What about Vietnam - Traveller Insights
Society & Culture
About
Welcome to What About Vietnam - A Travel Podcast with Kerry Newsome. If you have ever thought about Vietnam as a holiday destination, but unsure, well, this may be just the eye-opener you need to help you decide you must go. A cross between "Trip advisor and a blog" minus the 300+ pages of reading, this podcast aims to give you insights into Vietnam from years of traveling to and from, and as a travel manager. My objective is to give you the information the guide books don't,.... in an easy to listen to, relatable format. Across this series, I will be your guide to "When and How" to travel throughout Vietnam. I will provide you with comprehensive information designed to make your trip fun, safe, and full of great adventures. You will hear from guest travellers about their experiences and the places they have visited. I interview locals, expats, travel experts and tour operators across the board. You never know who you are going to meet on the show, and that's what makes it interes
Episodes
- What Vietnamese dishes should I try?- What About Vietnam S6-E09
This episode explores essential Vietnamese dishes for travelers, focusing on regional specialties such as Bún Chả in Hanoi, Cao Lầu in Hoi An, and Bánh Xèo in Ho Chi Minh City. It also touches on Hue's Banh Khoai, coastal seafood, and rust…
- Where should you go first in Vietnam - What About Vietnam S6-E8
This episode of What About Vietnam discusses how to choose your first destination in Vietnam, focusing on the contrasts between the North, Central, and South regions and how your travel style and time frame should influence your decision.
- Is now a good time to travel to Vietnam in 2026?- What About Vietnam S6-E7
This episode addresses whether 2026 is a good time to travel to Vietnam, with the host sharing on-the-ground observations about global event impacts and travel realities. It covers airfare trends, the challenges of disruption, traveler min…
- Is tipping expected in Vietnam? A practical guide for travellers- What About Vietnam S6-E6
This episode addresses tipping expectations for travellers in Vietnam, explaining where it is and isn't customary, appropriate amounts, and the cultural context. It emphasizes that tipping is appreciated for extra service but not generally…
- How to Handle Money in Vietnam – Cash, Cards, ATM Fees & Travel Tips for 2026 - What About Vietnam S6-E5
This episode covers managing money for travel to Vietnam in 2026, addressing concerns about card acceptance, carrying cash, ATM fees, and withdrawal limits. It explains the Vietnamese Dong, when to use cash or cards, ATM usage, and strateg…
- When is the best time of year to visit Vietnam ? - What About Vietnam S6-E4
This episode of One Question at a Time breaks down the best times to visit Vietnam by region, detailing climate patterns, typhoon seasons, and optimal months for the North, Central, and South. It advises on planning for weather variations…
- Do I need a Visa to enter Vietnam? - What About Vietnam S6-E3
This episode of What About Vietnam breaks down Vietnam
- Is TET a good time to Visit Vietnam? - What About Vietnam S6-E2
This episode explores the pros and cons of visiting Vietnam during TET, the Lunar New Year holiday. It focuses on the practical impact on travel, including transport, accommodation, and daily life, offering advice for travellers to manage…
- Is it safe to travel to Vietnam as a solo traveller? - What About Vietnam S6-E1
This episode of What About Vietnam discusses the safety of solo travel in Vietnam. It draws on personal experience and common traveler misunderstandings to provide a nuanced perspective on what "safe" means on the ground, helping solo trav…
- What About Vietnam – S1-E11 – Last words for 2025
As the podcast pauses to reflect on its journey since 2020, the host shares five key lessons for traveling in Vietnam. The episode encourages slow travel, curiosity, and meaningful connections to better experience the country.
- What About Vietnam – S1-E10 – No Visa or Evisa – Getting it right in 2025
This episode of What About Vietnam covers the latest 2025 visa requirements for Vietnam, including exemptions and e-visas for all nationalities. It explains how to avoid common application pitfalls, provides guidance on necessary documents…
- What About Vietnam – S1-E9 – Vietnam Travel – First Impressions
Meghann from The Grahlife discusses her and her husband Zach's first impressions of Vietnam, covering their experiences from arriving in Hanoi to trekking Son Doong Cave in March 2025. The episode touches on culture shock, sensory experien…
- What About Vietnam – S1-8 – The big decision: Join a Packaged Group Tour or DIY? – Which Suits You Best?
This episode of What About Vietnam discusses the significant decision between joining a packaged group tour or planning an independent trip to Vietnam. It contrasts the structure and convenience of group tours with the freedom of DIY trave…
- What About Vietnam – S5-E27 – Discovering Catholic Treasures of Vietnam: Church Hunting in Ninh Binh and Nam Dinh
This episode explores Vietnam's Catholic heritage in the northern provinces of Ninh Binh and Nam Dinh, featuring sites like Phú Nhai Basilica and Bùi Chù Cathedral. Local guest Ha shares insights on the history, architecture, and community…
- What About Vietnam - S5-E26 - Wellness Tourism in Vietnam – A Fresh Take from Hoi An
This episode explores wellness tourism in Vietnam, broadcasting from Hoi An's Namia River Retreat. Guests Michelle Ford and Dien Pham discuss the inclusive and personal approach to wellness travel in Vietnam, contrasting it with more rigid…
- What About Vietnam – S5-E25 – Hoi An in Focus: 10 Things to Love from a Local’s View and a Traveller’s Return
This episode revisits Hoi An, Vietnam, with insights from Sharon Sweeney, a frequent visitor. It discusses the town's charm, evolving landscape due to international tourism, and the balance between tradition and change, incorporating perso…
- What About Vietnam S5 – E24 - Ha Giang: Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Adventure
This episode features Ying, a local Black H'mong guide, offering insider tips for exploring Ha Giang, Vietnam. Key topics include the duration and best times to visit the Ha Giang Loop, cultural immersion with ethnic communities, and the p…
- What About Vietnam – S5-E23 - Pushing Limits, Finding Magic – Caving and Trekking in Phong Nha’s Tu Lan Cave System
This episode details a four-day adventure trek through Vietnam's Tu Lan Cave system in Phong Nha. It covers the physical demands, jungle trekking, cave swimming experiences, and the organization provided by the Oxalis Adventure team.
- What About Vietnam - S5-E22 – 10 things travellers may not know about Vietnam
This episode features Ian Paynton discussing 10 things travellers may not know about Vietnam, including surprising perceptions, cities, pho variations, social media
- What About Vietnam -S5-E21 – “Vietnam's Tet Holiday: Preparation and Tips for Tourists
This episode explores the significance of Tet Nguyen Dan, Vietnam's Lunar New Year celebration. It provides practical advice, travel tips, and cultural insights regarding holiday preparations, potential travel challenges, and what to expec…
- What About Vietnam– S5- E20 – Saigon Unseen: The Sights You Didn’t Know You Were Missing
In this episode of What about Vietnam, host chats with expat Matt Cowan about Saigon
- What About Vietnam - S5-E19 - Facelift and Dental Surgery Vietnam - A good news story
This episode discusses Vietnam as a destination for affordable dental and cosmetic surgery, featuring co-host Kelley's personal facelift experience in Saigon. It explores medical tourism, self-care holidays, and the standards of care at th…
- What About Vietnam – S5_E18 – Hanoi Below the Surface
This episode of What about Vietnam explores Hanoi, delving into its Christian heritage, coffee culture, collective living quarters, and the effects of the Doi Moi period. Guest Ha, a Hanoian, shares insights into the city beyond typical to…
- What About Vietnam – S5-E17 - Motorbike riding in Vietnam: Safety, local tips and Epic Adventures
This episode of "What About Vietnam" focuses on motorbike riding in the country, covering essential safety tips, licensing, insurance, and recommended routes like the Ho Chi Minh Highway and Northern Vietnam landscapes. It includes insight…
- What About Vietnam – S5-E16 -Smart phone Apps and Tech Tips for travellers to Vietnam
This episode of "What about Vietnam" focuses on smartphone apps and tech tips to enhance travel experiences in Vietnam. Michelle Chang from Intentional Travellers discusses essential apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, and ride-sharin…
- What About Vietnam - S5-15 - Yen Bai - Discover luxury in the heart of nature
This episode explores Yen Bai and Tu Le, a region in Vietnam noted for its natural beauty and tranquility. Hylton Lipkin, General Manager of Le Champ Tu Le Resort, shares insights into the area's attractions, including terraced rice fields…
- What About Vietnam - S5-E14 - Phong Nha: The family fun destination with something for everyone
This episode focuses on Phong Nha, Vietnam, as a family travel destination. It includes discussions with Ben Mitchell from Phong Nha Farmstay about activities beyond the caves, such as exploring the Bong Lai Valley, biking, and river cruis…
- S5 - E13 - Out & About in Nha Trang – The city of 300 days of sunshine a year
This episode of What About Vietnam explores a three-day visit to the coastal city of Nha Trang. The host discusses local sights, including the Po Nagar temple and salt fields, along with activities like diving, island hopping, and dining e…
- S5- E12 - Out & About in Mui Ne – Laying bare to the winds of change
This episode explores Mui Ne, Vietnam, covering attractions such as the Sand Dunes, Fairy Stream, and Lighthouse. It discusses transportation, accommodation, and local culture, emphasizing the value of a local guide for navigating the area.
- S5- E11 - Out & About in Hồ Tràm Vietnam
This episode focuses on the Melia Ho Tram Beach Resort as a beach escape from Saigon, detailing its romantic atmosphere, spa, dining options, and family-friendly amenities. The review highlights the resort
- What About Vietnam - S5-E10 - Out & About in Saigon (Uncut)
Kerry Newsome and Kelly McCarthy explore Saigon in an uncut episode, sharing personal anecdotes and insider tips on navigating the city. They discuss shopping centers like Takashimaya and Vincom Plaza, diverse culinary experiences, dental…
- S5-9 - Out & About In Saigon - with What About Vietnam host Kerry Newsome
Kerry Newsome introduces the "Out & About in Vietnam" mini-series, detailing her holiday adventures starting in Ho Chi Minh City. The episode offers advice on initial orientation, utilizing apps for transport and navigation, and deciding o…
- What About Vietnam – S5-E8 – Empowering the Traveller: In the fight against Human Trafficking
This episode discusses human trafficking in Vietnam, with guest Kim Miller sharing insights from her experiences and the work of the Blue Dragon organization. It covers the vulnerabilities that contribute to trafficking and offers guidance…
- What About Vietnam – S1 – E7 _ 8 Tips for Vietnam travellers during TET
This episode offers 8 practical tips for travelers visiting Vietnam during Tet, the Vietnamese New Year. It covers advice on booking travel, managing expectations, and immersing in local traditions like trying Tet cakes and festive greetin…
- What About Vietnam – S5-E7 - The Rise of Unique Dining Experiences in Vietnam
This episode discusses the evolving food culture in Vietnam, highlighting the growth of unique dining experiences beyond street food. Guest Jovel Chan, a food writer, shares insights on the influence of international chefs, the rise of ups…
- What About Vietnam - S5-E6 –Explore the ‘Land of Lychees’ – Bac Giang with a return traveller to Vietnam
Photographer Jessie Pearlman discusses his return trip to Bac Giang, Vietnam, the "Land of Lychees." The episode covers the significance of lychees to the region and community, offers travel tips for visiting this off-the-beaten-path desti…
- What About Vietnam - S5-5 - The famous Hai Van Pass experience: Insights from a seasoned traveller
This episode features Chris Moonie, who has lived in Vietnam for over eight years, discussing the Hải Vân Pass. He shares insights on exploring the route, its historical significance during the Vietnam War, and unique attractions like oyst…
- What About Vietnam – S5- E4 -Exploring the Case for Living and Working in Vietnam
This episode of The What About Vietnam Podcast features expat Kate Boardman discussing the importance of due diligence for those considering living and working in Vietnam. The discussion covers legal requirements, job opportunities, and th…
- What About Vietnam – S5_E3 – Heritage and discovery in Saigon, The Mekong Delta and Dalat
This episode follows Vicki Thai
- What About Vietnam – S5- E2 – Choosing Hoi An as a Digital Nomad Destination
This episode of What about Vietnam features Florian Rucker discussing Hoi An as a digital nomad destination. It covers the digital nomad lifestyle, the transformation since Covid, and Hoi An as a viable option with extended E-Visa stays. R…
- What About Vietnam - S5-01 - Vietnam Visa Updates and Land Travel Tips taking in Phan Thiet, Hue and Quy Nhon
This episode covers Vietnam
- What About Vietnam - S4-25 - Drone photography in Vietnam: A fun Guide for travellers (Pt 3 Photography)
Anton, a drone enthusiast from Ukraine, shares his experiences and tips for non-commercial drone photography in Vietnam. He covers navigating
- What About Vietnam - S4-23 -How to capture Beautiful Photos - in Vietnam or anywhere! - Part 1
In Part 1 of this two-part series, photographer Thomas Levine shares insights on capturing stunning travel photos in Vietnam. He discusses using color, lines, backgrounds, and focus effectively for scenery, people, and activities.
- What About Vietnam - S4-24 -How to capture Beautiful Photos - Focus Vietnam locations - Part 2
This episode features photographer Thomas Levine discussing how to take compelling photos of Vietnam. He offers advice on capturing local people by focusing on emotions and respecting cultural norms, as well as tips for photographing locat…
- What About Vietnam - S4-E22 - A wide lens view of trekking in Sapa
In this episode, adventurer Jack Taylor shares insights on trekking and filming in Sapa, Vietnam, highlighting the region's landscape and local hill tribes. He provides travel advice for exploring the area and mentions his documentary work…
- What About Vietnam – S4- E21 – Exploring Phong Nha beyond the caves
This episode of "What about Vietnam?" features Ben Mitchell discussing Phong Nha
- What About Vietnam – S4- E20 – Hoi An – A life changing experience for a singer songwriter
Luke Webster, a singer songwriter, recounts his life-changing experience in Hoi An, Vietnam. He details his journey from initial sensory overload to finding a relaxed pace, forming a band, and writing an album in Hoi An. The episode explor…
- What About Vietnam – S4- E19 – Why Vietnam wins the hearts of the daring
This episode explores why Vietnam appeals to daring travelers. Guest Alvaro Moreno, GM of Fusion Original Saigon, discusses how the country offers opportunities for personal challenges within a safe environment, highlighting aspects like d…
- What About Vietnam – S4- E18 – Discover some of the best Luxury brand travel experiences in Vietnam
Alexandra Hepworth joins the podcast to discuss luxury travel in Vietnam, highlighting popular brands and opulent hotel and resort experiences. She shares insights from her nine years living in Vietnam and working with major hospitality gr…
- What About Vietnam – S4-E17 – The best Vietnam traveller insights from 2022
This episode of What About Vietnam recaps the podcast's 2022 shows, covering topics like Vietnam's comedy scene, language learning, Phong Nha Caves, wellness, Phu Quoc, art, food, craft beer, and heritage sites. The host outlines a 2023 fo…