Of course, no trip to Vietnam is complete without trying an authentic bowl of phở or Bánh mì sandwich ! But beyond the obvious, the travel experts at VIVE Society Travel are here to share local cultural experiences you absolutely must try.
01. Pull Up a Tiny Plastic Stool
Vietnam's most memorable meals happen sitting inches above the sidewalk. Find a busy local food stall, take a seat, and people watch. There's no feeling quite like cracking open a cold beer and tasting that first bite of real Vietnamese street food.
02. Trust Us, Order the Coffee!
Coconut coffee, egg coffee, strong iced Vietnamese coffee, this is the place to experiment. Even if you're not usually a coffee drinker, you are sure to be surprised.
Vietnam is the world's second-largest coffee producer, and coffee here is an experience all its own.
The Coconut is out of this world!
03. Try on Traditional Ao Dai
Try on a traditional áo dài and learn about the beauty and symbolism behind Vietnam's national dress. It's a wonderful cultural experience, especially for first-time visitors. And makes for beautiful photos to bring home and cherish forever.
04. Wander a Little. Connect a Lot.
Stop at a local market and try something you can't pronounce, pull up a tiny plastic stool at a sidewalk café & strike up conversation with a local.
The Vietnamese are incredibly welcoming, and some of the best experiences happen when you slow down and simply enjoy everyday life around you. With the right itinerary, there's plenty of time for these spontaneous moments. That's the VIVE way of traveling!
05. Journey Through History
For many American and Western travelers, Vietnam's wartime history holds a deeply personal connection, often through family members who lived through that era. While visiting the famous war tunnels is worthwhile, we believe the most meaningful experiences happen beyond the typical tourist stops.
Imagine sitting in a family's kitchen, hearing stories passed down through generations, and walking through villages where that history unfolded. It's a privilege to hear these stories firsthand, and it's these personal connections that truly bring Vietnam's history to life.
06. Have Something Made Just for You
Vietnam is known for its skilled tailors, especially in towns like Hoi An. Whether it's a custom suit, a beautiful dress, or something you've always wanted in your wardrobe, having clothing made to fit you is an experience in itself. The shop owners are extremely talented and make the experience fun at the same time.
07. Take the Scenic Route!
Leave the busy streets behind. Bicycle through lush green rice paddies, explore peaceful countryside villages, or hop into a traditional bamboo basket boat and float through the coconut groves. It's a beautiful way to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and experience a completely different side of Vietnam.
Is Vietnam on Your Wish List? ❤️
We are here to help you experience it! We host Group Tours to Vietnam and we can also help arrange your own plans if you prefer to Travel Privately.
It's a destination not to be missed!
Author: Michelle Ruiz, Co-Founder of VIVE Society Travel
Fried Bugs, Anyone? 😅
About VIVE Society Travel:
Founded by Michelle and Nelson Ruiz, VIVE Society Travel is a boutique luxury travel company specializing in adults-only small-group tours, private international travel, and meaningful cultural experiences. With a focus on luxury travel in destinations including Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, Dubai, Morocco, Jordan, Egypt and many more - VIVE Society combines five-star accommodations, trusted local industry partners, and thoughtfully planned experiences that connect travelers more deeply with the places they visit.