Spotlight Q&A: expert tips and highlights for your trip to Vietnam

A serpentine slither of land, bordered by mountains to the west and the South China Sea to the east, Vietnam‘s sweeping arc continues around to the Gulf of Thailand, adding up to some 3,400km of white-sand beaches. For many this is reason enough to book a trip, yet there’s much more to experience, from the thrills of famously frantic cities to the rural charms and paddy fields of the Mekong River Delta. The remote northern mountains are home to fascinating tribal settlements, while bucket-list staple Ha Long Bay never fails to conjure up its magic. We caught up with Hien, one of our local experts, to dive into her personal favorites and travel tips to help you plan your own trip to Vietnam.

Top Vietnam trip tips from a local expert

What do you love most about living in Vietnam?

One of my favorite things about living in Vietnam is the food which is amazing, fresh, flavorful, and full of variety! Every day feels like a new adventure.

What is one thing you would recommend someone visiting your country should do?

If there’s one thing I’d recommend to anyone visiting Vietnam, it’s to go on a street food tour especially in cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnamese cuisine is best experienced on the streets, where locals gather for quick, flavorful dishes made right in front of you. From a steaming bowl of pho or bun cha to crispy banh xeo and sweet che, every bite tells a story of tradition and regional flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with local culture, meet people, and explore the city through your taste buds.

Read more: The best street food in Vietnam, from pho to bun cha

Unsurprisingly, then, Vietnam is a great foodie destination. What is one dish everyone should try at least once?

If you try just one dish in Vietnam, make it pho—our iconic noodle soup. It’s a comforting bowl of rice noodles in a fragrant broth, typically topped with either tender beef (pho bo) or chicken (pho ga), and served with fresh herbs, lime, and chili. Simple yet deeply flavorful, pho is more than just food—it’s a part of daily life here, especially in the mornings. That said, banh mi, bun cha, and regional specialties like cao lau in Hoi An or bun bo Hue in central Vietnam are also must-tries!

What are some other highlights you can suggest to those planning a trip to Vietnam?

Vietnam has so much to offer, but if I had to choose the top highlights, they would be:

• Ha Long Bay (or Lan Ha Bay): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its stunning limestone karsts rising from emerald waters. Cruising through the bay is an unforgettable experience.
• Hoi An’s Ancient Town: A charming riverside town with lantern-lit streets, well-preserved architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s also a great place for tailoring, street food, and cultural experiences.
• The street food culture: Whether in Hanoi, Hue, or Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s street food scene is vibrant, diverse, and absolutely delicious. It’s not just about eating—it’s a way to connect with local life.

Read more: Top 10 things to do in Vietnam

When’s the best time to visit Vietnam?

The best time to visit Vietnam depends on where you’re going, as the climate varies by region. But overall, spring (March to April) and fall (September to November) are ideal. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant across the country with mild temperatures in the north, warm sunshine in the south, and less rain in the central region.

What’s one piece of advice you would give someone visiting your country?

One piece of advice I’d give to anyone visiting Vietnam is: be open and curious—especially when it comes to food, culture, and daily life. Things might be different from what you’re used to, but that’s part of the charm. Try the street food, learn a few Vietnamese phrases, and don’t be afraid to step off the beaten path. Also, crossing the street in busy cities can feel wild at first, but just walk slowly and confidently traffic flows around you! Embrace the experience, and you’ll discover how warm and welcoming Vietnam truly is.

Read more: A Vietnamese odyssey: how to plan the ultimate trip

Make it happen

Ready to plan your very own Southeast Asian trip to Vietnam? Whether you’re interested in northern Vietnam’s countryside, an epic train journey or anything in-between, our local experts are ready and waiting to help turn your dreams into reality, so get in touch with them today to get started. Handpicked, passionate, and filled with knowledge of Vietnamese highlights and hidden gems with which to pepper your itinerary, they’ll craft a personalized trip that’s entirely suited to your budget and needs.