Episode S5-E12 - Out and About in Mui Ne – Laying bare to the winds of change Go to Episode S5-E25 - Hoi An in Focus: 10 Things to Love Go to Episode S5-21 - Vietnam's TET holiday Go to Episode S5-E10 - Out and about in Saigon - The Uncut Edition Go to Episode S5-E24 - Ha Giang: Insider Tips for Adventure Go to Episode S5-E20 - Saigon Unseen: Missing the Sights Go to Episode S5-E6-Explore the ‘Land of Lychees’ – Bac Giang with return traveller to Vietnam Go to Episode S5-E23 - Caving and Trekking in Phong Nha’s Tu Lan Cave System Go to Episode S5-E18 - Hanoi below the surface Go to Episode S5-E7-- The Rise of Unique Dining Experiences in Vietnam Go to Episode Question 11 Go to Episode Question 7 Go to Episode Question 3 Go to Episode Question 10 Go to Episode Question 6 Go to Episode Question 2 Go to Episode Question 9 Go to Episode Question 5 Go to Episode Question 1 Go to Episode Question 8 Go to Episode Question 4 Go to Episode

S6-E11 What is the authentic experience of Vietnam < Back S6-E11 What is the authentic experience of Vietnam S6-E11 What is the authentic experience of Vietnam 00:00 / 17:28 Series 6. Episode 11. What is the authentic experience of Vietnam? Is there only one way to experience the authentic Vietnam? For years, travellers have been told that the "real" Vietnam exists somewhere beyond the tourist trail — hidden in remote villages, mountain passes and places untouched by mass tourism. But is that still true today? And perhaps more importantly, is Vietnam now so much more than the familiar images of conical hats, rice fields and water buffaloes that first captured our imagination? In this episode of What About Vietnam, I explore the idea that authentic travel isn't necessarily about how far off-grid you go, but how deeply you connect with the places, people and experiences that matter to you. With social media constantly showcasing hidden villages, remote mountain passes and lesser-known destinations, it's easy to feel that popular places like Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An or Ho Chi Minh City are somehow less worthy of your time. But is that really true? Drawing on my own travels throughout Vietnam, including experiences in places such as Dalat, Phong Nha and Mu Cang Chai, I explore the reality behind the idea that authentic travel only happens beyond the tourist trail. We discuss the pros and cons of venturing further afield, the practical challenges that can come with it, and why some travellers return feeling more exhausted than enriched. Kerry stresses that travelers should not feel pressured to conform to a specific narrative of what an authentic experience should look like. Whether it's enjoying a Michelin-starred meal, participating in a cooking class, or relaxing at a wellness retreat, all these experiences contribute to a broader understanding of the Vietnam of today! This episode isn't about choosing one style of travel over another. It's about giving yourself permission to travel Vietnam in a way that suits your interests, comfort level, budget and goals. You'll discover: 00:01:18 - The Concept of "Real Vietnam" 00:06:10 - Authenticity and Social Media Influence 00:07:04 - Evaluating Off-Grid Travel Experiences 00:08:19 - Wellness Retreats and Authenticity 00:11:08 - Planning and Logistics of Vietnam Travel 00:12:13 - Avoiding Travel Pressure and Discomfort 00:13:38 - Travel Advice for Families and Elderly 00:14:54 - Embracing Modern and Traditional Vietnam In all my years of travel in this country and others, choosing what you want is more important than collecting bragging rights for Instagram, after all, it’s your money, time and joy that counts the most. I'd love to hear your thoughts. Have you ever felt pressure to travel beyond your comfort zone simply because everyone else seems to be doing it? Do you have a travel question or wish to give some feedback? You have 90 seconds. Click to read the voicemail recording policy Previous Next

Vietnam travel podcasts featuring stories and interviews about north Vietnam destinations North Vietnam S2-24 Explore Bac Ha Markets Go to Episode S2-14 Social Enterprise Travel Go to Episode S2-23 Vietnam Cooking Classes Go to Episode S2-05 Explore Mai Chau Go to Episode S2-21 Vietnamese Trail Marathons Go to Episode S2-07 Hoi An Top 10 must dos Go to Episode S2-15 Sapa North Vietnam Go to Episode S2-02 Shopping Vietnam Go to Episode S3-16 Things NOT always in a tour Go to Episode S3-02 Mu Cang Chai Go to Episode S3-09 Photographic experiences Go to Episode S3-08 Food Adventure Go to Episode S3-05 Ha Giang Loop Go to Episode S4-25 A fun Guide to droning - Photos Part 3 Go to Episode S4-18 Luxury Brand Travel Experiences Go to Episode S4-12 Contemporary Art in Vietnam Go to Episode S4-24 Take beautiful photos Part 2 Go to Episode S4-17 Vietnam Traveller Insights 2022 Go to Episode S4-10 Hanoi A Foodies Paradise P2 Go to Episode S4-23 Take beautiful photos Part 1 Go to Episode S4-16 Mystical Ninh Binh Go to Episode S4-09 Hanoi A Foodies Paradise P1 Go to Episode S4-22 Trekking in Sapa A wide lens view Go to Episode S4-15 Travelling as a solo woman Go to Episode S4-04 Vietnam Wedding Planning Go to Episode S5-E27 Discovering Catholic Treasures of Vietnam Go to Episode S5-E18 - Hanoi below the surface Go to Episode S5-E8 – Empowering the Traveller: In the fight against Human Trafficking Go to Episode S5-E24 - Ha Giang: Insider Tips for Adventure Go to Episode S5-E17 - Motorbike riding tips in Vietnam Go to Episode S5-E6-Explore the ‘Land of Lychees’ – Bac Giang with return traveller to Vietnam Go to Episode S5-E22 - 10 things travellers may not know Go to Episode S5-E16-Smart phone Apps and tech tips for travellers to Vietnam Go to Episode S5-E7-- The Rise of Unique Dining Experiences in Vietnam Go to Episode S5-21 - Vietnam's TET holiday Go to Episode S5-E15 - Yen Bai- Discover luxury in the heart of nature Go to Episode S5-E4 - Exploring the Case for living and working in Vietnam Go to Episode Question 11 Go to Episode Question 7 Go to Episode Question 3 Go to Episode Question 10 Go to Episode Question 6 Go to Episode Question 2 Go to Episode Question 9 Go to Episode Question 5 Go to Episode Question 1 Go to Episode Question 8 Go to Episode Question 4 Go to Episode

You’d think after years of talking about Vietnam travel, consulting on travel plans, interviewing loads of travellers smarter than me on my podcast, and generally living and breathing all things Vietnam, I’d be immune to the stresses of a last-minute trip. Surely I , of all people, should be able to pull off a short-notice dash to Vietnam with grace, glamour, and a lotus flower tucked neatly behind one ear. Well… no. Hanoi - Here I come! As it turns out, even seasoned professionals can find themselves buckled into the rollercoaster that is late decision-making. And right now, as I prep for a whirlwind visit to Hanoi on 9 December to collect an award (yes, more on that later) I have been reacquainted—quite intimately—with the “joys” of short-notice travel. Spoiler: I don’t recommend it. What have I forgotten? The Home-Front Hurdles Short-notice travel doesn’t happen in a vacuum. No, it arrives with a clipboard and announces you have 48–72 hours to reorganise your entire domestic universe. Suddenly you’re: Cancelling deliveries Putting mail on hold Negotiating pet-sitting Asking neighbours to water the plants Leaving notes around the house like you’re starring in a treasure hunt Wondering whether your house will still be standing when you return And that’s before you address passport validity (cue the cold sweat), vaccination updates (no time), and that nagging fear you’ve forgotten something important. Honestly, by this stage you’re practically willing  your suitcase to pack itself. The Time Management Tangle The first thing that hits you isn’t excitement. It’s maths.Time-zone maths, logistics maths, emotional maths… the whole lot. Every minute suddenly becomes a precious commodity. You start calculating backwards from your departure day like you’re attempting an escape room challenge: Can I fit in an Evisa application today? Will it be approved in time? What if there’s a typo? What if I upload the wrong photo? What if the system just doesn’t like my face?  (Not impossible. I’ve seen stranger things.) The Evisa alone can spike your blood pressure. Under normal circumstances, you’d allow a cushion—time to review, recheck, correct, and breathe. But on short notice, there’s no luxury for error. One mistake and you’re suddenly starring in your own airport-lounge tragedy while everyone else boards. NOT GOING TO HAPPEN! The Insurance Scramble Then comes the joyful scavenger hunt for travel insurance.Did you know some policies have a 72-hour waiting period before cover begins? Of course you didn’t—you learn that fun fact only when you’re standing on the edge of a departure date wondering if the universe is testing you. Does it start now, when I possible could lose my luggage? Short notice means fewer options, higher costs, and terms that seem purpose-built to troll you. But you buy it, because you’re committed now. You’re a grown-up. You’re responsible. You can do hard things… while muttering under your breath. Spontaneity is just stress wearing lipstick and trying to read the CVV code at midnight The Illusion of Spontaneity People often romanticise spontaneity.“It must be fun going last minute! You’re so free-spirited!” Let me tell you: nothing says “free-spirited” like frantically checking accommodation prices at midnight while holding your passport under a lamp to check the expiry date. Spontaneity is wonderful… when you’re 20, backpacking, and can sleep anywhere that doesn’t have wildlife.But when you’re a more mature adult like myself, built for comfort not speed? With responsibilities, expectations, and a desire to occasionally feel rested ? Spontaneity is just stress wearing lipstick. And btw, I haven't even touched on "what to pack" for this time of year in Vietnam and the special event I will be attending? Imagine if I was going to be doing anything adventurous and needed more diversity in my packing. Thankfully for this short trip I am mostly indoors - Tick. If you do need a speedy read that takes you to the Key points with no waffle, you might like to read my Ebook - Book,Pack & Stay Vietnam - HERE And lets not forget the day to day stuff And of course, if you have a family, kids, or a full-time job in the mix, short-notice travel becomes a whole new Olympic category. Suddenly you’re batch-cooking meals like you’re auditioning for “MasterChef: The Absence Edition,” organising school pickups, and leaving a trail of instructions that read like a NASA launch manual. Add a demanding inbox, a few meetings you now need to reshuffle, and the gentle hope that your household will, in fact, survive without you, and you’ve got yourself a muscle–mind marathon before you even reach the airport. What Are the Pluses ? Surely There Are Some? Well, yes—and I’ll give credit where it’s due. 1. The adrenaline is real. Your energy spikes. Your focus sharpens. You move through your to-do list like a caffeinated ninja. 2. Decision-making becomes gloriously simple. No time for over-thinking. The mental clutter disappears because the clock rules everything. 3. You stop sweating the small stuff. Does the hotel have the perfect view?Who cares—you’re going! Will the flight have your preferred seat?Doesn’t matter—you’re airborne! 4. When everything finally aligns, the satisfaction is excellent. There is something delicious about pulling off the seemingly impossible. You feel a kind of triumphant glow. (Or maybe that’s just exhaustion. Hard to tell.) 5. And perhaps the biggest plus: the reminder that Vietnam is worth it. Every inconvenience, every minor meltdown, every frantic dash to get the final document uploaded… it all fades the moment you arrive. Vietnam has that effect on people.Even the flustered, last-minute ones. Would I Choose It? No. Absolutely Not. Well kinda not.... As much as I love Vietnam—and you know I do—racing to organise a trip at the eleventh hour is not my preferred travel style. Give me breathing room any day. Let me plan well, choose thoughtfully, take you with me through the journey, and guide my clients in the way I know  works. But life being life… sometimes opportunities pop up with a blazing neon sign that says, Go now. Figure the rest out later. And sometimes, those signs lead you straight to Hanoi and into the company of dignitaries, and some of the best storytellers in the country as you collect a national award for a little podcast that grew legs. So yes, despite the chaos, the long nights, the passport checking, the watering-plant negotiations… It will all be worth it. Absolutely. Would I recommend “short-notice travel” as a lifestyle? A firm, mature and professionally-endorsed no . Unless forced upon you for reasons out of your control. Plan early. Book well. Give yourself space to enjoy the lead-up, not wrestle with it. And if you’re feeling tempted to throw a last-minute adventure together… perhaps drop me a message first. I’ve lived the tale. You don't have to!

Dalat is a pretty escape to a cooler climate with an abundance of colour and sites to see Nestled in the cool Central Highlands of Vietnam, Dalat is a city that feels like perpetual spring.  Long celebrated as the “City of Flowers” , it enchants visitors with misty mornings, rolling pine forests, and an ever-changing palette of blooms that flourish thanks to its temperate climate. From vast hydrangea fields and sunflower valleys to the iconic Dalat Flower Gardens and colorful roadside markets, the city is alive with natural beauty year-round. Beyond the flowers, Dalat has also become a hub for eco-tourism, strawberry farms, and fresh produce markets, making it a perfect blend of nature, culture, and flavor. Adding to its charm is the biennial Dalat Flower Festival , one of Vietnam’s most spectacular cultural events. Held every two years (the next one is scheduled for late 2025), the festival transforms the city into a giant living gallery, with dazzling floral displays, street parades, art shows, and performances that draw visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re exploring manicured gardens, wandering through rustic flower villages, or sipping artichoke tea at a hillside café, Dalat offers a refreshing escape from Vietnam’s bustling cities—especially at this time of year when cooler evenings and late-summer harvests make the city particularly inviting. In our latest Podcast talking with Vicki Thai, we delve into some of the most memorable elements of her stay in Dalat. You can check out the whole Episode here A little bit about The Everlastings that Kerry and Vicki discuss on the podcast. The "Everlasting flowers", scientifically known as Helichrysum bracteatum, are a remarkable and cherished botanical feature of Vietnam's natural landscape. These unique flowers are commonly referred to as "everlastings" due to their ability to retain their vibrant colors, shape, and texture even after they have been harvested and dried. This exceptional trait has made them popular choices for various decorative and ornamental purposes, including flower arrangements, crafts, and even herbal remedies. If you have never been to Dalat you will notice some very distinguishable differences about the city, in comparison to the rest of Vietnam. A stay here is made extra special if you have time to check out some of the lovely displays of flowers in and around the city and in many of the gardens that adorn hotels and local establishments. In the podcast Vicki refers to Dalat's unique climate, with its cool temperatures and ample rainfall, it provides an ideal environment for a diverse range of flowers to flourish. As a result, the city has earned its moniker as the "City of Flowers" in Vietnam. Visitors can expect to encounter an array of both native and imported flowers, creating a breathtaking symphony of colors and fragrances that captivate the senses. However, it may be the "mist" that accompanies some days while you visit that may give it some of its magical charm. Prime Locations to Admire Flowers Dalat Flower Park Valley of Love Dalat Market What you can hope to see in Dalat Dalat Flower Park A visit to the Dalat Flower Park is a must for anyone looking to be enveloped in a sea of blossoms. The park boasts an extensive collection of flowers, including roses, hydrangeas, and orchids. Each season brings a different set of blooms, ensuring that there's always something new and captivating to see. The biennial Dalat Flower Festival , typically held in December, transforms the park into a living canvas of floral artistry and is a highlight that draws visitors from across Vietnam and abroad. Valley of Love Beyond its romantic reputation, the Valley of Love is also a botanical wonderland. Among the rolling hills and tranquil lakes, visitors can discover a variety of vibrant flowers, from colorful pansies to delicate daisies. The lush landscapes make this destination perfect for a leisurely stroll, a swan-boat ride, or even a picnic while soaking in the fresh mountain air. Dalat Market For a taste of local life and an opportunity to bring some of Dalat's floral charm back home, a visit to Dalat Market is essential. Stalls brim with fresh-cut flowers, potted plants, artichokes, strawberries, and locally made jams. Handcrafted floral arrangements and dried flower souvenirs make for perfect keepsakes or gifts. Hydrangea Fields Dalat is famed for its sprawling hydrangea fields that burst into endless shades of blue and purple. These fields, often located just outside the city, have become Instagram hotspots where visitors can walk among towering blooms that seem to stretch as far as the eye can see. Sunny Sunflower Gardens During certain months (usually around late summer and early autumn), Dalat’s sunflower gardens come to life. These bright, cheerful fields make for an unforgettable photo opportunity and showcase a different side of the city’s floral diversity. Cu Lan Village Located about 20km from Dalat, Cu Lan Village is a blend of flower gardens, pine forests, and a recreated traditional ethnic village. It offers cultural experiences alongside its natural beauty, making it a lovely day trip. The Clay Tunnel (Clay Sculpture Village) While not purely floral, this quirky attraction includes beautifully landscaped flower gardens alongside intricate clay sculptures depicting Dalat’s history, culture, and iconic landmarks. It’s both artistic and Instagram-worthy. Pongour & Elephant Waterfalls For those wanting to balance flowers with natural wonders, Dalat’s surrounding waterfalls are breathtaking. Often surrounded by lush flora, these cascading falls add another layer to the region’s romantic, nature-filled atmosphere. I particularly loved the Pobgour waterfalls as you could reach out and touch the water from an easy vantage point. The Best Time to Visit Dalat's flowers are a year-round spectacle, with different seasons showcasing varying blooms. However, to make the most of your floral adventure, consider planning your visit during these key times: Spring (January to March): During this time, the city comes alive with vibrant colors as various flowers, including peach blossoms and cherry blossoms, bloom. The Tet Festival (Lunar New Year) adds to the festive atmosphere, making it an ideal time to experience the city's culture and flowers. Summer (April to June): As temperatures rise, a plethora of exotic and tropical flowers come into full bloom, including roses, hydrangeas, and orchids. The Dalat Flower Festival, typically held in December every other year, is a grand celebration of the city's floral beauty. Autumn (September to November): The autumn months bring a sense of tranquility to Dalat's landscapes. Marigolds, chrysanthemums, and dahlias dominate the scenery, providing a soothing palette of warm hues. Find out more about this amazing city from the podcast with the lovely Vicki Thai - https://www.whataboutvietnam.com/series-5/episode-3/heritage-and-discovery-in-saigon-the-mekong-delta-and-dalat

Vietnam’s Best Cities for Shopping: My Top 3 Picks Vietnam isn’t just a feast for the senses with its food, landscapes, and culture — it’s also a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re into luxury malls, artisanal crafts, or budget-friendly markets, there’s a corner of Vietnam ready to tempt your wallet. After years of travel and countless shopping bags later, here’s my personal picks for the best cities in Vietnam to shop your heart out. 1. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – The Ultimate Shopping Playground As this is my story, I get to vote as per my own personal shopping experiences in Vietnam over the past decade or so. Therefore.....I have to vote Saigon No 1. If there’s a city in Vietnam that knows how to cater to every kind of shopper, it’s Saigon. From glitzy malls to gritty markets, this place hums with retail energy at every corner. PRO TIP  – Allow plenty of time, as you will soon get swooped up in the dizziness of it, and your day will be gone before you know it! Plus what I am featuring here, is just the tip of the iceberg. Where to shop in Saigon: Ben Thanh Market  – A true Saigon icon. It’s bustling, chaotic, and requires some serious bargaining skills. Come here for souvenirs, local snacks, and a dose of market madness. Over time I have noticed this market to become quite aggressive in its bargaining, so be prepared for high level negotiating. Saigon Square  – Across from Saigon Centre, this indoor market is cleaner and more navigable than Ben Thanh but still offers great deals on fashion and accessories. This is a favourite as for a few more dollars over Ben Thanh you still can get a bargain but its less hard core bargaining and a little bit more air free. Taka Plaza & Central Market Food Court  – Newer and air-conditioned, these underground markets make for a more chilled shopping experience. Grab a bite and browse in comfort. Perfect for a super hot or wet day. I found these markets to be open aired and while not over stocked I have bought some super bags and fun things for kids. Vincom Centre & Diamond Plaza  – For those who prefer air-con and international brands, these malls offer everything from Zara to Louis Vuitton. This is another western style plaza, with a variety including H & M, and for me then an easy access to the katinat building opposite H&M; where you can climb stairs to heavenly coffee at Cong Café and boutiques featuring vintage and artisan fashion. JExit H&M and just cross the road and you are there. The Café Apartment & The Playground (District 1)  – Tucked-away boutique gems. Head to The Playground for edgy local designers or explore the quirky “Café Apartment” building where each floor reveals funky shops and cafés (including a classic Cong Café). A great book shop next door as well. Saigon Kitsch  – Looking for Vietnam-themed homewares or cute gifts? This Instagram-favourite shop has you covered. More than one level, so keep climbing for more “kitsch”. Diamond Plaza – High end brands mainly, but spacious and deserves a wander. I expect it will expand in the future. Mekong Quilts  – Handmade quilts, accessories, and home décor, all supporting local artisans in rural Vietnam. Thao Dien, District 2  – A world of its own. This expat-friendly enclave is home to indie fashion stores, yoga studios, art galleries, and serene cafés. Go by Grab or even by ferry if you want to enjoy a different view of Saigon. You might like to check this local guide out - https://www.livinginvietnam.com/exploring-thao-dien-a-guide-to-saigons-trendiest-neighborhood   Why did I give Saigon the crown ?  Basically because of its - variety, convenience, and style. There’s truly something for everyone — from bargain hunters to boutique lovers. 2. Hanoi – Where Tradition Meets the Artisans of the Future No 2 - Has to be Hanoi - but maybe NOT for the reasons you think. Hanoi's Old Quarter is legendary for its maze-like streets packed with textiles, crafts, and souvenirs. The city combines history with an evolving fashion and café scene that continues to surprise. And while I do go in search of shopping here, just so I can say I have experienced it, I get so lost in other aspects of the city, to be honest, it is not my top priority here. However, I have bought some beautiful pieces here in silk, jewellery, homewares and beautiful pen sets from Tanmy Design.(See below) Remember as you read this; these are MY personal favourites. What to shop for: Personally I think SILK, HANDCRAFTS, ART and VINTAGE Silk scarves and dresses – Google Silk Street, old fashioned embroidery, and hand-painted ceramics Vietnamese art ( Check out S4-E12 for  Contemporary Art Gallery) You need to book appointment with Suzanne Lecht at Art Vietnam Gallery as it is also her home. Amazing! Tailored clothing at affordable prices - Mostly high end brands. Check out their newest Lotte Shopping mall. ( see pic below) I think it needs a bit of personality? Did I say that??? Design - traditional, high end, young and artisan local designers, especially some ones located near the Cathedral. For others most worthy - Chula and Tanmy Design Vintage goods - Collective Memory and upcycled fashion in boutiques near Tay Ho and the French Quarter. Tay Ho I think is the place to watch in the future. Wander into the weekend night markets or duck into Dong Xuan Market for a sensory overload. Hanoi’s charm lies in its street-by-street surprises and its deeply rooted craftsmanship. However amongst all of that is a lot of what I call "bits and bobs", junky type things, cheap trinkets and souvenirs. A personal favourite is Future Traditions  – A place you can find indigenous textiles, Hanoi style. Future Traditions creates stylish clothing and jewellery by working with Vietnam’s ethnic minority textile producers and traditional craftspeople. It’s the kind of place you can buy “one offs”. Arrange an appointment through their FB page. 3. Hoi An – Tailor-Made Heaven Hoi An might be smaller, but when it comes to tailoring, this UNESCO-listed town punches way above its weight. With over 400 tailor shops, this is the place to get a custom suit, dress, or even shoes made — all within 24–48 hours. I personally don’t ever think of anywhere else for tailoring in Vietnam. But choose wisely. Beyond tailoring, Hoi An has grown into a charming boutique town and thats why I didn't choose an image of a tailor to speak about this town for its shopping prowess. Hoi An is becoming a Vintage, eclectic, homewares and traditional arts town. Beyond tailoring, Hoi An is morphing into more than just tailoring. I think its the perfect town to broaden its scope of uniqueness in:- Artisanal homewares Handmade leather goods Eco-conscious brands and organic beauty products Bamboo products Refillables jewellery Lanterns, of course! I could provide a long list of places to visit, but half the fun is stumbling upon your own finds in the township and in the small alleys. However, one shout out is for Lac Viet Jewellery where I have had some gorgeous pieces made in silver and gold at amazing prices and genuine quality. Mention my name and Kim Yen Nguyen Thi will take good care of you. Hoi An is an ever evolving Old Town. If you have been to this town previoulsy you will notice the crowds and the shift in perspective. Its a town trying to keep up with domestic travellers and well as the ever increasing international market. Its the place to muse, to take advantage of the tailors there, but do your homework. I know reviews are helpful but they are not always reliable. While I have always used Shop 41 in the Fabric Markets which are still wonderful, but they are now focused on a very young market, and no time for me. Sad I know, but I have many treasured items in my wardrobe to be thankful for over the years. So, I am back on the look out. Stay tuned! Oh, and the night market is one of the most photogenic in the country — so plan a wander through at the end of your evening amongst the ever-increasing buzzing crowds.   Final Thoughts Whether you’re on the hunt for designer threads, a bespoke blazer, or the perfect ceramic bowl, Vietnam offers a dynamic shopping experience. Each city brings its own flair, and if you ask me — Saigon is still the queen of retail therapy, so make time in this city if SHOPPING is your thing. Want a savvy local to help you haggle like a pro or uncover hidden gems beyond the usual tourist track? Book a Buddy through our trusted network and use the What About Vietnam code KERRYVN5 for a special rate. Whether you’re bargain hunting or searching for something unique, your Buddy knows exactly where to look — and how to get the best deal.   Pack light and bring an extra bag — you’ll be glad you did. Written by Kerry Newsome