17 things I wish I knew BEFORE visiting VIETNAM in 2024 🇻🇳

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 4 พ.ค. 2024
  • Here are 17 things I wish I knew before Visiting Vietnam. This will help prepare for a trip to Vietnam, from the negatives to the positives and everything you can expect, this includes help with accommodation, food, transportation, budget & more! Any questions leave them below in the comments!
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    0:00 - Intro
    0:14. - Transport
    1:20 - SIM cards
    1:50 - Don't MISS THIS!
    3:02 - Bucket List tick!
    4:01 - Save money!
    5:18 - Tips on food
    5:56 - BIG disappointment...
    6:21 - Visa process
    7:11 - When to visit Vietnam?
    8:32 - BUDGET for Vietnam
    9:21 - Don't forget this...
    10:01 - WARNING!
    10:15 - The last point!

ความคิดเห็น • 641

  • @sassy5237
    @sassy5237 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +56

    FYI regarding visa from uk:
    It changed this year from 15 to 45 days visa free ( 6:37 )

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Yes, new information!

    • @whynot8135
      @whynot8135 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      not only UK
      From 15 Aug 2023, the government of Vietnam decided to extend the duration of stays in Vietnam from 15 to 45 days for citizens of 13 countries who are unilaterally exempted from visas by Vietnam.
      These countries are Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the U.K., Northern Ireland, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Belarus. Citizens of these countries are allowed to stay for 45 days from the time of entry, regardless of passport type and entry purpose.

    • @emathelima
      @emathelima 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      So does this mean I will not have to pay the £25 for a visa. But still need to apply for one?

    • @Willberight2moro
      @Willberight2moro 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      ​@@emathelimadon't need one if from UK

    • @tehIVI40A3
      @tehIVI40A3 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@emathelimayou don’t need to apply

  • @Chuntianxiyu
    @Chuntianxiyu 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +234

    Dog meat is only at specialized dog meat restaurants, not in the normal restaurants, if you don't look especially look for it, chance is that you will likely not see one, so don't worry that they might "accidentally" serve you the dish as it s not cheap either

    • @mimimarcus
      @mimimarcus 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +26

      Yes, this should've been clarified in the video to be more fair to Vietnam and Asia in general!

    • @pohanahawaii
      @pohanahawaii 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      🐾 Unfortunately, though much less dog meat in the South in recent years, still so MANY places on every local street in the North. It's like China, Philippines, even Korea. Places that were very poor before and though technologically advanced now, haven't evolved ethically. The men are ugly and like savages in these areas. Quite disgusting to chuck up animal cruelty to "culture".

    • @folklorish31
      @folklorish31 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +15

      Thanks for clarifying... I was uncomfortable listening to that and was really worried about my trip there.

    • @ryanmiller3330
      @ryanmiller3330 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Idk dude. Lived in nam for a good minute before covid and I'm rocking back come October. I saw dogs on spickets why rolling around the city a few times

    • @livewild2559
      @livewild2559 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Dog meat expensive... ga and Bo are cheap !😊

  • @onmytravells9429
    @onmytravells9429 ปีที่แล้ว +197

    Absolutely unreal country, personally my number 1 place I have visited

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  ปีที่แล้ว +16

      It really is a great place to travel!

    • @Madders23
      @Madders23 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      I am so looking forward to it. I imagine it to be pretty special !

    • @annaqchannel1148
      @annaqchannel1148 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Thank you from Việt Nam 🇻🇳🇻🇳

    • @mcclure3443
      @mcclure3443 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      try living there for 10 years.

    • @rezza250890
      @rezza250890 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Hi @joelfriend may I know how long is the ideal time to travel to vietnam and bangkok?

  • @Yuuki2109
    @Yuuki2109 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +173

    Love your video and totally agree as a Southern Vietnamese. The South is kinda great for night life and city vibrant life but the North is better for nature and adventure. So the best route that I could recommend anyone want to explore Vietnam: arrive in Saigon (key city of the South) enjoy city life night life > go to Da Nang (key city of the mid) enjoy beach life and seafood > go Ha Giang (Northside) then fly back from Ha Noi (the capital city). Have fun!

    • @norbertschmitz3358
      @norbertschmitz3358 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      @Jolene
      Hello Jolene,
      I like your comment on here, and you being a local Vietnamese woman, may I ask you only a few questions?
      I'm 67 old, not into adventure anymore, I like to spend 6 weeks in July-August in Vietnam.
      I would like to split those 6 weeks into half....3 weeks along a beach....3 weeks inland....in rather smaller cities....and enjoy local food and the way of life of ordinary people....5 star resorts are not my thing.
      And nor is travelling a lot my thing anymore.
      I like to find 2-3 nice locations where I can stay during my visit, and enjoy a rather relaxed holiday.
      Any suggestions ?
      I would be be very grateful !
      Cheers
      from Germany

    • @slenderman3510
      @slenderman3510 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

      ​@@norbertschmitz3358 Hi, not Jolene but I'm a Vietnamese here myself so I just thought I'd chip in.
      - Hanoi (the capital city of Vietnam) is quite a hustling and bustling city but it really manages to capture the essence of Vietnam's culture in aspects like architure, religion, history, cuisine, etc., so even though it's a big city, you can still find a place to slow down amidst all the chaos and turmoil. I love Hanoi very much and if you are open to visiting this city, I would love to show you around (for free of course haha). Definitely not a tour guide but I just simply love talking about this city.
      - Generally, in the north of Vietnam, if you want to go to beaches with golden sand and transparent water, you'll have to go pretty far away from the coast to outskirt islands in the far side of Halong Bay (usually takes ~1 hour by boat). This is because the Red River deposits a lot sediments and alluvium, causing the color of water to go brown, red, and green. However, Halong Bay is definitely worth checking out because the sights there are just top-notch. It's not one of the 7 world's wonders for no reasons.
      - Anyways, if you want to spend some more time at some beaches, I believe you'll like cities like Da Nang or Nha Trang because tourism in these cities thrive on beaches that they have. The two cities are located in the Central Region of Vietnam and from Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City, you can easily take a flight to the destination in less than 2 hours.
      If you have more questions, I'll be glad to answer.

    • @slenderman3510
      @slenderman3510 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@tonenotrequired8626 lol bitter much? There's literally a river running through the city called Saigon. Get over it.

    • @sazji
      @sazji 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      @@tonenotrequired8626 The word Sài Gòn is used constantly. Some use it more specifically to refer to the old center of town, but there's nothing taboo about it and you'll see it everywhere.

    • @BHAPPY255
      @BHAPPY255 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      ❤❤❤❤

  • @aamo3960
    @aamo3960 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +101

    Visited Vietnam for 13 days in January. Visited Saigon, Da Nang and Hanoi along with a self-guided excursion into the jungles near Kham Duc.
    Absolutely insane country! Never have i regretted not knowing the local language more. The people are some of the friendliest and most welcoming people I’ve ever met anywhere on earth and I’ve been to 20+ countries.
    The nature is stunning and the food is mind blowingly good!
    Vietnam is a country I have to recommend everyone visit at least once in their life and preferably while it’s still relatively unknown to the tourist masses!!!

    • @SlamminCameron
      @SlamminCameron 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      Currently planning my honeymoon there, my fiancé and I are both down for everything, staying wherever, doing whatever. Any recommendations?

    • @OshriTakelle-cu9jh
      @OshriTakelle-cu9jh 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      קלקידן ששששששז

    • @aamo3960
      @aamo3960 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +11

      @@SlamminCameron For a honeymoon I‘d definetly recommend the Ha Long Bay cruise. I didn‘t do it myself, but the scenery looks amazing from the photos I‘ve seen.
      In Saigon you can go ice skating in the Landmark 451 scyscraper, which was pretty cool for me as a Finn😅.
      There are a lot of museums in Saigon and Hanoi, but the War Remnants museum in Saigon is definetly my favourite.
      You might want to do a guided tour of the Cu Chi tunnels, which while touristy, are still very impressive!
      Hanoi is definetly more traditional than Saigon with the architecture and the general vibe. I definetly recommend visiting the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum and the museum complex. You‘ll be seeing Ho Chi Minh a lot all around Vietnam, so why not learn more about him :D
      Be sure to get there early tho. I‘m talking 7 am kinda early!
      In Saigon I recommend staying in the 1st district. The city is very walkable and the further away sites are easily reached via taxi or the water bus. The prices are very reasonable for someone used to Finnish prices!
      In Hanoi we stayed near the Hoan Kiem lake, which we found to be very nice and convenient for reaching all the major sites, like the Temple of literature, Ho Chi Minh mausoleum etc. Again, Hanoi taxis are also really good!
      Honestly there‘s so much to see that I can‘t condense it all into one comment, but I hope you have a great honeymoon and enjoy Vietnam to the fullest!
      Remember to also eat the street food and not be afraid to cross the road!

    • @zenfulliving555
      @zenfulliving555 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      self guided?

    • @aamo3960
      @aamo3960 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      @@zenfulliving555 Self guided as in we just paid these few local guys to take us to a specific place in the jungle and then back. Nothing more elaborately organized tours :D

  • @sr8877
    @sr8877 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Thanks Joel, going Thailand,, camboiaVietnam and Laos at the end of this month. First time solo travelling but ur vids are helping a lot! Got your backpack and everything ❤

  • @JK-qv5wm
    @JK-qv5wm ปีที่แล้ว +15

    I love watching these kinds of video to know how to travel Vietnam as a foreigner. And I'm a Vietnamese. But it's good to see your country in a different point of view.

  • @CallumJude09
    @CallumJude09 ปีที่แล้ว +42

    Flying out to Vietnam in four days for the first time. I've really enjoyed your series and have found it super helpful! Thanks man! :)

  • @tungnse
    @tungnse 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +47

    One thing I can proudly tell about my people is that Vietnamese people are extremely friendly to visitors, whether its foreigners or vietnamese people themselves. Just be nice (yes, be nice, vietnamese value respect) and you can get help from pretty much any local you meet whether they are busy or not. If you get lost or in trouble people just naturally come to help you and they never ask for a repay. Its a beautiful thing about vietnamese people. Just be a bit careful when you want to spend money though.

    • @dayal2293
      @dayal2293 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      do you have to negotiate the price at restaurants too or their prices are fixed ?

    • @thehayley7239
      @thehayley7239 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@dayal2293Fixed. Prices are often written on the signage already but if not, ask before you eat.

    • @dayal2293
      @dayal2293 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@thehayley7239 👍🏽

    • @nazanin_amiri_travel
      @nazanin_amiri_travel 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    • @southpaw77777
      @southpaw77777 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Lol

  • @mikamauger
    @mikamauger ปีที่แล้ว +87

    Hey Joel ! Great video as always :)) Another tip I would mention is : It is pretty easy to find CouchSurfing hosts in Viet Nam and they were the highlight of my travel there ! I also met a family that hosted me on the side of the road after an accident I had. All in all, Vietnamese people are really friendly. Cheers !

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Oh that's great to hear! I bet you can get some awesome experiences with coach surfing too!

  • @kennyyuen1600
    @kennyyuen1600 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +11

    Ive been hammering out videos since im going with my family in November and i gotta day, youre first 2 tips alone is already way more informative than 80% od the videos out there that isbjust huge hype and drone shots with very little depth.
    Well done! And thank you

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Ayy thank you so much! Really appreciate that feedback!

    • @kennyyuen1600
      @kennyyuen1600 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@Joelfriend may I ask what the drone rules were and if anyone gave you issues for using it at all?

  • @thanhvungoc7883
    @thanhvungoc7883 ปีที่แล้ว +62

    Vietnam has majestic scenery, very friendly people ❤

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  ปีที่แล้ว

      the people are great!

    • @TheWorld4all
      @TheWorld4all หลายเดือนก่อน

      Their friendliness comes with a big price.

  • @edstravel
    @edstravel ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Keep up the great work guys definitely amazing place to visit.

  • @Itjustdoesntmatter
    @Itjustdoesntmatter 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Head off to Vietnam in 3 days. This video was very helpful, thank you!

  • @user-xx9nb2tn3h
    @user-xx9nb2tn3h 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    G'day there Joel, cheers mate for the info on Vietnam, I'm heading over soon with a friend, & the info you gave will 100% help. Cheers again.

  • @whyhellotherewithdrmarksabean
    @whyhellotherewithdrmarksabean 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great content and amazing delivery.
    cheers Mate

  • @BonjourKathyy
    @BonjourKathyy 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    THANK YOU FOR THIS! As a vietnamese I am overwhelmed traveling to vietnam and where to start. THANK YOU

  • @ChopChopRecipes
    @ChopChopRecipes 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thank for sharing. Your guide is so useful. I did not know you can download language into google translate. Thank you for that. Your videos are very engaging. Love how you present things. Keep it up.

  • @melaniesmith652
    @melaniesmith652 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    LOVE YOUR VIDEOS!!! LOVE THEM!!!! SO GOOD

  • @jonb6660
    @jonb6660 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great stuff, lucky number 17 too. You did a brilliant job no need to swat them flies! You're expressing yourself brilliantly without waving around ;)

  • @AVFdailylife
    @AVFdailylife 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Your videos are very high quality. Welcome everyone traveling to Vietnam!

  • @TravellingNowhereFast
    @TravellingNowhereFast 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    This is the most useful video about Vietnam on youtube, thank you!!

  • @mladenstific2459
    @mladenstific2459 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks man, this was amazingly useful!

  • @adiavidor28
    @adiavidor28 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    thank you! very helpful

  • @DasRoor
    @DasRoor 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks alot for the actually useful information!
    Glad this wasn't just clickbait!

  • @moon_bandage
    @moon_bandage 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +31

    Good tips! Ive had the exact same experience on my 1 month travel. Especially Ha Giang don't skip out on it if youre somewhat comfy riding a motorbike its absolutely worth. My only regret is driving the 3 day loop instead of the 5-6 day loop. Also make some friends and drive in a group, safer that way!
    One more tip. If youre in ha long anyway for a cruise, rent a motorbike when youre done, and visit the island of Cat Ba (right next to the bay) it is breathtaking, the town on the other side of the island is very charming too.

    • @sifkochar
      @sifkochar 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Hey! How long is the ride from Halong to Catba? And do you necessarily need an international licence?

    • @dimitar297
      @dimitar297 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      You don't need a license but riding on the bike up those hills will put pressure on your testicles.

  • @calvinmentor599
    @calvinmentor599 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Love the video. Informative.!👍

  • @dulcerheabuling3022
    @dulcerheabuling3022 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Very informative! Thanks!

  • @debalinaroy5701
    @debalinaroy5701 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Hi, Joel, thank you for sharing the tips. I'm visiting Vietnam in a few months. The overnight bus info was great and helpful. All I need now is a detailed info about how to bargain in Vietnam. 😀

    • @mailysb35
      @mailysb35 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Hello ! For me I had the best prices when I was the less interested haha. Sometimes when you ask a lower price they say no but if you walk away they will shout at you lower prices until you say yes xD

    • @debalinaroy5701
      @debalinaroy5701 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Ahhh very much similar to our Indian markets I see 😀😀
      Thank you for sharing your experience though 😌 I appreciate it!
      Can you please also tell me if there will be any conversation problem while booking Grab? We've plans to travel around the cities in Grab and some blogs saying that there'll be communication problems when booking Grab 😒😒

    • @TienDuongRose
      @TienDuongRose 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      ​@@debalinaroy5701hãy sử dụng Google Dịch

  • @molonlabe9602
    @molonlabe9602 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Good video with straight forward information. Thank you.

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thank you very much!!

  • @markchlan
    @markchlan 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Im leaving the USA for Vietnam in 20 days and this video was super helpful! its my first time going to sout heast asia ill be solo backpacking the entire region and just love watching videos like this to get ready. Thanks for the great info!

    • @markchlan
      @markchlan 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Update 3weeks into Vietnam I freaking love it here

    • @mrpeas2111
      @mrpeas2111 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@markchlanwhich city are u in currently ?

    • @markchlan
      @markchlan 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@mrpeas2111 just got to Phong Nha yesterday evening. It's incredible here. It's true the more north you go the better the sights get

    • @SilverliningF.
      @SilverliningF. 23 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@markchlanwhat are the malls like ? Do they speak English?

  • @hogs1789
    @hogs1789 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Awesome. Thank you for the info.

  • @ChrisFord-zw6tc
    @ChrisFord-zw6tc 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Wow. interesting video . thanks for good content

  • @ellephillips4085
    @ellephillips4085 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    This was so helpful!!

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  ปีที่แล้ว

      Glad to hear it! :)

  • @TrangHuyen-yj4wb
    @TrangHuyen-yj4wb 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    So great. I have saw your Madeira video and today you talk about my country. ❤

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Aww thank you, love Madeira and Vietnam!

  • @doug5246
    @doug5246 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Excellent, thank you. I'm arriving in Ha Noi April15th. I love the advice. It's so enjoyable and useful!!! This is my first video of yours that I watched. I'll check out more soon. I just downloaded Vietnamese language to my phone (and Khmer). Also, thanks for the advice about Viet tel. Good stuff!!

    • @roromotovlog3752
      @roromotovlog3752 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Vietnamese here! Would you like my suggestion? Comment your liking and maybe I could help ;)

  • @axnyslie
    @axnyslie 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks this was helpful. I'm going to Vietnam next year around March staying in the south @ Ho Chi Minh City as I do not like the cold. I was in South Korea last year which is similarly limited in English speaking and I got around fine there.

  • @GreatCityAttractions
    @GreatCityAttractions 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Some great thoughts Joel Friend

  • @reblfleur16
    @reblfleur16 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Such a great video, very informative!

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thank you! 🙏🏼

  • @baekimin21
    @baekimin21 ปีที่แล้ว +28

    As a Vietnamese, I can say this video presents very good pieces of advice. Great video!

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you very much! :)

    • @stewartl5109
      @stewartl5109 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Some information unfortunately is not that correct but like all Vlogers I see and some I subscribe too tend to put their own individual spin on the same places that everyone goes too.. 2 , 3 or even a months visit can never paint an accurate account of places to see in Vietnam for sure. All I can say is to all enjoy and try your best 🙏🏻

    • @nazanin_amiri_travel
      @nazanin_amiri_travel 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    • @TheWorld4all
      @TheWorld4all หลายเดือนก่อน

      Vietnam sucks and your commie gov't is weak.

  • @moritzstaudacher3883
    @moritzstaudacher3883 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    In so hyped for the trip with my Family this winter. Thx for the Info. Might get a tailored suit ngl. 😉

  • @mtbonly7306
    @mtbonly7306 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hey joel great video as always
    Any problem bringing a drone in there?

  • @joosmfit1993
    @joosmfit1993 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hi Joel! Thanks for everything, we were living for 3 month and since 2023, spanish people and more, can be 45 days without visa 😊

  • @63jake63
    @63jake63 29 วันที่ผ่านมา

    By far, my favorite country in the world. Been there 5 times... loved it every time. The Ha Giang loop is the best!!!

  • @MrABroad
    @MrABroad 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +16

    Yesss, I love Vietnam, 4 years living here was absolutely amazing. So many places where you can travel. From busy cities to rural areas, food is so delicious, people are so friendly and welcoming. 👌💯

    • @akshayjuwa8444
      @akshayjuwa8444 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Where in Vietnam do you live?

    • @MrABroad
      @MrABroad 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@akshayjuwa8444 I live in Dong Nai.

    • @akshayjuwa8444
      @akshayjuwa8444 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@MrABroad oh sweet I think it’s near ho chi Ming…. I’m going to Hanoi next week… I’m gonna visit ha long bay, ninh binh and the city … do you have any recommendations? Is booking stuffs from viator good?

  • @christophedebard1226
    @christophedebard1226 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Hi AND thank you...I'm French AND I'm going to Vietnam in September..from Saigon to halong bay...fortunately I'm invited by my friends in different parts of Vietnam..🇫🇷❤️🇻🇳

    • @christophedebard1226
      @christophedebard1226 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      And it's true that anyone who doesn't know Vietnam is like going to another planet 🤣

    • @nazanin_amiri_travel
      @nazanin_amiri_travel 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

  • @user-je6zh9ty8z
    @user-je6zh9ty8z 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great video, thanks dude!

  • @casperforever4457
    @casperforever4457 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    thank you, amazing review 👏

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      My pleasure!

  • @leesujiuen1490
    @leesujiuen1490 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Awesome and informatve video. Brilliant. :)

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thank you so much!

  • @imagination7555
    @imagination7555 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    True! It's always better to book hotels in Vietnam online in advance. Banh mi, pho, bun cha ... dang, just mentioning Vietnamese cuisine makes my mouth water.

  • @cedriclloyd5571
    @cedriclloyd5571 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great video. I'm looking to go in August or September.

  • @Snooze_Crewco_lofi
    @Snooze_Crewco_lofi 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +13

    Lived in Vietnam 3 year, just a few things..
    1. Don’t say ‘Pho’, say ‘Pher’ - Pho means prostitute.
    2. Beers are served cold, I think you were just unfortunate in where you went.
    3. The best time to visit Vietnam is October/November for nice weather all around the country.
    4. Hanoi is developed, just not in the old quarter where tourists mainly go, head to the business district you’ll be surprised.

  • @Aelin38
    @Aelin38 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

    Hanoi have thousand of skyscraper too but there are some rules to protect the ancient houses and historical places in the city center so foreigner barely see them 😅

  • @rowiefaminholland
    @rowiefaminholland หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for the info, going there in August.

  • @SIW808
    @SIW808 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Im planning on visiting Asia within the next 12 months and Vietnam is top of my list.

  • @godisbrazilian
    @godisbrazilian 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Really good information! Especially regarding the visa situation. Their website does say 3 days, but don't be fooled by this. Ours took close to 10 days or so, as complications can easily arise. It was a pain, but definitely worth it in the end.
    The other thing I'd note is to most definitely use Grab for all of your taxi needs. Cab drivers can be shady otherwise.

  • @ru4031
    @ru4031 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great info.. cause soon i fly to Vietnam!

  • @skytechm07
    @skytechm07 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    great review ! what is your recommendation video editor software (app/windows) for basic travel editing , Thank you

  • @clausbader9537
    @clausbader9537 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    I'm German and live in Hai Phong Vietnam (near Halong Bay). I can say you are right with most of the Points eccept the Agribank ist the absolut Not recommend Bank at all. Better is MB Bank with the Advantage that you get max. 5 Mio VND and a Charge of 55k VND. Then e-Visa takes 3-4 days only (I do it every month). From 15. August 2023 again 90 days e-Visa are introduced.

  • @ianlock1330
    @ianlock1330 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Very informative and thank you. And you are super cute!!!

  • @Mishmash48
    @Mishmash48 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    How long did it take for your suit to be made? Great video btw

  • @HangLe-ym5hf
    @HangLe-ym5hf ปีที่แล้ว +1

    you're one good looking young man. Thank you for the tips. Being a Vietnamese, I think you know more about the different types of transportations than I do. :)

  • @jeff824
    @jeff824 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I didn't know how to ride a scooter, so I had to learn fast. Taxi (not called cabs here) are cheap and I used those. Watch out for the Grab bikes...very cheap but risky. My local guy was usually drunk and wore a WWII helmet.

  • @suayhughes8103
    @suayhughes8103 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great video!

  • @williamhuynh3574
    @williamhuynh3574 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Well happy for you well I’m a Vietnamese American and my moms side lives in the courntryside in Saigon which is very fun

  • @donaldcastillo2408
    @donaldcastillo2408 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Very good info video, thanks

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thanks for watching!

  • @Kim-mh2wy
    @Kim-mh2wy 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I’m Vietnamese. And would like to confirm what he shares are completely correct. So surprised that A foreigner could understand my country that well 😍🥰

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thank you so much!

  • @maxmutzke4753
    @maxmutzke4753 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Good vid!

  • @gowheregotherenow
    @gowheregotherenow 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    🤩Love Vietnamese Pho! It' supposed to sound like "Fur" by the way. Love your tips thanks for the great video!

  • @ukdailylife85
    @ukdailylife85 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +21

    Guys, this commet is for all people planning to visit Viet Nam. I'm a Vietnamese citizen and I have to admit that Viet Nam has a myriad of breathtaking views and alluring tourists attractions. BUT, that guy is telling the sadly true thing in Viet Nam. Besides those who are honest and kind, there are lots of merchants considering foreign visitors as people living in a country having a higher standard of living, a better income so they kind of charge you an overwhelmingly prohibitive price (Vietnamese's perspective). So remember, it is a must-do when visiting VietNam: BARGAINING

    • @cafeen7700
      @cafeen7700 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Bạn nói đúng,nạn chặt chém của 1 số ng Việt mình vô cùng xấu,mình là ng Việt mà còn chán,huống chi ng nước Ngoài.hỡi những con ng có lòng tự tôn dân tộc và tầm nhìn xa thì hãy để lại hình ảnh đẹp trong mắt bạn bè quốc tế.

    • @folklorish31
      @folklorish31 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Hi will it be super rainy in the North in May??

    • @HangLeT
      @HangLeT 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@folklorish31 no, it will be dry and hot from May to July/August

    • @folklorish31
      @folklorish31 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@HangLeT thank you 😊

  • @lavenderlove1241
    @lavenderlove1241 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for the tips! Especially for the tailor. The fiance and I are going to get our wedding garments made there.

  • @hannahmcallan111
    @hannahmcallan111 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    great info!! thanks

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Glad it was helpful!

  • @jimlarios
    @jimlarios 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great Video! Where is the E-Visa link? I just want to make sure I'm in the correct site, looks like there are several sites claiming you can do the process there

  • @BinhLe-bz2eu
    @BinhLe-bz2eu 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Here some place in Vietnam you would want to see and you can google image how the place look like:
    Phu Quoc Island, Dalat, Danag, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Ha Long Bay, The Marble Mountain, Ninh Binh, Dragon Statue Mountain in Tam Coc, Hue, Bà Nà Hill, and Ban Gioc waterfall.

    • @BHAPPY255
      @BHAPPY255 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Love from India 🇮🇳 ♥️ ❤️

    • @nazanin_amiri_travel
      @nazanin_amiri_travel 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

  • @tanyaadamski5916
    @tanyaadamski5916 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great tips - thanks!

  • @thecheekymonkey8785
    @thecheekymonkey8785 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    I agree that the North is better than the South in terms of attractions, however the South is worth visiting because of the welcoming people. I think HCMC is a big dumpster, but with some of the friendliest and most welcoming people on this planet.

    • @sazji
      @sazji 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      HCMC is a bit chaotic to be sure. But if you get off the main streets and go back into the actual neighborhoods, it can still be charming. I was in a homestay in one of those neighborhoods in District 3, and before long I knew lots of the local folks and felt a part of the neighborhood.

    • @BHAPPY255
      @BHAPPY255 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      ❤️ from India 🇮🇳

    • @fs5775
      @fs5775 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      pho is better in the south

  • @anisrahman5274
    @anisrahman5274 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for the vid! How long would you recommend to stay here if your sort of pushed for time.

  • @johannefransgaardfrederiks3271
    @johannefransgaardfrederiks3271 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hi, just saw your video - super great and so good to know before going! I just want to say that the visa screen shot you show, isn´t all the way correct, because in Denmark you don´t need a visa unless you are staying in Vietnam for more than 45 days. Just wanted to point out, so everyone check up on it and dont necessarily "just" use that one screen shot:)

  • @anagilles1097
    @anagilles1097 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    I was born and raised as a white English speaking child in vietnam in Saigon and I still to this day know 2 sentences in Vietnamese and had no language barrier so if ur going to Saigon you’ll be fine without google translate

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Good to know!

  • @anisrahman5274
    @anisrahman5274 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for all the tips! Have you been to ha long bay during January? And if so how was it?

  • @christiandad6410
    @christiandad6410 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Those hotels and wherever you stay in Vietnam. They know and understand that they have to get up late in the night to provide helpful services for hotel accommodation.

  • @melwillis6475
    @melwillis6475 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Great video 😊

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thanks! 😊

  • @samiboy1368
    @samiboy1368 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    My gf is vietnamese and i plan to go there, thanks for the info

  • @williamhuynh3574
    @williamhuynh3574 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Good vid

  • @SoSakashii
    @SoSakashii 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Just a trivia, Viettel is a telecom company that belongs to the Vietnamese military so it’s why the coverage is slightly better than the others.

  • @Newheroesfactory
    @Newheroesfactory 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I'll be featuring Vietnam soon ❤

  • @mochilero13
    @mochilero13 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    The best thing about real travel is to not know, to discover, to be intrigued and romanced. Later on the “bad” experiences are often memorable as the good ones. I traveled in the seventies when hardly any information was available and reservations were not a possibility for the budget traveler.

  • @tusharbanne
    @tusharbanne 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Nice video.
    what is the best time to visit??

  • @Phone_Geek
    @Phone_Geek 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Did a trip from South to North number of yrs ago. Ho chi Minh, de nang, hue, hoi an, Sapa, hanoi. And man having the VIP suite on the cruise got no sleep cos of noise of wood worm in headboard. Whole country is amazing

    • @heythave
      @heythave 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Be creative. Next time, put your head where your feet should be and use ear plugs.

  • @pieneclaessen
    @pieneclaessen ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Do you have an overview of your total itinerary? Going to Vietnam for a month but an struggeling to fit the ha giang loop in my schedule...

  • @thanhtungvu423
    @thanhtungvu423 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    at 7:33, it's actually Phu Quoc Island. Thanks for your great video about my country!

  • @20luzer52
    @20luzer52 ปีที่แล้ว +45

    Glad you point out it's "better" to go from the South to the North. For those that want to experience something uniquely Vietnamese, then South to the North is the way to go. HCMC (the South) tries too much to be Western, it's similar to Bangkok and Singapore, and the terrain is flatter, less distinctive. I'm not saying it's not nice but with the exception of Da Lat, it's not spectacular nor is it unique.
    From the Central to the North, the cities still have that unique historical look, the vibe is Vietnamese, the locals don't try to be Western. But the most important thing is the terrain, the topography, the seasonality. I think the topography, the scenery are not only unique but down right out of this world. From the Phong Nha caves, to Sapa, to Hanoi, to Halong Bay, and to the Ha Giang Loop. You'll leave VN with those unique images fresh in your mind and a very unique cultural feel.

    • @HoaTruong-km9rk
      @HoaTruong-km9rk ปีที่แล้ว +8

      What you mean that the South try to be western ? If it because we have big city and buildings there than you're ridiculous

    • @20luzer52
      @20luzer52 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      @@HoaTruong-km9rk Big building have nothing to do with it. Have you been to Hanoi's newer districts like Cau Giay and Thanh Xuan? What I am referring to, and well acknowledged by people in HCMC, are the numerous old villas that had been torn down. The people in the South have always, even before 1975, aspired to be Western, that's a fact.

    • @HoaTruong-km9rk
      @HoaTruong-km9rk ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @@20luzer52 what with old villa relate to western again. Those are what the French and American left behind. And that's it ? You saw some old villa and you said the south try to be westernize ? Have you set foot out of District 1 ? Which People from HCMC you talking to ? The 3 sticks that still hold grudge about the war ? Only those that live in Sai Gon in 1975 like to westernize. Those live at rural place arounf the south hate them, that's why VC exist.

    • @20luzer52
      @20luzer52 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      @@HoaTruong-km9rk It shows the attitude of wanting to preserve the past, the history of the city instead of building over everything. Similar to the US wanting to build over everything while Europe just renovate the inside of buildings. It's the mindset of preservation. Hanoi maintain the old architecture be it French or Vietnamese so don't get defensive on me. I see cultural and historical festivities like Le Hoi Den Hung, buffalo clash, etc in the North, show me the festivities in the South? I lived and worked in HCMC for 10 years and that's what I hear and see from my Vietnamese colleagues themselves. I don't care about your Vietnamese-American communities, I'm talking about South Vietnam now. And whether you like it or not, read, watch and see how people describe HCMC, it's Westernized, period.

    • @HoaTruong-km9rk
      @HoaTruong-km9rk ปีที่แล้ว

      @@20luzer52 did i say i'm from America ? Preserve the old buildings is not westernize, that call preserve history, where you think the old district in Hà Nội come from ? Hội An ? Hello ? Hung festival is a holiday all across Viet Nam, not just the north. We have Hung temple here in HCMC too, maybe you would see if you go to the zoo in district 1. And you fucking living in the bigest city in Viet Nam, of fucking course you wouldn't see much local festival like in the village. You'll see more if you move out of HCMC and go to other place in the south, they have their own tradition festival too.
      The south from the past have never have any big Vietnamese architecture from the beginning, this place is just small town and small village with rice paddies, that's why you wouldn't see much ancient architecture. But if you look, temples and pagoda, those are preserse just fine, though they only about a few hundred years old. Ha Noi and central area like Huế are both used to be Viet Nam capital, they have a lot of old architecture like castle and stuff to preserve.
      And just because a city look modern doesn't mean it westernize, that's call urbanize. How the local live, the culture, their cuisine, their mindset,etc.. is what make them weaternize or not. The south is not just HCMC. I really doubt that you live here 10 years. Miền Tây is in the south, and you call that place look westernize ?

  • @jamestheadvisor5052
    @jamestheadvisor5052 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    This is so handy!

    • @Joelfriend
      @Joelfriend  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Glad it’s helpful! 😊

  • @SydneyTrainsV28
    @SydneyTrainsV28 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    As a vietnamese thank you.

  • @rashdamouse3758
    @rashdamouse3758 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Great vid - love the tips.
    I'm planning a trip in Dec 2024 ...and it will be colder up North of Vietnam I believe. Seems like the general consensus is to go South to North but in my case does that make sense? I'm thinking of flying in to Hanoi and then heading South with a trip to Phu Quoc at the end for some sun and chill.
    What do people think?

    • @roromotovlog3752
      @roromotovlog3752 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Depends on your liking.

    • @roromotovlog3752
      @roromotovlog3752 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Vietnamese here. Usually I also recommend people to arrive South first then travel up North. Southern region are friendlier and will give you good first impression. Infrastructure in the south is deverloping faster than up North so you can travel further distance within the first week. The more you go up North the more Beautiful scenery and cultural places you can visit, therefore your journey will feel much "Fuller"

  • @rahulsoren
    @rahulsoren วันที่ผ่านมา

    Thanks for the informative video. Can you also tell me how to carry drones as a foreigner? I have a nano drone (dji mini 3).

  • @8Freakish8
    @8Freakish8 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Its always cheaper to book in person at a local place than online 😁 we did all on place and all the tourists booked online and they overpayed almost everytime in comparison to our prices. Just as a sidenote

  • @FINDINGVU
    @FINDINGVU 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Why would you delete the review after they gave you a discount? You liked the service right?

  • @shwartinio5298
    @shwartinio5298 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    thank you!

  • @Minh_Chau_Pham
    @Minh_Chau_Pham ปีที่แล้ว +2

    thanks