Vietnam: Better late than never

When I visited Southeast Asia for 2 months back in 2023, I skipped Vietnam.

It’s not because I couldn’t fit it in. It’s honestly because Vietnam was not at all on my radar. I had virtually no interest in visiting and I wish I could give a good reason why. I believe we’re called to certain places at certain times, and it doesn’t always make sense why. It’s certainly not that I assumed Vietnam would be unappealing… I just didn’t feel called there… yet.

Throughout my 2-month trip, I obviously met countless backpackers. Virtually all of them said Vietnam was their favorite. The more I heard about Vietnam, the more I thought, “damn, did I miss out?”

I was determined to give Vietnam the chance it deserves one day. 2 1/2 years after returning home from my first Southeast Asia trip, I finally made it happen.

I spent 2 1/2 weeks in Vietnam, and I simultaneously wanted more and felt like I had enough. There’s more I’d like to see in Vietnam, particularly Ninh Binh. But I was also really satisfied with the time I did spend there. I made my days count! The major highlight was the Ha Giang Loop. That was truly special- I would even consider doing it again if (when) I return. I also loved the cities: Hanoi, Da Nang, & Saigon all offered something very different & special in their own right. Hanoi had the most beautiful architecture. Da Nang has beautiful beaches. Saigon is chaotic & lively!

The common denominator I noticed is that Vietnam is filled with kind, welcoming people. While I know plenty of people have had sour experiences with the locals when it comes to scams, I didn’t have too many issues. In fact, I thought Vietnam was exceptionally safe everywhere I went. Yes, you definitely need to be careful when crossing the street. Sure, you probably should watch your phone & belongings (like you should everywhere). However, I recall walking back to my hostel alone past 2am twice and feeling completely safe. I’ve noticed a lot of the locals stay out late so I never once felt isolated. I don’t recommend walking alone at night so maybe don’t be like me, but in the particular situations I was in, I felt fine doing so.

There is one thing I didn’t love about Vietnam… the air quality. I did struggle with a bad cough for part of my trip, but didn’t otherwise feel sick. I would be mindful of air quality if you’re sensitive to that type of thing. I’m usually not, but Vietnam gave my lungs a run for its money. That’s honestly my only complaint.

My greatest surprise: Vietnamese food! I actually wasn’t very well-versed in Vietnamese food before visiting (which is surprising since I typically eat Asian food just about every time I go out to eat). I LOVED virtually everything I tried. The main highlight is Banh xeo, a savory pancake. But let’s take it to another level: Banh xeo wrapped in rice paper. I had this daily in Hoi An, and it’s the one dish I’m still thinking about! Also, I discovered that I love a Banh mi! I had never tried one (I know, shocking!) and I had no clue they were so full of flavor! Pho is great, too, but everyone knows that. Vietnamese food is so fresh compared to Thai & Cambodian food! I came in with an open mind & now I can confidently say: I LOVE VIETNAMESE FOOD!

And.. most of all, I loved Vietnamese coffee. I’ve always considered Viet coffee to be the best on earth, and I still stand by that statement. Viet coffee is strong & delicious. The thick consistency is just… ugh so perfect when you’re just starting your day or need a solid pick-me-up. Salted, coconut, egg coffee… I’m not picky. I love it all. Taking a coffee making class in Hoi An was a highlight!

Surprises in Vietnam: having a lil travel romance. It was nice, he was great, & I wouldn’t change a thing… but some things are meant to stay where they are. In this case, our story begins and ends in Vietnam.. That’s ok. Such is life!

Other thoughts on Vietnam:

-Being an American in Vietnam was very challenging, but not in the way I was expecting. I was fully expecting some hostility from locals. I didn’t experience that whatsoever. Instead, I felt a lot of my own guilt and sadness. Visiting the War Remnants museum in Saigon was vey powerful. But even as someone who studied the Vietnam war in school, it is very much taught from America’s perspective.. I had never heard Vietnam’s side of the story and…wow. The damage my country caused for 2 decades is unfathomable and heartbreaking. That’s really all I can say on it.

-Haggling is all fine and good, but I really don’t like when westerners try to bring costs down to virtually nothing.. and that’s only because that extra couple dollars means a lot more to them than it does for us.

-With that said though, some of the street sellers are aggressive. A young girl even tugged my arm which did sorta bother me.

-Vietnam is the first country where I had to apply for a visa before visiting. Fortunately, the eVisa process is very easy and I had a very smooth entry process. Just be sure to add your middle name to flight reservations… just makes things easier. I often forget. Not the end of the world, but just keeps things smooth.

-I think a lot about a local man named Phong who I chatted with at dinner one night. He gave me a lot of suggestions for my trip. I’ve found that if the locals can speak decent English, they will want to talk to you. If there is a barrier, some will still likely smile, wave, or say what they’re able to. My memories of the locals are very fond.

I’m happy I chose Vietnam as my 35th country & I’m glad I visited when I was 100% ready and exited for everything this incredible country has to offer! I loved my time and would return in a heartbeat.

Also, comprehensive guides/itineraries will be posted. I just love to have a more unstructured, free-form write out of my experience.