Let’s get real about travel planning to Vietnam.

If you're heading to Vietnam, there’s one big decision you’ll need to make early on:
Should you join a packaged group tour… or plan your own trip?
Do you map it out yourself—or get expert help?

This isn’t a simple yes-or-no answer. It’s one of the most personal choices you’ll make in your travel planning—and one that can completely shape how you experience Vietnam.
In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on both options, sharing the honest pros and cons, and helping you figure out which style fits you best.
No fluff, no sales pitch—just personal and professional insights from years of experience as both a traveller and a travel advisor to Vietnam.
Because I consider this decision one of the biggest you’ll make in setting the tone for your trip, I break down these key elements:
• The structure and convenience of group tours—and when they shine
• The freedom and deeper connection that individually planned travel can offer
• Why group tours can sometimes feel like a blur of bucket-list stops
• The trade-offs of a tightly scheduled itinerary versus one you design yourself (or with guidance)
• Real talk: what people loved (and didn’t) about both styles
If you follow this show, you’ll know from other episodes: the best trips happen when your travel style matches who you are.
Whether that’s with a group or through your own custom plan—choose what fits you.
I truly believe that if you give Vietnam the thought it deserves, it will give you everything you’re looking for—and more.

Link to Food and Textiles Sml Group tour spoken about on show - https://www.brunswickkitchen.com.au/food-and-fabric-tours-vietnam-2025-2026
 
Head to our Travel services page to secure a Trip Plan tailored to you - https://www.whataboutvietnam.com/request-form