Travel Tips

Vietnamese cuisine is globally celebrated for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and street food culture. However, for many travelers, especially first-time visitors, it's natural to have concerns about food safety, dietary restrictions, and special needs like halal, gluten-free, or vegan options. In this guide, we answer some common questions for Vietnamese food to help you enjoy this culinary paradise safely and deliciously.

To truly understand Vietnam, look past the towering skyscrapers and bustling avenues. Find a quiet moment and look at what lies at the spiritual heart of every family: the home altar. This isn't just decoration; it's a living symbol of an invisible family tree, with roots deep in the past and branches reaching toward the future. This is the world of Vietnamese Ancestor Worship, a tradition of the heart that shows you a deeper, warmer Vietnam.

Vietnam is a land of contrasts: tranquil rice paddies and roaring motorbikes, ancient pagodas and futuristic skyscrapers, street food Michelin restaurant on plastic stools and five-star dining. But just as rich and diverse as the scenery is the soundscape: the languages of Vietnam. From old words spoken through generations to the modern TikTok slang, Vietnamese people speak more than you might expect.

So... what language do Vietnamese people speak? Grab your cà phê sữa đá (iced milk coffee) and buckle up. We're taking a ride (see what we did there?) through Vietnam's linguistic journey, with a few surprising detours along the way.

Christianity was introduced to Vietnam in the 16th century, beginning with Catholicism brought by Portuguese and Spanish missionaries, and later strengthened by French Jesuits.  In the 19th century, during French colonization, Catholicism became more institutionalized, with the construction of churches, schools, and hospitals. After the reunification in 1975, religious activities came under strict government control, with many churches closed or repurposed.

Ready for a deep dive into the soul of Vietnam? This guide takes you on a powerful journey, starting with the unforgettable story of the monk Thich Quang Duc's self-immolation. You'll go beyond the headlines to explore the 2,000-year history of Buddhism in Vietnam, easily understanding the key differences between the Mahayana and Theravada schools. Most importantly, you'll discover how this ancient faith isn't just in pagodas—it's in the food, the language, and the kindness you see on the streets. This article helps you truly feel the city's spiritual heartbeat.

For coffee lovers currently in Ho Chi Minh City (a.k.a. Saigon), seeking new spots to fuel your caffeine cravings, or simply wishing to refresh your usual routine for a relaxing session, productive work sprint, or a cozy date, this list of 20 best coffee shops in Saigon offers something special! From cherished Saigon heritage gems to stylish modern cafes, each establishment boasts its own unique vibe and a compelling story. Prepare to explore Saigon's vibrant coffee scene throughout every district and discover its finest brews!

While many visitors stick to the buzzing heart of District 1, those in the know are quietly making their way south - to District 7, Saigon’s cleanest, greenest, and calmest neighborhood. Often nicknamed "Singapore of Saigon or Korea Town" District 7 is a polished mix of urban planning, wide boulevards, and stylish living, yet it still holds onto the vibrancy that makes Vietnam so captivating.

This district is where new meets old in the most graceful way, where upscale shopping malls sit just a few blocks from mom-and-pop noodle shops, and modern architecture shares space with quiet canals.

As a Saigonese with a deep passion for history, I love talking to friends who visit from other countries. I've found that their questions quickly move beyond "Where's the best phở?" to things that are more profound: "Why are there so many motorbikes?" or "Why does everyone here seem to be in such a hurry?" While these questions are about Saigon, the answers lie in the history of our entire nation. The relentless energy you feel on these streets is a local expression of a national spirit, one that has been forged in the fires of history-a millennium of resistance, a century of colonial subjugation, and decades of devastating wars. Yet, like steel, our nation did not break, it was hardened, tempered, and shaped by these trials.

Traveling alone in Vietnam has become increasingly popular, offering solo travelers a rich blend of culture, adventure, and personal discovery. Whether you're planning your first solo trip to Vietnam or returning to explore new destinations, Vietnam is one of the best solo destinations in Asia. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: the top cities, hidden gems, activities, and answer the common question: is Vietnam safe for female travelers?

If the districts of Saigon were a symphony, District 2 would be the unexpected crescendo - a rising harmony of cosmopolitan vibes, quiet riverfront charm, and pockets of old Saigon soul. Located across the Saigon River from the city center, District 2 has evolved from a sleepy suburb into one of the most dynamic and desirable areas in Ho Chi Minh City.

It’s where fancy expat cafés & restaurants live next door to family-run food stalls, where luxury condos overlook local slums, and where every corner, whether sleek and shiny or rough around the edges, tells a fascinating story.