My 2018: An 80% Vietnam Check-In Report – A Foodie's Demo Journey

"The world is my university, nature and humanity my textbooks, direct experience my method of learning, and the elements—wind, rain, frost, scorching sun, morning stars, and moonlight—my rewards."
— Demo, travel blogger at demo_travel

Destination: Vietnam

Travel Dates: March 1–14, 2018
Duration: 14 days
Travel Style: Solo
Budget: Mid-range (approx. $600–$800 USD)

About Demo

I'm Demo, a self-proclaimed "foodie traveler" with an insatiable appetite for unfamiliar lands, diverse cuisines, and hidden stories. To me, travel isn't just a vacation—it's a classroom. I thrive on the chaos of pre-trip planning, the thrill of discovery on the road, and the quiet satisfaction of documenting it all afterward.

I've already explored much of China—from the epic Sichuan-Tibet Highway (cycling diary: My Autobiography, My 318) to the Xinjiang-Tibet Highway (hitchhiking to Yecheng) and even a six-day sprint across northern and southern Xinjiang. Now, I'm turning my gaze abroad. My goal? To become a world-class traveler, one bowl of pho at a time.

The Pre-Trip Obsession

Every year, I suffer from a delightful case of pre-trip OCD. For 2018, I delayed my Spring Festival getaway until after the holiday madness. My target: Vietnam—a country I'd heard whispered about as a place where a few thousand bucks could buy you "emperor-level" treatment.

Honestly, my knowledge of Vietnam was close to zero. I vaguely remembered someone describing it as "China in the 1980s"—a poor, rural backwater. But as I dug into research, I discovered a nation with a 3,260-kilometer coastline, endless beaches, and a vibrant culture. And as it turns out, Vietnam is far more than just a beach destination.

How to Read This Guide

Vietnam is a long, skinny country—shaped like an S—and its geography creates a surprisingly diverse travel experience. To cover it all, you'd need at least two weeks. But each region has its own flavor—and its own pitfalls.

To help you navigate, I've divided this guide into five modes. Choose your path:

• 30-Second Speed Read → The Round World
• Planning Your Trip → Vietnam Check-In Rankings
• Food Lovers → Foodie Central
• Follow Demo's Journey → On-the-Road Mode
• Bonus Content → Special Feature Mode
• Need a Guide? → Strategy Mode

The Round World: Vietnam's Must-Do Experiences

Welcome to The Round World—a visual journey where, for once, I actually appear in my own photos (thanks to modern selfie technology).

Here's a quick taste of Vietnam's iconic experiences:

• Motorcycle Madness – Vietnam is the kingdom of motorbikes. Rent one and feel the freedom.
• Night Bus – With limited railways, overnight buses are the backbone of long-distance travel.
• "Kill Me First" (Xich Lo) – A bicycle rickshaw where you sit in front—perfect for a lazy, reclined tour of Hoi An's old town.
• Basket Boats – Float through water coconut forests in round, woven boats.
• Cable Cars – Vietnam boasts some of the world's longest and most scenic cable car lines.

What Else Can You Do?

• Slurp a bowl of authentic pho at a roadside stall
• Watch a stark sunrise at White Sand Dunes (Mui Ne)
• Catch layered sunrises at My Khe Beach (Da Nang)
• Drive the Hai Van Pass for epic coastal views
• Discover the Ling Co Bay railway by the sea
• Listen to waves crash at Hon Chong Promontory (Nha Trang)
• Find a lonely lighthouse on Son Tra Peninsula
• Dive into the underwater world at Hon Mun Island
• Spend a day at Vinpearl Land (Nha Trang)
• Wander through Crazy House (Da Lat) – a surreal, Gaudi-esque building
• Visit the Pink Church (Tan Dinh Church) in Ho Chi Minh City – perfect for your inner romantic
• Learn Vietnam's modern history at Reunification Palace
• Send a postcard from Saigon Central Post Office
• Explore Po Nagar Cham Towers (Nha Trang)
• Walk the ruins of My Son Sanctuary
• Visit Khai Dinh Tomb in Hue – a fading, melancholic masterpiece
• Pray at a temple or light incense at a giant Buddha statue
• Feast at Hoi An Night Market
• Party at a rooftop bar
• Bargain fiercely at Ben Thanh Market

Overwhelmed? Don't worry—I'll break it all down.

Vietnam Check-In Rankings: The Ultimate Comparison

Vietnam can be split into three travel zones:

• North: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa
• Central: Da Nang, Hue, Hoi An
• South: Ho Chi Minh City, Mui Ne, Da Lat, Nha Trang (plus islands like Phu Quoc)

My trip focused on the south and central regions, so this isn't a complete guide—but it covers the highlights: Ho Chi Minh City, Mui Ne, Da Lat, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue.

I've ranked each attraction across six categories:

1. Natural Beauty Index
2. Sacred Sites Index
3. Thrill & Fun Index
4. Nightlife Index
5. Historical Depth Index
6. All-Round Appeal Index

Each attraction is scored on seven factors (0–5 points each):
- Fun factor
- Physical effort required
- Visual appeal
- Photo-worthiness
- Comfort level
- Crowd density
- Accessibility

The final score is an average of these seven factors. I've also included radar charts for quick comparison.

Natural Beauty Index: Vietnam's Wild Side

For me, travel is about raw, unfiltered nature—sunrises, sunsets, hidden streams, and landscapes that leave you breathless. Here are the top picks:

#1 Mui Ne Fishing Village

Score: 4.0
Location: Mui Ne Peninsula
Cost: Free
Best time: Early morning or sunset
Duration: 30 min–1 hour

This is a working fishing village, not a polished tourist attraction. In the morning, hundreds of colorful boats fill the harbor, and fishermen unload their catch right on the shore. The view from the road is stunning—especially with the round basket boats bobbing in the water.

Pro tip: The beach itself is messy (dead fish, trash), so admire from above. But if you're lucky, you can buy fresh crabs for dirt cheap—100,000 VND (~$4) for 8–9 crabs. Just watch out for scams.

Sunset here is magical. If clouds cooperate, the sky turns into a watercolor painting.

#2 Da Lat Cable Car

Score: 3.9
Location: Near Da Lat bus station → Bamboo Forest Temple
Cost: 80,000 VND round trip (~$3.50)
Best time: Sunrise
Duration: 30 min–2 hours

This is one of the best-value attractions in Vietnam. The cable car offers panoramic views of Da Lat—a charming hill town with French colonial villas and pine forests. The sunrise viewpoint at the start station is a hidden gem: watch the sun rise over misty mountains while the town below slowly wakes up.

Pro tip: Go early (before 9 AM) to avoid crowds. The ride itself takes about 15 minutes, and the destination—Bamboo Forest Temple—is worth a short visit.

#3 Ling Co Bay

Score: 3.7
Location: 40 km north of Da Nang
Cost: Free
Duration: 1–2 hours

This is part of the famous Hai Van Pass route, often called "one of the 50 must-see places in a lifetime." The bay is a calm, shallow lagoon separated from the sea by a narrow strip of sand. You can walk on the sandbars, watch fishermen dig for sandworms, and see trains rumble along the coastal railway.

Pro tip: The beach isn't pristine, but the lagoon is perfect for reflection photos.

#4 My Khe Beach (Da Nang)

Score: 3.7
Location: Da Nang coastline
Cost: Free
Duration: 1–2 hours

Named one of the world's six most beautiful beaches by Forbes, My Khe is a public beach with soft, white sand. It's lively in the morning with locals exercising, and peaceful at sunset. The waves are strong, so swimming requires caution.

Pro tip: Come for sunrise—it's a classic ocean sunrise, not blocked by mountains.

#5 White Sand Dunes (Mui Ne)

Score: 3.6
Location: 30 km northeast of Mui Ne town
Cost: 10,000 VND (~$0.40) entrance; 100,000 VND for ATV rental
Best time: Sunrise (5:30–6:30 AM)
Duration: 1–2 hours

These dunes feel like a mini Sahara. The sand is pure white, and the contrast with the blue sky and a small freshwater lake is surreal. You can rent an ATV or a sandboard, but the real magic is at sunrise—when the light paints the dunes in shades of gold and pink.

Pro tip: Go with a tour or rent a jeep. The road is rough, and public transport is scarce. Also, watch out for local kids who may "help" you down a dune and then demand a tip.

#6 Hon Chong Promontory (Nha Trang)

Score: 3.5
Location: Northern Nha Trang
Cost: 22,000 VND (~$1)
Best time: Sunset
Duration: 30 min–1 hour

This is a rocky outcrop with large granite boulders, offering panoramic views of Nha Trang Bay. According to local legend, a giant fairy once rested here, leaving behind her handprints on the rocks. The waves crashing against the stones create a dramatic soundtrack.

Pro tip: It can get crowded with tour groups. Go late afternoon for the sunset light.

Sacred Sites Index: Temples, Pagodas, and Spiritual Spaces

Vietnam's spiritual landscape is a blend of Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and indigenous beliefs. Here are the most impressive sacred sites I visited:

#1 Po Nagar Cham Towers (Nha Trang)

Score: 3.8
Location: Northern Nha Trang, on a hill overlooking the river
Cost: 22,000 VND (~$1)
Duration: 1 hour

These towers were built between the 7th and 12th centuries by the Cham civilization, dedicated to the goddess Po Nagar (also known as Yan Po Nagar). The red-brick structures are remarkably well-preserved, and the site offers beautiful views of the river and city.

Pro tip: Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees). The towers are still active places of worship, so be respectful.

#2 Bamboo Forest Temple (Da Lat)

Score: 3.6
Location: Near the Da Lat cable car terminus
Cost: Free
Duration: 30 min–1 hour

Also known as Thien Vien Truc Lam, this is a serene Buddhist monastery set among pine forests. The temple grounds are immaculate, with manicured gardens, a large Buddha statue, and a lotus pond. The main hall is simple but elegant.

Pro tip: Combine with the cable car ride for a half-day outing. The temple is peaceful in the morning.

#3 Linh Phuoc Pagoda (Da Lat)

Score: 3.5
Location: 8 km from Da Lat city center
Cost: Free
Duration: 1 hour

This pagoda is famous for its intricate mosaic work—the entire structure is covered in broken glass and ceramic pieces. Highlights include a 49-meter-long dragon mosaic and a 36-meter-tall bell tower. The temple feels like a psychedelic dream.

Pro tip: It's a bit out of the way, but worth the trip for the unique architecture.

Thrill & Fun Index: Adrenaline and Amusement

Vietnam isn't just about serene temples and beaches—it also offers plenty of thrills.

#1 Vinpearl Land (Nha Trang)

Score: 4.2
Location: Hon Tre Island, accessible by cable car
Cost: 880,000 VND (~$38) for all-inclusive pass
Duration: Full day

This is a massive amusement park on an island, connected to the mainland by the world's longest over-sea cable car (3,320 meters). The park includes a water park, an aquarium, a 4D cinema, a roller coaster, and a giant Ferris wheel. It's essentially Vietnam's answer to Disneyland.

Pro tip: Go early to avoid long queues. The cable car ride alone is worth the price—especially at sunset.

#2 Hai Van Pass

Score: 4.0
Location: Between Da Nang and Hue
Cost: Free (if you drive yourself)
Duration: 2–3 hours (driving)

This 20-kilometer mountain pass offers some of the most spectacular coastal views in Vietnam. The road twists and turns along cliffs, with the ocean on one side and lush jungle on the other. It's a favorite among motorcyclists.

Pro tip: Rent a motorbike in Da Nang and drive it yourself. The road is well-paved but has sharp curves—take it slow. Stop at the top for photos.

#3 Snorkeling at Hon Mun Island (Nha Trang)

Score: 3.8
Location: 10 km off the coast of Nha Trang
Cost: 200,000–400,000 VND (~$9–$18) for a boat tour
Duration: Half day

Hon Mun is a marine protected area with vibrant coral reefs and diverse fish life. The water is crystal clear, and snorkeling here is like swimming in an aquarium. You might even see sea turtles.

Pro tip: Book a tour with a reputable operator. Avoid the cheap ones—they often overcrowd boats and skip the best spots.

Nightlife Index: After Dark in Vietnam

Vietnam's nightlife varies from laid-back beach bars to high-energy clubs.

#1 Rooftop Bars in Ho Chi Minh City

Score: 4.0
Location: Various (e.g., Bitexco Financial Tower, Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar)
Cost: Drinks from $5–$15
Duration: 2–3 hours

Ho Chi Minh City's skyline is stunning at night, and rooftop bars offer the best views. The Bitexco Financial Tower has a helipad-turned-bar on the 52nd floor, while the Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar at the historic Caravelle Hotel offers a more classic vibe.

Pro tip: Dress smart-casual. Some bars have a dress code. Go around sunset for the best light.

#2 Hoi An Night Market

Score: 3.9
Location: Nguyen Hoang Street, Hoi An
Cost: Free to enter; food and souvenirs from $1
Duration: 1–2 hours

This market comes alive after dark, with hundreds of lantern-lit stalls selling everything from silk scarves to grilled skewers. The atmosphere is magical—especially with the ancient town's yellow buildings glowing in the lantern light.

Pro tip: Try the local specialty, banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), from a street vendor. Also, buy a lantern as a souvenir—they're cheap and beautiful.

#3 Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City)

Score: 3.5
Location: District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Cost: Free to enter; bargaining expected
Duration: 1–2 hours

This is the city's most famous market, offering everything from fresh produce to counterfeit goods. It's chaotic, crowded, and loud—but that's part of the charm. The night market (after 7 PM) is more relaxed, with food stalls and live music.

Pro tip: Bargain hard—start at 50% of the asking price. Don't buy electronics here; they're often faulty.

Historical Depth Index: Layers of the Past

Vietnam's history is complex and often tragic. These sites offer a glimpse into its past.

#1 Reunification Palace (Ho Chi Minh City)

Score: 4.0
Location: District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Cost: 65,000 VND (~$3)
Duration: 1–2 hours

This is the site where the Vietnam War (or the "American War," as it's called here) officially ended on April 30, 1975, when a North Vietnamese tank crashed through its gates. The building has been preserved exactly as it was on that day, with period furniture, military maps, and even the original telephones.

Pro tip: Take the guided tour—it provides context you won't get from just wandering around.

#2 My Son Sanctuary

Score: 3.8
Location: 50 km from Hoi An
Cost: 150,000 VND (~$6.50)
Duration: 2–3 hours

This is a UNESCO World Heritage site, consisting of Hindu temple ruins built by the Cham civilization between the 4th and 14th centuries. The site is often compared to Angkor Wat, though on a much smaller scale. The ruins are set in a lush valley, and the atmosphere is hauntingly beautiful.

Pro tip: Go early (before 8 AM) to avoid crowds and the midday heat. Wear comfortable shoes—there's a lot of walking.

#3 Khai Dinh Tomb (Hue)

Score: 3.6
Location: 10 km from Hue city center
Cost: 150,000 VND (~$6.50)
Duration: 1–2 hours

This is the tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh (reigned 1916–1925), and it's unlike any other royal tomb in Vietnam. Built in a blend of Vietnamese and European styles, it's dark, ornate, and slightly eerie. The interior is covered in intricate mosaics made from broken porcelain and glass.

Pro tip: The tomb is on a hill, so be prepared for a steep climb. The view from the top is worth it.

All-Round Appeal Index: The Best Overall Experiences

These are the attractions that scored highest across all categories—the ones that offer the most bang for your buck (and time).

#1 Vinpearl Land (Nha Trang)

Score: 4.2
Why: Combines thrills, scenery, and entertainment in one place. The cable car ride alone is unforgettable.

#2 Mui Ne Fishing Village

Score: 4.0
Why: Raw, authentic, and free. A perfect spot for photographers and culture lovers.

#3 Hai Van Pass

Score: 4.0
Why: Epic views, a sense of adventure, and zero entrance fees. Just bring your own wheels.

Foodie Central: A Culinary Tour of Vietnam

Vietnam is a food lover's paradise. Here are the dishes you absolutely must try:

Pho (Beef Noodle Soup)

The national dish. A fragrant broth made from beef bones, star anise, and cinnamon, served with flat rice noodles, thinly sliced beef, and fresh herbs. Where to try: Any street stall in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Expect to pay 30,000–50,000 VND (~$1.50–$2.50).

Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwich)

A crispy baguette filled with grilled pork, pâté, pickled carrots, cucumber, cilantro, and chili. Where to try: Hoi An has some of the best—try Banh Mi Phuong (Anthony Bourdain's favorite). Cost: 15,000–30,000 VND (~$0.70–$1.50).

Goi Cuon (Fresh Spring Rolls)

Translucent rice paper rolls filled with shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, and herbs, served with a peanut dipping sauce. Where to try: Everywhere. Cost: 10,000–20,000 VND (~$0.50–$1) for two rolls.

Bun Cha (Grilled Pork with Noodles)

Grilled pork patties and slices served in a sweet-savory broth with rice noodles and fresh herbs. Where to try: Hanoi—specifically Bun Cha Huong Lien (the "Obama" restaurant). Cost: 40,000–60,000 VND (~$2–$3).

Cao Lau (Hoi An Noodles)

A Hoi An specialty: thick, chewy noodles topped with sliced pork, croutons, and fresh greens, served in a light broth. Where to try: Hoi An's old town. Cost: 30,000–50,000 VND (~$1.50–$2.50).

Che (Vietnamese Dessert Soup)

A sweet soup made with beans, tapioca, coconut milk, and fruit. Served hot or cold. Where to try: Street vendors in any city. Cost: 10,000–20,000 VND (~$0.50–$1).

On-the-Road Mode: Demo's 14-Day Itinerary

Here's exactly how I spent my two weeks in Vietnam:

Day 1–3: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

• Day 1: Arrive, check into hostel, explore Ben Thanh Market, dinner at a local pho stall.
• Day 2: Visit Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Evening rooftop bar.
• Day 3: Day trip to Cu Chi Tunnels (half-day tour). Return for street food crawl.

Day 4–5: Mui Ne

• Day 4: Bus from Saigon to Mui Ne (5 hours). Rent a motorbike, visit Fishing Village at sunset.
• Day 5: Sunrise at White Sand Dunes, then Red Sand Dunes. Afternoon at the beach.

Day 6–7: Da Lat

• Day 6: Bus from Mui Ne to Da Lat (4 hours). Explore Crazy House and Da Lat Market.
• Day 7: Cable car to Bamboo Forest Temple, visit Linh Phuoc Pagoda. Evening at a local coffee shop.

Day 8–9: Nha Trang

- Day 8: Bus from Da Lat to Nha Trang (4 hours). Relax at the beach. - Day 9: Full day at Vinpearl Land. Sunset at Hon Chong Promontory.

Day 10–11: Da Nang & Hoi An

• Day 10: Bus from Nha Trang to Da Nang (8 hours). Check into hostel, visit My Khe Beach.
• Day 11: Rent a motorbike, drive the Hai Van Pass. Afternoon in Hoi An's old town. Night market.

Day 12–13: Hue

• Day 12: Bus from Da Nang to Hue (3 hours). Visit Khai Dinh Tomb and the Imperial Citadel.
• Day 13: Explore the Perfume River by boat. Evening train back to Da Nang.

Day 14: Departure

• Fly out from Da Nang International Airport.

Special Feature Mode: Lessons from the Road

What I Learned

1. Vietnam is not "China in the 1980s." It's a vibrant, modernizing country with its own unique identity.
2. The food is incredible. I ate pho for breakfast, lunch, and dinner—and never got tired of it.
3. Motorbikes rule. Learn to cross the street like a local: step out slowly and don't make sudden movements. The traffic will flow around you.
4. Bargaining is an art. Start at half the asking price, smile, and be prepared to walk away.
5. Travel slow. Two weeks isn't enough for the whole country. Pick a region and explore it deeply.

What I'd Do Differently

• Skip the night bus. It's cheap but uncomfortable. Take trains or flights for longer distances.
• Learn some Vietnamese. A simple "xin chao" (hello) and "cam on" (thank you) go a long way.
• Pack light. Vietnam is hot and humid. You'll want to buy clothes there anyway.

Strategy Mode: Practical Tips

Getting Around

- Buses: Cheap and extensive. Book through travel agencies or online (e.g., Sinh Tourist). - Trains: More comfortable than buses, but slower. The Reunification Express runs from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. - Flights: Budget airlines like VietJet and Jetstar connect major cities. Book in advance for deals. - Motorbikes: Rent for $5–$10/day. Always wear a helmet.

Accommodation

• Hostels: $5–$10/night for a dorm bed. Social and clean.
• Budget hotels: $15–$25/night for a private room with AC.
• Homestays: $10–$20/night for a room with a local family—great for cultural immersion.

Money

• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). $1 ≈ 23,000 VND.
• ATMs: Widely available in cities. Withdraw large amounts to avoid fees.
• Cash is king. Many small vendors don't accept cards.

Safety

• Scams: Beware of taxi scams (use Grab or Mai Linh taxis), overpriced tours, and "friendly" locals who offer unsolicited help.
• Health: Drink bottled water. Avoid street food that looks unhygienic. Bring mosquito repellent.
• Weather: Vietnam has three climate zones. Check the forecast before you go.

Final Thoughts

Vietnam exceeded every expectation. It's a country of contrasts—chaotic cities and serene beaches, ancient temples and modern skyscrapers, humble street food and world-class cuisine. But what struck me most was the warmth of the people. Despite the language barrier, I felt welcomed everywhere I went.

If you're planning a trip to Vietnam, take my advice: skip the packaged tours, rent a motorbike, eat at street stalls, and talk to locals. You'll leave with more than just photos—you'll leave with stories.

"The world is my university." And Vietnam was one of my most enlightening classes yet.

Demo
Travel Blogger at demo_travel
March 2018