Lately, I’ve had a few people ask my recommendations on Vietnam and Cambodia. This time 2 years ago I was exploring its beautiful scenery and having the time of my life. So I decided to make it my next few blog posts, since there is way too much to say in one about these amazing countries!
I always keep a travel journal (notes on my iPhone on more recent travels), which I then design into a photobook on my return, so below you can read my experiences at the time, rather than a couple year old reflection. And enjoy my favourite snaps from the trip!
I accompanied my friend Coreena, her boyfriend Daniel and his best friend Nathan on what we affectionately named “The Magical Mystery Tour”. We each had a location to plan what everyone would do, eat and stay and the rest of the group wouldn’t find out until the day of. I will admit I was quite unsure about this at first (being such a planner), but it was honestly the best!
Language
I believe one should always show respect and at least learn some of the country’s most common phrases when traveling. Here are a few I recommend learning:
Hello: Seen-Chow
Excuse Me, Sorry: Seen-Loy
Thank You: Gam-Un
Bye: Tham-Beet
Visa’s
For many nationality’s, Visa’s can be purchased at the airport cheaply (about half the price I paid in Brisbane, Australia) but be prepared for a long wait! Also make sure you have a couple passport photos with you.
Saigon/Ho Chi Minh City
Commonly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the former capital city of Vietnam as well as the largest in the country. All up we spent about 3 days here which was enough to see the sights and enjoy local life thanks to Coreena’s planning! Just be careful crossing the roads! I would be lying if I said I didn’t stand beside others to cross the street as they did, for safety.
You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to the array of traditional Vietnamese food and drinks available. Make sure you try a Pho, fresh summer rolls/rice paper rolls, Banh Xeo (crepes) and their sweet iced coffee and cheap beers! If you have time, check out their cute and quirky bars. We grabbed a few cocktails at Vespa Sofar which has happy hour from 5 – 9pm and has an entire VW Van inside as the bar!
Only a short trip from the city, we went on a half day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels. During the Vietnam War, these huge underground network of tunnels were used as a base, hiding spot, supply routes and hospitals for the Viet Cong. If you aren’t claustrophobic, you can even experience crawling through these yourself. While there we visited the shooting range. There was a variety of weapons to choose from, but we went with an M16. Lookout, turns out my aim is DEADLY.
A couple other must see’s are the War Remnants Museum, the Ben Thanh Markets and make sure to grab a massage after your flight. It will make you feel like new!







Feel free to contact me if you would like any further information or some travel photobook tips!
Stay tuned for Vietnam Diaries ~ Part Two – Mekong Delta Tour…
~ This is Part One of my Vietnam Diaries Series.
Click here to read Part Two – Mekong Delta
or Part Three – Hanoi & Ha Long Bay ~
Ken says
hi. your picS made me think about what my life could’ve been like if the ballot wheel had sent me to the Vietnam war…. you show it from a different perspective – fun and food
Samantha says
Thank you! I’m so glad you enjoyed my post 🙂
DannyWordPress says
Great! Welcome to VietNam.
My Country 🙂
Samantha says
Thank you! I really had the most wonderful time!
Jack Allenson says
As an avid reader, i have read a lot about so many countries. i have heard a lot of unique and beautiful things about the largest and the most recognized city in Vietnam (Saigon, Ho Chi Minh) city. i seriously cant wait to visit that place. thanks for sharing your experience
Samantha says
It’s honestly a wonderful city to visit Jack! Make sure you do!
jack coen says
Yes, you are right. Vietnam coffee is 1 of a kind. I really enjoyed it. It is one of the reasons why i would visit that country again
Samantha says
Haha yes it was pretty good. Bt I’m still partial to many brews back here in Australia.
Tony Mcpherson says
All have got to say is “Gam-Um” for sharing your real experience in a simple way with us. This experience of yours is enough motivation for others to try out Vietnam and see for themselves. Thanks for been sincere with us. Nice blog
Samantha says
Hi Tony, Haha thanks so much! I definitely recommend visiting Vietnam!
Chris Oyakilome says
From my own personal experience, I suggest that you spend up to 7 days in Vietnam if you truly want to see more sights and enjoy the best local life. Nice experience Samantha
Samantha says
Hi Chris, actually in total I spent a little over a week in Vietnam. Just across a few cities. I do believe it would take almost a week to fully adapt in any location though. Thank you!
Roye Alexander says
Very true. 1 of the cheapest places to get visa is the airport. The long wait is such a turn off. Wish they could learn and improve
Samantha says
Hi Roye, I really struggle to wait and get it at the airport. I always want to be so organised. So I actually wish it wasn’t cheaper! haha!
Samantha says
Thanks so much Anna! Really appreciate it!