Vietnam Is Awesome: Discover Awesome Experiences (Vietnam Is Awesome Team)

This is the brand new Vietnam Is Awesome podcast. We will help you discover the real Vietnam with awesome experiences. I'm Niall Mackay your host and I've lived in Vietnam since 2016. I'm the host of the well-known show, A Vietnam Podcast, comedian and brand ambassador for Vietnam Is Awesome. I came to Vietnam for a two week vacation in 2015 and was immediately taken by the beauty, friendliness, energy, and even the quirks of Vietnam.

I came back in 2016 with my wife for just six weeks. And more than six years later, we're still here.

I'll be talking to people from all over Vietnam, working in tourism, bars, restaurants, hotels, nightlife, and more. To share with you experiences that prove, Vietnam Is Awesome. And the first episode I talked to Lily from Valley Village Phu Quoc. Valley Village Phu Quoc is a small family result located in the middle of the jungle, which focuses on mindfulness and wellbeing.

A trend well established in pleases like Bali and now growing in Vietnam. Lily is a German Vietnamese who has been living on the island since the beginning of 2022. Prior to that. She worked in marketing for Tik Tok, but during the pandemic, she realized like many others how important it is to take care of yourself and your mental health.

In 2021, she decided to quit. Oh, nine to five job at Tik Tok to go back to her roots in Vietnam. And to create a yoga and wellbeing hub at Valley Village Phu Quoc.  In the upcoming first episode, we talk about life on the island. Why Phu Quoc has grown as a destination so much. And why travelers choose to go there?

She also shares with you the best attractions to visit and hidden gems on the island, not to miss. The Vietnam Is Awesome podcast is available wherever you get podcasts. So don't forget to subscribe a follow and leave a review or rating if you like what you're listening to. Follow the Vietnam Is Awesome Facebook page for curated updates from our team and travelers to make sure that you make the most of your time here in Vietnam and check out our website. Vietnamisawesome.com to discover more awesome experiences in Vietnam.  Thanks for listening. I'm your host, Niall Mackay, and enjoy the podcast. Vietnam Is Awesome.  

Welcome to the Vietnam Is Awesome Podcast. We'll help you discover the real Vietnam with awesome experiences.

I'm Niall Mackay, your host. I've lived in Vietnam since 2016, and I'm the host of a Vietnam podcast, A comedian, and now a brand ambassador for Vietnam Is Awesome.

I came to Vietnam for a two-week vacation and was immediately taken by the beauty, friendliness, energy, and even all the quirks of Vietnam. I came back in 2016 with my wife for just six weeks, and six years later we're still here.

In this episode, I'm talking to Lilly from Valley Village Phu Quoc. Valley Village Phu Quoc is a small family resort located in the middle of the jungle, which focuses on mindfulness and well-being.

Lilly is German, Vietnamese and has been living on the island since the beginning of 2022. Prior to that, she worked in marketing for TikTok, but during the pandemic, she realized like many others how important it is to take care of yourself and your mental health.

In 2021, she quit her nine-to-five job at TikTok to return to her roots in Vietnam to create a yoga and wellbeing hub at Valley Village Phu Quoc.

In this episode, we're going to be talking about why Phu Quoc has grown as a destination so much and why travelers choose to go there. The best attractions to visit, and what she suggests first-time travelers do when they visit Phu Quoc.

And also any hidden gems on the island that you can't miss!

We also talk about a handful of unique brands, bars, and organizations in Phu Quoc dedicated to travelers including:

The Rabbit Hole Irish Bar
The Phu Quoc Sailing Club
The Cheeky Traveler English Pub

Enjoy!

Welcome to the Vietnam Is Awesome Podcast. We'll help you discover the real Vietnam with awesome experiences.

I'm Niall Mackay, your host. I've lived in Vietnam since 2016, and I'm the host of a Vietnam podcast, A comedian, and now a brand ambassador for Vietnam Is Awesome.

I came to Vietnam for a two-week vacation and was immediately taken by the beauty, friendliness, energy, and even all the quirks of Vietnam. I came back in 2016 with my wife for just six weeks, and six years later we're still here.

I’ll be talking to people from all over Vietnam working in tourism, bars, resorts, hotels, nightlife and more to share with you experiences that prove, Vietnam Is Awesome. 

In this episode my guest is the Editor-in-Chief of Vietnam Is Awesome. 

Also having lived here for 6 years, he has travelled to many iconic and off-the-beaten-track locations in Vietnam with some stunning photos to show for it. 

He’s also married and lives in Da Nang with his wife Phuong and his little dog Lilly.

My guest today is Alan Brownbridge. 

We’re going to be talking about Da Nang and Central Vietnam today…

• Why Danang is a good central point and where can you explore from there?
• How has Covid and the weather affected the region? 
• Why photography tours are such big thing to do in Vietnam. 

Enjoy!

If you're in Saigon on a Thursday night book your tickets to The Tourist Trap Comedy Show!

What we mentioned...
Sights To See 

• Son Tra Mountain
• Marble Mountain
• Bana Hills
• Hai Van Pass
• Lady Buddha
• Golden Bridge
• Phong Nha
• Son Doong Caves
• Quy Nhon
• Nha Trang
• Mui Ne

Bars To See

• The Trip
• Seven Bridges Brewing Co.
• The Workshop

Tours

• Easy Rider

To Do

• Hikes in Son Tra
• Photo Tours

Welcome to the Vietnam Is Awesome podcast. We’ll help you discover the real Vietnam with Awesome experiences. 

In this episode my guest, Oscar Wright, has studied various religions in India and Istanbul… practices and teaches hatha yoga and meditation and tai chi... and facilitates Zen Tango workshops that turn tango dance into meditation.

He is a film maker originally from El Paso, Texas, but after spending the last 22 years in Italy he is now making a film series in Hanoi where he has been since September 2022 and believes it is on the cusp of being the legendary Paris of the 1930s.

He was recently recognised as the top posted on the Vietnam Is Awesome page for sharing so many amazing insights into Hanoi.

We talk about;

• Why he is so enthusiastic about Hanoi
• Stereotypes of Vietnam and Vietnamese people and if they are true
• And what his film series is about

And like every guest, he shares;

• What is a good 24 hour itinerary in Hanoi 
• What life is like for locals?
• Is it a good place to live? And why?
• Where should travellers go next in Vietnam after Hanoi?

Watch Oscar's videos here;

Welcome to the Vietnam Is Awesome podcast. We’ll help you discover the real Vietnam with Awesome experiences.

In this episode my guest, Mischa Smith, has lived in Vietnam for 10 years now. He's worked at Pasteur Street Brewing Company for eight and a half, most of those as the sales director spreading amazing craft beer across Vietnam.

And he's also the co-host of the Beer Stories podcast, which is produced by myself and Seven Million Bikes podcast and shares stories of craft beer, highlighting the amazing beer that we have here in Vietnam.

We talk about;

• Why he loves Saigon so much
• The growth of the craft beer industry in Vietnam
• The best places to eat and drink in Saigon

And like every guest, he shares;

• What is a good 24 hour itinerary in Saigon
• What life is like for locals?
• Is it a good place to live? And why?
• Where should travellers go next in Vietnam after Saigon?

Places to visit

• Rum Bar
• Malt
• Bui Vien
• Quán Ăn Quang Mập
• Steersman Brewery

Vietnam Is Awesome

• 6 Best Bars With Craft Beer In Ho Chi Minh City | Guide To Delicious Saigon Beer
• Facebook

Welcome to the Vietnam Is Awesome podcast. We’ll help you discover the real Vietnam with Awesome experiences.

I interviewed Mischa Smith who has lived in Vietnam for 10 years now. He's worked at Pasteur Street Brewing Company for eight and a half, most of those as the sales director spreading amazing craft beer across Vietnam.

In our main interview we both starting reminiscing about "old" Saigon. Which isn't that old but vastly different from 10 years ago. 

We talk about;

• What Saigon looked like 8-10 years ago
• How much the city has changed in that time
• Places that aren't here any longer that we miss

Vietnam Is Awesome

• Listen to the main episode 
• 6 Best Bars With Craft Beer In Ho Chi Minh City | Guide To Delicious Saigon Beer
• Facebook

Uncover the Unique Aspects of Saigon's Underground Art Scene

In this episode of the Vietnam is Awesome podcast, host Niall Mackay takes us on a journey into the vibrant underground art scene of Saigon. He introduces us to two extraordinary individuals who are at the forefront of this creative movement: Truong Que Phuong, the owner of Twist Cafe and Barzinga, and Sabra Johnson, the creator of the Jackfruit Cabaret Show.

Guests:

- Truong Que Phuong is the owner of Twist Cafe and Barzinga, two premier LGBTQ+ venues in Saigon.

- Sabra Johnson is the creator of the Jackfruit cabaret show and the founder of Eva Dance Company.

Discussion Points:

- The LGBTQ+ scene in Vietnam and its acceptance in big cities like Saigon and Hanoi.

- An overview of LGBTQ+ venues in Saigon, including Twist Cafe and Barzinga.

- Collaboration between Truong Que Phuong and Sabra Johnson to create the Jackfruit cabaret show at Barzinga.

- Exploring the concept of burlesque cabaret and how it combines stripping with theater and variety performances.

- Addressing the unique atmosphere of Barzinga and its resemblance to the creative vibe of Berlin.

Key Takeaways:

- Vietnam is surprisingly progressive and LGBTQ+ friendly, especially in big cities like Saigon.

- Saigon's underground art scene offers a diverse range of experiences, from drag shows to comedy and music events.

- Barzinga provides a unique atmosphere reminiscent of Berlin's creative clubs.

- The Jackfruit cabaret show brings elegance and grunge together, showcasing the talent of local dancers and performers.

Links:

- Twist Cafe

- Barzinga

- Eva Dance Company

LQBTQ+ Friendly Venues and Events In Saigon

• Twist 
• Barzinga
• Frolic
• Pride Cafe
• Gender Funk
• Haus of Drag

Join Niall Mackay as he delves into the hidden world of Saigon's underground art scene in this captivating episode of the Vietnam is Awesome podcast. Discover the unique experiences awaiting you and gain insights into the LGBTQ+ community's acceptance in Vietnam. Prepare to be inspired, informed, and intrigued!

The Vietnam Is Awesome Podcast will help you discover the real Vietnam with awesome experiences.

In this episode, we’ll share our recommendations for boutique hotels across Vietnam.

My guest today is Lauren Pienaar. She has been in Vietnam now for 7 years, she's from South Africa originally. She's a singer-songwriter with Moon Rise City and is now the Head of Communications for Vietnam Is Awesome. The very maker of this podcast, she has traveled all over Vietnam to many different luxury and eco-friendly boutiques.

Hotels and activities mentioned.

Phu Quoc

• Mango Bay
• Fusion Resorts
• Premier Village

Saigon

• Myst
• An Lam Retreat
• Mia Resort
• Villa Song

Mui Ne

• 
  
• Clown Car
• Minh On Hotel
• Cargo Remote
• The Cliff
• Joe’s Cafe
• Bo Khe
• Mini Golf

Da Lat

• Twin Lam Lake (sic
• Lavender Valley
• Mo Stay
• Lang Biang Peak

Phong Nha

• Victory Villas
• Phong Nha Homestay

Da Nang

• La Salle de Mer

Hoi An

• An Bang Beach
• Royal Riverside Hotel
• Cao Lau
• Nem
• Mi Quang

Welcome to the Vietnam is awesome podcast. We'll help you discover the real Vietnam with awesome experiences.

My guest today is Canadian Vietnamese, and also worked in the nightlife scene there for over 10 years. He moved to Vietnam in 2019 and has since then opened up three food and beverage businesses. The latest one is in Thao Dien which has changed dramatically post COVID and now a destination for tourists who want to see a different side of Saigon.

I'm Niall Mackay, your host. I've lived in Vietnam since 2016, and I'm the host of A Vietnam Podcast, A comedian, and now brand ambassador for Vietnam is Awesome. I came to Vietnam for a two week vacation in 2015 and was immediately taken by the beauty, friendliness, energy, and even all the quirks of Vietnam.

Venues to visit

Cocktails and cool vibe

• Brix
• Clay
• 86 Proof
• Zumwhere
• Le Cafe des Stagiaires
• Racha Room
• Dram

Pizza/Pasta

• Pendolasco
• Pasta Fresca

Craft Beer

• Pasteur Street Brewing Co.
• BiaCraft
• Belgo

Sports Bar

• The Avenue

Great Food

• Okra HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
• Ut Ut
• Bep Vo
• Tinto

Craft Chocolate

• Marou

Nightclub

• Indigo

Activities

• Ice Skating at Vincom Mega Mall
• Yoga Pod
• Skating at Outcast
• Rock Climbing at Outcast
• Festivals at Outcast

In the heart of Vietnam, there are hidden gems that beckon travelers seeking authentic adventures and unforgettable experiences. Join Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy, as he uncovers the magic of these destinations in this episode of the Vietnam is Awesome podcast.

Niall's guest for this episode is Ben Mitchell, the visionary behind Phong Nha Farm State and the luxurious Victory Road Villas. Ben's journey in transforming these locations into must-visit spots on the tourist map is nothing short of inspiring. With Niall's lively interview style, you'll get to know Ben and his incredible achievements.

Why Ben Mitchell is a Phong Nha Expert:

• Founder of Phong Nha Farm Stay and Victory Road Villas.
• Champion of responsible tourism in remote rural Vietnam.
• Combining contemporary elegance with traditional Vietnamese architecture.
• Impacting the Vietnamese tourism landscape.

Topics Discussed:

• The inspiration behind Phong Nha Farm Stay and Victory Road Villas.
• The unforgettable experiences these destinations offer.
• Responsible tourism and its impact on the beautiful regions of Vietnam.
• Ben Mitchell's personal journey in Vietnam.

Discover the real Vietnam in Phong Nha through the eyes of Ben Mitchell and learn about the authentic adventures and hidden gems waiting to be explored in this captivating episode of the Vietnam is Awesome podcast.

Places To Visit

• Phong Ke Bang National Park 
• Phong Nha Loop
• Easy Riders
• Jungle Treks
  • Oxalis Adventure
  • Jungle Boss Tours
  • Greenland Tours
• Phong Nha Cave
• Bong Lai Valley
• Dark Cave 
• Paradise Cave
• Eight Lady Cave
• Nuk Mok Eco Trail
• Botanical Gardens.
• Victory Road Villas Restaurant
• Pub with cold beer
• Phong Nha Funky Beach

Nearby:

• Hue
• Hoi An
• Da Nang
• Ho Chi Minh Trail

Exploring the Beauty of Vietnam's Halong Bay: A Conversation with Local Guide, Quan

In this episode host Niall Mackay invites special guest Quan, a local tour guide from Ha Long Bay, who shares his wealth of knowledge and experience regarding this UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The conversation covers various aspects of the Halong Bay experience from the types of tours available to historical significance and environmental concerns. 

A thorough understanding of why Halong Bay cruises, including the traditional 'junk' boats and luxury boats, are a must-visit is presented. 

Additional highlights include a brief foray into the changes brought about by COVID-19, efforts towards environmental conservation, and fascinating insights into life on a Halong Bay cruise.

00:11 Introduction and Host Background
00:44 Guest Introduction: Local Tour Guide
01:04 Guest's Journey to Becoming a Tour Guide
02:14 Understanding Junk Boats
05:01 UNESCO World Heritage Site: Halong Bay
06:56 Tour Options in Halong Bay
07:59 Experience of Overnight Tours
08:58 Recommendations for Tour Duration
10:04 Exploring Caves in Halong Bay
22:43 Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism
25:25 Environmental Protection in Halong Bay
28:29 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

"It's never a dull moment in Vietnam. Things are going so fast, things are changing, and, It's really interesting to document this contrast."
- Adrien on the ever-changing nature of Saigon's streets.

In this episode, host Niall Mackay welcomes Adrien, a French photographer who has been living in Vietnam for nearly 10 years. Adrien shares his journey of falling in love with the country's vibrant street life and culture, leading him to become a street photography tour guide in Saigon. 

They delve into the allure of Vietnam for photographers, the art of respectfully capturing candid moments, and the ever-changing landscape of the city. Adrien offers insights into his approach to street photography and the authentic experiences he aims to provide through his tours.

Adrien's love for Vietnam blossomed unexpectedly after initially visiting for a short trip in 2014. As he immersed himself in the country's culture, he discovered a passion for street photography, drawn to the dynamic contrasts and constant flux of Saigon's streets. Adrien emphasizes the importance of respectful and genuine interactions with subjects, often returning to the same neighborhoods to build connections over time.

Takeaways:

• Vietnam, particularly Saigon, offers a unique and constantly evolving canvas for street photographers, with its blend of traditional and modern elements.
• Approaching street photography requires respect, genuine curiosity about people's lives, and an authentic exchange rather than staging or intruding.
• Adrien's tours aim to provide an off-the-beaten-path experience, taking clients to lesser-known neighborhoods where interactions with locals are more natural and welcoming.
• Capturing the essence of a place goes beyond just scenic landscapes; street photography freezes fragments of time that may soon disappear due to rapid development.
• Building trust and returning to the same locations allow for deeper connections and more candid photographic opportunities.

"When you photograph people doing a lot of things in the street, there are many angles, there are many ways to compose your images, and that just makes it a lot more exciting." - Adrien on the appeal of street photography in Saigon.

"The authenticity and the genuineness and the cheekiness of Vietnamese people is still coming through. And I really like seeing that repeat guest coming back. It's a healthy sign for a destination."
- Pieter Van Der Hoeven

In this episode of the Vietnam is Awesome Podcast, host Niall Mackay is joined by Pieter Van Der Hoeven, the Managing Director of the Waifafo Resort and Spa in Hoi An. 

Pieter shares his insights and recommendations on the best things to do, see, and experience in the Hoi An region, from immersive food tours and world-class golfing to the burgeoning craft cocktail scene. They also discuss the rapidly improving service standards in Vietnam's hospitality industry and Pieter's vision for his upcoming resort that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Hoi An.

Pieter highlights the importance of repeat visitors for Vietnam's tourism industry, which lags behind neighboring countries like Thailand. He believes addressing visa requirements, improving infrastructure, and preserving authenticity will help attract more return guests. 

The episode offers a glimpse into Hoi An's vibrant food, drink, and wellness scenes, showcasing the destination's evolution while retaining its charming character.

Key Takeaways:

• Hoi An offers immersive food tours, allowing visitors to dine in local homes and experience regional specialties like cao lau and bahn mi.
• The region boasts seven world-class golf courses designed by renowned architects like Greg Norman and Nick Faldo, with better value than Thailand.
• Hoi An's burgeoning craft cocktail scene features trendy spots like Hill Station, Mango Rooms, and Market Bar, offering unique Vietnamese-inspired drinks.
• Vietnam's hospitality industry has rapidly improved, with major brands providing training, and locals embracing it as a career path after gaining overseas experience.
• Pieter's upcoming Waifafo Resort aims to celebrate Hoi An's culture through modern and ancient elements, including innovative wellness concepts.

In this episode of the Vietnam is Awesome podcast, host Niall Mackay, an expat in Vietnam since 2016, and guest Shane Dillon, who has spent 17 years in Vietnam and founded an insurance brokerage firm, discuss the importance of insurance for tourists to Vietnam. 

They debunk common insurance myths, discuss the necessity of having insurance for healthcare, travel, and accidents, and share personal anecdotes to illustrate the consequences of being uninsured. 

The conversation covers the types of insurance available, tips for selecting policies, and guidance on handling insurance claims, especially in emergency situations. Additionally, they touch on legal considerations for riding motorbikes in Vietnam, the risks of sports and adventurous activities, and navigating the Vietnamese healthcare system. 

The podcast aims to educate and encourage expats and travelers to prioritize insurance as a key component of their preparation for living or traveling in Vietnam.

Niall Mackay is joined by Natalya Wissink, the founder of Secret Experiences, to talk about the thriving cocktail scene and hidden gems in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). 

They discuss the modern side of Vietnam, the use of local ingredients in craft cocktails and beer, and Natalya's company, which offers unique experiences like the Secret Cocktail Experience.

Key Takeaways:

1. Vietnam, especially Saigon, has a surprisingly modern and vibrant cocktail and culinary scene that often goes unnoticed by tourists.
2. Local ingredients like spices, herbs, and fruits are being used in innovative ways to create craft cocktails, gins, and beers, showcasing a fusion of traditional and modern Vietnamese culture.
3. Secret Experiences offers unique tours like the Secret Cocktail Experience, where guests are taken to hidden bars and venues, allowing them to explore Saigon's nightlife scene in a truly immersive way.
4. Vietnam's food and beverage industry is not just catering to expats and tourists but is driven by the young, affluent Vietnamese population.
5. Saigon is full of hidden gems and speakeasy-style bars that are often difficult to find unless you know where to look, making guided experiences like those offered by Secret Experiences valuable for visitors.

"What I love is... how surprising Saigon is to a lot of people. So when you come here, there's so much to do that you wouldn't expect, which I think is really exciting." - Niall Mackay

"We don't want our guests to, although we support our partners, but we don't want them to discover places too early. We want them to be surprised and not know where we're going exactly." - Natalya Wisnick

"You discover everything you want by bike. It's easier."

Niall Mackay sits down with Mihai Constantinescu, a long-time expat and passionate motorbike enthusiast known for his YouTube channel "The Vietnam Rider". With 16 years of experience living in Vietnam and fluency in Vietnamese, Mihai shares invaluable insights into the world of motorbiking in Vietnam.

The conversation covers everything from choosing the right bike and essential safety tips to navigating the bustling city traffic and embarking on epic cross-country journeys. Mihai and Niall discuss the freedom and adventure that comes with exploring Vietnam by motorbike, as well as the cultural experiences and interactions with locals that make such trips unforgettable. They also delve into the practicalities of motorbiking in Vietnam, including licensing laws, bike maintenance, and how to stay safe on the roads.

Key Takeaways:

• Choose a common bike model for easy repairs and parts availability 
• Always wear a properly fitted and securely fastened helmet 
• Stay away from trucks and buses for safety 
• Take smaller, less crowded roads for a better experience 
• Familiarize yourself with your bike before embarking on long trips 

Chapters and Timestamps:
 
01:40 Getting into motorbiking in Vietnam 
04:40 First motorbiking experiences 
09:10 The appeal of motorbiking in Vietnam 
15:40 Choosing the right bike 
22:10 Electric bikes in Vietnam 
29:40 Traffic safety in Vietnam 
35:50 Final tips for motorbiking in Vietnam 
38:20 Where to find Mihai's content

Quotes:

1. "You discover everything you want by bike. It's easier." [09:40]
2. "The ride is the destination." [32:30]
3. "It really annoys me when you see people wearing a helmet and they don't clip it. Do these people go home and have sex with a partner and just hold the condom?" [33:50]
4. "The speed that you're at always seems less dangerous than it actually is." [36:20]
5. "20's plenty." [37:30]