Vietnam

Vietnam is one of those places that hits every sense at once — the hum of motorbikes, the smell of pho at 7am, lanterns reflecting off water at night. This guide covers three regions: Hoi An (the charming old town), Da Nang (beaches and mountains), and Saigon (the chaotic, food-obsessed southern capital). Each has its own rhythm.

Hoi An

The jewel of central Vietnam. A small town with lantern-lit streets, centuries-old architecture, and some of the best tailoring in the world.

Things to Do

• ★ Hoi An Memories — A theatrical show bringing Hoi An's history to life through music and dance.
• ★ Ba Na Hills — A full day trip with carnival rides, an alpine ride in Fantasy Land, Popmart Castle, the iconic Golden Bridge (held up by giant stone hands), a towering Buddha statue, and the 4 Seasons Buffet.
• Explore Old Town — Wander the lantern-lit alleys, historic architecture, and vibrant shops.
• Japanese Bridge — An iconic architectural landmark blending Japanese and local design.
• Lantern Market — Visit at night for colorful lanterns and handcrafted souvenirs.
• Lantern Boats at Night — Magical. Float on the river in a lantern-lit boat under the night sky.
• 45 Thu Tailoring — Get custom-tailored clothing with a wide fabric selection.
• Jimmy's Jewelry — Craft a custom ring as a memento.

Food & Drink

• Com Linh — Vietnamese twist on tapas. Small plates, big flavors.
• Hygge Coffee — Cozy café inspired by Danish hygge.
• Old River Restaurant Bar — Riverside views with Vietnamese and international food.
• Miss Ly Cafe — Traditional Hoi An food in a homey atmosphere.
• Dudu Cafe — Chic and modern, good for unwinding.

Da Nang & Surroundings

The coastal city between Hoi An and the mountains.

Things to Do

• Monkey Mountain — Home to Linh Ung Pagoda and the towering Lady Buddha statue overlooking the ocean.
• Marble Mountain — Caves and temples with a journey that takes you "from hell to heaven."
• Da Nang Cathedral — A charming pink cathedral with French colonial influences.
• Dragon Bridge Performance — The bridge breathes fire and water at night. A must-see spectacle.

Food & Drink

• Moc Quan Seafood Restaurant — Fresh seafood with local flavors in a laid-back setting.
• Son Tra Night Market — Street food, local goods, and live performances.
• GOLO Coffee & AP — Contemporary café with a relaxed vibe.
• Dng.coffee — Minimalist specialty coffee spot.

Relax

• Serene Spa & Massage (Hoi An Branch) — Traditional Vietnamese massage.
• Luxury Healthy Spa & Massage — Wellness-focused treatments.

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)

The southern capital. Chaotic, fast, loud — and absolutely packed with incredible food.

Things to Do

• Independence Palace — Historical landmark with insight into Vietnam's political history.
• Saigon Central Post Office — Classic French colonial architecture.
• Book Street — A charming pedestrian street lined with bookstores and cafés.
• Cu Chi Tunnels Tour — Explore the underground tunnel network from the Vietnam War.
• Cafe Apartments — A former apartment building turned into a multi-story collection of cafes and shops.
• New Playground — Hip indoor market with trendy local brands.

Food & Drink

• Pho Vietnam — Classic pho. Authentic flavors.
• Pho Bom — Rich pho with quality ingredients.
• ★ Banh Mi Hyun Hoa — Some of the best banh mi in Saigon. Crispy bread, incredible fillings.
• ★ Bep Me In (Michelin Guide) — Authentic Vietnamese in a warm, rustic setting.
• Quan Ngon Bun Cha — Hanoi-style bun cha with grilled pork, herbs, and vermicelli.
• O Tinh House — Home-cooked Vietnamese comfort food.
• The Gangs Central — Fusion Asian flavors in a lively setting.
• Sai Gon Kitchen Vina — Quality local cuisine.
• Mon Moi — Comforting hotpot and spareribs.
• Apartment Shops (Bleu Monkey Cafe) — Quirky cafes inside a converted apartment building.

Coffee

Saigon's café scene is world-class.

• The Workshop Coffee — Top-notch brews in a bright, creative space.
• Cafe Linh — Traditional yet stylish.
• % Arabica — Iconic Japanese coffee chain.
• Goodday Coffee — Cozy with a creative interior.
• AM.PM Cafe — Stylish drinks, any time of day.
• Cafe Mon Ami — French-inspired with great pastries.
• Little Hanoi Egg Coffee — The famous egg coffee — creamy and rich.
• 96b Concept Cafe — Art meets coffee culture.
• Cong Cafe — Retro chain inspired by Vietnamese history.
• La.Zero Saigon — Café and art gallery.
• Beanthere Cafe — Quiet and aromatic, great for working.

Relax

• Hum Spa — Therapeutic massages and wellness treatments.