What about Vietnam blog about travel tips and holidays in Vietnam S5-E27 – Discovering Catholic treasures in Vietnam Episode 27 Church hunting in Ninh Binh and Nam Dinh Go to Episode S5-E23 Caving and Trekking in Phong Nha’s Tu Lan Cave System Episode 23 Pushing the limits and finding the magic in Caving Go to Episode S5-E19-Facelift and Dental surgery Vietnam – A good news story Episode 19 Facelift and Dental surgery Vietnam – A good news story Go to Episode S5-E15 Yen Bai Luxury in the Heart of Nature Episode 15 Yen Bai Luxury in the Heart of Nature Go to Episode S5-E11 Out and About in Ho Tram Vietnam Episode 11 Out and About in Ho Tram at the beach Go to Episode S5-E7 - The Rise of Vietnam's Unique Dining Experiences Episode 7 The Rise of Unique Dining Experiences Go to Episode S5-E3 Heritage and Discovery in Saigon Mekong Delta & Dalat Episode 3 Rediscovering our guest's heritage Go to Episode S5-E26 Wellness Tourism in Vietnam Episode 26 Wellness Tourism in Vietnam – A Fresh Take from Hoi An Go to Episode S5-E22 10 things travellers may not know about Vietnam Episode 22 10 things Vietnam travellers may not know Go to Episode S5-E18 Hanoi Below the Surface Episode 18 Below the surface of vibrant Hanoi Go to Episode S5-E14 Phong Nha - The family fun destination Episode 14 Phong Nha - The family fun destination for everyone Go to Episode S5-E10 Out and About in Saigon - the Uncut Edition Episode 10 Out and about the Uncut Edition Go to Episode S5-E6 Explore the ‘Land of Lychees’ – Bac Giang Episode 6 Returning traveller explores Bac Giang Go to Episode S5-E25 Hoi An in Focus - ten things to love Episode 25 Hoi An in Focus - ten things to love Go to Episode S5-E21 Vietnam Tet Holiday - Preparation and Tips for Tourists Episode 21 Vietnam Tet Holiday - Preparation and Tips for Tourists Go to Episode S5-E17 Motorbike Riding in Vietnam tips and adventures Episode 17 Motorbike Riding safety, local tips and epic adventures Go to Episode S5-E13 Out and About in Nha Trang Episode 13 Out and About Nha Trang The city of 300 days of sunshine a year Go to Episode S5-E9 Out and about in Saigon with Kerry Newsome Episode 9 Out and about in Saigon with Kerry Newsome Go to Episode S5-E5 Hai Van Pass Experience from a seasoned traveller Episode 5 Hai Van Pass is an amazing scenic route near Denang Go to Episode S5-E24 Ha Giang Insider tips for an Unforgettable Adventure Episode 24 Uncover Ha Giang, Vietnam's last frontier Go to Episode S5-E20 Saigon Unseen The sights you might be missing Episode 20 Saigon's unseen sights you might be missing Go to Episode S5-E16 Smart phone apps and tech tip Episode 16 Smart phone apps and tech tips for Vietnam travellers Go to Episode S5-E12 Out and About in Mui Ne - Laying bare the winds of change Episode 12 Out and About in Mui Ne - The winds of change Go to Episode S5-E8 – Empowering the Traveller to fight Human Trafficking Episode 8 Human trafficking in Vietnam and how you can change it. Go to Episode S5-E4 Exploring Living and Working in Vietnam Episode 4 Looking at the world of expat life in Vietnam Go to Episode

S2-25 River Cruising Vietnam Episode 25 Cruising Vietnam is a truly immersive experience Go to Episode S2-21 Vietnamese Trail Marathons Episode 21 We discuss the fun of trail marathons in Vietnam Go to Episode S2-17 Wellness and Healing Episode 17 In all the natural beauty and culture you can find yourself Go to Episode S2-13 Skin Wellness retreat Episode 13 Special retreat focusing on skin wellness Go to Episode S2-09 Phong Nha Caves Episode 9 World's largest cave at Phong Nha National Park. Go to Episode S2-05 Explore Mai Chau Episode 5 Exploring the threaded history of textiled in Mai Chau Go to Episode S2-01 Historical Hoi An Episode 1 We share with you some of the history of Hoi An. Go to Episode S2-24 Explore Bac Ha Markets Episode 24 Discover a world time forgot at Bac Ha markets Go to Episode S2-20 Saigon Nightlife scoop Episode 20 Finding the best nightlife in buzzing Saigon Go to Episode S2-16 Danang Community Sprit Episode 16 How Danang offers up a new kind of experience Go to Episode S2-12 Health and Wellness Retreats Episode 12 Health and wellness retreats - what to look for. Go to Episode S2-08 Vietnam wedding Destination Episode 8 Inspired by love, Vietnam is an idyllic wedding destination Go to Episode S2-04 Tam Ky and Tam Thanh Beach Episode 4 Tam Ky and Tam Thanh beach - not on the regular tourist track yet! Go to Episode S2-23 Vietnam Cooking Classes Episode 23 Why you should do more than one cooking class Go to Episode S2-19 Culture History through food Episode 19 When it is about the food it is because it is fantastic Go to Episode S2-15 Sapa North Vietnam Episode 15 Phil Hoolihan takes us beyond the tourist tracks Go to Episode S2-11 Golf in Vietnam Episode 11 Unrivaled golfing experiences and locations Go to Episode S2-07 Hoi An Top 10 must dos Episode 7 Expat guides us through the top 10 must do things in Hoi An. Go to Episode S2-03 Family Friendly Vietnam Episode 3 Is Vietnam family-friendly? With guest Suzie Slingsby. Go to Episode S2-22 Wild Monkeys of Danang Episode 22 Monkeys in the wild at Son Tra Nature Reserve Danang Go to Episode S2-18 Masterminding your trip Episode 18 Discover and mastermind your Vietnam experiences Go to Episode S2-14 Social Enterprise Travel Episode 14 Vietnam is the ideal place for social enterprise travel Go to Episode S2-10 Dental Holiday in Vietnam Episode 10 Holiday and save money on dentistry Go to Episode S2-06 Top 5 Photography locations Episode 6 The best locations in Vietnam for photographic scenic delights. Go to Episode S2-02 Shopping Vietnam Episode 2 Shopping for Designer, Tailoring and Sustainable in Vietnam Go to Episode

S4-25 A fun Guide to droning - Photos Part 3 Episode 25 A fun guide to droning in Vietnam - Photos Part 3 Go to Episode S4-21 Beyond the Phong Nha caves Episode 21 There is more to Phong Nha than just the caves Go to Episode S4-17 Vietnam Traveller Insights 2022 Episode 17 The best Vietnam traveller insights from 2022 Go to Episode S4-13 Citizen 44 podswap Episode 13 A feeling of an injection of colour into my soul Go to Episode S4-09 Hanoi A Foodies Paradise P1 Episode 9 What is truly distinct about Northern Vietnam cuisine Go to Episode S4-05 Nha Trang 10 best things Episode 5 10 best things about Nha Trang you may not know Go to Episode S4-01 Art in Vietnam Episode 1 The artist’s true technique of storytelling Go to Episode S4-24 Take beautiful photos Part 2 Episode 24 Mastering photography in Vietnam - Part 2 Go to Episode S4-20 Life changer for singer songwiter Episode 20 Hoi An – A life changer for a singer songwriter Go to Episode S4-16 Mystical Ninh Binh Episode 16 Mountainous peaks and a labrynth of waterways Go to Episode S4-12 Contemporary Art in Vietnam Episode 12 Contemporary art is shining fresh eyes on Vietnam. Go to Episode S4-08 Travel Addict podswap Episode 8 Travel Addict Show (podswap) talking Vietnam with Kerry Newsome Go to Episode S4-04 Vietnam Wedding Planning Episode 4 When planning a wedding there are so many factors... Go to Episode S4-23 Take beautiful photos Part 1 Episode 23 Mastering photography in Vietnam - Part 1 Go to Episode S4-19 Vietnam wins the heart of the daring Episode 19 A country to feel safe in while pushing boundaries Go to Episode S4-15 Travelling as a solo woman Episode 15 A favourite destination amongst female travellers Go to Episode S4-11 Revisiting Vietnam Episode 11 It's my turn to to revisit Vietnam and check it out Go to Episode S4-07 Hue the city Past Present Future Episode 7 Boasting a patchwork of imperialism and French colonialism Go to Episode S4-03 Travel Outlook 2022-23 Episode 3 I am the guest here talking about Vietnam travel Go to Episode S4-22 Trekking in Sapa A wide lens view Episode 22 The cultural component of trekking in Sapa Go to Episode S4-18 Luxury Brand Travel Experiences Episode 18 Luxury brand travel experiences in Vietnam Go to Episode S4-14 Con Dao Islands Eprisode 14 An archipelago of pristine beauty and complexity Go to Episode S4-10 Hanoi A Foodies Paradise P2 Episode 10 Northern Vietnam cuisine diversity and charm Go to Episode S4-06 Craft beers in Vietnam Episode 6 The “biggest” best leaked Vietnam travel secrets Go to Episode S4-02 Fine Dining Vietnam Episode 2 Vietnam is legendary for its street food and chefs Go to Episode

S3-25 One teenagers holiday views Episode 25 Be pleasantly surprised by the views of this teenager Go to Episode S3-21 Learn "shopping words" Episode 21 Language tips in Vietnam Learn best shopping words Go to Episode S3-17 Mui Ne Beach bliss experiences Episode 17 A sun kissed paradise with amazing experiences. Go to Episode S3-13 Vietnamese Noodles Episode 13 Experience the quintessential favourite, Pho. Go to Episode S3-09 Photographic experiences Episode 9 Rich in history and culture and yet bursting to change. Go to Episode S3-05 Ha Giang Loop Episode 5 Ha Giang Loop adventure, Vietnam's final frontier Go to Episode S3-01 Travel Industry Experts Episode 1 Insights into Vietnam travel beyond 2021 Go to Episode S3-24 Phu Quoc A scenic island paradise Episode 24 Pgu Quoc is a highly sought after destination Go to Episode S3-20 Learn "special dietary needs" Episode 20 Language tips in Vietnamese Learn "special dietary needs" Go to Episode S3-16 Things NOT always in a tour Episode 16 Discussing the broader challenges in travel planning Go to Episode S3-12 From Tourist to Resident Episode 12 What would it be like to live in a foreign country? Go to Episode S3-08 Food Adventure Episode 8 Fun Hanoi foodie adventure to blow your mind Go to Episode S3-04 Dishes of Danang Episode 4 Must try local dishes with Vietnam Food Safari Go to Episode S3-23 Your next wellness destination Episode 23 The Alba Wellness Resort - a great destination Go to Episode S3-19 Learn "Greetings" Episode 19 Language tips in Vietnam week 1 - "greetings" Go to Episode S3-15 Travel time in Vietnam P2 Episode 15 How much time to allow for a visit and to where. Go to Episode S3-11 Saigons Covid Recovery Outlook Episode 11 Lockdown insights and upcoming travel advice Go to Episode S3-07 Positive tourism Episode 7 Leaving a positive footprint through social enterprise Go to Episode S3-03 Saigon HCMC Districts Episode 3 Samantha Coomber guides us through Saigon's districts Go to Episode S3-22 Phong Nha Caves in depth Episode 22 Fast becoming a major draw card for adventure seekers. Go to Episode S3-18 Emerging comedy in Saigon Episode 18 A happening comedy scene for laughs in Saigon Go to Episode S3-14 Travel Opening up P1 Episode 14 After months of being closed, the doors are opening Go to Episode S3-10 Top 5 Travel Podcasts Episode 10 These episodes remind me why I started this journey Go to Episode S3-06 Diving in Vietnam Episode 6 Jeremy Stein takes us diving in the best locations Go to Episode S3-02 Mu Cang Chai Episode 2 Colourful landscapes of the village of Mu Cang Chai Go to Episode

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All Posts Trip Planning Cultural Adventure Sustainable Foodie Must do Special Interest Destinations Search Log in / Sign up Kerry Newsome Nov 28, 2023 5 min Recent Vietnam Scams and How to Avoid Them Recent Vietnam Scams and How to Avoid Them. 5 simple ways to action right now! 86 0 comments 0 Post not marked as liked Kerry Newsome Aug 21, 2023 3 min Discovering the Enchanting Flowers of Dalat, Vietnam: A Floral Paradise Discover Dalat - An enchanting city and loral paradise 43 0 comments 0 Post not marked as liked Kerry Newsome Jun 27, 2023 5 min 10 Reasons why Hoi An is the best family fun holiday destination in Vietnam Hoi An, located in central Vietnam, offers a range of popular day trips to nearby attractions for kids and families. 119 0 comments 0 Post not marked as liked Kerry Newsome Jan 27, 2023 9 min A monthly travel guide to your best experiences in Vietnam A comprehensive monthly guide to your best travel experiences in Vietnam. 183 0 comments 0 Post not marked as liked Kerry Newsome Nov 28, 2022 5 min 10 Festivals in Vietnam travellers should know about 10 Festivals in Vietnam travellers should plan for, or try and attend. 120 0 comments 0 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Kerry Newsome Nov 27, 2022 4 min TET 2023 - Tips for travellers TET is closer than you think! In fact it's just around the corner. It's coming early in 2023 and as a traveller here's some great tips. 233 0 comments 0 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Kerry Newsome Oct 13, 2022 3 min The Past Peddling The Future This is the story of Suzanne Lecht, a leading contemporary art curator in Vietnam who has embraced Vietnam through the spirit of ART. 162 0 comments 0 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Kerry Newsome Aug 23, 2022 7 min Trip Planning Vietnam - Insights for new travelers Trip Planning Vietnam - Insights for new travellers. Find a broad range of topics to help you plan your best experience of Vietnam. 385 0 comments 0 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Kerry Newsome Jul 24, 2022 2 min Hoi An Memories show - Not to be missed This amazing show is staged on water, with over 250 performers is now 'back on' in Hoi An in 2022. A must-see! 549 0 comments 0 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Kerry Newsome Jul 22, 2022 3 min The Craft Beer Scene In Vietnam Try locally brewed beers made with local ingredients and amazing flavours at great "vibe "locations in Vietnam. A must-do try! 124 0 comments 0 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Kerry Newsome Jun 28, 2022 5 min Nha Trang Vietnam - 10 things you may not know about this city Nha Trang - Find out the things only the locals can speak to from experience. 132 0 comments 0 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Kerry Newsome May 13, 2022 3 min Art in Vietnam - as a traveler to Vietnam what do you know about it? What do you know about art in Vietnam? It’s certainly beautiful and you’ll find art everywhere. However, it can be difficult to know what... 86 0 comments 0 2 likes. Post not marked as liked 2 Kerry Newsome Oct 24, 2021 5 min Explore Phu Quoc: a jewel in the heart of the ocean Beautiful beaches, lush forest and mountain scenery make Phu Quoc one of Vietnam’s prime destinations for travelers. As a place to kick... 110 0 comments 0 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Kerry Newsome Sep 1, 2021 5 min Social Enterprise Travel in Vietnam Social enterprise travel in Vietnam is a relatively new concept, having been awarded legal status in 2014. With the tourist market... 568 0 comments 0 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Kerry Newsome Aug 2, 2021 13 min Vietnam Trip Planning - What About Vietnam - The first episode that began it all. Vietnam trip planning - Transcript from What About Vietnam Episode 1 68 0 comments 0 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Kerry Newsome Aug 2, 2021 3 min COVID - 19 - Vietnam stemming the spread with decisive strategies -2020, when it all began Vietnam doing its best to allay the fears and concerns about the Coronavirus with a proactive approach to containment. 6 0 comments 0 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Kerry Newsome Aug 2, 2021 4 min Getting more bang out of your Dong! Pre trip planning to save you money on your next holiday in Vietnam 131 0 comments 0 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Kerry Newsome Aug 2, 2021 1 min A new spin on “Rock and Roll”! Rocking, rolling and spinning around on these famous coconut boats is an absolute basket of fun. The Basket Boat is known locally as... 140 0 comments 0 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Kerry Newsome Aug 2, 2021 3 min Big points for the Little Hoi An Group Firstly, they don’t have the word “Little” in their name by accident. Whether you know it or not, it is the “little” things that make a... 98 0 comments 0 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Kerry Newsome Aug 2, 2021 1 min The AO show comes to Hoi An This incredible depiction of Vietnam’s lifestyle, ethos, and heritage will leave you spellbound. The talent you will see in contemporary... 27 0 comments 0 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1

Search Results All (298) Other Pages (268) Blog Posts (30) 298 items found for "" Other Pages (268) What About Vietnam | Vietnam Podcasts | North Vietnam 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-E16 Smart phone apps and tech tip Go to Episode S5-E6 Explore the ‘Land of Lychees’ – Bac Giang Go to Episode S5-E15 Yen Bai Luxury in the Heart of Nature Go to Episode S5-E4 Exploring Living and Working in Vietnam Go to Episode S5-E8 – Empowering the Traveller to fight Human Trafficking Go to Episode S5-E1- Vietnam Visa Update and Land Travel Tips Go to Episode S5-E7 - The Rise of Vietnam's Unique Dining Experiences Go to Episode Episode 17, Motorbike Riding in Vietnam What About Vietnam – S5-E17 – Motorbike riding in Vietnam: Safety, local tips and Epic Adventures Kerry Newsome: Xin chào and welcome back to the What About Vietnam podcast. I'm thrilled to have you join me today. Before we jump into this episode, I wanted to address a new connectivity feature that initially I was really excited about because it opened up the door for what I thought would be a great way for us to interact more. However, it's not quite working out as I'd hoped. You may see at the beginning of the show notes in the podcast channel that you're listening from some words that say text me a message. It's a great idea. Don't get me wrong. I love hearing from you. And, you know, whether that's your thoughts on the episodes, some questions, messages of appreciation, you know, I just, I just love the feedback. It's really great. However, I feel it remiss of me to, A, not thank you for them, but to be not be able to respond directly to you. So if you have sent me a question and I've got lots and you haven't heard from me, there's a really good reason why I actually don't have the ability in the technology to respond to you. They kind of expect that you would or I would answer the questions in the form of a show and there's just kind of too many and I just think it's just too personal not to do it that way. So I wanted to alert you to the fact that if you do send me a message through that connection option, I'm not going to be able to respond to you directly. So, if you do have a question, and it is time sensitive, or you want to send me any kind of message, can I suggest the following two ways? One, send me an email to whataboutvietnamatgmail.com. That is the email address that I have the most constant access to, and I will aim to get back to you ASAP. Secondly, if you go to the website for the podcast, which is whataboutvietnam.com, if you scroll right to the bottom, there is a chance for you to leave a voice message. Now, in that voice message, I can respond to you equally with a response in voice. So if you want a quick response, that's your next best way. But I just wanted to get this into the show, make you aware of this as it really is becoming problematic. And I've just got too many and I can't kind of go naming people and answering each question. That's just a little bit silly. So if you have sent me a text message before and you're waiting on a message back as a response, I'm so sorry. I cannot do that. But if you want to send the question again, I'd be more than happy to answer. Just in the lead up to this episode, I thought I'd give you a little bit of context. Firstly, I've asked Ben Mitchell to come back on the show. I was able to have the opportunity to talk with him while I was in Fong Nah, and we were able to sit down and have a really frank and open discussion around motorbikes and travel around Vietnam on a motorbike. And, you know, for people who are thinking to come to Vietnam and have that experience, I just think this is one for you. This is one that I really encourage you to listen to, to give you some real context of what that actually would mean for you as you visit this amazing country, which as he calls it, a motorbike nation. In addition to having been on the show, I got the opportunity to ask my friend Chris Pantelli to come on. And his story is even more fresh, I guess, in my mind and certainly in his, as I got to share the story after he just finished a five-day trip in northern Vietnam in the Yen Bai province. Now, if you've been listening to my shows, you would have heard me put up a show about Yen Bai, but a totally different experience to the motorbike journey off-road and on-road that Chris Pantelli and his son did together in April of this year. So, stick with us, folks. It's a really meaty show. It's got a lot of great tips and hints. I'm going to put all the links to some of the companies that are mentioned, so you can go there, check them out for yourself and, you know, enjoy Vietnam if you're a motorbike rider, but don't come to Vietnam for the first time or any time if you're not an experienced rider and just jump on the bike. It's better to get on the back of someone else and let them take you around rather than take that risk yourself. It's just not the country to learn how to ride, it's the country to experience as an experienced rider. Anyway, let's jump into the show and let's say hello to Ben. Kerry Newsome: Hi, Ben. How you doing? Ben Mitchell: I'm good. Hi, Kerry. Kerry Newsome: What are we going to be talking about today? Motorbikes. Ben Mitchell: Motorbike, motorbike travel, motorbike tourism in Vietnam. Kerry Newsome: Do you know what? I reckon that's a really good topic to talk about as it comes up a lot. And, you know, there's some crazy things that happen with motorbikes. Ben Mitchell: Yeah, well, it's a motorbike nation, the Vietnam The people of Vietnam are all on a motorbike. You can put anything on a motorbike. You can put a large amount of people on a motorbike. As you travel through Vietnam, you'll see motorbikes being used in all sorts of different ways. As far as travelling in Vietnam by motorbike, it's very, very exhilarating. It's a great way to see the country. Kerry Newsome: All right. So let's let's dig a bit deeper into the different ways you can do that. And what do you need to know up front before you make that decision to ride a motorbike as part of your trip or part of your travel plan in Vietnam? Ben Mitchell: Well, there'll be many different ways that you could experience Vietnam involving motorbikes, I think the first thing we should talk about is safety. And yes, the elephant in the room, there is motorbike accidents in Vietnam. That is an issue. So, you know, if you're going to ride a motorbike in Vietnam, it's good to be able to ride a motorbike. Kerry Newsome: And can I interject and just say, That when you say you need to be able to ride a motorbike, do you mean that in the country you come from, you have ridden a motorbike and you have a motorbike licence? Is that what you mean? Ben Mitchell: I reckon that would be a very good start. Kerry Newsome: Right. A very good start or a minimum standard, Ben? Ben Mitchell: Yeah, minimum standard. I think learning to ride a motorbike in Vietnam is fraught with danger. Yeah. I think Kerry Newsome: I think it's probably not a good idea if I'm going to be… Let's say that really out loud because I hear a lot of people who decide to come to Vietnam for the very first time and get on a bike and think this is just easy peasy and it's not. Let alone the traffic, just learning to ride a bike. Ben Mitchell: I've been working in tourism for 15, 14 years here in Vietnam. And how many times I've heard, yeah, my first motorbike experience was riding out of Saigon or riding out of Hanoi on a motorbike I just bought earlier that day and off we went. And yeah, often there's an incident somewhere between there and when I meet them that involves a fair bit of skin off and they've got a bit of skin off at that point. And that's so yeah, just to sort of say that understanding how to ride a motorbike and having some experience in riding a motorbike would be a very good idea prior to coming to Vietnam and riding a motorbike. Kerry Newsome: Yeah, I'm going to still put it in my minimum standard category because, you know, people say, you know, oh, it's managing the traffic. You still have to know how to ride a bike. Ben Mitchell: Effectively, yeah. Not a scooter, a bike. I'd say in the country that you're from, go and get a motorbike license and learn to ride a motorbike prior to coming to Vietnam would be a minimum standard. Yeah, correct. Kerry Newsome: Okay. So you've done heaps on a bike, let's face it. So what would you be recommending for your first time traveller to Vietnam as an experienced rider? So they know how to ride. Ben Mitchell: Well, you've got a few choices. You can rent a motorbike and you can ride Through Vietnam you can rent a motorbike and ride through a segment of Vietnam on multi-day trips. You can travel from place to place through Vietnam and in most destinations, well all destinations that are set up for the tourist to visit in Vietnam, you can rent scooters and motorbikes for the day. and go out and explore the area. So some destinations in Vietnam are set up for people to rent a bike and go around and visit as a tourist. For day trips, some destinations you would be rented a motorbike for multi-days to visit the area. And then there's also the market of people renting motorbikes and riding through the country. People buy motorbikes in Saigon. They sell them in Hanoi. There's companies that will buy them and sell them from you. They buy them off other travelers and sell them to other travelers. And then there's the idea that you can go on a tour. And there is some really good reputable companies that provide motorbike tours. Tours can be a day trip, tours can be, you can do a tour for an evening, doing a food tour around Saigon. You can do tours in certain regions of Vietnam that might include a lot of cultural stuff and being way off the beaten track. A good way to get way off the beaten track in Vietnam is to travel by motorcycle. And then there's the way that I haven't really mentioned yet, and that is the easy rider. There is Vietnamese, normally men in most areas of Vietnam, that take tourists on day trips on the back of their motorbikes. or they take people on multi-day trips through segments of Vietnam, whether it be the South, the Central Highlands, Central Vietnam or the North, and they take people on the back of the motorbike. Now, for someone who is not a motorbike rider, to experience Vietnam in a very unique and amazing way, I would highly recommend EasyRiders as a great way to do it. You know, for instance, we get at Phong Nha Farmstay where I live, we get a lot of single female travelers staying with us. And I often say to them, are you heading south? And they're like, yeah. And I'm like, are you on a time restraint? And if they say no, I'm like, well, have you thought about doing a two-day trip from here to Hue via the Ho Chi Minh Trail through Khe Sanh on the back of an Easy Rider? And if they're up for it, it's a great way to get off the beaten track. probably their best opportunity in Vietnam to get off the beaten track with someone we trust to send them with. And they always send me an email at the end of the trip just saying, wow, thanks, that was amazing. So motorbike tourism is not just about being a competent motorbike rider and taking off on your own. You can experience some of the best of what Vietnam's got to offer. And you don't know how to ride a motorbike, but you can go on the back of a licensed local. Kerry Newsome: I feel very comfortable with that. I like it because out of the two of us, I know they know more than me and they know where they're going, they know how to manage traffic, they know the regions, they know the customs and they know the language. So that is a distinct advantage over anything I could offer to the situation. Ben Mitchell: Yeah, and it's unique and they often know some great places that no one else knows. Kerry Newsome: Hideaways. Yeah, absolutely. So they know the good food spots. They know where the potholes are. They can kind of navigate around and it's a really pleasurable experience. Ben, is there any kind of best times of the year to do this, you know, if people were planning ahead? Ben Mitchell: Yeah, if you break Vietnam into sort of three regions, the South, the Central and the North, there's better times to be in any one of those regions. If you were going to ride from all the way from up near the Chinese border down to the bottom of Vietnam at any time, you would probably find at some point along the way some uncomfortable weather, wet, hot, cold, given the time of year. Another way to look at Vietnam, as far as motorboat travel goes, would be to look at what part of the country is best for the time of year you have available to travel. I would personally say, and I've been told by the experts and I've experienced the North in October, September, October, amazing in the North. Yeah, you get a bit of light rain occasionally, but it's harvest time, so it's actually dry. The rice harvests are amazing to see, the countryside's amazing to see in September and October. Having said that, it gets cold up there January, February, and it gets hot up there in the summer, but it's great. any time of the year with the right preparation. And if you're an experienced motorbike rider, you'd know that having the correct gear is important for the time of year that you're traveling. Central Vietnam can be very wet. I often meet people traveling through central Vietnam during our wet season, which centers around October and early November. and they're discussing how amazing it is to ride in extreme rain conditions, which I wouldn't recommend, but another thing about traveling in central Vietnam by motorbike during that period is to be adaptable. with your time. If you need to change direction, if there's a storm, weather event, you need to change direction. Typhoon, yeah, typhoon. Typhoon's not good for motorbike riding. Very short-lived and often cause extreme flooding, but yeah. And then you've got the South, which is very, very hot in the summer and humid, but amazing in the winter. So, you know, leaving Central Vietnam in January, it can be 10 degrees Celsius. And then you can be down as far as Quang Ngai and you're 25. And so, yeah, spread out over two and a half thousand kilometers. What's the best time of year to travel in Vietnam by motorbike? That would be very regional. Kerry Newsome: Fair enough. And, you know, I'm a bit of fan of having my own gear. like my own boots, my own jackets, you know, I know that gear fits me well. Do you recommend people bring their own gear? Ben Mitchell: Yeah, certainly. Like if you're coming in to travel through Vietnam, I recommend you bring your own gear. If you want to buy gear over here, you'd probably find that gear is a lot cheaper here than it is in countries like Australia, where I'm from. You know, companies In Saigon, in Da Nang, in Hanoi, they have the right gear. Saigon motorcycles, Da Nang motorcycles, they sell a wide range of safety equipment at much more reasonable prices than you would get in Australia. But typically, when I travel, I always carry my own gear. Kerry Newsome: What's your average size of bike that you're going to be getting, especially for a long, like what sizes of bikes are we talking? Are we talking tourers? Are we talking off-road bikes? Are we talking on-road bikes? Ben Mitchell: For people that are just renting a bike to do day trips out of an area and around an area, typically they're going to ride scooters. People that are going to get a motorbike taxi or a local rider around an area on day trips, they're often on scooters or small motorbikes. There has been a big increase in Vietnam in options for bigger motorbikes in the last few years. Typically, you want to talk about 15 years ago and before that, most of the tourists that were coming through would ride old Russian Minsks. That chain, they're a 125cc bike that was bought out here during the Soviet era. They've gone out completely now. People went through a phase of riding cheap Hondas. Nowadays we see a lot of people riding like XR150s, little like sort of mixed trail road bikes. and scooters still, but there has been a big increase in the amount of companies running tours and renting out CB500s and other bigger bikes nowadays. Kerry Newsome: Yeah, I've seen more bigger bikes on the roads than I have before and that's getting back to that, you know, riders with proper licenses and maybe speak to everyone listening just about licensing, insurance and how strict Years ago I can remember being on a bike with my husband and we got pulled over and asked for paperwork and we had to kind of find a way around that at the time. I'm not sure that's still happening, but just what's the score there? Ben Mitchell: The licensing situation here in Vietnam is a little bit complicated for foreigners because There's different international license agreements like 1945 and 1968. Countries that signed the 1945 one and not the 1968 one are technically not recognized here in Vietnam. So you might have an Australian, a British or an American license in the country you're from, well that typically is not going to be legal here. Here in Vietnam, they have two different types of licenses for motorbikes. They have Class 1 and Class 2, or A and B. The A license is for under 175cc and the B license is for bikes over 175cc. What you really need here is an international driving permit. which is obtainable. Well, there is I know one company that can get them for you here in Vietnam prior to your arrival. That's Saigon Motorcycles. If you contact them, they can they can apply for that. If you've got a motorbike license, though, from Australia or America or England, most companies will allow you to do a tour and most companies will rent your motorbike. Where it's mainly going to affect you is in the instance of a fatality accident or something like that. Or an incident. Or your insurance. Kerry Newsome: Yeah, so let's talk about insurance because to be honest that's probably been the biggest deterrent for many and there's not many companies that do give you the option and if they do it's quite expensive. Have you got anything to share there because I think that would be of great interest. Ben Mitchell: Yeah, if you can apply for and get the international driving permit here prior to coming and you can get travel insurance that covers you for motorcycle, well then you should be legal. Kerry Newsome: My experience with the people on bikes that have fallen to incidents, let's say, some of that has got to do with maybe not being traffic aware or understanding of the road systems. Like in my country, as you would know, you only overtake on the right. You don't overtake on the left. where here people just move out of each other's way and, you know, there's some real grey areas as far as I'm concerned, as far as road rules are concerned. Can you talk to us a little bit about that? Ben Mitchell: Yeah, it's very different. We're very rigid in our thinking and we're very strict with our road rules in the West. Here in Vietnam, it's all very fluid. It's basically a very different mindset as to the list of responsibilities that you have as a driver over here. It's very different and it pays to actually talk to someone prior to jumping on the bike and heading off about getting some of the key points with that. Kerry Newsome: Yeah, and fluid's a great word, Ben. I think that's the kindest word I've heard described. There's no road rage. That's the one thing I have noticed. Ben Mitchell: No, they don't have much road rage. I have noticed a little bit more tension on the road, though, as more and more people buy cars. Cars, yeah. There was a period here where cars were very rare on the road. True. And there was a lot of motorbikes on the road. And nowadays, each year, there's more and more cars and that is causing some tension situations on the road. But as far as looking at the way that everyone works on the road, people try not to stop. So they're driving in a way that limits the amount of physical stopping and They accept people pulling out in front of them and expect it, whereas we don't expect it, so we find it very difficult to understand. And people are always commenting from overseas about how, well, and the guy just pulled out in front of us. And we had to slow down. And that in itself is something that we just find hard to get our heads around. And the Vietnamese drive in a manner that is about keeping on moving, not about this stopping and starting and rigid behavior. Yeah. And very, very, very different ways of thinking. Kerry Newsome: Yeah, and in some ways it's got a lot of politeness and give way. It actually does. It really does. We could learn a bit about that. Ben Mitchell: Yeah, and even the horn beeping, we instantly in our Western way see the horn as an aggressive comment. Whereas here, it's quite the opposite. It's a warning. It would be considered very rude to come up behind someone and not bite your horn. Kerry Newsome: Correct. Yeah. Do you know what? Only a few days ago, I got asked by a traveler of mine who came in, and she said, I just felt so sorry for all those people that they bit the horns at. And I said, do you know how appreciative those people are of those horns? Because they've just been told that there's a truck that's up their bum that is going to want them to move aside. So they take that hint as guidance to move out of the road and let the truck through. So it's not being rude or aggressive on the road at all. Ben Mitchell: Yeah, it's actually politeness. Kerry Newsome: What's the rules then, Ben, around drinking and driving? Ben Mitchell: It's highly illegal to drink and drive. Is it zero alcohol? They've got a zero alcohol. Kerry Newsome: Do they actually do breathalyzed tests? Ben Mitchell: They do. I got pulled over recently actually. Kerry Newsome: Tragic accidents with people that have been drinking and driving? Ben Mitchell: There has. One of the big causes of it has been the increase in cars. You know, everyone on motorbikes traveling around in Vietnam, especially in their local communities, they all put around Maybe, yes, there is a history of people having alcohol and riding their bikes and they'd putt around and they'd putt home and they'd… At 40 k's an hour. Yeah, and sometimes they'd bump into one another and they'd put their feet down and apologise and move on again because they're all going so slow. But then things have changed with the cars. There has been some big accidents with the cars and the government has brought in a zero alcohol policy and they are breathalysing. Enforcing that. And they do have some huge fines and they confiscate your car for a period of time. And you do go to jail for drink driving. They're very, very strict about it. Kerry Newsome: I'm really glad to hear that. I think the concern I have more is the new traveller, the young traveller that, you know, first time on a scooter, is hooning around, has had a few beers under his belt and doesn't understand the road rules or the the organized chaos, as we sometimes call it in the West, and then falls prey and has a tragic accident. So, you know, for everyone listening that is considering about a motorbike trip, I think what Ben is telling you here is really good to know about. But please learn the craft of riding a bike before you get here. Ben Mitchell: Yeah. And people that are sort of on a long unlimited amount of time or they can come through the country slowly and take it all in. Or they can be on the back of an easy rider bike. Or on the back of an easy rider. And people that have got good riding experience, they've got a limited amount of time and they want to get the most out of what they can get in Vietnam. I would highly recommend considering a tour, a motorbike tour. And there's a multitude of companies that do the motorbike tours. There's some companies that don't specialize in the north. There's companies that do all the way through the country, like Adrenaline Rush Trails. Up in the north, you've got some of the older ones, Flamingo and Kung's Motorbike Adventures. Down in the south, there's different operators. Based on the time of year, going with a professional company, safety levels are pretty good. Those tour companies, they know what they're doing. Kerry Newsome: Ben, thanks for coming on and talking about this subject as it's something I think we kind of skim over, comes up a lot as far as touring around Vietnam. And, you know, it is a bike culture here with trillions of them still on the road, even though cars are coming through. So I think great advice. Thanks for coming on. Ben Mitchell: Thanks, Kerry. Thanks for today. Kerry Newsome: Thanks very much, Ben. Now we'll jump into that interview I got to do with my friend Chris Pantelli about the ride he just did in April this year. You're going to love his ability to really put you in the picture of that ride with his son, Nicholas, and just some of the aspects of the trip that really hit home for him. Let's join up with Chris now. Okay, so here we are. Chris, thanks for coming on the show. Chris Panteli: My pleasure, Kerry. Kerry Newsome: Chris, before we jump in, I thought for everybody I'd just give a little bit of context on, you know, how I know you, how we found ourselves together in Vietnam, and a little bit about your bike riding experience. So, just two secs. So, we did a trip, quite a long trip this time in Vietnam, and I brought my husband. And this is about kind of March, April, and we got to meet up with Chris, his wife Danielle, and his son Nicholas in Hoi An. Chris and Nicholas had just come back from a four or five-day bike ride in northern Vietnam. So, you know, to say that they were pretty high after that would be an understatement, but I'll let Chris tell you a bit more about that. But I've asked Chris to come on because he's an experienced bike rider. He was traveling with his 25-year-old son, and they chose to do this ride in northern Vietnam. And I just thought Chris could bring to the show for you some real insights that are very relevant to undertaking this kind of experience in Vietnam. And certainly, he's going to be able to talk about that area and just give you some tips and hints to make it as hassle-free as possible. So maybe Chris, tell us Why did you choose this company? Because you chose a tour company, and I know you had a few reservations about that to begin with, and we spoke about that separately. But what was it about this company that made you say, yes, I want to go with this company called ADV Motorcycle Tours and Dirt Bike Travel? Chris Panteli: Oh, thank you. Look, it was, I guess, one of those moments where you're diving into a place that you don't know. The reason why I selected ADV was more so just from the assistance, the direction, I think their professionalism. Everything's sort of done through bank transfers, as you're aware, which is quite foreign to what we do. So, being a sceptic and not sort of, I don't know anybody in there, it was just a good feeling from the beginning, just in the way that everything's set up. So, immediately, it was more personal than business and that showed through from the beginning to the end. So, from the initial introduction, payments, to scheduling the plan, adjusting the plan, doing the ride, it was just comfortable from the beginning. So I had another few companies that I was looking at and I didn't feel as comfortable. So ADV was definitely our choice and a good choice in the long run. Kerry Newsome: Okay, so I think for everyone, it's key for you to give time, effort and put some thought into researching the right companies to work with. That is kind of primary and I want to start with that. And I'm happy to answer any questions if you want to come to me direct to recommendations. I'm going to put a link in the show notes to ADV because of Chris's great experience and he'll probably expand a bit more on that as we go. Chris, what was it about the area you chose? Because maybe talk a little bit about that northern region that you went into and what spoke to you and said, hey, that's where we want to head, that's where we want to go. Chris Panteli: Well, we were starting in Hanoi, so we were sort of destined to be either to the north or the south and we decided to do it just based on what ADV had I just sort of linked on their website in areas, tours, day tours and the like. We ended up doing a four-day tour. It was meant to be five, but my son was a little ill and again, ADV just adjusted. So we did a four-day massive tour, which was fantastic. We started in Hanoi, which was Amazing. The whole ride itself, I should probably say, is off-road and on-road. We were on WR250s, semi-motocross bikes, and we started off bustling through Hanoi, through to Tak Ba, which the scenery, by the way, was absolutely sensational. The guide that we had, Charlie, he's actually a tourist guide as well, so a wealth of knowledge, young kid, absolutely brilliant. But, you know, there was time to enjoy the scenery. It was, you know, amazing riding. There was boat tours, there was swimming, there were homestays. It was just absolutely spectacular. The riding was about 180 k's a day, so eight to 10 hours, you know, from Hanoi to Tak Ba, and then we went from Tak Ba to Bep Tam, and then from Bep Tam near the Lao border, and then from there back into Hanoi. But the scenery was spectacular. In fact, everything about it was spectacular. The organisation, the homestays, it was just sensational. Kerry Newsome: And you have chosen, without you even realising, one of the most scenic areas in northern Vietnam for sure. And I can back you up totally, because my husband and I went there a totally different way. We obviously weren't on the back of a bike, but we went up into the Yen Bai province. And for everyone listening, I did an episode on Yen Bai just recently, so you can flick back to that if you'd like to experience Yen Bai, but maybe not on a bike. But it is scenery at levels and expansiveness and kind of the rice fields, Chris, you would say, the ingenuity of them cascading down the mountains. Unbelievable, hey? Chris Panteli: It is so picturesque. It's exactly what you see in the guides and the tourist type, you know, magazines and the like. I think some of the spectacular things were what They chose a journey that was so memorable. For my son and I, it was memories and a life experience that you would never, ever be able to replicate again. I think when we do it again, as you know, we're booking again very soon. We'll be in touch. It will never be the same. That first experience, and especially where Charlie took us and the route, the scenery, the path, the engagements, even the dinners. Every night there was a special dinner or whatever it may be. It was absolutely spectacular. So I don't know what the rest of Vietnam's like, but I can tell you, you planned out our last trip. So we know we did Ha Long Bay and then all the other places. But that part for that motorcycle tour was absolutely sensational. Yeah. Kerry Newsome: So in, in a kind of getting to nitty gritty kind of things, talk to us a little bit about, um, your gear, the bike itself, like feeling safe, the road, you know, like how, how good were the roads to, to travel on and even off road. Did you kind of feel like that you were in an environment with your guide and the tour company kind of, they knew what they were doing and you were in good hands kind of thing. So talk us through some of those aspects for people. Chris Panteli: Well, from the beginning, um, sort of, uh, lie in, uh, picked up, but we were basically picked up and taken to where ADV headquarters was. Um, you went through, had a similar on the bike, the box with our both WR two 50s. So goodbye. So not, not, not rubbish, um, and well-maintained and the like. So very, very happy and I'm a very fussy person, um, and very particular. Um, so. On that part, we started well with the gear. We did bring some of our own riding gear, so helmets. I think that's a good idea. Yep. Yep. So we didn't bring boots. So if we could have got everything from ADV, but it wasn't a hassle. I think if you're a bike rider, bring your own helmet, the rest you can take on your own. But from there, it was based introduction, put your gear on, get familiar with the bike, adjust levers and all that sort of stuff, make sure it's all good. A bit of local knowledge on what's what. Once you're committed, you're committed in Vietnam and you're riding. Very, very different too. So it's first time for me. I've been lots of places in the world, but not into Vietnam. So it was very, very different. I guess, aspect in how people drive, their awareness, how everything just merges nicely. We are not used to those things. But from there, it was gear on, and we started off with a tour. There was a set time that we needed to get to certain places. I would say, even if you were a beginner rider, ADV would be able to put a tour appropriate to your skill level. um you know to achieve something that we would uh we were quite advanced and i think charlie enjoyed that you know nick and i've been riding for a long time he's been riding since he was a small kid as well he's 25 now um that we were quite advanced so i think charlie enjoyed um taking us to some of the more difficult areas um but it was always safe well guided so when we're driving through and i think that's an experience riding through vietnam hanoi peak hour um like that is amazing. But Charlie even made that very, very, you know, obviously we're on big bikes, so we stand up over most of the scooters and the like. So, Charlie, we had hand signals, you know, to speed up and slow down. It was just perfectly safe. In some of the off-road, some of it was quite difficult. Some of the bridge crossings were quite, you know, not impossible. Yeah, you know, average conditions. And, you know, some slippery, we were lucky the weather was perfect for us. So it was, you know, perfect in that April period for us. You know, there were boat tours, ferries, like it was just very, very well organized. And it would suit most levels, even beginner levels of riding. Kerry Newsome: I think covering off the things like gear and the quality of the bikes and, you know, good guides taking you to places that they know that you can handle. And because you were an experienced rider, they can kind of take you into places where, you know, somebody new to, to bike riding, uh, would be, you know, not, not the right thing to do. Would you say, Chris, you know, in, in planning that trip, what would you do? differently? Like, is there anything that you would do differently? Chris Panteli: Look, to be honest, I'd probably do a longer tour next time with maybe shorter days. Kerry Newsome: Yeah, it's a long day. Yeah. Chris Panteli: 180Ks a day. And Nick and I can ride and we love riding. And I'll tell you what, um, you know, you would get to the end destination and, um, you would just want to relax. Um, what I would not, what I absolutely, what I would not ever do is do that on my own. So some of the places that we went to were just so remote, just so beautiful, but have no idea where you are at all, like even crossing borders into other regions and stuff like that. Things change. It's crazy. So I really wouldn't change anything on the tour. I'd make it a little longer and maybe some shorter days, so duration longer, maybe shorter days. I would never attempt that without a guide. and we will only use ADV now, but I would, I think the importance of having someone organize something, even though stays, I'll send you some photos, but even where we stayed, the homestays, the rooms, the dinners that we had, it was just a cultural experience. So that's probably, I probably wouldn't change anything, maybe the duration and maybe, you know, maybe some shorter days. Kerry Newsome: Yeah, and I think that's a good point. You know, Vietnam is such a big country and people get there and sometimes I just think they just try to pack in way too much, too quickly. And the advantage of a company like this is it's got that flexibility. And what I liked most to hear from you when we caught up was just, you know, what happened with Nicholas, you know, having, you know, an illness kind of very early on in the trip where you had to make some adaptations, maybe talk to everyone about that because, you know, It's very easy to talk and gloss over and say when everything's perfect, you know, it all goes rosy and you only hear those stories. But I think it's actually good to hear a story where, you know, things, you know, happen that aren't planned and yet they can be easily managed or can be better managed. So talk to us about poor Nick. Chris Panteli: It was most unfortunate. So a couple of friends of ours from Canada come down, so we ended up going into beer corner and all that sort of stuff, probably crazy light the day before we're going for a ride. Maybe we were also told not to eat communal peanuts and all that sort of stuff, but anyway, that went to the wayside. To say that Nick had probably the worst bounty gastro I've ever, ever seen, including anything on any of my tours or anything like that as well, is an understatement. He wasn't looking well. Everything was not well at all, you know, in bed, everything, you know, happening. So it was quite catastrophic. But I rang Min, and Min's the operations manager from ADV. And this is the guy that I was dealing with from the beginning. So I told him what happened and said, hey, listen, mate, I don't think that we'll be able to start the ride. Nick's got really bad gastro. Probably think I have to take him to the hospital. Anyway, Min, like normal, providing the best advice that he can. told me exactly what I needed from the pharmacy, exactly what he asked for. If they didn't understand me to call them, you know, call him, give him the phone and basically said, start taking these. And if he's not feeling, you know, much better in six hours, I will come and grab you and I'll take you to hospital. True to his name, it did work out. Nick was a little average on the first day. But again, you know, if we didn't have that person, obviously I could have called you, Kerry, but If I didn't have men on that part of it, it would have been catastrophic. We would have had to cancel. But also, we changed the five-day ride to a four-day ride and still did almost 180km a day. It was just sensational to have someone to give you correct advice, knowing, and it's happened before, how to get over it and overcome that illness. Kerry Newsome: cannot say more strongly how much it gives people that peace of mind. Just throwing yourself into Vietnam at times, I think people really underestimate the heat, the change in the foods, you know, people say, oh, am I going to get, you know, barley belly kind of things? Well, yeah, you might get that. Just purely in the way that, you know, the soils, some of the food types. And yeah, if you go to, you know, and maybe enjoy Bee Hoi and You know, but it's all part of the adventure, but it's really about how it's managed. And I've had a similar experience to you, Chris, you know, where, you know, the Vietnamese will just really step out, uh, in ways that in certainly in Australia and, and most Western countries would not do. They would not offer that kind of service to. You know, come and get you if it didn't work out, take you to the hospital, manage the language barrier, blah, blah, blah. You know, so I'm really glad to hear that because I think, you know, we talk about stories where everything goes great most of the time and, and that's wonderful. But, you know, on the occasion when things go awry, I mean, I saw Nicholas when you arrived in Toi An after he was beaming, looked the picture of health, was raving about the trip. So, you know, all power to ADV for helping you manage that, get you still involved in the tour and, you know, coming out the other side all smiling. So good to hear, Chris. Chris Panteli: And you know what, it sort of resonated through the whole trip as well. We had bunches, Charlie fixed it on the spot. We had a couple of breakages, he found parts. There was support crew if we needed it. So it was the whole thing was just taken care of. Couldn't have been in better hands. On your own though, well, I think it would have been a total different story. Kerry Newsome: Yeah, and just, you know, even that, you know, those few days that I had in Yanbai, you know, something that I really had to take note of was just the fact that in those regions, because of their remoteness, the language is another challenge. Not every place has good Wi-Fi, so once again, you can't get onto Google Translate to help you out there. And, you know, having someone to say, look, hey, go here. This is where this happens. You know, you're going to be fine. Just takes all that worry away, gives you back that sense of control. And, you know, you can really enjoy it without having to worry about the things that, you know, you shouldn't have to worry about it on a holiday because it is a holiday. So, have we inspired you, Chris, to come back to Vietnam, like with this trip? Chris Panteli: Oh, you already know that's happening. Kerry Newsome: We will be back. Well, I'm trying to go. What have I got to do to get you back? But no, that's right. You are coming back. Yeah. Chris Panteli: Yeah. So, Tash is going to do a placement in Cambodia Nursing, and well, the family's going to come for another holiday. So, we'll be back. Yeah, so we'll do something different on this one. Last one was brilliant. And yeah, Vietnam, you're right. I think everything will be disappointing in Asia outside of Vietnam, but who cares now? It's a beautiful place, so we'll be back. Kerry Newsome: Fantastic. Chris, is there anything we didn't cover that we should have covered about this trip? Is there anything I didn't ask or whatever before we wrap up? Chris Panteli: I just think if people are going to take on and do that on-road, off-road, so ours was combined on-road, off-road type thing, really consider who you're going with. I wouldn't recommend doing it on your own. I'm quite adventurous and so is Nick, but it's just not something we would do. The other thing is, if you happen to break down in some of those places, You would really need local knowledge to get yourself out of that, make yourself safe, be able to… And the other part was as well, everywhere we went with Charlie, Charlie was like a little rock star. So you almost got VIP service in all the restaurants and villages and kids running next to you and jumping on your bikes and stuff. I would just look at the value. It's not expensive, my goodness. It costs four times as much to do the same thing in Australia. But look at what you're going to get for it. I strongly recommend going with something like an ADV. I couldn't recommend them more. It's just for peace of mind and everything will be smooth. So that's probably it, really, Kerry. Kerry Newsome: Okay. Thanks very much, Chris, and I look forward to chatting with you again soon. What About Vietnam | Vietnam Podcasts | Sustainable/Wellbeing Sustainable / Wellbeing S2-22 Wild Monkeys of Danang Go to Episode S2-12 Health and Wellness Retreats Go to Episode S2-18 Masterminding your trip Go to Episode S2-10 Dental Holiday in Vietnam Go to Episode S2-14 Social Enterprise Travel Go to Episode S2-02 Shopping Vietnam Go to Episode S2-13 Skin Wellness retreat Go to Episode S3-23 Your next wellness destination Go to Episode S3-17 Mui Ne Beach bliss experiences Go to Episode S3-15 Travel time in Vietnam P2 Go to Episode S3-07 Positive tourism Go to Episode S4-18 Luxury Brand Travel Experiences Go to Episode S4-03 Travel Outlook 2022-23 Go to Episode S4-02 Fine Dining Vietnam Go to Episode S5-E15 Yen Bai Luxury in the Heart of Nature Go to Episode S5-E11 Out and About in Ho Tram Vietnam Go to Episode View All Blog Posts (30) 10 Festivals in Vietnam travellers should know about Of course, TET is the most important festival of the year in Vietnam, and because of that you must see our separate BLOG HERE with everything you should know about TET as a traveler. However, there are 9 other festivals that can affect travellers during the year in Vietnam, totally separate from the universal ones related to westerners as in Christmas, New Years and Thanksgiving. 1. Lim Festival So much of the traditional Vietnamese festivals is taken up with its costumes and pageantry. The Lim festival is one of those special ones that includes lots of traditional fair activities in the beautiful setting in the Lim Village. The Lim Festival opens annually on around 12th - 13th day of the first lunar month in the year, February 3, 2023. The festival allows travelers to enjoy the UNESCO-listed Quan Ho folk singing and a variety of traditional games. You’ll see locals performing in traditional costumes and it gives amazing insight into the traditions of Vietnam. The Lim Festival is celebrated in Lim Village which is located in the Bac Ninh Province of Vietnam. The village is only about 11 miles (18 KM) from Hanoi, which you can easily get to by bus or your own rental car. So much of the traditional Vietnamese festivals is taken up with its costumes and pageantry. The Lim festival is one of those special ones that includes lots of traditional fair activities in the beautiful setting in the Lim Village. Photo credit for Lim Festival - https://goviettrip.com/vietnam/lim-festival-vietnam 2. Perfume Pagoda Festival The Perfume Pagoda Festival is Vietnam's famous Buddist pilgrimage site. Held February 5, 2023, this festival welcomes thousands of pilgrims who pray when they arrive at the sacred cave. They pray for a happy and prosperous new year. It takes place in Hanoi at the Perfume Pagoda. During the festival, pilgrims first board boats that pass a beautiful landscape of rice paddies and limestone mountains before going by foot past picturesque historical shrines and up hundreds of stone steps. Photo credit and further information - https://luxtraveldmc.com/blog/perfume-pagoda.html 3. Phu Giay Festival From April 22-27, 2023 in the Nam Dinh Province, the Phu Giay Festival takes place. This festival is a tribute to Lieu Hanh, one of the Vietnamese " 4 immortal gods." Interestingly, Lieu Hanh is the only of the four immortal gods that’s based on a real person. The festival takes place around 55 miles from Hanoi, when the Vietnamese make a pilgrimage to the Phu Giay Temple. The festival offers traditional diversions such as cock-fighting, ​ keo chu , and folk singing. During the festival, many pray for good fortune as they carry decorated bamboo relics while wearing traditional costumes. Further reading - https://vietnamisawesome.com/articles/best-vietnam-festivals 4. Hung King Temple Festival The Hung King Temple Festival takes place on April 29, 2023 and celebrated the birth of Vietnam’s first kings: the Hung Vuong. Hung Vuong became king in 2879 BC, and the story has been embellished over the years. To remember the King and his many sons, people gather at the Hung Temple, located near Việt Trì in Phu Tho province, about 50 miles (80 KM) from Hanoi. Travelers will get to witness hundreds of lanterns being released into the sky the night before the festival. The next morning a beautiful flower ceremony is held, followed by a large processional that begins at the foot of a mountain and ends at the main Hung Temple. Photo credit - https://vietnamisawesome.com/articles/best-vietnam-festivals 5. Hue Festival The Hue Festival of 2023 is to span the entire year! With continuous activities through the entire year, the Hue Festival begins with an opening program known as the Ban Soc ceremony in January, and ending with a Countdown Show on December 31, 2023. The festival is Biennial, meaning it happens once every 2 years. The festival features theater, dance, music, and acrobatics that are performed in different places around the city, although most of the activities are conducted around the grounds of the Hue Citadel. Have a listen to Hue The City - Past, Present and Future for more information about Hue. 6. Reunification Day Celebrated on April 30th, Reunification Day was celebrated when South Vietnam was freed from U.S Troops. This was the day that South Vietnam joined North Vietnam under one government. The people of Vietnam celebrate their Reunification date each year on this date. The day is celebrated throughout Vietnam, but travelers should head to larger cities such as Hoi An or HCMC to take part. There is an amazing parade in Hanoi as well as fireworks displays in Danang. HCMC in particular goes crazy late into the evening and lots of events will be held, so make sure you check these out, and where these are held as traffic is beyond description. Find more detail about this very special day here - https://hoiannow.com/hoi-an-guide/festivals-in-vietnam/reunification-day-vietnam/ 7. Buddha’s Birthday Also known as Vasek, Buddha’s Birthday is celebrated each year by the Vietnamese. Celebrated on May 26, 2023, temples are adorned with lavish decorations to celebrate the birth of Buddha. Locals often offer fruit, flower garlands, and traditional Vietnamese dishes. Hoi An is one of the best places to celebrate Buddha’s Birthday, which is held at the Phap Bao Pagoda. Locals then head to the temple to perform religious rites, and listen to the Buddha’s scriptures. During the festival animals are released while flower garlands and lanterns are often placed on river banks. 8. Independence Day Vietnam's Independence Day is celebrated on September 2 every year. This euphoric celebration celebrates the independence of Vietnam in a grand way. This is a public holiday in Vietnam, meaning many things will be closed in smaller towns. Independence Day is celebrated throughout Vietnam, but as a traveler it is best to go to Hanoi or HCMC to celebrate. In HCMC where I was staying at the time of these celebrations the atmosphere was electric. There are many events in the main cities, but more so in HCMC. Beware of traffic if you have to get to the airport as it is crazier than usual and many roads get closed off. For further reading and photo credit - https://www.edarabia.com/vietnam/national-day/ 9. Mid Autumn Festival Celebrated on September 16/17 September, 2024, the Mid Autumn Festival features a wide range of activities for all. You’ll see paper lanterns, lion dancing, and food booths that sell a variety of Vietnamese treats. Otherwise known as the Harvest Festival, households often display offerings in honor of the full moon. Hoi An is a great place to celebrate the Mid Autumn Festival. As a traveler you will see plenty of street performances, a beautiful lantern processional, and exhibits throughout the town. This one is a special one and many travellers base their trip around as they want to be part of the pageantry. It is always noisy, fun, colourful and the vibe is always around fun and mainly focused on children, so families, I suggest it would be. areal treat for kids. Find more detail here - https://www.vietravel.com/en/cultures-and-customs/legend-of-midautumn-festival-in-vietnam-v11383.aspx It’s a good idea to keep these festivals in mind when planning your trip to Vietnam. Travellers can certainly get a better glimpse into Vietnamese culture by taking part in them, but sometimes its best to avoid them or plan around them as with nearly 100 million people, things can get congested and make travel plans difficult if you haven'tt planned for them. Happy travels. Kerry Newsome Recent Vietnam Scams and How to Avoid Them Staying Vigilant or going in “Eyes wide open” Recent Vietnam Scams and How to Avoid Them There has been a lot of recent hype about Vietnam and scams causing people serious concern and often outrage. While I continue to travel to Vietnam many times in a year, I am mindful of these scams. However I certainly don’t give them any more weight than I would do for any other country I visit. While it’s said a holiday is about chilling out and being super relaxed, that doesn’t mean switching off your normal antennas for trouble or things that don’t sound right, or feel right. That gut feeling is there for a reason. I prefer to recommend “staying alert” rather than being “vigilant’ as vigilant sounds so unnecessarily aggressive, and for the most part, I have not found myself caught by any of the scams I am about to tell you about. That isn’t to say they don’t exist. Maybe because I am well versed in the country’s eccentricities, I don’t confuse issues that rise up as being scams. Sometimes they are just miscommunications. However, I did have a Taxi issue I will explain more about below. 1. Taxi Scams: Reports suggest that some taxi drivers in major cities have been involved in scams where they manipulate meters or take unnecessarily long routes to inflate fares. To avoid this, opt for reputable taxi companies ( VinaSun, Mai Linh) or ride-sharing apps GRAB, BE ; check on Google Maps prior to leaving the approximate time and distance away, and always check there is a meter running. Personally, I prefer to use the GRAB App, as I get to match my name, with the drivers booking, cost of trip and the name of place. I pay in cash and I always tip and give a rating. Trust me, it’s a good thing to do on many levels. My Taxi scam experience: One thing to watch for is taxis lurking in areas close to markets, kind of alone. In the beginning I thought, “great” I am tired and here is a taxi, so my 2 sisters and I jumped in. I showed him the address of our hotel on my phone and he hardly looked at it. I instantly got a bad feeling. I said ‘meter’, he nodded. But no meter was on. I asked how much in Dong? He said 200k for a 50 K trip. I said no. He immediately locked all the doors. I had a moment of panic. I immediately started taking photos of his face, his license on dashboard, and I said “let us out or I will call the POLICE. I shouted police and started to wind down windows. He was going to start driving when I said to my sisters to bash on windows of car. He stopped, opened doors, and I forcefully ushered my sisters to get out of the car fast. Which we did. He drove off at a fast pace. Good riddance. That was it. A reminder that I’d taken my eyes off my game by not sticking to what I would normally do. I used my Grab App and we got picked up by a lovely driver in nice car and made our way back to hotel. So, you see it can happen to the best of us. 2. Street Vendor Overcharging: While street food is a highlight of Vietnamese cuisine, there have been instances of street vendors overcharging unsuspecting tourists. To avoid falling victim, establish the price before making a purchase and consider checking with locals for reasonable price ranges. This is always hard to mitigate as each area may endure different cost factors for the same item, so if its 50c extra you pay and think worth haggling over versus OVER the top $10 extra, then I suggest don’t buy it. Look further afield for better value. The same thing happens when buying water in my country. Shops in the same shopping centre, can vary from $2.50 to $5.00. Isn’t that a scam or overcharging? It’s a hard one to measure and find what to measure it by? 3. Fake Tour Operators: The rise of online booking has given scammers the opportunity to pose as legitimate tour operators. This is scary, and I raise a flag here. Be cautious when booking tours online, especially if the prices seem too good to be true. Research reviews and book through reputable platforms or agencies. Facebook is prolific in Vietnam so there is always the option to check the company out by their FB page and communicate directly with operator. Be thoughtful about how you pay for services. Say you will pay cash on completion if you are doubtful or type the tour company name into a Vietnam travel group page like Vietnam for Smart for tourists and Vietnam - The Travellers Experience and see if it gets any hits? Or reach out to yours truly to design you a private tour through my What About Vietnam Trip planning services. 4. Motorbike Rental Scams: Reports indicate scams involving motorbike rentals, where unscrupulous operators claim damages to the vehicle that were already present. Thoroughly inspect the bike before renting, take pictures of any pre-existing damage, and ensure clear communication about terms and conditions. This is a must. Especially for longer trips, I would advise going through a reputable bike company who can back you up if you have a breakdown, or if you need any further assistance during your ride. One very well known company is Easy Riders, and if you are planning a long trip you shouldn't go past Vietnam Coracle for this trips and local bike riding advice 5. Fake Tickets: In popular tourist destinations like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, there have been reports of fake tickets being sold for attractions. Purchase tickets directly from official vendors or the venue to ensure their authenticity. Or if you have a tour Operator, ask your Guide to purchase for you to ensure you get the exact tickets you want. That way nothing gets lost in translation. Tips to Avoid Scams: Research and Plan: Familiarize yourself with common scams reported by other travelers. Platforms like travel forums, facebook groups and blogs can provide valuable insights. However, be warned some situations can be over dramatized and toxic. Without sounding like I am blowing my own trumpet, you might like to listen to some travellers in your area of interest on the Podcast, as we don’t pull any punches and if there is a local scam we usually put it out there. 2. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local news and travel advisories for updates on prevalent scams. 3. Use Reputable Services: Choose well-known taxi companies, established tour operators, and trusted accommodation options. 4. Bargain Wisely: Bargaining is common in Vietnam, especially in markets. However, do it with respect and be aware of the reasonable price range for goods or services. I can’t stress this one enough. I warn people to only bargain if you really are interested in the product. If not say “I just want to know YOUR final price” and if it’s not what you want to pay, then walk away. Special Note: It is becoming increasingly more popular for shops to present fixed price options so if you see a ticketed item, the price is non-negotiable. Unless you buy many and you then you may get a discount. 5.Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Trust your instincts and be cautious in unfamiliar situations. Vietnam's beauty and warmth are best enjoyed when travellers are informed and they go in with “eyes wide open”. Not everything is going to go exactly to plan, so plan on that, and you will be fine. By using those god given instincts, and implementing a few simple precautions, visitors can make the most of their time in this captivating country without falling victim to any unscrupulous practices. Top of Form Written b y - Kerry Newsome - Founder and Host - What About Vietnam Discovering the Enchanting Flowers of Dalat, Vietnam: A Floral Paradise Nestled amidst the lush highlands of Vietnam, the city of Dalat is a haven for nature lovers and enthusiasts of all things beautiful. Renowned for its picturesque landscapes and pleasant climate, Dalat boasts an impressive array of flowers that paint the city in vibrant colors throughout the year. From stunning gardens to vibrant markets, there's no shortage of places to immerse oneself in the captivating world of Dalat's flowers. 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! 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 park's annual Flower Festival, typically held in December, is a highlight that draws visitors from around the world. 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 while enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds you. Dalat Market: For a taste of local life and an opportunity to bring some of Dalat's floral charm back home, a visit to the Dalat Market is a must. Here, stalls are adorned with an assortment of fresh flowers, potted plants, and handcrafted floral arrangements. It's an excellent place to experience the local flower culture and purchase a piece of Dalat's beauty. 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 View All

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Out & About in Hồ Tràm Vietnam Kerry Newsome : Xin chào and welcome to What About Vietnam. So today here we are in Ho Tram and this is the second installment in the What About Vietnam series which I'm kind of calling Out and About and Out and About is today in Ho Tram. Now, Ho Tram is a very small beach town located in Vietnam's, now you're going to kill me with this, I'm not going to be able to pronounce it correctly, but it's Ba Rai Vung Tau province. And it's kind of situated about 125 kilometers southeast of Ho Chi Minh City. Now, the purpose of this episode is to look at the situation where you're going to choose a hotel as your location. Not a city, not a township, not an adventure. You're not going to go hiking, you're not going to go caving. You're going to come to a hotel. And I did an episode back in season four, episode 18, where we featured luxury brand experiences in Vietnam. And I did that with a lovely luxury expert. And she was able to share with me some places that she said, you know, you just go there the hotel. You don't go there to do anything else but to experience the hotel. The hotel is the place, it's the destination, it's the location. So today I'm joined with my partner in crime here, Kelley McCarthy, and I was able to ask her to come with me to do this together so that we could share and compare how we viewed this kind of experience. I'm sure you're going to get a bit of a giggle because she's all about giggles. And definitely I think some ideas because I think for most people they are short on ideas for about a two hour or three hour venture out of Saigon. Like typically those would be Mekong Delta, Ben Tre or out to Can Tho. So this is an alternative, but this is five star, so I'm going to ask my five star girl to join me here. Hello Kelley McCarthy. So here we are girl, we need to maybe give everyone a bit of a heads up into, let's tell them how we got here, as I think you might be the best to just recall that little trip. Kelley McCarthy : So our little adventure started when we left Saigon You can arrange with the hotel to use the courtesy bus that will bring you out here, which is a great saving because it's probably 1.5 to 2 million each way if you were to arrange transport, so it's a great little bonus in your package and You just book in advance you're out there and return. My suggestion will be get on that bus a little quicker than we did and don't think you're cool by going to the back. You end up sitting over the two back wheels which means really you should bring a kidney belt to hold everything in place as you bounce up and down on the great little roads out here. Kerry Newsome: Yes, there was a few twists and turns there and we did, you know, we're the type that just go to the back of the bus. That's just our thing. And we had, you know, a fair bit of luggage. But one of the, I think, smart things we did was do this on a weekday. So we didn't come on the weekend where traditionally I think a lot more local Vietnamese would come. So we did this on a Monday. So the Starting point was a cafe where everyone met. We were very welcomed at this cafe to leave our bags while the bus came to get us. And then we piled into that little bus and we trotted along at a very even speed. We could holler for a bath stop if we needed to. But yeah, we were on the back wheels there, and we were jogging along the way. And there's a bit of video that I think Kelly was so kind to capture during that part. So let's talk about, like, Kelly, for you, when we decided to do this, like, what was your headset around coming out here and, like, not going anywhere else other than the hotel? Kelley McCarthy : Well for me, for starters, anyone that knows me, I'm a shopper, so Saigon is my favourite city, getting out and about. So coming out here I knew it was all about relaxation, so we planned that we would make it a short stay of only a couple of days. um coming out here so on the way out it was a case of right let's get into wind down mode cocktails wine nibbles on the beach putting the swimsuit on and just floating in the pool if you could see me now you would definitely see that i've been floating in the pool today i'm like a little lobster so Don't forget to pack that sunscreen and take it down to the pool. It's all about relaxation when you come out here. Don't come out to a destination hotel and think you're going to go off to a little township. By all means, if you were out here for more than a couple of days, you can arrange tours to go and see the local area but you don't really want to leave the resort because it's got everything here. It's beautiful, it's got day spas which we sort of indulged in today which was magnificent. You've got a cafe, you've got a couple of choices of restaurants, it's got everything that you need just to unwind. Kerry Newsome : And I think unwind is a good word. I think I was mouthing the word chill, chill everywhere. I mean, we're in close vicinity to Vung Tau. So if you wanted to, you wanted to make a day trip, that would be a very easy one. Kelley McCarthy : It's very close by. About 22 k's for anyone. Yes. Interested. Kerry Newsome : So I mean, that would be a city and obviously with its own history and its own culture and its own story to tell. So you could do that. But getting back to, I hate to harken on this everyone, but like the purpose of this trip was to really find a destination hotel. In other words, a hotel, and I'm not by means saying that where we chose to say is the only hotel to do this, or the only hotel in this region. It's the one we chose to do, and we chose it because I'd had some great advice and some recommendations to do so. But, you know, in my mind I was thinking, now, you know, it's a short trip, it's two hours, I'm coming here with a fun girl, so, you know, I've got entertainment actually sitting alongside me if it all else fails. But the chill factor was, a great thing because we had been super busy in Saigon. And when you come to Saigon, it's so easy to get caught up in the electricity of that city and you're kind of doing things all the time. So if you are looking for just a breakaway, you've got the villas here for a family. You know, we walked past, you know, the pool tonight when you're coming down and they had a movie set up on the lawn with bean bags and they were selling popcorn. So I'm trying to get in that fulfill, I guess is the other word, that out and about story, but talk it through with you in regards to the headset you have. So if you are wanting to come out and about in Ho Tram and you're choosing a hotel, chill's got to be your number one factor. Come out here to literally do nothing. Now I'm going to put it on Kelly and I'm going to say, okay, what do you think are the standouts for this location as a hotel? Kelley McCarthy: I think it's got an amazing pool right with an infinity over the beach. So for those people that are just traveling and might be doing a quick seven day trip in and out of Ho Chi Minh City, you can get a little bit of variety by coming out here because you're actually getting to a beach where in Saigon there is no beaches. So you get out here. So that's a standout for itself. You don't have to take a flight. So there's none of those check-in times to go to a further away area. It had great food. We've tried all the restaurants here on site. It had a pool bar. Like I said, we tried the day spa today, which was exceptional. Kerry Newsome: The day spa, I have to say, is now, I've now decided that Vietnam has got the quality of day spas that you need and expect as a Westerner. It was just die for. Kelley McCarthy: Yeah, using Thalgo products, so it was a fabulous day spa, not using sort of a product that might have been a Vietnamese product that we didn't. And there is a kids club here, at the moment it is currently under renovation, so you could come out as a family if you wish to. But a little joke aside, Kerry and I did note that it was a lot of loved up couples out here. and over 55, so of course that sort of cut us out on both angles. We did talk about tonight being loved up coming back from dinner just to fit in with the crowd, but definitely a romantic place if you're wanting to bring your partner here for a couple of days to wow them or for those guys out there, pop the question. It's a great location for that. Kerry Newsome: But don't come out here thinking that you'll find somebody to pop the question. All loved up. No, they're definitely with somebody else and they do not have eyes to spare for you. Sorry about that. But so definitely families, couples of any descriptions. Probably misfits like us who you know like we could pretend to be a couple any day but like probably not have the full length of that. but like it was just very very noticeable for us as we walked around. Kelley McCarthy: It's where you seek a little bit of privacy as well because if you're a traveler that's been to some of the other resorts of places you know that got pool bars such as Bali or Thailand this is not that kind of destination it's not party crowds by the pool. It's more intimate. I think everyone comes here for a little bit of intimacy. But very beautiful. The wind blowing. The beach is divine isn't it? It is really lovely. Kerry Newsome: White sand for miles. Very easy access. I really liked the openness. No gating. hard security kind of feel around it. It was very, very relaxed. Staff were mostly good. I think, you know, we're still experiencing some issues with language where, you know, lots of hand gestures goes on and lots of kind of pointing to things. And I think staff is still trying to, you know, step up to the ability to be able to converse with us with English as well as they did pre-COVID. Kelley McCarthy: I think a really important point to note here, if there's any travellers out there that are mobility impaired, it would be an easy resort to get around. Wide pathways, there's also, even if you're a little bit older, as in the over 55s we spoke about, There is golf buggies that can drive you around the resort as well so it would cater to those sort of people that were just wanting to relax but really couldn't sort of walk too far or anything because it is quite a spread out resort so that would give you that opportunity if you are that way to enjoy it as well. Kerry Newsome: Yeah, and I think I tried to bring it up in the sense too that it's kind of an escape from Saigon. It's got beautiful golf courses. In fact, Ho Tram has been known mostly for golf in previous years. It's only really just come to the fore again in trying to promote itself as a luxury five-star resort location. So, you know, I get a lot of people that say, look, you know, they've been to Saigon or they're coming through Saigon and they've got a couple of days spare. They don't want to go out in the heat and do the Mekong Delta. They don't. They've already done the Cu Chi Tunnels. They just want somewhere else to go and I thought I needed to find somewhere else that could just give that escape. Sure, it's five star and it is a little bit more costly. Let's talk about cost just into the field of things today. What do you think? Kelley McCarthy: I think, well, Kerry and I did the package where you have a choice. You can come out here and you can either just do your room stay, which includes breakfast, or you do have the opportunity to do half board or full board. We went for half board, which gave us breakfast and dinners, and that made it extremely affordable. I think for the five-star resort that it definitely is, it made it extremely affordable because you got, at your dinner time, you got an entree, a main, a dessert, and one beer or soft drink. There was no wine or spirits, but for anyone out there that wants a nice cold beer sitting on the beach, looking out over the ocean, it was a great opportunity. So I think the board package definitely makes it affordable. Because just keep in mind, you are isolated, so you're a captured audience. So costs are a little bit higher when it comes to your drinks and your food. So if you can do that half board package, it just makes it really affordable, I feel. Kerry Newsome: Absolutely. And you've got to remind yourself too, you are in a five-star resort. So, once again, we're sort of saying it's a destination, but it's still a hotel. It's a five-star hotel. And it's got restaurants, and it's got bars, and it's got beach, and it's got drinks in the pool, and it's got spa, and it's got everything. The room sizes are definitely ample. We're staying in a two-bedroom apartment, which is just delightful. We've got, you know, water provided, we've got coffee, beautiful breakfast. So, you know, I think if you can get your head wrapped around the idea of, you know, being out and about in Ho Tram but at a hotel. I think that's the caveat I need to put to this that it, we didn't go out into Ho Tram. You know, we looked out the windows and we've kind of seen some farming areas and we've thought, you know, maybe next time we would venture out and look, you know, further. Both of us have already been to Vung Tau, so, you know, that's not a city that we wanted to go to on this trip. So I really honed in on the fact that the hotel is the destination. So I hope if you've got any further questions you'll get in touch. We're certainly keen for you to share these episodes as I'm going out. I'm really enjoying the fact of being out and about and trying new places. and even some old places, to be honest, and finding new things. And doing this with Kelly has just been an absolute joy. So please share, please send me your reviews, please follow us on our Facebook, our Instagram and TikTok and LinkedIn pages. and we'd love to hear from you. Thanks, Kel, for being on the show. Kelley McCarthy: Yeah, and I think we should also note that we haven't been paid to come out here and review The Melia Resort. Kelley McCarthy : This came out of our own back pockets, so to bring you the best reviews on this, and I would highly recommend it for a couple of days out of Saigon. Kerry Newsome : Right with you. Anyway, thanks, everyone.

S5-E11 Out and About in Ho Tram Vietnam Episode 11 Out and About in Ho Tram at the beach Go to Episode S5-E7 - The Rise of Vietnam's Unique Dining Experiences Episode 7 The Rise of Unique Dining Experiences Go to Episode S5-E3 Heritage and Discovery in Saigon Mekong Delta & Dalat Episode 3 Rediscovering our guest's heritage Go to Episode S5-E10 Out and About in Saigon - the Uncut Edition Episode 10 Out and about the Uncut Edition Go to Episode S5-E6 Explore the ‘Land of Lychees’ – Bac Giang Episode 6 Returning traveller explores Bac Giang Go to Episode S5-E2 Choosing Hoi An as a Digital Nomad Destination Episode 2 The Hub in Hoi An offers the digital needs of nomads Go to Episode S5-E9 Out and about in Saigon with Kerry Newsome Episode 9 Out and about in Saigon with Kerry Newsome Go to Episode S5-E5 Hai Van Pass Experience from a seasoned traveller Episode 5 Hai Van Pass is an amazing scenic route near Denang Go to Episode S5-E1- Vietnam Visa Update and Land Travel Tips Episode 1 Taking in Phan Thiet, Hue and Quy Nhon Go to Episode S5-E8 – Empowering the Traveller to fight Human Trafficking Episode 8 Human trafficking in Vietnam and how you can change it. Go to Episode S5-E4 Exploring Living and Working in Vietnam Episode 4 Looking at the world of expat life in Vietnam Go to Episode

S5-E11 Out and About in Ho Tram Vietnam Episode 11 S5-E11 Out and About in Ho Tram Vietnam 00:00 / 17:46 The “Out & About in Vietnam” series continues with Kelley McCarthy and I deciding to go in search of a beach escape from Saigon for chilling out and pure relaxation. In this latest instalment we're exploring a different kind of vacation experience—one where the hotel itself is the main destination. It's been an idea of mine for a while to explore this kind of getaway, focusing on a pure relaxation destination within close reach of Saigon. 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 a previous show talking with Alexandra Hepworth about other luxury brand stays in Vietnam Download Transcript PDF Read the transcript here

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