• Discover Vietnam on a Bike With Vietnam Riders Mihai Constantinescu
    Jun 28 2024

    "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]
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    39 mins
  • Discover Secret Cocktail Experiences in Saigon with Natalya Wissink
    May 27 2024

    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

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    28 mins
  • Navigating Insurance in Vietnam: Essential Advice for Tourists With Shane Dillon
    Mar 27 2024

    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.

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    38 mins
  • Discover The Secrets of Hoi An With Pieter Van Der Hoeven
    Mar 12 2024

    "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.
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    32 mins
  • Discover the two worlds of Ho Chi Minh City with Adrien Jean's Saigon Photo Tours
    Mar 8 2024

    "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.

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    28 mins
  • Discover The Secrets of Ha Long Bay With Quan Le
    Nov 16 2023

    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

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    30 mins
  • Discover The Wonder & Beauty of Phong Nha With Ben Mitchell
    Oct 5 2023

    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


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    42 mins
  • Discover Thao Dien As A Tourist With Vince Nguyen
    Aug 17 2023

    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
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    31 mins