best travel shows about vietnam

10 Documentaries To Watch Before...

10 Documentaries to Watch Before Visiting Vietnam

Before heading to Vietnam it’s best to become familiar with the country’s dynamic history and culture. To help, we’ve compiled a list of great documentaries to check out before visiting this beautiful, fascinating country.

Luke nguyen’s vietnam.

Luke Nguyen is a Vietnamese-Australian chef who explores Vietnamese cuisine in this Food Network series . Each episode takes place in a different area in Vietnam, each with its own distinct local specialties. Check out one of the many episodes of this series to become well-versed with local foods and to catch a preview of some of Vietnam’s beautiful cities.

PBS: The Vietnam War

This extensive PBS documentary is long but extraordinarily informative, exploring testimonies from veterans and witnesses on both sides. The 10-part series chronicles the entirety of the war from the end of French colonization to the fall of Saigon and took over a decade to create. It requires a time commitment but you’ll come out of it with in-depth knowledge of Vietnam’s turbulent past.

Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations – Vietnam

Travel guru Anthony Bourdain filmed three episodes of his popular No Reservations series in Vietnam, exploring the country’s delicious cuisine while capturing compelling footage of modern day life from the never-ending urban traffic jams in Saigon, to the serene countryside in Da Lat . It is an excellent introduction to mouthwatering Vietnamese dishes and the country’s rich history from a traveler’s perspective.

Regret to Inform

This beautiful, poignant film examines the painful legacy of the Vietnam War on families who lost loved ones in battle. The film follows American widow Barbara Sonneborn who travels to Vietnam to see where her solider husband spent his days before being killed in combat. There, she encounters several Vietnamese women who candidly speak about the emotional loss of their husbands who either fought for the North or South.

This 1992 cross-cultural romance focuses on a French plantation owner in the 30s, her adopted Vietnamese daughter, and a French soldier during Vietnam’s struggle for independence from the French. It isn’t a documentary, but many viewers admit to wanting to travel Vietnam after watching the film because of the stunning scenery. Today you can visit the cafe in Hanoi where the film’s star Catherine Deneuve bought her coffee and croissants every morning while filming.

Daughter from Danang

Daughter from Danang tells the incredible story of Heidi Bub, a Vietnamese-American girl who was taken to America during “Operation Babylift” in 1975. The film chronicles her experience growing up with her adoptive single mother in Tennessee and her mission to find her biological mother in Vietnam decades later. It is a moving, difficult reflection on the cultural differences between the East and West.

Vietnamese orphaned babies being airlifted out of Vietnam as part of Operation Babylift

Hearts and Minds

This 1974 Vietnam War documentary is based on former U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson’s infamous remark that if America was to win the war, they’d have to win the “hearts and minds” of the Vietnamese people. This polarizing documentary is accused by some of being anti-war propaganda while others hail it as a political masterpiece. The director places interviews with American military figures against shocking scenes of war footage, prompting the accusations of bias. It’s an epic documentary that should be seen before visiting Vietnam to understand how internationally polarizing the war really was.

Three Seasons

This 1999 Vietnamese language film is about the rapid Westernization of Saigon and how urban Vietnamese culture is changing to adapt to capitalism. The main characters marvel at and struggle to accept the rapid rise of 5-star hotels, flashing lights, and international advertisements. This drama deserves a spot on this list because the film does a beautiful job showcasing modern Vietnam and allows the audience to catch a glimpse of how much Vietnamese cities have changed since the U.S. lifted the embargo in 1995.

This documentary follows a family living in the wake of a split-second decision that changes their lives. The Hoang family was one of the last to be airlifted to America out of Vietnam in 1975, accidentally leaving a daughter behind. One of the younger daughters persuades her family to reunite with loved ones in Vietnam for the first time in decades, revealing wounds of war that have never healed. It is a touching reflection on “how a war lives on inside people long after the fighting stops”.

Anthony Bourdain’s “Parts Unknown”: Hanoi

This famous episode featured former U.S. President Barack Obama when he met Bourdain for some bun cha , a local Vietnamese dish and a cheap beer in Vietnam’s capital city . The small restaurant they dined at immortalized their presence by encasing it in a glass case with their used dishes and beer bottles. This classic episode spends more time in Hanoi exploring the city, local traditions, and, of course, the delicious food.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Places to Stay

The best luxury resorts in vietnam.

The Best Hostels to Book in Vietnam

Guides & Tips

Culture trip’s best value deals for 2023.

The Best Hotels to Book in Vietnam for Every Traveller

Top Tips for Travelling in Vietnam

The best destinations to visit in september.

The Best Luxury Hotels in Vietnam

See & Do

Where to find the most spectacular rice fields in vietnam.

Local Insider – Showcasing the Beauty of Vietnam

The Best Beach Hotels to Book in Vietnam

Hip Apartments in Vietnam You’ll Want to Call Home

The Best Places to Visit in Early 2023

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

Post ID: 1000077795
Sponsored? No
View Payload

Must-see Vietnam Cultural Show on your upcoming trip

In the tapestry of Vietnam ‘s rich cultural heritage, a myriad of captivating performances awaits those ready to delve into the nation’s soul. This blog post is your passport to a world where traditional dance, enchanting folk music, and vibrant traditions converge.

Vietnam’s diverse landscapes find their echo in these performances, each narrating a unique chapter of the nation’s narrative. Join us on a journey through rhythmic grace and melodious tales, as we explore the immersive wonders of Vietnam cultural show . Get ready to be entranced by the heartbeat of this Southeast Asian gem, where every show is a portal to the essence of Vietnam’s enduring traditions and artistic expressions.

Best Vietnam cultural shows to add to your itinerary

If you’re fortunate enough to be in Vietnam, you’re in for a treat as the country is brimming with exceptional Vietnam cultural shows , spotlighting the pinnacle of Vietnamese music and dance. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or new to this enchanting land, delving into the unique cultural and artistic offerings of various regions is a rewarding experience.

Stay with us as we unveil some of Vietnam’s finest performances, promising to captivate you with the profound richness and diversity embedded in the country’s vibrant culture. Get ready to be enthralled and gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural tapestry of Vietnam.

Roi Nuoc – Water puppetry

Roi Nuoc, the captivating water puppetry of Vietnam, is a venerable art form that traces its origins back to the 11th century in northern Vietnam. This unique theatrical experience unfolds in a water pool, featuring a “thuy dinh” or communal house on the water adorned with typical decorations found in northern Vietnamese villages, such as flags and betel trees. The skilled puppeteers, concealed within the “thuy dinh,” manipulate wooden puppets that gracefully float on the water, using bamboo poles to bring them to life. Accompanied by live traditional music and singing, the performance narrates tales ranging from the everyday lives of Vietnamese farmers to legends and folktales, often imbued with aspirations for a prosperous future.

To witness this cultural marvel, you can attend water puppetry shows in prominent Vietnamese cities like Hanoi, Hoi An, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City. The Thang Long Puppet Theater in Hanoi, Hoi An Theater, Hue Puppet Theater, and Ho Chi Minh Water Puppet Theater – Golden Dragon in Ho Chi Minh City are some of the venues where you can immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Roi Nuoc, embracing the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam.

Ca Tru Singing

Ca Tru singing stands as a unique and enchanting art form, weaving its spell over aficionados of traditional music in Vietnam. Despite its esoteric nature to many, it secured a UNESCO Intangible World Heritage Site status owing to its profound artistic and cultural significance. Ca Tru represents a fusion of poetry and music, demanding strict adherence to traditional Vietnamese poetic conventions and incorporating techniques like vibrato and controlled breathing for expression.

Typically performed by a trio comprising a vocalist, a Dan Nguyet player, and a bamboo tocsin player, the art form dates back to the 15th century but faced decline over time and through wars. Fortunately, dedicated Ca Tru enthusiasts have formed groups aimed at preserving and reviving this intriguing heritage. Those in Hanoi can savor the Ca Tru experience at the Hanoi Ancient House (87 Ma May Street) or the Kim Ngan Temple (42 Hang Bac Street), delving into the rich cultural tapestry of Vietnam.

Quintessence of Tonkin

“Quintessence of Tonkin” – Tinh Hoa Bac Bo is a mesmerizing stage production that provides an authentic immersion into the heart of Vietnamese culture. Located in the picturesque setting of Da Phuc commune, Sai Son, Quoc Oai, just beyond Hanoi near the enchanting Thay Pagoda, this exceptional show unfolds on a 4,300m2 water stage, brought to life by 250 local residents and skilled dancers. It embarks on a captivating odyssey, narrating the tale of nature’s wonders while intricately reconstructing the spiritual essence of the Vietnamese people.

With a contemporary and innovative interpretation of traditional folklore, the performance vividly recalls the ambiance of the Red River Delta, once a cultural epicenter of North Vietnam. The show skillfully weaves together elements of poetry, music, religion, and beliefs, providing a rich tapestry that resonates with the cultural heritage of the region. “Quintessence of Tonkin” promises not just a spectacle but a profound journey through time, offering spectators a deeper understanding and appreciation of Vietnam’s cultural legacy.

Thai Ethnic Dance Performance and Culture

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Mai Chau, Vietnam, with the mesmerizing Thai ethnic dance—a performance that stands as one of the most captivating in the region. Hailing from the Northwest, the Thai tribe’s distinctive “Xoe Thai” dance is a cultural gem, embodying various human activities in rituals, cultural celebrations, and daily life. This vibrant dance takes center stage at weddings, festivals, and community events, a heartfelt plea for the gods’ blessings for a joyous life.

In Mai Chau, visitors have the unique opportunity to witness this enchanting dance in select villages, all while savoring the traditional Can wine, a special libation served in jars with straws. To fully immerse yourself in Thai culture, participation in the dance becomes not just a choice but a cherished experience. The combination of rhythmic movements and the communal sharing of Can wine creates a harmonious ambiance, making it an absolute must for those seeking an authentic and vibrant encounter with Thai ethnic traditions in Mai Chau.

Khen Dance of the H’Mong Ethnic Group

Experience the enchanting Khen Dance, a vibrant tradition belonging to the H’Mong ethnic group, deeply embedded in Vietnam’s intangible cultural heritage. This unique dance form revolves around the Khen, a musical instrument that serves both as a prop and accompaniment. Among the H’Mong, boys master the art of playing and dancing with the Khen, while girls become adept at weaving, highlighting the dance’s integral role in H’Mong daily life.

The Khen dance is not merely a performance; it’s a cultural emblem, featured prominently in various occasions such as feasts, festivals, weddings, and even funerals. During funerals, it takes on a ritualistic aspect, acting as a plea to ancestors for the acceptance of the departed spirit. This dance, rich in cultural significance, transforms these events into lively celebrations, fostering a deep connection between the H’Mong community and their traditions. To witness the captivating Khen Dance, head to cultural hotspots like Sapa and Ha Giang, where the H’Mong community graciously shares their heritage, offering a delightful and immersive experience.

Hoi An Memories show

Immerse yourself in the enchanting history of Hoi An with the mesmerizing Hoi An Memories Show. Since its debut in 2018, this extraordinary stage production has captivated audiences by weaving the genuine memories of Hoi An into a spectacular performance. Set on a sprawling 25,000m2 island stage with 500 skilled dancers, the show is a visual feast, enhanced by specialized tools tailored for this grand spectacle.

Illuminated by lights, sound effects, and evocative music, the production narrates the tale of Hoi An’s 400-year-old citadel, vividly portraying the bustling life and trade of its 16th and 17th-century inhabitants. Witness hundreds of performers adorned in traditional Vietnamese ao dai, adding authenticity to this unforgettable show. Ensure you don’t miss the chance to be part of this immersive experience. Tickets for the Hoi An Memories Show can be conveniently booked online at [website link]. Make the most of your visit to Hoi An by adding this historical and cultural extravaganza to your itinerary.

Hue Royal Court Music Performance

Hue Royal Court Music Performance, or Nha Nhac Cung Dinh Hue, stands as a majestic tribute to Vietnam’s rich heritage, tracing its roots to the feudal era. This traditional musical genre, revered by Vietnamese feudal dynasties, has earned UNESCO’s recognition as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. Its profound history and cultural significance make it a unique experience for enthusiasts. The music, characterized by elegant lyrics and courtly rhythms, played a pivotal role in the solemnity of religious ceremonies. The musicians, adorned in ancient-style costumes, create a visual spectacle, and the orchestra boasts up to 42 of Vietnam’s most precious and distinctive musical instruments.

To witness this cultural gem, one can attend performances at the Forbidden Citadel of Hue’s Duyet Thi Duong Palace, held from 10:00 to 10:30 AM and 3:00 to 3:30 PM, with tickets priced at 200,000 VND. Alternatively, evening shows on the Perfume River, occurring from 7:00 to 8:00 PM and 8:00 to 9:00 PM, offer a magical experience at the cost of 100,000 VND per ticket. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Vietnam’s heritage through the Hue Royal Court Music Performance.

Cham Dance Performance

Cham Dance Performance serves as a mesmerizing glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Vietnam’s Cham ethnic group. Rooted in a history steeped in tradition, the Cham people have cultivated a unique artistic expression, exemplified by their distinctive Cham dance. This dance form holds a pivotal role in the cultural and religious practices of the Cham community, serving as a ceremonial tribute to deities, monarchs, and revered figures. Among the renowned Cham dances are the Apsara dance, the fan dance, and the dance featuring a water pot atop the head, each accompanied by the harmonious melodies of traditional instruments such as the Ginang drum, Baranung, and Ceng.

To witness this extraordinary performance, enthusiasts can venture to the My Son Holy Land during scheduled times at 09:15, 10:45, 14:00, or 15:30. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the Cham Dance Performance, where each movement and musical note weaves together to tell a profound tale of cultural heritage and spiritual significance.

Don Ca Tai Tu

Don Ca Tai Tu, the folk music of Southern Vietnam, stands as a remarkable cultural gem, earning its designation as a World Heritage Site in 2013. Rooted in a fusion of Hue’s court music and the traditional folk culture of the region, this musical tradition embodies a unique synthesis of heritage. Despite its global recognition, Don Ca Tai Tu often finds expression in informal settings, with friends gathering after a day’s work for soulful performances. The ensemble typically features five main instruments—Dan Tranh, Dan Ty Ba, Dan Kim, Dan Co, and Can Tam—accompanied by a seven-hole flute. The lead vocalist can be male or female.

What sets Don Ca Tai Tu apart is its unpretentious nature. Performances require no grand stage or elaborate costumes, occurring under the shade of trees, on boats, or in more formal venues like communal houses or pagodas, with artists adorned in traditional ao dai dresses. For those eager to embrace Don Ca Tai Tu, the Mekong Delta in Southern Vietnam serves as an ideal starting point. Here, amidst the warm hospitality of locals, you can immerse yourself in this exceptional musical tradition, a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Southern Vietnam.

Lune Production shows

Lune Production, a visionary entertainment company, unfolds the tapestry of Vietnamese culture through its mesmerizing artistic performances. Their shows, including My Village – Lang Toi, A O Show, and Teh Dar, are immersive journeys that use lights, music, circus acts, and dance to evoke a spectrum of emotions while celebrating regional life and culture.

My Village Show – A Tale of Timeless Traditions:

Immerse yourself in the heart of Vietnam’s rural landscape with My Village. Born from the creators of the A O Show, this performance weaves circus elements, dance, and live music to narrate the story of Vietnamese village life. My Village captures the essence of rural traditions, from daily routines to celebratory rituals, through evocative performances.

A O Show – A Contemporary Fusion of Art:

The A O Show is a cultural marvel that encapsulates Vietnam’s heritage, blending captivating performances, dance, bamboo circus, and live music into a tapestry of beauty. Named after “Lang Pho,” translating to “village and city,” the show contrasts the allure of the countryside with the nation’s evolving urbanization, offering a heartwarming portrayal of Vietnamese life.

Teh Dar – Embarking on a Mesmerizing Journey into Vietnamese Highland Culture:

Set against the backdrop of Hoi An, Teh Dar is a captivating cultural show, blending tribal music, vibrant dance, and stunning acrobatics. This artistic fusion aims to transport the audience to the heart of the Central Highlands, unraveling the cultural heritage and way of life of its diverse ethnic groups.

Final thoughts

Immerse yourself in the captivating tapestry of Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage with a must-see Vietnam cultural show on your upcoming trip. These performances, woven with tradition and history, unveil the soul of the nation, offering a unique and enchanting perspective. From the graceful movements of traditional dance to the vibrant storytelling of indigenous music, each show is a living testament to Vietnam’s identity.

To elevate your experience, consider Viland Travel’s customized tours , which seamlessly integrate these cultural gems into your itinerary. As you embark on this sensory journey, let the Vietnam cultural shows be a profound connection to the heart of this remarkable country. Uncover the past, embrace the present, and let the rhythm of Vietnam resonate in your memories.

Your voyage with Viland Travel ensures not just a trip but a cultural odyssey, where every performance becomes a cherished chapter in your Vietnamese adventure.

These could also be interesting for you

All to know about Mi Quang Noodles – Must-try dish from the Central

Hoi An Chicken Rice Full Guide – A Must-Try Vietnam Dish

News & Events (2)
Product spotlights (61)
Travel experience (108)
Useful tips (38)

10 Most Famous Vietnamese Food to Try on Your Trip to Vietnam

Best Place to stay in Ho Chi Minh city for short-term travelers

Top 5 Star Hotel Saigon that will Elevate Your Opulent Vacation

Last minute deals

Book Now and Save On Trips Departing Soon

Talk to our expert!

Breathtaking vacations through Indochina

Flexible - Authentic - Unique experiences

+84 987 666 025/ +84 988 108 453

[email protected]

Burma [Myanmar]
Multi Country
Beach Holiday
Classic Tours
Day Tours & Short Breaks
Culture Tours
Luxury Tours
Honeymoon Tours
Family Tours
Bai Tu Long Bay
Mekong Delta
Vietnam Shore Excursion
Off The Beaten Track Tours
Travel Blogs

Must-See Cultural Shows in Vietnam

23 Aug 2023 By Lily Pham

Vietnam, a land of diverse landscapes and vibrant traditions, beckons travelers with its captivating cultural shows that provide a window into the heart of the nation's heritage. From the rhythmic grace of traditional dance to the enchanting melodies of folk music, these performances offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Vietnam's cultural riches. Here's a journey through some of the must-see cultural shows that await you in this Southeast Asian gem.

1. The Quintessence of Tonkin: A Captivating Cultural Spectacle in Hanoi

For those seeking a truly immersive journey into the heart of Northern Vietnam's cultural treasures, "The Quintessence of Tonkin" stands as a remarkable testament to the nation's heritage. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Baara Land, this show weaves together a tapestry of real-life performances, water puppetry, stunning light displays, and evocative music, all set against the majestic Chua Thay mountains. With its fusion of artistry and storytelling, "The Quintessence of Tonkin" is a rustic and enchanting portrayal of Vietnamese culture that encapsulates poetry, Buddhism, nostalgia, music, painting, joy, and festival.

Show Details:

Show Time: 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Location: Baara Land, Da Phuc village, Sai Son commune, Quoc Oai district, Hanoi

2. My Village Show: A Tale of Timeless Traditions

Delve into the heart of Vietnam's rural landscape with the My Village Show. This performance art piece, born from the creators of the A O Show, combines circus elements, dance, and live music to narrate the story of Vietnamese village life. Through evocative performances, My Village captures the essence of rural traditions, from daily routines to celebratory rituals.

Location: Hanoi Opera House, Hanoi

Opening Time: Evening performances

Description: My Village Show, by the creators of the A O Show, combines circus elements, dance, and live music to depict Vietnamese village life. The Hanoi Opera House provides a prestigious setting for this performance.

3. A O Show: A Contemporary Fusion of Art

The "A O Show" is a cultural marvel that captures the essence of Vietnam's heritage, blending captivating performances, dance, bamboo circus, and live music into a tapestry of beauty. Named after "Lang Pho," which translates to "village and city," this show beautifully contrasts the allure of the countryside with the ever-evolving urbanization of the nation. With its heartwarming portrayal of Vietnamese life, the "A O Show" has become a cherished gem that resonates with audiences near and far.

Show Time: Begins at 06:00 PM

Saigon Opera House, 7 Cong Truong Lam Son, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Hoi An Lune Center, 1A Nguyen Nguyen Phuc Chu St., Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam, Da Nang

4. Teh Dar: Embarking on a Mesmerizing Journey into Vietnamese Highland Culture

"Teh Dar" is indeed a captivating cultural show that takes place in Hoi An, Vietnam. Created by the Lune Production, the same team behind the renowned "A O Show" in Ho Chi Minh City, "Teh Dar" is a cultural performance that celebrates the unique traditions and stories of the indigenous highland tribes of Vietnam.

Overview of Teh Dar:

"Teh Dar" is an artistic fusion of tribal music, vibrant dance, and stunning acrobatics. The show aims to transport the audience into the heart of the Central Highlands, where various ethnic groups reside. Through the performances, the show sheds light on the cultural heritage and way of life of these tribes.

Show Time : Begins at 06:00 PM

Location: Saigon Opera House, 7 Cong Truong Lam Son, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

5. Hoi An Memories Show: Unveiling the Colorful Tapestry of History

Step into the enchanting world of the past with the "Hoi An Memories Show," a grand-scale outdoor performance that beckons you to explore the vibrant history of Hoi An. Set against the backdrop of the Hoi An Impression Theme Park, this captivating show weaves together music, dance, and state-of-the-art technologies to create a visual spectacle that transports audiences through the city's rich and colorful history.

Show Time: 08:00 PM - 09:00 PM

Location: Hoi An Impression Theme Park - 200 Nguyen Tri Phuong, Cam Nam, Hoi An, Quang Nam Province

Vietnam's cultural shows are a testament to the nation's rich and diverse heritage. Each performance weaves a narrative that traverses time, offering a unique perspective on Vietnam's past, present, and future. Whether it's the ancient charm of water puppetry, the contemporary energy of modern shows, or the soul-stirring melodies of traditional music, these cultural performances are an essential part of any journey through Vietnam. As you watch these mesmerizing displays, you'll find yourself captivated by the rhythms, stories, and expressions that define this remarkable country.

Best places to celebrate for New Year in Ho Chi Minh

20 Dec 2023 By Lily Pham

Best Kids-Friendly Destinations in Vietnam

12 Oct 2023 By Lily Pham

2 Best Cultural Shows You Should Watch When Visiting Vietnam

June 25, 2023
Last updated on December 5, 2023
Vietnam Travel Blogs

Watching cultural and artistic shows is the best way to learn about the culture, history, and local people through unique, modern, and visually appealing art forms. Vietnam has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, deeply rooted in its ethnic identity, and it can be challenging to truly grasp it solely through books and newspapers. Therefore, SVietnam Travel would like to introduce you 2 best cultural shows that are regularly showcased in Hanoi and Hoi An , allowing you to immerse yourself in a part of Vietnam’s cultural history.

1. The Essence of the Northern Region Show

The Essence of the Northern Region is the first live performance show in Vietnam, premiered in 2017. With its grand stage, modern special effects, and a large cast of actors (around 250 performers), it created a sensation among both domestic and international audiences. The stage area of The Essence of the Northern Region spans over 4,000m2 and is located at the foot of Thay Pagoda, Quoc Oai, Hanoi, approximately 30 km from the city center.

2. The Memories of Hoi An Show

The Memories of Hoi An show premiered on March 18, 2018, on a stage spanning 25,000m2 situated in the middle of the Hoai River in Hoi An. With a duration of 60 minutes, it is a contemporary dance art performance that combines sound, lighting, special effects, and most importantly, professional actors. The entire show revolves around the history of Hoi An, a bustling trading port that served as a cultural crossroads and a connection between Vietnam and the legendary Silk Road at sea.

Each scene of the live performance involves a large number of actors, with 500 performers participating in The Memories of Hoi An show. The show is divided into 5 episodes, featuring over 15 mini-shows that depict various historical stages of Hoi An: from its humble beginnings as a small village, through ups and downs, to its prosperous days as the bustling trading port of Faifo, and up to the present day as one of the world’s most wonderful tourist destinations.

Read more: Expenses for your Vietnam trip

Throughout The Memories of Hoi An show, the audience will be taken on a journey filled with astonishment and surprise, from the scale of the stage and props to the meticulously choreographed dance movements. The performances are delivered by well-trained dancers with beautiful physicality.

On March 14, 2019, just one year after its debut, “The Memories of Hoi An” unexpectedly screened at Times Square in New York City, United States, immediately capturing the attention of international audiences. “The most beautiful” and “the most stunning” were the phrases uttered by viewers upon witnessing the breathtaking imagery. Reuters news agency recognized “The Memories of Hoi An” as the “most beautiful show in the world,” and in November 2022, the World Travel Awards honored the Hoi An Memories Artistic Island as the “world’s leading entertainment destination,” acknowledging its continuous efforts to bring Vietnamese culture, art, and history to international friends.

Video The Memories of Hoi An Show

Some information about The Memories of Hoi An show:

Performance Schedule : Every day of the week except for Tuesdays. Time : From 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM Venue : Hon Hen, Cam Nam, Hoi An Ticket Price : Approximately $22 per adult, free for children under 1.4 meters in height.

Explore the distinctive dishes of Central Vietnam

April 27, 2024

Cao Bang, Vietnam: Top 8 Places to Visit

Cao Bang, Vietnam: Top 9 Places to Visit

November 14, 2023

Phu Yen, Vietnam: Top 10 Places to Visit

November 1, 2023

Top Vietnamese Cultural Shows And Performances

1/ Traditional Vietnamese Water puppet

Legend has it that, from about 1000 years ago this performance was inspired by the common life of peasants in Northern Vietnam . The stage has a frugal appearance in the middle of a shallow pond formed from the waist-deep water level of cultivated paddies. The concept based on the heart of rural Vietnamese activities such as fishing, agriculture, and traditional tales and stories. When viewing one of these plays, you will not only be able to witness people’s lives but also appreciate the creative side of these farmers – puppeteers. Flawlessly moving, master-controlled puppets hiding behind the curtains, the arrangement of classical musical instruments, and incredible vocalists create what people call the classic Vietnam “symphony”.

There are many water puppet theater in Vietnam, however, the most popular theaters are Thang Long theater in Hanoi and Golden Dragon in Ho Chi Minh City

Thang Long Water Puppet Theater Address: 57B Dinh Tien Hoang street, Hang Bac Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi Time: Usually 4 daily shows in late afternoon and evening. Price: Around $6

Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater Address: 55B Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh. Time : Usually 2 daily shows in late afternoon and evening. Price: Around $6

2/ Quintessence Tonkin

Defined by stunning water stage, 3D visual effects, authentic costumes, live music, coordinated choreography, this show has been able to reconstruct and recapture the most compelling elements of Vietnamese village life, from folklore, music, poetry to water puppetry, Buddhism. Among more than 200 artists, of which more than half are local village residents. They have been undergoing instruction for over 2 years, now taking their spirit to the show stage from their own conventional entertainment. . Who else can tell Tonkin’s story better than the villagers themselves? It is really a performance that you should not miss when travel on your best tour to Vietnam.

Website: https://www.thequintessenceoftonkin.com/ Time: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 19:00-20:00 Place: Village of Da Phuc, commune of Sai Son, district of Quoc Oai, Hanoi Price: $35-$52, depending on the seat type

3/ Hoi An Memories

Hoi An Memories is a large-scale outdoor show at Hoi An Impression Theme Park, a popular theme park nearby of Hoi An Town. The stage features both watery and rocky landscapes extending over one kilometer and featuring 500 actors & artists. The state-of-the-art audio and lighting technologies are used to produce a creative and entertaining display. This show has recently set two new records in Vietnam: Vietnam’s largest outdoor venue, and the largest number of performers in Vietnam. The infamous Reuter also praised that the show is a global phenomenon to the futuristic tourism industry and is a performance not to be missed in your Vietnam Holiday Package.

Website: https://hoianimpression.vn/discover/ky-uc-hoi-an-chuong-trinh-bieu-dien-nghe-thuat-thuc-canh-43.html Time: 7:30 PM-8:45 PM (weekly except Tuesday) Place: Hoi An Impression Park, Con Hen (200 Nguyen Tri Phuong turn left), Cam Nam, Hoi An, Quang Nam Price : The ticket varies based on the seat type: From 600,000 VND (USD 26) (ECO) to 900,000 VND (USD 39) (VIP).

4/ A O Show by Lune Production

Being held at the iconic Saigon Opera House, A O Show by Lune Production features visual illusions and amazing performers, combined with contemporary music by a group of talented in-house artists. Missing only the colorful outfits, the crew is often regarded as the infamous Cirque du Soleil, who balances giant bamboo props. Not only that they will execute gravity-defying stunts, but they also make your hearts to sync with the tempo of the show. Afterward, local dancers and musicians are very friendly to meet and greet their guests.

Website: https://www.luneproduction.com/ao-show Time: The show performs based on schedule at 18:00 and 20:00 on their website Place: Ho Chi Minh City at the Saigon Opera House @ 07 Cong Truong Lam Son, Dist. 1, Ho Chi Minh;

Price: The adult price varies from US$ 28 to US$ 57 per person, and from US$ 18 to US$ 42.75 for children (7 – 12 years old), depending on the seats.

Vietnamese Tribal Culture features a vibrant display of circus arts, aerial acrobatics, and tribal music within an hour-long performance. Held in the iconic Ho Chi Minh Opera House, this show highlights the lives of tribal families from the southwest highlands of Vietnam using UNESCO-listed percussion instruments such as Vietnamese gongs and buffalo horns. A good choice for traveling families expects vibrant costumes, authentic Vietnamese stories, and a stunning bamboo cirque depicting various landscapes and creatures from tribal folklores.The idea behind ‘Teh Dar’ goes back to the early days of this country when Viet people were collective ethnic tribes living on different parts of this peninsula. Once tribal men and women came around the fire, hunted, danced, harvested…together, they formed the circles within which, cultural stories that inspired ‘Teh Dar’ began. 54 of those tribes remain today, mostly scattered over the highlands of Vietnam. In K’Ho, one tribal tongue from the South Western highland called Tây Nguyên, the world ‘Teh Dar’ means ‘going in circle’. It is what Teh Dar artists do: keeping the symbolic circles of tribal cultures going, giving them new life on stage, preserving beautiful aspects of their traditions from fading under the merciless wipe of modernization. As the people keep going, the circle remains, so will their culture.

Price: VND 630,000 for second-floor seats, VND 1,470,000 for first-floor seats, and VND 1,050,000 for ground floor seats.

Recent Articles

Tour Category

Latest tours.

10 Days Signature Vietnam Super Budget Tour

Indochina (Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos) at a Glance: 15 Days

Thailand Wonders in 9 Days – Private Tour

Get a question.

Do not hesitage to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.

+1 (800) 795-6081 [email protected]

Proceed Booking

Already a member, don't have an account create one., or continue as guest.

Vietnam after dark: Top 6 cultural shows

There is no doubt that cultural shows are to bring back the bygone eras. And from that we gain an artistic yet insightful look into the culture of one country. In this post, we would love to recommend the list of our 6 favorite cultural shows in Vietnam. They range from the traditional performances in the backdrop of communal house’s yard to the modern theatrical shows that are delicately choreographed. Well, there’s no mystery as they all are top-rated on TripAdvisor, we just like to add some of our personal thoughts.

My village – The poetry of ancient Vietnamese village life

“My village” is an exquisite merger of custom and novelty, where the beauty of Northern Vietnamese village’s life is poetically presented under new circle approach. This show had a very successful time of taking a world tour from 2009 to 2012, in Asia, Europe, America and Australia.The latest abroad show was at the Sydney Opera House in last June. However everyone would probably agree that there is no better place to see a traditional show than its home country, right? The music plays an important role in recreating the ancient atmosphere of Northern Vietnam’s rural life. 20 different kinds of folk instruments are being used to excellently intermingle with juggling, acrobatics and bamboo cirque. The moves of performers are aesthetic and at the same time carry a lot of emotions, from amusement to tension. From all of these, daily lifestyle of indigenous villagers are recreated vividly on the stage, from fishing, farming to gathering. At the end, the most popular feeling of the audience is that we all wish it would last like 6 hours rather than 60 minutes.

Time: 18:00 – 19:00 Place: Hanoi Vietnam Tuong Theater – 51A Duong Thanh Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi Price Range: From $30 – $69

Ionah Show – T he Cirque du Soleil of Vietnam

This show is surely the most suitable one for your kids due to its advanced stage effects and colorful costumes. The name of the show- Ionah which means “Hanoi” spelled backwards. And just like its name suggests, the show is where the old fairy tales are restaged by modern theater arts to create a pure yet passionate Hanoi. Regarded as the Cirque du Soleil of Vietnam, this 90-minute performance is filled with various types of art which splendidly blended together and presented on stage. It’s not an overstatement to say that Ionah has everything that a show needs and even beyond, from belly dance to hip hop, from the iconic images of Hanoi like Long Bien bridge, 36 old streets to the dreamy ones only visible in the wonder land of Ionah. Other elements are exclusive costumes for each character, 3D background, lights, the arts of circus and gymnastic. In short, everything. This is truly a journey of emotions which will take you from excitement, fright to deeply moved, and joy at the end. Watch the show and you can literally see how much the creators love Hanoi. The dynamic connection between performers and audience throughout the show definitely wins an extra point in the traveler’s hearts.

Place: Star Galaxy Theater – 87 Lang Ha street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi Time: 19:45 – 21:00 Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday Price Range: $32 (Silver); $41 Gold)

The Quintessence of Tonkin – Where farmers become artists

Be inspired from the farming culture and village life of the Tonkin- the agricultural region around Red River Delta, North Vietnam, the show aims to celebrate the heritage of Tonkin. An hour ride away from busy old quarter of Ha Noi, you’ll reach the location. The unique stage is set on water and leans on the Thay mountain which adds an extra sense of countryside. Complemented by stunning 3D visual effects, authentic costumes, live music, choreography, the audience will be taken from folklore, music, poetry to water puppetry and Buddhism. In short, this show is able to recapture the key elements of Vietnamese village life. Regarding to the cast, there’re over 200 performers. In which half of them are the professional artists, the other half are the farmers of Sai Son commune. In day time, they work in the field, at night time, they become artists on the stage. After all, who can deliver the story of Tonkin better than the villagers themselves? When it comes to a show like this, language is no longer a barrier. The only downside is the 60-minute show is too short for what it brings.

Time: 19:00 – 20:00 Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday Place: Da Phuc village, Sai Son commune, Quoc Oai district, Hanoi Price Range: $35 – $52

4. A O Show – Paradoxes in harmony of Vietnamese life

Bamboo is an essential feature of Vietnamese rural life and in this show, it plays the part of a storyteller. Other than bamboo presence, A O is a journey of joy with acrobatics, dance, theatre and music based around Vietnam’s transition from rural to urban life. It not only depicts the daily activities but also interprets the dreams of Vietnamese people which are fanciful yet ordinary. It’s easy to feel the enthusiasm and energy being transcended from the dynamic and talented cast. From the amusing body languages to comical half-village, half-city situations were excellently performed. The Vietnamese life is characterized meticulously from the peaceful country life to the vibrancy of urbanization. It was powerful, funny and really kept everyone’s attention from start to finish. You’ll be amazed of how contrasting things can be lovely in harmony.

Time: 18:00 – 19:00 Place: Saigon Opera House- 07 Cong Truong Lam Son, Dist. 1, Ho Chi Minh.

Price Range: $30 – $69

Teh Dar show – The haunting anthem of Vietnamese tribe life

Someone might refer Teh Dar as another version of A O Show which illustrates the lifestyle and culture of South West Vietnamese tribe life. But it’s much more than that. The name Teh Dar means “going in circle” represented the South West Vietnamese’s belief in the reincarnation and how the cycle of birth, suffering, death and rebirth effect in each member of the society. Of all 3 shows from Lune Production, Teh Dar exudes the most mystical ambience from the very beginning. The masks were being wore by the artists in the back of their heads, plus the sounds of enchanting music from tribal instruments like buffalo horn are quite haunting. All of these establish the sense of the mountains and jungles. Every minute of it will keep you wowed. During the performance, the audience will be taking from one surprise to many others. The 60 minutes of excitement and artistry is filled with stunning yet daring acrobatics, and hypnotizing melody from exotic tribal instruments. Be prepared for the whispers of “Wow”, “Amazing” and “Fantastic” were heard so frequently during the show. And just like the tribal people’s belief, as the artists keep inspiring, the circle of tribal life keeps going, the cultures shall remain.

Time: 18:00 – 19:00 Place: Lune Performing Center Hoi An- Dong Hiep Park, Nguyen Phuc Chu St., Hoi An

Hoi An Memories Show – The nostalgic chorus of Faifo

Regarding to the cast, Hoi An Memories Show features the biggest cast out of these 6 ones with 500 artists and they will be performing a magnificent show in a 3000-seat arena. The show offers a picture of Vietnamese culture via a historical lens. Hoi An used to be the multi-national trading port in Southeast Asia in the 1500s, known under the name of Faifo. This era immensely marked a crucial trace and mostly created the unique charm of Hoi An as it has always been for ages. During the show, you can feel the authentic atmosphere of a vibrant ancient port. The stage is glorious. It majestically portrays the grand mountains, the rivers surrounding the plains, from the dynamism of merchandising activity to the festive aura which becomes a trademark of Hoi An. In short, it has all that you expected about the ancient Vietnam and the trading port of Hoi An. The music adds another exquisite touch to the outstanding choreography.

Time: 19:30 – 20:45

Place: Hoi An Impression Theme Park- 200 Nguyen Tri Phuong, Cam Nam, Hoi An

Price Range: $26 – $39

At the end of the day, after strolling around other attraction sites, why not let an interesting show be a happy ending? Please be aware that the schedule is applicable only for August 2019 and can be changeable. It’s better to check with our experts beforehand.

Weather patterns throughout Vietnam

Phu Quoc – The Delicacies

Our newsletter.

Get free consultation on designing your travel itinerary in Vietnam

Don’t Miss Out! Expert trip Planning for Vietnam & Southeast Asia:

Get free itinerary designed just for you.

Looking to plan an unforgettable trip to Vietnam & Southeast Asia?

Our travel specialists have over 20 years of experience and thousands of satisfied customers. They’ll work with you to create a custom itinerary that fits your interests and ensures a memorable trip.

The Offered Consultation includes:

A personalized itinerary tailored to your interests and preferences (FREE)
A trip quotation that includes detailed inclusions (FREE)
Insider knowledge and expertise from our local travel specialists. (FREE)

To claim your free consultation, simply share us with your name and your email address. We’ll be in touch with you shortly to begin planning your dream vacation.

ALL FOR FREE! Don’t wait, take the first step toward your dream Trip now.

Our team of travel specialists will create a customized itinerary for you in just 24 hours, completely free of charge. Well collaborate with you every step of the way to ensure that every detail is tailored to your satisfaction. Feel confident that you’re in good hands, and let us take care of the planning.

Your Name *
Your Email *
Your Message

Rate this post

Modal title

Cultural shows worth seeing in vietnam.

Some travelers prefer to immerse themselves in the culture of the country they’re visiting. Theatre can be a great way to get a glimpse into the traditions and history of a nation, and this is especially true for Vietnam. Here are five shows to get you started on an immersive cultural experience in Vietnam.

The Quintessence of Tonkin

This show is in Hanoi and has been masterfully put together after ten years of planning. This outdoor spectacle featuring 250 actors showcases the poetry of Tat Nuoc Dau Dinh as well as folk tales and traditional rituals. After a jam-packed holiday exploring the country on one of your Vietnam tours , you can enjoy this show whilst lounging in the warm evening air. It is worth noting that this show is only available on Tuesdays. Thursdays and Sundays at 7 PM.

Lang Toi Show

The Lang Toi Show, or My Village Show, is a way to gain insight into the life of villagers in the North. Lasting an hour, you will be treated to a dazzling display of dance and acrobatics.

One particularly special thing about this performance is the music. The symphony made up of 20 different instruments, adds to the creative genius of the performance.

Ionah Show, which is Hanoi spelled backward, has been called the Cirque du Soleil of Vietnam. Get ready to experience a 90-minute feast for your eyes.

A perfect blend of circus arts, hip-hop, and belly dance, there is something for everyone to enjoy. There should also be a special appreciation for the costume designers who have created a colorful extravaganza.

Recommended by the director of Cirque du Soleil, A O Show in Ho Chi Minh is an incredible rendition of Vietnamese culture in the form of an artistic circus show. The name “A O” indicates the “Wow” factor the cast offered to the audience. Almost every prop within the show is made from or reminded of bamboo – the quintessential symbol of Vietnam’s agricultural lifestyle. In addition to the show’s location at Saigon Opera House , the show promises to bring forward an all-around cultural experience.

Water Puppet Show

The history of puppetry in Vietnam dates back over 4,000 years. The Water Puppetry show takes an extraordinary puppeteer to control the puppets and make them look like they are dancing along the water.

Folk tales influence the storyline within the show and use traditional instruments to convey the winding and beautiful storyline. You can easily find a show at the Water Puppet Theater near Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi or the Vietnam History Museum in Ho Chi Minh City.

Hoi An Memories

Part of the Hoi An Impression Theme Park, Hoi An Memories is a large-scale open-air show – the largest in Vietnam. This vast staging includes rocky landscapes and watery expanses and has a cast of over 500 actors. The producers have invested heavily in lighting and sound technologies, which shows in the quality of the production.

Based around the port town of Hoi An , this play effortlessly leads you through a journey exploring the town’s history, showcasing its transformation from a humble farming village to a bustling tourist hub.

Summary of the Cultural Shows in Vietnam

Admittedly, performance is not a well-known art form in Vietnam, though it has gained tremendous popularity recently. While some shows might require a little bit of pre-understanding of the country’s past, others are more of a visual fest on the background of a Vietnamese storyline.

More Vietnam Travel Guides

What to expect from vietnam luxury tours, the role of vietnamese writers in influencing public opinion, a guide to vietnamese beers, essential tours in saigon, from hanoi to bangkok: a vietnamese traveler’s guide to exploring thailand, how to get a vietnam visa on arrival – voa.

The 21 Best TV Series About the Vietnam War

With so many notable events throughout history, you can pretty much rest assured that there will always be plenty of content about any of them regardless of the medium – film, TV, books, or others.

In fact, we’ve already got a few that you can start with: comprehensive lists of TV shows about both the First World War and the Second World War !

Now, we’re back with another list of shows about a major historical event: the Vietnam War.

When this battle comes to mind, most understand it from the perspective of the Western involvement. However, at the core of the Vietnam War was an internal conflict to prevent the spread of communism from the North.

The world’s biggest political superpowers – China and the United States – were involved, and it even spilled into the neighboring countries of Cambodia and Laos.

There are many facets to any war, and hopefully this list of the best TV series – both scripted and documentary-style! – about the Vietnam War brings those aspects to the forefront.

Let’s get started!

The best scripted TV shows about the Vietnam War

Tour of duty, cbs (1987 – 1990).

Tour of Duty is an Emmy award-winning military drama that shows the American involvement in the Vietnam War as they supported the south of the country.

In fact, it is one of the first TV shows to show American soldiers in combat regularly.

The series follows an infantry platoon as they’re on a tour of duty.

Through its coverage of issues such as politics, terrorism, racism, civilian deaths, sexuality, and many other heavy topics, viewers are made to understand the effects that war will have not just on soldiers, but on civilians and those around them as well.

Vietnam, Network Ten (1987)

Vietnam is an Australian miniseries with just 5 episodes, each about the length of a feature film.

The episodes follow the Goddard family – Douglas and Evelyn, and their children Phil and Megan – as Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War continues to deepen from the 1960s through to the 70s.

Phil is drafted to serve in the war with his best friend Laurie and the two are quickly disillusioned by the tragedies they witness.

Meanwhile, the rest of the Goddard family are slowly torn apart by Douglas’ connection to those making decisions about Australia’s involvement.

Through the family, the series reflects the bigger picture of social upheaval happening in the country.

Vietnam War Story, HBO (1987 – 1988)

HBO brings a spectacular series to the list with Vietnam War Story , which employed a mix of fact and creative license in its storytelling.

It came about after the success of the movie Platoon and was an attempt to further tell stories covering all aspects of the American experience in South Vietnam throughout the decade they spent there.

Vietnam War Story is an anthology series, with each episode being standalone and telling a brand new story with different characters, like soldiers telling war stories at a rundown bar.

While the originating events were real, the stories themselves were fictionalized versions of real-life experiences.

A Rumor of War, CBS (1980)

Just 5 years after the end of the war, CBS released a two-episode miniseries based on Philip Caputo’s 1977 autobiography of the same name: A Rumor of War .

Considering how soon after the war it was released, it’s one of the earliest media works to feature American combat experiences in Southeast Asia.

Caputo was a US Marine lieutenant, and A Rumor of War chronicles the events surrounding his service during the early years of the Vietnam War, as well as how he slowly becomes disillusioned as the end doesn’t seem to come any closer.

China Beach, ABC (1988 – 1991)

As a bit of a break from the frontlines, China Beach takes its viewers to the inside of yet another, though not any less important, perspective of war: the medical workers.

The show’s title is a reference to My Khe beach in Danang, Vietnam, which earned the nickname China Beach from the American and Australian soldiers based there during the war.

The setting is the fictional 510th Evacuation and R&R facility, and it follows the daily lives and jobs of the nurses , doctors, soldiers, Red Cross volunteers, and civilians who work at the hospital and are faced with the aftermath of the brutalities of war as they try to tend to the injured.

Fortunate Son, CBC (2020 – present)

This Canadian series takes its name, Fortunate Son , from the Creedence Clearwater Revival song of the same name, and is loosely inspired by the experiences of the show’s co-executive producer Tom Cox’s mother, Mary Cox.

It takes place in 1968, a few years after the United States offered its help to the war efforts, and focuses on an American expat living in British Columbia, Canada, named Ruby Howard.

Ruby and her family are part of the anti-war activist movement and must therefore help Travis Hunter, a fellow American, cross the border into Canada in order to elude being drafted into the war.

Quarry, Cinemax (2016)

Cinemax’s Quarry was in the works all the way back in 2013 with a pilot order, but production didn’t wrap up and air until three years later!

Despite that, its run was short-lived and lasted just one season before its cancellation.

Quarry focuses less on the actual Vietnam War and more on the life of one individual whose life after it was changed forever.

Mac Conway is a Vietnam War Marine veteran who served two tours before returning to his home in Memphis, only to find that he’s been shunned by everyone, including his loved ones.

That leads him to get roped into a life of lies, corruption, and killing as he becomes a hitman for the mysterious Broker.

Sword of Honour, Network Seven (1986)

Sword of Honor is an Australian miniseries that aired for just one season in 1986.

Though there were only four episodes, each was about 100 minutes.

The series primarily follows Tony Lawrence, as well as his brother-in-law and best friend Frank Vittorio, as they join the battle right as it’s about to escalate.

They were both so young and though highly qualified, nothing could have prepared them from the horrors of war that they were yet to face.

After being ripped apart from their families and laying their lives on the line, they come back home and must learn to deal with the profound effects of the war in their own ways.

You Can’t See ‘Round Corners, Seven Network (1967)

When it comes to films and series, we’re more accustomed to seeing a TV show that is made based on, inspired by, or as a sequel to a movie.

It’s the other way around with You Can’t See ‘Round Corners , however, as the series was eventually adapted into a film two years after it aired.

The Australian series is based on the 1947 novel by Jon Cleary, with the timeline updated to be set during the Vietnam War, and follows the young Frankie McCoy, a small-time bookie who is about to be drafted to the war but defects after training.

This, on top of the trouble he gets into as a bookie, has both the military and the cops hot on his tail.

Frankie’s House, ITV (1992)

Journalism during the Vietnam War will always start an interesting conversation, as there are those who believe the media didn’t play a particularly positive role in the US’ involvement.

Frankie’s House sheds a light on the other side: of the dedicated journalists who will brave the dangers and aftermath to be on the frontlines to capture the truth that only a photo can.

This four-episode miniseries is the story of famed British photojournalist Tim Page, whose photographs of the Vietnam War have gone down in history, and his relationship with fellow photojournalist Sam Flynn while they were both out on the battlefield.

The Six O’Clock Follies, NBC (1980)

After all the gripping, historical war dramas on the list, NBC’s The Six O’Clock Follies is the first (and only) comedy series.

Though one could argue that it’s more of a workplace sitcom, The Six O’Clock Follies was set in Saigon in the midst of the war in 1967.

On top of that, it centered on the production and operations of The AFVN News and Sports, a radio program that ran every day at 6 o’clock for the Armed Forces Vietnam Network and was operated by two soldiers and a weather girl.

During their downtime, the radio crew heads to Midas Bar, the local pub owned by the program’s director as well.

The Sympathizer, HBO (2024)

Robert Downey Jr. is making his return to the small screen with HBO’s The Sympathizer , an ‘espionage thriller and cross-culture satire’ adapted from the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name by Viet Thanh Nguyen.

The series follows a half-French, half-Vietnamese communist spy during the final days of the Vietnam War and his exile to the United States.

The lead roles went to actors Hoa Xuande, Fred Nguyen Khan, Toan Le, and Ky Duyen. With Downey playing multiple supporting roles, each aimed “…to represent a different arm of the American establishment.”

The Sympathizer is set to air on HBO sometime in 2024.

The best Vietnam War docuseries

The vietnam war, pbs (2017).

We’re kicking off the unscripted portion of this list with The Vietnam War , a 10-part (18-hour) documentary series that really takes its viewers through every aspect of the war from beginning to end.

Each episode covers a certain time period of a few years from 1958 to beyond 1973, allowing the story to truly develop and unfold clearly.

The series uses interviews, testimonials, home videos, photographs, TV broadcasts from that time, archive footage, and even secret audio recordings of the Kennedy household to show a comprehensive history of how America contributed to the war efforts, told from the perspectives of those who both supported and opposed it.

Battlefield: Vietnam, PBS (1999)

Battlefield: Vietnam is part of a bigger anthology documentary series from PBS which explores all the notable battles fought mostly throughout the Second World War and Vietnam War.

Each season employs the use of personal accounts from veterans and survivors, additional tactical details, background information on technology, details on smaller surrounding battles, and archival footage to provide a narrative of war.

The third season was Battlefield: Vietnam , which covered all smaller battles that raged between 1954 and 1975.

The series goes through a brief history, the military tactics used, and even some of the critical mistakes made by the United States.

Vietnam: 50 Years Remembered, Amazon Prime Video (2015)

Contrary to what most would believe, the United States wasn’t involved in the Vietnam War right off the bat.

No, they joined the war efforts a decade later in 1965; in honor of the 50th anniversary of this date, a seven-episode documentary series was released.

Vietnam: 50 Years Remembered used the personal stories of those involved in the US efforts including officials and veterans to detail the events in the battle over the decade that the US was part of the frontlines.

Included as well were details on the battles, strategies, and politics that changed as the presidency switched throughout the war.

Vietnam: A Television History, PBS (1983)

Though technically classified a miniseries, Vietnam: A Television History paints a comprehensive picture thanks to its 13-episode span; despite it being aired back in the 80s, the impact of it was large enough that it was rebroadcast a little over a decade later in 1997.

In fact, Vietnam: A Television History was the network’s most successful documentary until that time.

The docuseries comes from journalist and foreign correspondent Stanley Karnow and like many others, showcases the war efforts from the American perspective.

This also includes a history of Vietnam in the years immediately leading up to the start of the war, to show what led to it in the first place.

Battleground Vietnam: War in the Jungle, AppleTV+ (2005)

Battleground Vietnam: War in the Jungle is yet another documentary miniseries, this time with just eight episodes, that attempts to provide an in-depth narrative of the history of the Vietnam War.

The series covers the period from 1954 to 1975 and shines ‘a spotlight on U.S. government deceptions, the horrors of jungle warfare, and the war’s human toll’, according to the official logline.

Throughout the episodes, viewers bear witness to how the war began and how America became involved, the battles fought and the heroes who fought them, and the price everyone involved had to pay.

Vietnam in HD, History Channel (2011)

Outside of the United States, this six-episode documentary series from the History Channel is known as Vietnam Lost Films ; locally it’s known as Vietnam in HD.

From the titles alone, you might be able to guess that the documentary is structured using found footage of the front lines, perhaps by officials or correspondents who witnessed it all.

Intertwined with this footage are retellings of the experiences of thirteen individuals who played different roles in the war: a combat reporter, decorated heroes, a nurse, founding member of the National League of Families, and more – all portrayed by an ensemble cast.

Unseen Images: The Vietnam War, France 3 (1997)

Despite all the resources and media that has been made about the Vietnam War, both fictional and not, we wouldn’t really be able to fully know the whole picture, not when there is always so much hidden behind closed doors.

The French-made documentary Unseen Images: The Vietnam War attempts to somewhat lift that secret veil through its three parts, and the raw honesty through which it does has been highly praised by the Vietnamese.

The docuseries uses archive footage from combat cameramen that was previously classified but now, the thousands of hours of footage provides an even more shocking view of the Vietnam War.

Wings Over Vietnam: The Missions, Discovery Channel (1998)

Discovery Channel’s three-part documentary series Wings Over Vietnam: The Missions is part of the network’s DC Wings series, which focuses on various parts of the US Air Force.

This one, in particular, homed in on the USAF’s role in the Vietnam War – the various aircraft vessels and used and for what purpose.

A stellar combination of rare flight footage while in air combat, first-hand accounts and testimonials from surviving veterans and pilots, and graphically rendered explanations of strategy make for a detailed view of the Vietnam War from the air. It’s truly something you’ve never seen before!

1968: The Year That Changed America, CNN (2018)

CNN’s four-part documentary titled 1968: The Year That Changed America comes from the Emmy Award-winning producers Gary Goetzman, Mark Herzog, and actor Tom Hanks.

The title alone should clue you in: it covers one of the most pivotal years in recent American history when the country experienced shifts in politics both domestic and international, as well as social changes that have deep impacts to this day.

The Vietnam War is at the center of the first episode, and subsequent episodes covered the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. alongside the tumultuous presidential election of that year.

The Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Vietnam, According to Experts

Here's when to visit Vietnam for sunny weather, lower prices, and excellent sightseeing.

Best Times to Visit for Smaller Crowds

Best times to visit for good weather, best times to visit for lower prices, best times to visit for hiking in sa pa, best times to visit for cruising ha long bay, worst times to visit.

Khoa Nguyen/Getty Images

Cinnamon and star anise perfume my memories of Vietnam, a country that lodged itself into my palate in fragrant, frenzied bursts. That alluring scent of pho was one of few constants as I traveled through vastly different landscapes, trekking through verdant rice terraces, dodging motorbikes en route to speakeasies, and standing face to face with an endangered monkey in my oceanfront outdoor shower — all within the span of two weeks.

Vietnam is more than 1,000 miles long, a spectacularly slim country that’s only 30 miles wide at its narrowest point. Every region boasts its own allure as well as its own climate, which means you’ll need to carefully consider the time of your visit based on your desired itinerary.

“As the climate varies so much from north to south, there will always be somewhere worth going in Vietnam, whatever time of year you travel,” says Melissa Matthews, regional director for Southeast Asia and North America at luxury travel company Red Savannah .

Here's a regional breakdown of the primary tourist seasons in Vietnam:

High Seasons: North: September to November, March and April; Central: April to August; South: October to April
Shoulder Seasons: North: December to February, May to August; Central: September to March; South: September to December
Low Season: North: May to October; Central: September to May; South: May to September

Before you start planning your trip, read on to learn about the best times to visit Vietnam for hiking the majestic, mountainous rice terraces of Sa Pa, cruising the limestone marvels of Ha Long Bay, and avoiding the rainy monsoon season.

Bang The Tran/Getty Images

The high season in Vietnam varies according to the region, so you’ll always be able to find a place that feels more secluded from the bustle of crowded beaches or cruise ships. Wet season attracts fewer crowds, says Matthews, which falls from May to October in the north, September to May in the central part of the country, and May to September in the south.

Visiting during this time has plenty of perks, as you’ll likely be able to save on accommodations and travel costs. Popular restaurants and tours will be less overrun with tourists, offering a rare opportunity to better immerse yourself in the local culture as you tuck into bun cha on a sidewalk stool. However, bursts of rain and cloudy weather can dampen any plans to hike in Sa Pa or cruise along Ha Long Bay — two quintessential experiences you won’t want to miss.

There are also an abundance of places that remain less crowded throughout the year, says Benjamin Kreuz, general manager of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay — the resort itself is one of them, nestled in a private cove of Nha Trang that became my personal definition of paradise. Many visitors tend to prioritize other attractions as they make their way south, so natural wonders in the north like Ban Gioc Waterfall and the network of caves in Quang Binh remain less busy.

Meet the Expert

Melissa Matthews is the regional director for Southeast Asia and North America at luxury travel company Red Savannah.
Benjamin Kreuz is the general manager of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in Vietnam.

No matter when you visit, you’ll always find good weather somewhere in Vietnam. “Vietnam is a beautiful country with tropical weather, making it suitable for visits throughout the year,” says Kreuz.

For those hoping to see Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and everything in between, it’s best to go in the dry season. “February and March are the best months to see the entire country from north to south in relatively dry weather,” says Matthews. She notes that Tet, or Vietnamese Lunar New Year, falls during this time and can last for up to 10 days. “During this time, most of the key sights in the cities are closed, as everyone goes back to their family villages to celebrate,” she says. She recommends heading to the beach during the festival and bookending your trip with time in the major cities.

For a dry and temperate trip to Sa Pa or Hanoi in the north, head there from September to November, or in March and April, she suggests. A sunny beach visit to Hoi An or Nha Trang in the central region is best from April to August, while the Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc Island in the south are warmest from October to April.

Vietnam is a relatively affordable destination all year long, with abundant and economical street food and comfortable hotels for all budgets. For your best chance at scoring low-cost flights and accommodations, consider traveling outside the peak tourist season. April, May, October, and November are excellent times, as you’ll still find warm weather throughout the country, but will have fewer tourists to contend with.

Wand_Prapan/Getty Images

A visit to the verdant, terraced rice fields of Sa Pa are a must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Overlooking the Muong Hoa Valley, the hills are surrounded by spectacular mountains and home to dozens of communities, including the Hmong and Red Dao peoples — many of whom open their homes for overnight stays and lead private or group trekking tours. You can reach this famed hiking destination by car from Hanoi in five hours, by a bus in six to eight hours, or on an overnight sleeper train.

Matthews notes that this region tends to get colder from December to February, so it’s best to plan a trip from September to November or in March and April. Harvest season is also an unforgettable time to visit: In late August through September, the vibrant green hillsides turn a voluptuous shade of gold as the rice ripens.

Nikada/Getty Images

Ha Long Bay, with its emerald waters and limestone towers, is one of the primary tourist destinations in Vietnam, and as such, has become increasingly overrun with cruise operators leading day tours. For a less crowded experience, consider booking an overnight cruise that will take you deeper into the bay — or to the equally beautiful, slightly less populated neighboring Lan Ha Bay. (I splurged for a two-night cruise with Orchid Cruises , one of the more luxurious tour operators).

March, April, October, and November are ideal months to visit, as they tend to bring warm and sunny weather without as much humidity. You’ll also avoid the peak season, so while it’s still bound to be busy, you can enjoy kayaking through the tranquil waters and hiking Cat Ba island in relative peace. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a great opportunity for a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure.

Nick Dolding/Getty Images

While Vietnam’s varied climate means there’s never really a bad time to visit, you may want to avoid traveling to the country during monsoon season.

“When the monsoon hits, it is hard and heavy and very humid,” says Matthews, who suggests sightseeing in cities during the wet season, where you can still visit museums and historic temples between rainstorms. “Avoid the mountainous region of Sa Pa and definitely don’t book a cruise in Ha Long Bay, as storms will occur and boats are grounded,” she warns.

If you do decide to travel during the rainy season, it’s best to remain flexible in your planning, says Kreuz. “Consider not booking everything in advance due to unpredictable weather,” he says, adding that staying open-minded may help you to take advantage of potential low-season discounts.

Tet, which marks the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is another tricky time to visit, as many landmarks and businesses close for a week or more to celebrate. It typically lands in late January or early February — this year, it falls on Feb. 10.

The 5 Best Vietnam Episodes Of The ‘Best Ever Food Review Show’ In 2021

Sonny Side calls Vietnam his home, and it's evident in the more than 130 vlogs he's filmed in the country.

Since Anthony Bourdain, perhaps no foreigner has brought as much global attention to Vietnamese cuisine and culture as Sonny Side, mastermind behind the viral Youtube series Best Ever Food Review Show (BEFRS). Born in Minnesota as William Sonbuchner, the cheery and intrepid midwesterner has trekked to remote mountain and jungle communities all over the world. But it’s Vietnam that Sonny chooses to call home.

In an interview with Vietcetera in July last year, Sonny said it is the mission of his BEFRS channel to hunt down and document the most unique cuisines, and through that, encourage empathy, understanding, and appreciation of different cultures . True to his words, Sonny never said “no” to any food challenge — whether it's chewing a banana leaf-wrapped squirrel, eating a grilled lizard seasoned with ant salt or helping cook a giant feast that includes stir-fried cow organs for a Black Hmong wedding celebration.

“What people eat is greatly affected by their religion, climate, geography, elevation, etc. The food that people eat often reveals something about them,” said Sonny, reiterating how inseparable food and culture are. And though he and his crew has already filmed more than 130 vlogs about Vietnam’s most unique and exciting dining scenes, the American YouTuber said he and his Vietnamese crew will never run out of food to eat and stories to document.

But then, COVID happened. The Best Ever Food Review Show team had just returned from Africa when Vietnam closed its borders in March 2020. At the time, the country had documented very few cases of coronavirus, and domestic travel wasn’t yet restricted. Sonny’s production team was still largely able to go around, visiting remote mountain towns and learning about the stories of different ethnic groups, and taking their cameras into small restaurants hidden in narrow alleyways . While the rest of the world was at a standstill, Sonny continued doing what he does best: telling stories through food.

“Life was pretty normal in Vietnam...that was awesome and super fortunate for me and my team. We shot over a hundred videos in this country, including factories, tribes, exotic foods, cheap vs expensive food, tons of different series, tons of different topics. For over a year, we were mostly able to travel within the country freely and shoot as we wish,” he says in a July 2021 vlog .

But as travel restrictions started locking down Vietnam, Sonny returned to the United States, where there’s more freedom to move around and where he was able to continue creating exceptionally mouthwatering and meaningful videos for his 7.5 million subscribers. The Best Ever Food Review Show continues, without fail, to upload at least one new vlog every week.

All things considered, it’s impressive that Sonny managed to put out 34 Vietnam-based vlogs this year alone. Here we list down our top 5 favorite vlogs by the Best Ever Food Review Show filmed in the country in 2021 to celebrate the resilient creative team that’s behind the 11-year-old YouTube channel and to showcase the endearing Vietnamese food and traditions that made Vietnam home to one of the world’s most popular food vlogs.

The Secret Foods of Vietnam’s Tay Tribe

From the gorgeous drone shots showing the marvelous mountains of Lao Cai Province in the northwestern region to the close-ups of the different ethnic tribes at the Bac Ha Market, this episode highlighting the Tay Tribe is most certainly one of the best episodes of the BEFRS.

Sonny is joined by YouTuber Andrew Fraser of tech channel Power Up as he explores and engages with Vietnam’s largest ethnic minority group, Tay. They meet with Tay couple Mrs. Luyen and Mr. Kien at the market (where Sonny gets an on-the-spot haircut) who take them to a death anniversary gathering up in Na Lo Village. Sonny and Andrew both have their own tasks: Sonny takes charge of roasting a small pig and helping prepare the main dishes, while Andrew joins a group of Tay women in making black sticky rice. After a whole day of cooking and elaborate preparations, the two YouTubers sit on mats along with more than two dozen Tay people, a heavenly feast of different traditional Tay dishes laid at the center.

It’s not just a gathering to honor the dead; it’s a celebration of the life of the Tay people who, for over the centuries, preserved their traditions, lifestyle and language. While savoring each dish, Sonny goes a little serious talking about the importance of safeguarding the Tay culture. “The key to holding on to traditions is to care and to work at it every day so it doesn’t fade away,” Sonny says.

Asia’s Bizarre Delivery Food

Saigon has some of the most interesting foods in Vietnam — stuff that westerners may find gross or icky — and they can all be delivered right to your doorstep. In this vlog, Sonny tries five of the most epically bizarre delivery food with seasonal BEFRS host Thuyen Vo , who dares to say what we’ve always wanted to tell Sonny about his appetite for the unusual and strange: “Don’t do that to yourself, Sonny!” Viewers of this channel now know there’s no stopping this American YouTuber from taking a bite of food that interests him.

The two foodies try deboned chicken feet in spicy sauce, a whole brown sugar boba pizza, deep fried fugu (this is the most poisonous edible fish, by the way), monkfish liver layered with pickled ginger, deep fried tarantulas, fried cicada fungi, and a boiled whole chicken wrapped in fried sticky rice.

Despite “why are we even doing this?” realizations in between bites, both Sonny and Thuyen are pretty proud to have survived a tough food tasting challenge. Until Sonny displays the “most agonizing symptoms” of food poisoning for the next day and a half. “Though I cannot be certain, I believe the source of my illness is the fried fugu,” Sonny says. “Sadly, I’ll never know for sure.”

Bizarre Flatfish Challenge | Japanese Chef vs Vietnamese Chef

Every culture interprets ingredients differently, and this episode perfectly exhibits the distinct ways a Japanese and a Vietnamese chef prepare and cook the exact same fish, the flatfish — wide-bodied, ray-finned fish that many people are willing to pay top dollar for.

Inside Sushi Hokkaido Sachi, Sonny closely watches a Japanese chef expertly killing (called ikejime), cleaning, scaling and cutting the flatfish, and turns it into flatfish sashimi that’s “clean, fresh and tasty”. The rest of the filleted flatfish are turned into hirame nigiri and hirame aburi nigiri.

To see a Vietnamese chef’s version of a flatfish dish, Sonny moves to a local restaurant in District 9, the Tron Vo Resto. With hundreds of locals coming into the restaurant every night, speed is a requirement: from pounding the fish to dowsing it with boiling water and making criss cross cuts to help it absorb a “secret” seasoning. The whole fish is then grilled for about 40 minutes over hot coals. While waiting, another whole flatfish is being steamed on the other side of the kitchen. The outcomes: two flavorful, straightforward fish dishes.

Considering all the pros and cons of the very different ways the two chefs prepared the flatfish — the Japanese way’s elegant but time-consuming, and the Vietnamese way’s simple and to the point — Sonny gives his vote to the Japanese chef’s interesting and melts-in-the-mouth sashimi.

The Unusual Lives of Vietnam’s Black Hmong People

After attending a Black Hmong’s wedding in the northwest mountain province of Yen Bai, Sonny’s quest in this episode is to “learn the hard way what it really means to live off the land” at a Black Hmong’s home. Teamed up with Andrew, the duo starts their day with a competition to pound the black steamed rice the fastest.

After a typical breakfast with pounded sticky rice, the pair go deep into the mountains to look for something they could bring back for dinner. Andrew takes the paddy field and runs down a couple of loaches, a relatively easy task except it requires digging a hole to drain a section of the rice field and patience to wait for the loaches to reveal themselves from the mud. On the other hand, Sonny is on a tougher mission — hunting down rodents in the mountainside.

A few hours in, they bring back their catch and voila, dinner’s served — two dishes made out of the jungle rat (soup and stir-fried), grilled loach and snake omelet. The people in this part of Vietnam believe that rat’s blood can help keep the eyesight in a perfect condition. As soon as the rats are killed, their fresh blood is then gradually dropped into a kid’s eye.

This episode contains graphic content that may be too much for sensitive viewers. However, if you’ve been a long-time fan of Sonny and his food escapades, this one’s for the books.

Vietnam $100 Street Food Challenge | Best Street Food in Danang

Vietnamese street foods are highly diverse, and the central city of Danang has a culinary identity of its own. Sonny takes his $100-challenge into the city that boasts a whole different level of traditional flavors you won’t find anywhere else.

For his first meal of the day, Sonny goes to a family-run street food joint. He gets himself sticky rice, topped with shredded chicken, herbs, braised pork, meatballs, chicken drumstick and quail eggs. That’s a lot for breakfast — and that’s not even it. Pork floss, shallots and chilis are then added to complete the serving all for just $2 or about VND 45,000.

Next stop is the Bac My An Market, where Sonny goes straight to what he’s in there for: button top snails. One can costs $1.3 or VND 30,000. While it’s cheap, Sonny admits “you have to be the most patient man in the world” to pluck out the meat from the tiny shells. He then gets blended avocado mixed with scoops of coconut ice cream and crispy dried coconut shavings for dessert, costing $0.7 or VND 15,000.

For pre-lunch meal, Sonny tries the fried fish roe, costing a little more than $3 or VND 79,000. And what better to have for lunch than a steaming bowl of noodles? Sonny gets himself banh canh ca nuc nhi — a bowl of goodness for only $1.4 or VND 30,000. Next on the menu is a jackfruit salad, costing $1.6 or VND 34,000, that has sort of become a must-taste when in Danang.

For his seventh meal of the day, Sonny shells out $1.4 or VND 30,000 for quite a strange rice cake dish in the middle of the Con Market. A fried sticky rice cracker and a sticky rice cake with shrimp clumped together, a few pieces of mung bean tapioca cakes, steamed ground beef and fried fish cake all in one plate. To complete this street food challenge is a plate of flavor-packed balut quail eggs for $1.8 or VND 40,000.

“The amount we spent today after eating eight different street foods is $13.60,” Sonny says on cam, not even faintly upset about losing the challenge. “This just goes to show that Danang [has] very affordable, very unique, awesome street food...no regrets there.”

Top 5 Must-see Cultural Shows in Vietnam

V ietnam is not only a country with beautiful beaches and delicious foods but also a place to discover a rich and diversified culture. The traditional art of Vietnam is plentiful as their spiritual life, actually, everything in daily life has been reflected in genres of art. Thus, you may learn more about the culture of Vietnam through exciting culture shows when you travel to Vietnam. Here are some suggestions for traditional culture shows travelers should not miss when traveling to Vietnam.

1.Traditional Vietnamese Water puppet in Hanoi

vietnam-Vietnam-Fine-Arts-and-Culture-tours

2. Tu Phu or Four Palaces Show show in Hanoi

Tu Phu show is the traditional art performance of Vietnamese custom that was practiced through decades. The show has been utilized from the folklore materials on the Viet beliefs of the Mother Goddesses worship over time. The practices relating to the Viet beliefs and the Vietnamese spiritual life through folk arts, let’s come and explore the ancient art in Hanoi shows. In 45 minutes of the Four Palaces Show, audiences can have an opportunity to witness the outstanding practiced traditional custom and culture of Vietnamese people’s lives. Going into trance is a unique ritual performance of Vietnam with thousand years of history, which offers a different experience you have never had before. During the session, a number of artistic elements such as music, singing, dancing and the use of colorful costumes are involved in through three parts of the show: “Chầu Đệ Nhị”, “Ông Hoàng Mười”, “Cô Bé Thượng Ngàn”. It would be amiss if discovering Vietnamese culture without its rich tradition of spiritual belief, and The Four Palaces Show brings the fullest taste of this religious performance. Time 1: 18h00 – Time 2: 19h30 Address:42 Trang Tien st, Hoan Kiem, Ha Noi Price: 5$ – 10$

3. Quintessence Tonkin in Outskirts of Hanoi

Audiences will experience six aspects of the cultural Quintessence of Tonkin: Poetry, Buddhism, Nostalgia, Music & Painting, Joy & Festivities. The show will bring you back to a pristine time, living in the old countryside of Vietnam, feeling the sacred atmosphere and the cultural crystallization of the land with thousands of years of literature.

It was defined by stunning water stage, 3D visual effects, authentic costumes, live music, coordinated choreography, this show has been able to reconstruct and recapture the most compelling elements of Vietnamese village life, from folklore, music, poetry to water puppetry, Buddhism. Among more than 200 artists, of which more than half are local village residents. They have been undergoing instruction for over 2 years, now taking their spirit to the show stage from their own conventional entertainment. The show is performed in Chua Thay (Thay pagoda), one of the oldest Buddhist pagodas in Vietnam, is located 25km west of central Hanoi. Chua Thay can be easily visited in conjunction with a trip to see The Quintessence of Tonkin, which helps frame the spectacle. Complimentary transportation is available from Hanoi for bookings made at least 2 days in advance. Time: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 19:00-20:00 Place: Village of Da Phuc, commune of Sai Son, district of Quoc Oai, Hanoi Price: $35-$ 55, depending on the seat type

4. Hoi An Memories Show

The Hoi An Memories show is an incredible spectacle, brings you back a 400-hundred-year journey of the town’s growth when Hoi An is a trading port during the 16th and 17th Centuries. The show is divided into different chapters. Chapter I of the “Hoi An Memories” show centers around the formation of this famous locality. Chapter II tells about the wedding of Huyen Tran princess and Champa King Jaya. Chapter III reminds the audience of the busy port city of Hoi An in the past, which was always packed with vessels, sailors, and merchants, who came, traded and left, despite many of them falling in love with locals.

Hoi An Memories is a large-scale outdoor show at Hoi An Impression Theme Park, a popular theme park nearby Hoi An Town. The stage spreading over 25,000 square metres features both watery and rocky landscapes extending over one kilometer and featuring 500 actors & artists. The state-of-the-art audio and lighting technologies are used to produce a creative and entertaining display. Time: 7:30 PM-8:45 PM (weekly except Tuesday)Place: Hoi An Impression Park, Con Hen (200 Nguyen Tri Phuong turn left), Cam Nam, Hoi An, Quang NamPrice: The ticket varies based on the seat type: From 600,000 VND (USD 26) (ECO) to 900,000 VND (USD 39) (VIP).https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fBLF-kFihPs

5. A O show in Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnamese AO Show in Hoi An

It is a combination of circus art, contemporary dance, traditional Vietnamese music, and scenic lighting. During 60 minutes dancers, actors and musicians illustrate the transition of Vietnam from rural life to urbanization, using only the power of movement and facial expression.

The show takes place 6 times a week at the Royal Opera House in Ho Chi Minh City. The site is normally closed for visitors and seeing the AO Show gives you an exclusive opportunity to go on a guided tour of the building before the performance.

Time: The show performs based on schedule at 18:00 and 20:00 Place: Ho Chi Minh City at the Saigon Opera House, 07 Cong Truong Lam Son, Dist. 1, Ho Chi Minh; Price: The adult price varies from US$ 28 to US$ 57 per person, and from US$ 18 to US$ 42.75 for children (7 – 12 years old), depending on the seats.

Huyen Nguyen

How do you think about travel trends in 2021 , more serious coronavirus outbreak among asean countries, you may also like, southeast asia travel news | update 4th november, top 5 must-visit floating markets in vietnam, discover vietnamese culture through the top 5 most favorite shows, southeast asia travel news | update 15th september, visit 6 traditional craft villages of ha giang, lux travel dmc’s double triumph at 2023 world travel awards, vietjet air launches hanoi-jakarta direct route., vietnam airlines unveils hcmc-perth route, southeast asia travel news | update 11th august, vietjet connects ho chi minh city to perth, boosts air link, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The 10 best places to visit in Vietnam in 2024

Feb 24, 2024 • 8 min read

Experience the best of Vietnam with these top places to visit © hadynyah / Getty Images

With its rolling emerald landscapes, perfect beaches and energetic cities, Vietnam is unsurprisingly a magnet for visitors in search of an incredible travel experience.

This country is teeming with attractions, so it pays to plan your trip around the places you absolutely can't miss. Where you want to go will influence whether you fly into cultured Hanoi in the north or energetic Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) in the south, or whether you bypass these two megacities for the laid-back beaches of tropical Phu Quoc.

Start your travel to-do list now with our ten favorite places to visit in Vietnam.

People splash around in the turquoise water of a beautiful island

1. Phu Quoc

Best for beach lovers

About as far south as you can get from Hanoi without splashing into the Gulf of Thailand, the island of Phu Quoc is where beach worshippers come to pray. Lapped by jewel-blue waters and edged by fine sandy beaches, this is a place to slip into low gear, reaching for a cocktail as the ember-colored sun dips into the bay.

But it's far from undiscovered – local tourists come in droves for theme park thrills at VinWonders and giddying views over the sea from the world's longest over-sea cable car. Phu Quoc is a popular stop for families, and if you fancy a change from the tourist scene, there are dense jungles to explore inland from the sand.

Planning tip: If you're bound for Phu Quoc, there's no need to go via Hanoi and HCMC; numerous Asian airlines offer flights from hubs such as Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Seoul, connecting with long-haul flights further afield.

Best for city slickers

Every trip has to start somewhere, and the ideal point of arrival for first-timers is Vietnam's historic capital. As well as easy infrastructure, inexpensive accommodation, world-class dining and more history than you'll ever have time to take in, Hanoi is the leaping-off point for the islands and outcrops around Halong Bay and the forest-draped trails of the mountainous northwest. Give yourself time to graze through Vietnam's catalog of street food treats and pause to soak up the atmosphere in cozy cafes in the Old Quarter as well as rush around the sights.

Planning tip: To enjoy Hanoi nightlife on a budget, swing by the streetside bia hoi (draft beer) stalls at busy Bia Hoi Junction on the drinking strip of P Ta Hein.

A woman in a kayak holds her oar above her head as she floats along in a peaceful bay

3. Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay

Best for iconic photos

The crowds mob Halong Bay , but for our money, the shimmering bays to the north and south have a slight edge over Vietnam's most famous collection of outcrops and islands. While trips to Halong Bay are highly commercialized, with motorized luxury junks blowing diesel fumes around the eroded karst islands, Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay are a bit more laid-back, and you won't have quite so many cruise ships in your photos. Try kayaking between the outcrops, explore the tropical trails on Cat Ba Island – gateway to Lan Ha Bay – or kick back on the sand on Bai Tu Long's idyllic Co To Island.

Planning tip: If you visit Cat Ba Island, take time to explore the trails around Cat Ba National Park – if you trek with your own guide, it's easy to leave the crowds behind.

4. Ho Chi Minh City

Best for a sense of the past

Cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is the southern counterweight to Hanoi in the north, taking its cultural cues from the Mekong Delta and neighboring Cambodia . It's fast-paced, frenetic and fun, particularly after dark, when the pavements transform into a mobile buffet of street food stalls and roadside bars.

A little of the frontier feel of the war years lives on in HCMC, and you can learn more about this violent period at sites such as the War Remnants Museum . The ghosts of French Indochina linger too – set aside some time to wander past the city's colonial-era landmarks, then settle into a coffee shop with a drip-brewed ca phi .

Planning tip: For a break from the city crush, swing out to nearby Tay Ninh, where the Cao Dai Holy See offers a fascinating introduction to the all-embracing Cao Dai religion.

A handful of yellow and red tents can be seen erected on a sand bar near the entrance to a cave

5. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Best for unique experiences

Vietnam's biggest natural attraction – literally – is Hang Son Doong Cave, the largest cavern in the world by volume and a true wonder. An entire New York City block could fit inside its vast main passage, but this monster cavern is only accessible on expensive guided treks.

The good news is that Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is pockmarked with caverns that you can clamber, crawl, boat or zipline through for a fraction of the cost. Trips to the Tu Lan, Phong Nha and Paradise caves are possible on a shoestring budget; more cash will buy access to Hang En, where trekkers set up tents on an underground beach, illuminated by shafts of natural light.

Best for history

A stay in harmonious Hoi An is a journey into Vietnam's lavish, layered past. This was once one of the most important ports in Asia, and traders from as far afield as Japan, Spain and North America filled the pockets of its merchants with gold. Locals used their money wisely, packing the Old Town with teetering shophouses, tea warehouses, fanciful covered bridges, elaborate Chinese guildhalls, and colorful Confucian and Buddhist pagodas. History is only the beginning – many travelers stay for days, learning to make white rose dumplings and summer rolls on chef-led cooking courses, and ordering made-to-measure suits and gowns from the city's modestly priced tailors' shops.

Planning tip: For a change of pace, head inland from Hoi An and spend a night in a friendly community homestay in the Co Tu minority village of Bho Hoong.

An aerial view of the beach of Nha Trang. The beach runs right alongside the city, with a number of skyscrapers and modern buildings visible just behind the golden sands.

7. The Central Beaches

Best for sun-seekers

Sandy bays stud Vietnam's central coastline, but the mood varies widely from beach to beach. Package tourists flock to high-rise Danang and Nha Trang – famed as military R&R stops during the American War – but we rate the calmer beaches along the coast, where a little of Vietnam's old seaside charm still endures. To the south of Nha Trang, Mui Ne is a lively kitesurfing hub following a string of sandy coves, while Doc Let Beach to the north serves up 18km (11 miles) of sand, surf and seafood. For a quieter experience, hit the coast between Hue and Danang – Thuan An is the gateway to a string of serene and sandy beaches flanking a lagoon-backed barrier island.

Best for imperial history

The former capital of the Nguyen dynasty – which ruled over large parts of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia in the 19th and 20th centuries – drips with imperial history, despite the ravages of US bombers during the American War. Much was lost in Hue , but the grandeur of dynastic Vietnam lives on in the Citadel and Imperial Enclosure , housing the emperor's residence, temples, palaces and court. At one time, entering without permission would bring instant death. Just outside town are the tombs of Vietnam's greatest emperors, resting serenely in green compounds beside the Perfume River. Another relic of royal rule is Hue's imperial cuisine – arguably the finest in the country – try a spicy bowl of bun bo Hue (vermicelli noodle soup) or a crispy banh khoai pancake, and you'll see what we mean.

Planning tip: To stay one step ahead of the crowds at Hue's imperial tombs and rent a motorcycle or scooter to explore; don't miss the Thien Mu Pagoda on your way out of the city.

An empty boat floats along in Ba Be National Park. Beyond the boat the shimmering still waters of the lake is visible, which is backed by numerous mountains, most of which are covered in forest.

9. Ba Be National Park

Best for lake and forest scenery

Vietnam has more than 30 national parks , taking in everything from coastal swamps to mountain jungles, but some are firmly on the tourist trail, and the crowds can be an impediment to spotting wildlife. That's less of a problem in lovely Ba Be National Park , where trails weave between the limestone peaks to Hmong, Tay and Dzao villages, and boat and kayak trips cross serene lakes hemmed in by forested ridges, creating scenes worthy of a medieval woodcut. The park is a haven for everything from macaques and langur monkeys to rare black bears, scaly pangolins and the spectacular crested serpent eagle.

Planning tip: Comfy accommodation in village homes completes the sense of stepping off the mainstream tourist circuit. For an intimate homestay experience, check out the family-run guesthouses in Pac Ngoi village, accessible by bus from Hanoi, via the village of Cho Don.

10. Ha Giang

Best for mountain views

Trekking to the minority villages in the hills around Sapa is one of Vietnam's top draws, but the country's trekking capital feels rather commercialized these days. Hikers have to walk further every year to find the rural idyll that first drew people to the northwest.

For scenic countryside without the company, remote Ha Giang province is Vietnam's new frontier. Staying in simple village homestays, you can hike out to minority villages and rice terraces tucked between the soaring limestone peaks, and motor (or pedal) over some of Vietnam's most spectacular passes. You'll want to take plenty of photos on the winding mountain road between Ha Giang town, Dong Van and Meo Vac.

Planning tip: If you're confident in the saddle, motorcycles can easily be rented in Ha Giang town – just ride slowly and be ready for rainy conditions!

This article was first published April 2021 and updated February 2024

Explore related stories

Rower using her feet to row a boat along the Ngo Dong River at the Tam Coc between giant karst mountains.

Mar 14, 2024 • 10 min read

Whether it's bus, train, private car, motorcycle, bike, plane or boat, you can plan your trip around Vietnam with this guide to getting around.

Feb 22, 2024 • 5 min read

Feb 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Young adult woman in black swimsuit walking into sea between rocks cliff in Croatia

Jan 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Dec 27, 2023 • 8 min read

Dec 15, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 17, 2023 • 5 min read

Nov 16, 2023 • 7 min read

JAN 1, 2018: Sao beach on Phu Quoc island, Kien Giang, Vietnam.

Nov 7, 2023 • 5 min read

Young woman traveler with backpack traveling into beautiful pagoda in Wat Pra Kaew.

Oct 28, 2023 • 7 min read

TRAVEL to VIETNAM – Tips and Information Guide (2024 Edition)

Everything you need to know about travel to Vietnam in our comprehensive 2024 Vietnam travel guide.

We get it. You’re wondering what the absolute best destination to travel in Southeast Asia is.

You’ve spent hours researching.

Talked to friends.

Scoured the internet for blogs.

Watched YouTube videos.

And you’ve finally realised something.

Without a doubt, Vietnam is the place for you.

And trust us, as a couple that have travelled the world for over a decade, we think you’ve made the right decision.

There’s a reason Vietnam is our all-time favourite country…

From the tropical coral reefs of Nha Trang to the northern mountains of Sa Pa, travel to Vietnam is one of the most adventurous yet culturally empowering experiences you can have.

One moment you will find yourself haggling for banh mi deep within Saigon and later that day you could be watching a breathtaking sunset from the Mekong Delta.

Vietnam is more than a country. It’s an experience.

You’ll find yourself immersed among street food vendors cooking up exotic cuisines such as pho along streets with stores selling suits and ties.

Or you’ll be cruising the waters of Halong Bay while monkeys jump from island to island.

Or you might find yourself trekking to the highest peak in Vietnam, Fansipan soaring to over 3,100 metres!

Not into adventure activities? Homestays are the perfect way to spend your day as the monsoon rains fall across the endless snaking rivers of the Mekong.

Vietnamese hospitality is unrivalled and is something that you should experience once in your life, so what are you waiting for? Say good morning Vietnam! And go get lost!

So we’ve convinced you to travel to Vietnam? Awesome!

Now check out the basic information about the country in our Vietnam travel guide.

25 BEST Things to Do in Hue, Vietnam (2024 Edition)

The perfect vietnam itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 weeks, canyoning in dalat – what it is really like, travelling in vietnam: at a glance.

Here are the basics about travel to Vietnam.

OTHER MAIN CITIES:

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Da Nang, Hue

Vietnamese Dong (see current exchange rate ). 1USD approximately = 23,000 dong. 1 beer = 30,000 dong ($1.30USD)

ENTRY / VISA:

Travellers from most countries in the world are required to have visas. In most cases these can be obtained upon arrival for either 3 or 6 months. For information about your specific visa requirements click here.

Vietnam is fairly safe for travellers. Petty theft tends to be the biggest concern and always be on the lookout for taxi scams. Also of concern are minor auto/motorbike accidents. This is one place it’s great to have travel insurance when visiting.

ELECTRICITY:

220 Volt at 50Hz. Power plugs – Type A: 2 vertical pins, Type C: 2 round pins, Type F (also known as Schuko plug): 2 round pins (Be sure to get your universal travel adapter before you leave)

TRANSPORTATION:

Intercity travel is possible by plane, train and bus. Within cities, towns and villages you can expect to get around on bicycle rickshaws, motorbike taxes, taxis and bus.

Don’t Forget to Pack the Most Important Thing: Travel Insurance !

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN VIETNAM

With so much to see and do in Vietnam, it really is hard to pick the top experiences.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Vietnam you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Take the Overnight Train from Hanoi to Sapa

Said to be one of the most eye-opening train rides in the world, as you pass through lush forests, rice paddy fields on your way to the Vietnamese – Chinese border.

Book your train ticket here .

Hike Through the Rice Terraces of Sapa

Explore the area with the local hill tribes. Stay with them during your trek. And enjoy the beautiful terraced countryside for which Sapa is known.

Here’s our full post about trekking in Sapa .

Mekong River, Laos, Luang Parabang, Boat, Cruising

Cruise the Mekong Delta

Probably one of the ‘must do’s of Vietnam.’ The Mekong Delta is full of hidden gems including floating markets, friendly locals and late afternoon storms.

Book a multiday tour of the Mekong Delta

Go Caving in Phong Nha

Caves there can fit a 747 plane in it. They are massive and spectacular. This is an adventure you will never forget.

Book your Phong Nha cave tour

Motorbikes The Evolution Of Nomadasaurus

Ride a Motorcycle

Yes, that’s right! Hiring a motorcycle or scooter is a must. But maybe do it out on the country roads. Opt for the famous ride to the mountain village of Dalat, or pretty much anywhere throughout the country.

Read about how to ride through the famous Hai Van Pass

Other Things to do in Vietnam

Learn to cook Vietnamese food . Eating delicious Vietnamese food is one thing. Eating it after you’ve learned to prepare it is another!

Scuba dive in Nha Trang. You may not think of Vietnam as a big scuba location, but there is some great diving to be had in Nha Trang.

Go canyoning in Dalat. Rappel, slide, jump and climb your way through canyons in this gorgeous place!

Explore the Marble Mountains in Da Nang. These beautiful mountains have been mined for marble for years and have incredible views and temples to visit along the way.

Sandboard down the sand dunes in Mui Ne. It’s like snowboarding, but down massive sand dunes! Enjoy this rush!

Visit the Giants Causeway in Ghan Da Dia. Half the world away from the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, be amazed at this unique geologic structure .

Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels outside of Ho Chi Minh City. No trip to HCMC is complete without touring these historic tunnels that were used during the war.

Conquer the Hoi An Pass on a motorbike . This is known as one of the most beautiful sections of highway in the world. Enjoy!

Explore the world’s biggest cave . We have a special connection with Hang Son Doong as it is where we were engaged. Make your own special moment too!

Climb the highest mountain in Indochina in Sapa. Fansipan is over 3,000m above sea level and offers incredible views along the way to the top!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE OTHER AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN VIETNAM

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Vietnam. Depending on your interests, trip duration and time of year you will find plenty of things to do during any length of stay.

When slurping a bowl of pho in a local market or exploring an ancient temple, it’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine in Ho Chi Minh City.

A collection of over 3,000 limestone islands providing endless kayaking opportunities. Take the time to relax aboard a boat or venture to Cat Ba National Park for mystical waterfalls!

Book your tour of Halong Bay

The capital of Vietnam is also one of the most ancient capitals in the world. The history of Hanoi is rich, devastating and full of legends. This mystical city is also known for its cuisine, silk, buzzing nightlife as well as cultural diversity.

Plan your 3-day Hanoi itinerary

My Son Temple

Ancient temples dating back 1,000 years give a culture understanding into Vietnam’s past all while showing the scars of the war.

Book an early morning tour of My Son

For more information on specific things to do in the top places to visit in Vietnam, reference our following city travel guides:

Ho Chi Minh City:

* Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary * Day Trips from Ho Chi Minh City

* Hanoi Itinerary * Day Trips From Hanoi

Dalat Hoi An

Da Nang Hue Ninh Binh

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE OTHER AWESOME PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM.

BEST VIETNAM TRAVEL ITINERARY

We’ve put together a few Vietnam itineraries that are sure to leave you wanting for nothing at the end of your visit.

There are so many amazing things to do in Vietnam that planning an itinerary for your travel can be a little overwhelming.

Even though the country is one united nation, you can think of it geographically as being divided into a northern and southern region.

So depending on how much time you have, you may want to explore the northern region, southern region or the entire country.

Of course, no one-size-fits-all plan will suffice. But if we were to head back to Vietnam these are the top places and things that we would want to do!

1-Week Vietnam Travel Itinerary Highlights

Most people spend at least a month went hey travel to Vietnam. But if you had just one week, or were willing to split a few weeks between the northern and southern regions, this is how we’d spend our time!

Northern Vietnam

Fly into Hanoi
2 nights – Hanoi
2 nights – Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay
2 nights – Sapa
Alternative to Sapa – 2 night in Hue
Fly out of Hanoi

Central Vietnam

Fly into Hanoi or HCMC. Get a local flight down to Dong Hoi
3 nights – Phong Nha
2 nights – Hue
2-3 nights – Hoi An
Fly out of Da Nang to either Hanoi or HCMC to leave

South Vietnam

Fly into Ho Chi Minh City
2 nights – Ho Chi Minh City
2 nights – Mekong Delta
2 nights – Dalat
1 night – Mui Ne
Fly out of Ho Chi Minh City

READ MORE: Check out this post for more details on our Vietnam travel itinerary .

VIETNAM TRIP PLANNING

Best time to visit vietnam.

The best time to travel to Vietnam really depends on what you are looking for in terms of weather, scenery and budget.

Peak season occurs from mid-December through to February. But expect prices to double during this time. The low season is perfect for those on a budget.

Low Season – April to June, September to November
Shoulder Season – December to March
High Season – July & August

Northern Vietnam – The best months to travel Northern Vietnam are April to May or September to October. There are mostly sunny days and the rain has stopped.

The weather gets really cold from December to March and is not suited for hiking or sailing a junk boat in Halong Bay that time of year.

Central Vietnam – The best months for travel to Central Vietnam are January to June. There are heavy rains in October and November and the really hot months are from May to August.

Southern Vietnam – The best months to explore Southern Vietnam are January to April where conditions are beautiful.

You really can travel the south at any time of the year. Just note that from May to November there are afternoon downpours.

VIETNAM TRAVEL BUDGET GUIDELINE

Vietnam is a cheap country to travel if you want it to be, this all depends on what your budget is like. Our advice is always over-budget when making plans, and if you come home with money, it can go towards your next trip. All prices below are in USD per day.

Budgeting Tips

To make your money go further here are a few tips:

Eat street food as often as possible. You can usually fill up for $1-2USD.
Travel in groups when possible. Staying in hostels will lead to making friends. And with friends, you can split transportation costs and barter on other expenses.
Negotiate taxi fares before taking the ride. Vietnamese taxi drivers are notorious for flexible fares that tend to fall int heir favor. Don’t be afraid of a little negotiation.
Drink bia hoi . Sure it’s not the more delightful beer. But it is shipped in fresh each day, it’s cheap and it’s what the local drink.
Take in the sights for free. Do a little research and walk the streets on your own. You’ll also find there are a number of free tours and other opportunities if you ask around.
Sleep on overnight busses for longer trips. Combine the transportation and accommodation line items of your budget and save a few dollars.

But there are a few things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

Note: Budgets shown as Single Traveller / Couples per day.

Budget Traveller ($35 Single / $50 Couples)

If you are on a backpacker budget and planning on staying in dorm rooms, getting street food, drinking a few nights of the week, I would budget for about $35 a day.

A single hostel bed can be $5-$8 per person. A budget basic private room is $15-$20. A street food meal can be $1-$2. A bottle of beer is about $1- $1.50 and a bia hoi is $0.20 per cup. This is not the nicest beer. But it is passable and you get to make new friends when drinking it.

Walking or taking public transport will keep your budget down. There are many free things to do, you just need to think outside the box.

Mid-Range Traveller ($100 Single / $120 Couple)

If you have a little more cash in your budget your travels in Vietnam will become a lot more comfortable.

A nicer hotel is definitely affordable.

There are restaurants where you will pay more than the street food price. But the food is definitely of nicer quality (most of the time). The local beer can get a little too much sometimes so you will be able to enjoy an international beer or wine.

For the attractions you are most interested in, get a guide and learn more about the history of the country. You’ll be able to commit much more of your budget to do things rather than cutting corners just to stay alive.

Luxury Traveller ($90+ Single / $120+ Couple)

You don’t have to have that much more to enjoy a luxury trip to Vietnam. With a few more dollars in your budget, a nicer hotel is definitely affordable. Eat and drink anything you would like at virtually any restaurant.

You can hire transportation without having to haggle. And you can pretty much do any tour you would like to do when visiting any part of Vietnam.

Steaming Grain Best Compact Travel Camera

GETTING TO AND AROUND VIETNAM

Entry requirements.

Most travellers are required to have visas when travelling to Vietnam, which can typically be arranged upon arrival. You are typically allowed to stay for 3 – 6 months, depending on nationality.

For information about your specific visa requirements click here

Additionally, Vietnam has introduced an electronic visa (e-visa), which costs $25 USD and is granted for single entry visits for up to 30 days.

You no longer will have to apply through an agent to get an invitation letter or queue at the airport immigration for hours waiting to receive your visa upon arrival.

Apply in advance here .

Once you are approved, all you need to do is print the visa out and present it on entry to Vietnam. Don’t lose this e- visa print out as you will need this during your travels in Vietnam.

Hotels will ask for it on check-in at the accommodation and travel agents may ask for it if you are booking flights.

Also, print out your travel insurance as well. Immigration will ask for this also as they want to know you are covered if you fall ill or get injured during your stay.

Getting to Vietnam

There are a number of different ways to travel to Vietnam, depending on where you are coming from and how you like to get around with transport.

There are a lot of different airlines that fly to Vietnam from all over the world. There are two major international airports in Vietnam: Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City in the south and Noi Bai Airpot (HAN) in Hanoi in the north.

Direct flights to Vietnam from Australia, Europe and North America are still limited, but it is improving. You will most likely have to book a flight with a stopover in either Hong Kong, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul or Singapore.

There are many domestic airports scattered among the country. Vietnam Airlines is Vietnam’s national carrier. We have flown with them several times and they are amazing.

You can cross into Vietnam by train from China, all the way from Beijing to Ping Xian. This is the Dong Dang Crossing which is 160km from Hanoi.

After you have crossed the border hop on a train to Hanoi. Don’t buy the direct ticket from Beijing to Hanoi. It works out cheaper to buy your ticket from Beijing to Ping Xian then cross the border and purchase another ticket from Dong Dang to Hanoi.

If you do the train trip from Beijing through to Hanoi, it will take 36 hours so it is best to book a sleeper. Make sure you have your visa organised before getting to the border.

You can bring your own food and drinks for the train or purchase them from the cafeteria on board. There are squat toilets on board and areas to store your luggage.

You can get to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City through either the Cambodia, Laos or China borders. There is a route from Vientiane (Laos) to Hanoi, and one from Siem Reap or Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City.

Most travel agents in Vientiane, Siem Reap or Phnom Penh will sell the tickets or at your accommodation. You can also get a minivan from Guangzhou through to Hanoi.

Make sure you have your visa ready. The border crossings by land may not be set up as well as others.

If you want to book any of your bus trips online rather than trying to deal with travel agencies in the country, you can do so on the popular website Bookaway .

Getting Around Vietnam

Getting around Vietnam is surprisingly easy. Public transport goes everywhere, and there are plenty of moto-taxis that are happy to take you to the places that public transport won’t reach.

Travelling by Air

The fastest way to get around the country, of course, is by air. There are many domestic airports all over the country and you can fly in from major cities.

You can get cheap flights within the country through VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines. For the best deals head directly on the airline’s website.

Travelling by Taxi, Tuk Tuk Or Mototaxi

When you are in the cities and town catching a taxi, tuk-tuk or moto-taxi can be the best way to get around. For taxi companies, look for the biggest and most reputable companies as you can be ripped off.

For the tuk-tuks, ask your accommodation the average price to your destination so you can agree on a price with the driver.

We recommend Uber and Grab (car or motorbike) which you can use an app and get the price.

Travelling by Bus

It is possible and advisable to travel by bus throughout Vietnam. Busses inside of cities can be complicated and should be a last resort.

However, when travelling long distances in Vietnam busses are a great option. This is especially true if you take night busses and sleep during the ride.

Travelling by Motorbike

We think travelling by motorbike is the best way to see Vietnam if you have the time. Buy your own motorbike and ride the length of the country. Or you can choose one area and explore Northern Vietnam or South Vietnam.

Here’s our post to help guide you on how to buy a motorbike in Vietnam .

Travelling by Train

Taking the train is a great way to get around the country. They are great for overnight journeys as the trains have bed cabins.

In Vietnam, there are many places with roadwork that can last for years. So trains can be the best way to go.

This Image Has An Empty Alt Attribute; Its File Name Is Train-Tracks-Hanoi-1024X683.Jpg

APPS AND TECHNOLOGY

We know you’ll absolutely love travelling in Vietnam. But technology has made it easier, more affordable and safer to travel than ever.

Here are a few apps we think you should definitely acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

Grab – Use this app to catch a ride from any metro area in Vietnam.

XE Currency – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around.

Express VPN – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in [Country]. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel.

iTranslate – Even if you don’t know more than a handful of Vietnamese words, iTranslate will help you communicate as you travel in Vietnam.

WiFi Finder – With this app, you no longer have to guess whether the next place on your itinerary has WiFi or scramble across town looking for hot spots.

BEST THINGS TO EAT IN VIETNAM

When you travel to a foreign country one of the new and most exciting things you will experience is the food. There are so many amazing food choices in Vietnam, and Vietnamese food is delicious.

Here are a few of our favourites.

Goi Cuon: This is a rice paper packed with greens, coriander and various combinations of minced or shredded pork, shrimp or crab. It will be served with a sweet and sour sauce or a delicious homemade peanut sauce.

Sometimes to make the experience even better, you get to hand roll them yourself. This was our favourite dish.

Banh Mi: With this one, it will be different in every corner of Vietnam. This is a baguette sandwich that is filled with meat, greens, pata, pickled vegetables, soy sauce, cilantro and sometimes an omelet.

The meat filling will be roasted pork belly, grilled pork loin, barbecue pork, boiled chicken, or a fried egg.

Pho (pronounced ‘fur’): This flat rice noodle soup is either light beef or chicken broth flavoured with coriander and ginger with spring onions and bits of meat (chicken, pork or beef).

It is a dish you can have any time of the day and is delicious, but it can be hit and miss in some places. If you have an average one, please do try it again. We ate pho a lot for breakfast and never got sick of it.

Bun Cha: This is a Hanoi specialty and it is deliciously addictive. Bun Cha is served with grilled fatty pork over a plate of white rice noodles. It will be served with a sauce.

It will all be served separately and you combined everything together. You can ask for some little fried spring rolls on top too. It is so delicious!

Coa Lau: Hoi An is the best (and only authentic) place to try this one. as the noodles are made using water from a special well in town.

It is chewy rice flour noodles with Chinese barbecue pork, bean sprouts, croutons and fresh herbs in a delicious pork-based gravy.

PLACES TO STAY IN VIETNAM

There are accommodation options for all budgets in Vietnam. You can stay in a shared dorm for $5 USD per night, or a luxury hotel for over $300 USD.

The accommodation standards can vary in each destination.

For example, we got a really nice hotel in the middle of nowhere when we were on our bike for $12 a night. But we would not find a place like this in Hanoi, Hoi An, HCMC or Hue for less than $25.

NOTE – In Vietnam, the accommodation will keep your passport for the duration of your stay. This is to do with the government. Officials will randomly come around and check hotels and hostels.

If they do not have the ID or passport of every person staying there, the accommodation will be fined. The accommodation will keep your passport in a safe. If you are unsure just ask, “do you lock my passport up?”

Types of Accommodations

Vietnam is wildly popular among backpackers. Because the costs are generally incredibly low, budget travellers flock to the country.

This means that there are lots of great hostel options when looking for accommodations in Vietnam.

Whether you are busy spending all your time exploring and are just looking for a cheap place to crash for the night or want to make friends along the way, you will find most of what you are looking for in a variety of hostels throughout Vietnam.

Because costs are generally lower in Vietnam than in most parts of the world your quality of life can go up quite a bit when you travel to Vietnam.

One way you can upgrade your travel experience is by booking rooms in hotels instead of beds in hostels. For a few dollars more you’ll get vastly more space and privacy.

In some towns and villages, hotels are your only option.

But generally, these are very reasonably priced. You can expect to spend USD$20-30 for a decent hotel room in most cities, towns and villages across Vietnam.

Another good option in recent years is AirBnB, and there are more and more amazing places popping up to stay in Vietnam for very affordable prices every day.

As is typical in many destinations where Airbnb accommodations are available, you’ll likely find great value and a little more personal space with an Airbnb stay.

If you’re looking for an awesome place to stay, we personally love using Airbnb. If you’ve never used the platform before, sign up using this link to get USD$35 off your first booking .

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Vietnam

We travelled from the south to the north and stayed in many different places. Here are a few accommodation options we highly recommend.

VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS

The Vietnamese people are friendly, welcoming and hospitable towards travellers. It is a great destination to travel to in Southeast Asia.

The people are very respectful and would like the same back from you. Here are a few things that you should know before going to Vietnam.

GENERAL VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS

While we have many basic travel tips we suggest you use when travelling to Vietnam, there are also plenty of Vietnam-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be.

Here are a few we recommend you consider as you plan your trip to visit Vietnam:

Please show respect to their religious beliefs and their cultures . You are travelling to someone else’s country. They have different religious beliefs and cultures in your home. Please respect them.

Watch your belongings. Vietnam is a safe country but unfortunately, there still is petty theft. Whether you are at a restaurant or on a bus always watch your belongings.

Beware of the counterfeit tour agencies . Unfortunately, there are plenty of these around, especially in the main tourist areas. Book through the main owner or operator or any of these tours that we recommend .

Do not drink the tap water. The locals don’t even drink the water. There is bottled water available everywhere. Popular tourist restaurants will usually have on their menu that they wash their salad and veggies in sterilised water and make tea, coffee and soup from that too.

Carry toilet paper everywhere . There are toilets available in restaurants or in public but there may not be toilet paper. Most of the time you have to pay for the public toilet and they may give you some toilet paper, but don’t count on it. Always have your stash.

Toilet paper goes in the bin . DO NOT put the toilet paper in the toilet. Please put it into the bin provided. Vietnam’s sewerage systems are not built for much more than human waste so toilet paper and other items will just clog up your toilet.

Embrace the “bum gun “. Next to every toilet in Vietnam, there is a water hose. This is not to wash down the floor. This is to clean yourself up after you do your business. Don’t be disgusted by this. Embrace it.

Vietnam is bigger than you think . This country is huge and many people underestimate it. Vietnam is about 1,650 kilometres long from north to south. The distance on buses and trains is long so be prepared.

Take note of the Vietnamese money . It will be a new currency for you so do take a look at it before you go out spending. There are more zeros in it than you might be used to (1USD = 23,000 Dong)

Always take photos when you rent a scooter . Renting a scooter in Vietnam is something everyone does. It is a great way to get around and see all the attractions. But where you rent it from can get you into trouble. Whenever you rent a scooter take photos of the bike or else might end up with a crazy expensive bill.

Always wear a helmet. Always . Please wear a helmet. The roads are crazier here than they are in your country. The rules are different and road conditions are not the best. A quality helmet could save your life in an accident.

Make sure you have travel insurance . We tell people who are going travelling, “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.” You do not know what is going to happen while you are away and knowing you are covered will put your mind at ease.

Be confident when crossing the road . The roads in Vietnam are crazy. Crossing the road can be daunting but you need to be confident. Do not walk backward or hesitate. Walk slowly and watch the traffic coming towards you. They will all move around you.

Take your shoes off before entering a temple or a person’s home . It is a custom that stems back to ancient times and a big part comes back to cleanliness. The ground is used for chatting, dining and even sleeping.

Cover your shoulders and knees when entering a temple . This is common in most religious sites. There are always signs suggesting visitors dress ‘appropriately.’ Shoulders and knees should be covered. If it is a hot day and a t-shirt is too sticky, carry a scarf for when you visit to cover your shoulders.

Keep a low profile . Do not be loud, raise your voice in aggression or show off. Do not show dramatic affection publicly like kissing. Save it for the hotel room

Ask for permission before taking a photo of someone . This is polite and ensures you are not intruding on them. The people are not there for your entertainment. If they say no, smile and thank them anyway.

Do not take photos of anything to do with the government or military. This is a big NO in any country and can end up with you in jail.

Do not touch someone on the head . The head is the most important part of the body. Touching someone’s head who you don’t know is like saying you are more important than they are.

Place your chopsticks across the top of the bowl when finished . Don’t have your chopsticks hanging out of the bowl, and don’t point them at anyone when they are resting on the plate.

VIETNAM PACKING LIST

We always travel with a core packing list wherever we go. And when it comes to Vietnam, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you.

Check out our travel essentials and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below.

Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads .

TRAVEL INSURANCE. SIMPLE & FLEXIBLE.

Which countries or regions are you traveling to, what’s your country of residence, enter traveler’s age, staying safe in vietnam.

Vietnam is extremely safe, apart from the one major danger which is the roads. They are crazy, even more so if you try to ride 10’000km around the country on motorbikes as we did!

Aside from that, common sense will keep you safe.

Here are a few reminders of what common sense when travelling in Vietnam means:

As you saw above, Vietnam is extremely safe. We did not feel unsafe once in the 7 months we were there (excluding the roads).

This doesn’t mean you can completely let your guard down though, and petty theft does happen in this country, although it’s not common.

Some tips for protecting your things:

In other words, use common sense and you’ll be fine.

STAYING CONNECTED IN VIETNAM

Staying connected with friends and family (and work) when travelling in Vietnam is important. But if you don’t know how to connect you can find yourself greatly inconvenienced or spending too much money.

We feel like your money will go a lot further if you consider a few options.

Purchase a SIM Card

Picking up a SIM card has become the quickest and typically most affordable way to stay connected in Vietnam or any country for that matter.

If you have an unlocked phone you can use a 4G SIM card to connect to the cellular networks in Vietnam. From there you can cast a hot spot if you need to crank out some work on your computer or want to connect a tablet.

This 3G/4G SIM card is a great and affordable option for a SIM card if you are flying into Vietnam.

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

Alternatively to a SIM card, particularly if you don’t have an unlocked phone, you can rent a portable WiFi device during your travel to Vietnam.

This device will be delivered to you when you arrive in Vietnam and will provide 4G service for less than USD$5 per day.

You’ll be able to connect anywhere you can find service across the country, which will be most of the places you are likely to travel in Vietnam.

Access Free WiFI

Free is always best, if it is convenient. And there are plenty of places throughout Vietnam that will provide free WiFi in public spaces or at restaurants, cafes and hostels and hotels.

We recommend using the WiFi Finder app, which will help you locate WiFi anywhere you travel in Vietnam.

This Image Has An Empty Alt Attribute; Its File Name Is Vietnamese-Market-Lady-1024X683.Jpg

BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER IN VIETNAM

We absolutely love Vietnam. And we love the idea that it will remain a beautiful and friendly place for travellers for years to come.

Here are a few tips specific to travel to Vietnam that will promote sustainable tourism in the country:

Use your own energy to get around. Walk or cycle through town as much as possible. Taking a cyclo-taxi is a close alternative if you don’t have the energy to propel yourself through the city. But this reduces the impact of taxis, busses and other forms of automotive transportation.

Mind your plastic . Plastic is everywhere in Vietnam. But using your own reusable bag for groceries and other shopping, carrying a reusable water bottle and having your own straw are just 3 of the many simple ways you can reduce the amount of plastic you use.

Shop local . Visiting the markets will be one of your top experiences when travelling to Vietnam. Support local vendors as often as possible, including in taking tours when available.

Be mindful of wildlife . Wildlife in the wild is great. But be mindful not to provoke, feed or otherwise molest wildlife. And never purchase any item made of or involving rare or endangered species.

Attempt to communicate in Vietnamese . You’re probably not going to be fluent as soon as you arrive in the country. But knowing a few phrases and doing your best to communicate with locals will show respect and earn trust and make your experience richer.

KEY VIETNAMESE TRAVEL PHRASES

You don’t have to be fluent in Vietnamese to have a great time when you travel to Vietnam. But it does help to know a few key phrases.

This will not only assist you in your travels but it will also show respect to the local Vietnamese people that you are doing your best to assimilate into their culture.

BOOKS TO READ ABOUT VIETNAM

Maybe you already know everything about Vietnam. Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Vietnam.

The Quiet American (Graham Greene) – Originally published in 1956 and adapted for film twice, this story by Greene became an instant classic. Greene fictionalizes life in 1950s Vietnam as told by a British correspondent trying to understand the roots of the rising conflict set to occur.

At Home In The World (Thich Nhat Hanh) – World renown Vietnamese monk, Hanh reflects on lessons and stories in life from the Buddhist perspective.

Vietnam: Rising Dragon (Bill Hayton) – A piece of nonfiction that looks back on the Vietnam of old and attempts to projects its place in the future of Southeast Asia.

The Sympathizer (Viet Thanh Nguyen) – The Pulitzer Prize-winning book, allegedly influenced by The Quiet American , is told through the eyes of a double-agent during the Vietnam War who struggles to understand the minds and hearts of men engaged in war.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Read our vietnam posts, 20 amazing things to do in hoi an, vietnam (2024 guide), 14 incredible things to do in dalat, vietnam (2024 guide), the perfect 3 days in hanoi itinerary [2024 guide], 25 amazing things to do in hanoi, vietnam (2024 guide), the perfect 3 days in ho chi minh city itinerary [2024], the 8 best day trips from ho chi minh city (2024 guide), caves, zip lines and deep mud in phong nha, ganh da dia – vietnam’s own ‘giant’s causeway’, ba be national park – the lake, trekking and happy water, motorbiking the road from dalat to nha trang in vietnam, riding sea to sky: hue to hoi an by motorbike, getting a chinese visa in hanoi, vietnam.

Kirtey Verma | 27 March 2020

14 of the best travel tv shows to watch on demand.

Epic landscapes, interesting characters and cool cultures – we transport you to the best places in the world right from the comfort of your sofa, with these top travel shows on Netflix, iPlayer and others…

While you may be hitting pause on your adventures, you can still be transported somewhere wild – using your TV remote as your passport to exotic climes, instead.

Chances are you’ve seen everything travel legends David Attenborough and Simon Reeve have done, but if you’re looking for inspiration for your next trip, sweeping landscapes and interesting characters to meet, take a look at our round-up of th e best travel documentaries available to stream right now…

Best of all, you can start this journey on the couch.

Here are the best travel TV shows to watch on Netflix or on demand now...

1. the americas with simon reeve (2019).

What you’ll watch: It topped the list for best TV show at our 2020 Reader Travel Awards, but if you haven’t yet seen The Americas with Simon Reeve , put it straight on top of your must-watch list.

And when you’ve binged on his journeys hiking through the Rocky Mountains, hanging out with the US Border Patrol in Texas and discovering a tropical paradise in Costa Rica, you can turn to his other documentaries: the Caribbean, Australia, the Mediterranean, and Indian Ocean.

If there’s anywhere this man hasn’t been or seen, we challenge you to find it.

Where to watch it: The Americas with Simon Reeve is available to watch in full on BBC iPlayer . Plus see Simon accept his Wanderlust award !

2. Race Across The World (2020)

What you'll watch: Limited cash, no smartphones and forget about internet access – basically all the ingredients for an epic off-the-grid adventure.

In the latest series of the BBC's Race Across The World , you can follow five teams as they race the length of Latin America, starting in Mexico City and ending in Ushuaia in Argentina, the most southerly city in the world.

Married couples and familial bonds are put to the test, as they weave friendships in the most unexpected of places on their way to the finish line. And if you can't wait until next week's episode, you can binge on series one as well. What's better than that?

Where to watch it: Catch up on series two of Race Across The World on BBC iPlayer . And read our filming locations guide .

3. Joanna Lumley's Hidden Caribbean: Havana to Haiti (2020)

Joanna Lumley’s Hidden Caribbean: Havana to Haiti is on ITV Player now (ITV)

What you'll watch: She's one of our favourite tour guides, taking us everywhere from India to the mighty Silk Road – it is, of course, the absolutely fabulous Joanna Lumley.

Let her lead you into a lesser-seen side of the Caribbean in her new two-part documentary, Joanna Lumley’s Hidden Caribbean: Havana to Haiti, which begins in a boxing gym in the lively Cuban capital.

Keep watching as she wanders the streets of Havana, discovers Hemingway’s favourite beach and explores Fidel Castro’s hometown, before making her way over the Windward Passage to end her adventure with trips to ancient mountain fortresses and a mystical voodoo ceremony in Haiti.

Where to watch it: Catch up on Joanna Lumley’s Hidden Caribbean: Havana to Haiti on ITV Player now.

4. Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat (2018)

What to watch: If delicious food is at the very top of your reasons-to-travel list, Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat is the Netflix show to tune into.

Culinary capers abound as loveable chef Samin Nosrat takes us to Italy, Japan, Mexico and California to show us how the title elements are key to the cuisine of each country.

Where to watch it: See Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat on Netflix now.

5. Ugly Delicious (2020)

What to watch: H ungry for more? Try Netflix's Ugly Delicious – there are two series to devour, as chef David Chang takes us to culinary hotspots across the world, showing us why good cooking is universal.

He meets everyone from pizza purists in Brooklyn and Naples to trying Viet-Cajun fusion cuisine in Houston.

Where to watch it: Catch the new series of Ugly Delicious on Netflix .

6. Night on Earth (2020)

What to watch: Even when you're travelling, you don't get to see some of the most incredible sights - because some of them happen under the very cover of darkness.

In Netflix's Night on Earth , you can see this world open up before you, witnessing the secret lives of lions, bats and monkeys. Eerie and visually compelling stuff.

Where to watch it: Night on Earth is on Netflix now.

7. James May: Our Man In Japan (2020)

What you'll watch: We know you loved Japan with Sue Perkins , but now that's it not available on iPlayer… how about racing through the island country with James May, instead?

Starting on the chilly northern island of Hokkaido, James embarks on a journey south to the balmy beaches of Shikoku and Kyushu, while meeting samurai in Honshu, sampling street food in Osaka and, of course, tackling the Suzuka Circuit on his way.

Where to watch it: Watch James May: Our Man in Japan on Amazon Prime now.

8. Travel Man: 48 Hours in… (2019)

What you'll watch: Richard Ayoade's droll two-day jaunts through cities across the world has provided us all with laughs since 2015.

While 2019's series was his last as lead presenter, we can still look forward to more Travel Man in the future as Hugo Boss – aka the the comedian formerly known as Joe Lycett – takes over the role.

If you haven't seen 48 Hours in… Amsterdam , it's the perfect episode to get a feel for Hugo's personality and learn more about the city's culture, cuisine and canals.

Where to watch it: Find the past ten series of Travel Man: 48 Hours in… on All 4 .

9. Great Railway Journeys with Michael Portillo (2019)

What you'll watch: Thousands of British commuters have plenty to say about UK train travel, but in the hands of Michael Portillo, the divisive subject matter seems to take on a golden glow of nostalgia.

You know best, after all – you voted for the BBC's Great Railway Journeys as one of your top TV programmes in the last year.

Delving into the history of British rail, Michael reveals things we never knew about our local stations, including how an unlikely collaboration between London’s Crossrail railway project and a conservation charity is helping to protect birdlife in Series 11's Limehouse to Rochford episode.

Where to watch it: Look out for your local station on Great British Railway Journeys on iPlayer.

10. Around the World in 80 Days (1989)

What to watch: It's an oldie, but definitely a goodie – what could be better than staying in and getting a glimpse of how the world used to be with TV icon Michael Palin?

In Around the World in 80 Days , Michael follows in the footsteps of its main character Phileas Fogg, setting off on an epic adventure from London's Reform Club across the world.

Close shaves, missed connections and inevitable delays await as he desperately attempts to meet the 80-day deadline in time. A delicious throwback to a simpler time.

Where to watch it: Watch Around the World in 80 Days on iPlayer .

11. Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown (2013)

What to watch: The late Anthony Bourdain's Emmy-winning travel series is a must-watch for any traveller whose adventures are driven by a passion for excellent food.

Parts Unknown sees the world-renowned chef and documentarian delve into cuisines, cultures and politics in countries across the globe. Essentially, he eats his way around the world.

With 12 seasons covering countless destinations (Vietnam and New York said to be two of his favourites), the later seasons take viewers on an off-the-beaten-track culinary journey through Armenia, Uruguay, Myanmar and beyond.

Where to watch it: You can stream the series on Amazon Prime now.

12. Dark Tourist (2018)

What to watch: If you've watched the majority of travel TV already, here's one that may have slipped by you.

TV presenter David Farrier deep dives into so-called 'dark tourism': worldwide interest in visiting sites of nuclear disasters, destinations marred by danger or even death. If you've been to Chernobyl and Pripyat in Ukraine, you'll understand the fascination.

You can expect to see a trip to Turkmenistan, a visit to Pablo Escobar's former playground, Medellin in Colombia, as well as an excursion to Tomioka in Japan, the ghost town left behind after residents were evacuated following the Fukushima nuclear disaster.

Where to watch it: You can stream one season of Dark Tourist now on Netflix .

And… anything narrated by Sir David Attenborough

13. our planet (2019).

14. Seven Worlds, One Planet (2019)

What you'll watch: Of course, no list of travel documentaries is complete without an appearance from the legend that is Sir David Attenborough.

Most of his back catalogue is listed on Netflix, including the original Our Planet and the BBC's iconic Planet Earth and Frozen Planet.

You can also listen to Sir David's dulcet tones on BBC iPlayer - as he takes us through Seven Worlds, One Planet , introducing us to some of the globe's most hostile habitats and remote landscapes, while narrating the fascinating behaviour of the local creatures, such as golden snub-nosed monkeys and grey-headed albatross chicks .

Where to watch it: Find Our Planet along with most of Sir David's past shows on Netflix or catch up on Seven Worlds, One Planet on iPlayer now.

Simon Reeve on filming BBC's The Americas

12 epic nature and wildlife documentaries you can watch now, behind the scenes of our planet with alastair fothergill, related articles, looking for inspiration.

Join our newsletter

Get the very best of Wanderlust by signing up to our newsletters, full of travel inspiration, fun quizzes, exciting competitions and exclusive offers.

Love and Road

The 20 Best Travel Shows on Netflix to Watch in 2024

Some of our links are affiliated, we will earn a commission when you buy a service or product. This will have no extra cost for you. For further info please refer to our Privacy Policy

Whether you’ve been missing the thrill of traveling or are currently feeling inspired to pick the destination for your next adventure, travel shows can help. Netflix has no shortage of cool travel documentaries and shows, but we’ve decided to pick 20 of the best travel shows on Netflix.

Woman choosing a travel show on Netflix to watch at home.

If you’re traveling right now, or if some of these shows are not available in your country, use a VPN to access them without any restrictions. To play the shows, open up your VPN app and select a server located in a different state. If the show is available in your country, but you’re currently traveling internationally, choose the server of your home country to enjoy the show.

Now let me tell you why these Netflix travel shows are worth watching and don’t blame me if you get hooked on some (or all) of them.

The best travel shows on Netflix

Before we start, let me tell you that this list is in no particular order. It’s up to you to choose the one you want to watch first, but we recommend watching them all. At home, traveling for a holiday, or at a new destination, these Netflix travel shows and documentaries will set you in the mood for discovering new places, tasting exotic food, maybe even cycling, driving, or just staying at home until you finish all the seasons. Lol

The list is divided into travel shows or documentaries focused on nature, food, dark tourism, cycling and cars, photography, family travels, and specific destinations. Enjoy it!

NordVPN has great deals! Check them out here!

The best travel and nature Netflix shows

Arguably one of the most famous travel documentaries on Netflix, Our Planet takes you on a world tour of earth’s fascinating creatures. Narrated by Sir David Attenborough and filmed in Ultra High Definition, this show takes you to over 50 countries and perfectly captures the wonders of the earth.

Our Planet is the perfect Netflix travel show to give you some new ideas for your bucket list. Trust us!

Untamed Romania

While most seasoned travelers deeply appreciate Romania’s natural beauty, it is still overlooked in the mainstream media. Untamed Romania is a feature-length film celebrating the country’s immaculate wildlife.

Untamed Romania is one of the best Netflix travel documentaries for those who love nature and want to discover a new destination to travel to.

The best travel and food Netflix shows

Down to Earth

Down to Earth documentary follows Zac Efron, the actor, and wellness expert Darin Olien as they explore healthy and sustainable practices across different cultures. This documentary showcases the diversity and creativity seen across the globe to make the most of one’s resources.

It’s intriguing and can be inspiring, not only about travel but how we think of sustainability and health.

Street Food Asia

Sometimes the most accessible way to connect to a different culture is food. Asian food holds a special place in the world regarding street food and is probably one of the most universally beloved cuisines today. Street Food Asia takes you on a food journey across Asia and Southeast Asia’s best food cities, including Bangkok, Delhi, Osaka, and Singapore.

Street Food Asia is one of our fave travel shows on Netflix. We love Asia and Asian delights you can only find from street vendors. If you have never visited this part of the world, watch this show, and it will open your mind to a new world of flavors, aromas, and ways of life. If you are craving an Asia trip, watch it and plan international travel soon.

Also, read our guides and articles about Asian destinations as they have many travel and food recommendations. Read our guides about Thailand , Vietnam , Indonesia , Malaysia , The Philippines , China , Taiwan, India , and Cambodia .

Ugly Delicious

Ugly Delicious is another food travel show where a star chef David Chang is looking for the world’s most satisfying grub with his buddies. Despite being a professional chef, Chang isn’t pretentious with his picks and takes us on a cross-cultural food trip filled with laughter.

Another great travel and food show on Netflix about food culture.

Somebody Feed Phil

In this series, we follow the creator of Everybody Loves Raymond, Phil Rosenthal, as he explores world cuisines and meets the locals. Phil’s upbeat attitude is probably one of the best parts of the Somebody Feed Phil travel show together with a lot of food scenes that will help your plan your future trip to incredible destinations including Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

On this Netflix travel show, you will visit cities like Bangkok , spend days in Mexico City , see Lisbon , and many more. Well-known travel destinations are pictured with flavors and a local touch.

High on The Hog: Culinary Journey From Africa to America

This show explores African American soul food and its long journey from Africa to North America. It has been dubbed the most engaging history of African American cuisine. It traces the process of cultivating, harvesting, cooking, and serving the food that enslaved Africans brought with them to the States.

This Netflix cultural travel and food show will take you on a true gastronomic journey.

Restaurants on the Edge

As you might be able to guess from the name of the show, these hour-long episodes take us to restaurants that are located in some of the most stunning locations in the world but are struggling with their menus and dishes. They are located on the edge of the world but are also on the edge of closing down.

This travel show on Netflix pictures unique locations and a bit of drama, as you can expect.

Netflix shows about travel, cycling and cars

Biking Borders

This one is for lovers of slow traveling and less-known countries. Two friends go on a 15,000 km bicycle journey worldwide, including the Balkans, Central Asia, and other countries, to build a school in Guatemala.

Rob and I love cycling, so this Netflix travel documentary series is tremendously appealing to us. Biking Borders is also an excellent travel inspiration for those who dream of traveling by bike or going on a cycling holiday. And if this is you, read our article about cycling on Taiwan’s East Coast and cycling in Spain .

Pedal the World

This is another Netflix travel documentary that portrays a world tour on wheels, but this time our protagonist visits 22 countries during his year-long journey, searching for the meaning in life and discovering something new in each country.

Pedal the World is an inspiring and realistic epic road trip that might give you ideas of how you want to spend your life and what really matters.

Paul Hollywood’s Big Continental Road Trip

Paul Hollywood studies the ties between popular cars in Europe and their local culture and identity as an actor and a baker. In this short but educational Netflix documentary , Hollywood will visit France, Germany, and Italy.

This isn’t your Netflix show if you are looking for food and baking goods. But if you like cars, speed, a bit of history and traveling in Europe, you will enjoy the ride.

Netflix travel shows about a specific destination

Katla

This travel series focuses on Iceland, specifically the volcano Katla , which began constantly erupting just recently. The show has eight episodes and does a wonderful job portraying Iceland’s breathtaking beauty . Katla serves as a great reminder of all that we still don’t know about the earth.

This Netflix travel show is a powerful trigger for wanderlust, and it will make you want to book a trip to Iceland as soon as possible.

Magic Andes

A documentary following five characters from the Andes, South America’s breathtaking mountains. It is a fascinating series that highlights real people living in communities located under the mountains and paints a nuanced picture of the region of Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia .

After watching Magic Andes read our Peru travel guides , and for sure, you will want to visit South América. If you are worried about safety, then read our guide to the safest countries in South America , and you will be surprised.

Banner for a Netflix travel documentary focused on Guatemala's rich landscape and culture.

Guatemala: Heart of the Mayan World

This documentary focuses on Guatemala’s rich landscape and culture, the territory where 2000 years ago, the fascinating Mayan civilization collapsed. The Mayan influence is still all over Guatemala and Central America, and this documentary does an amazing job of connecting the dots between the past and the present.

Guatemala: Heart of the Mayan World is an inspiring Netflix travel documentary that will add interesting facts to your travel knowledge, and it might make you want to explore more of Latin America.

Zulu Man in Japan

Starring South African rapper Nasty C, this Netflix travel documentary focuses on Japanese culture. The film takes place in Tokyo, where Nasty C explores the city’s go-to places, culture, sounds, and much more.

Zulu Man in Japan was released in 2019. It’s a 44-minute episode, perfect for those days that you want to have just a little dose of wanderlust knowing that you won’t be addicted to long travel series.

The best Netflix travel show for unusual tourists

Dark Tourist

Filmed by journalist David Farrier, the author of the 2016 hit documentary Tickled, Dark Tourist takes a different approach to tourism. Farrier travels to places associated with death or tragedies that have turned these destinations into tourist attractions. You can expect anything from haunted places, nuclear lakes, and unusual and weird destinations. Those spots might not be on your travel bucket list, but it is interesting to know that they exist so you can avoid them on your next holiday.

It’s one of the most-watched travel shows on Netflix, so it’s worth trying.

Netflix show for photography and travel lovers

Tales by Light

Created by Abraham Joffe, this show embraces the art of travel photography and film and the people behind them. This is an Australian documentary/reality travel series on Netflix that follows photographers around the globe as they chase that perfect shot.

This Netflix travel documentary is a good match for those who love photography and travel. It’s perfect for inspiring you to travel and photograph more.

The best Netflix show about traveling with family

Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father

A comedian Jack Whitehall and his uptight father, Michael Whitehall, travel across the world together. The show starts with Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia, with the second season focusing on Eastern Europe. The third season explores the American West, the fourth features Australia, and the fifth is all about the United Kingdom, their homeland. On this last season expect everything from dining with Gordon Ramsay to searching for the Loch Ness monster.

A great Netflix travel show for those thinking of traveling with family. It also sparkes a reflection of our relationships with parents and how travel can be a good way to get together or break apart.

Netflix show that combines travel and design

Cabins in the Wild

This show takes place in Wales and follows engineer Dick Strawbridge and craftsman Will Hardie as they inspect eight unique cabins built for a pop-up hotel in Wales. Their final goal is to construct a cabin of their own.

If you like the British Tv series, chances are you will love Cabins in the Wild as well. If you like architecture and construction shows too. This type of Netflix show combines different elements, from traveling to design, making you want to have a cabin in the wild just for you.

We end our list of the 20 best Netflix travel shows here. Drop us a comment if you have watched any of them or if you have any other good travel series to recommend.

Love these Netflix travel shows and documentary ideas? Pin it for later!

The best travel shows on Netflix streaming now! An inspiring list of travel documentaries and series on Netflix that will make you want to pack your bags and book a holiday. The list is in no particular order and it has travel and food shows, Netflix travel documentaries, dark tourism, wildlife, family travel, design and more. These travelers' Netflix series are perfect for those who want to be inspired, prepare for the next trip, or are already in a destination and want to know more about it.

4 thoughts on “The 20 Best Travel Shows on Netflix to Watch in 2024”

I’m so glad you mentioned The Latchkees! I’ve been obsessed with their adventures since I saw their episode on Netflix. It’s amazing how they make travel look so effortless and fun. I’m definitely adding some of the other shows on your list to my queue 😍

Such a great show!

I can’t believe I never knew about some of these shows! The Travel Diaries is definitely going on my watchlist. 😍

Glad you enjoyed it!

Digital Exclusives

Big City, Little Budget: New York
Big City, Little Budget: San Francisco
Bizarre Foods in the Kitchen
One Bag and You're Out

From Our Shows

Bizarre Foods
Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations
Booze Traveler
Expedition Unknown
Hotel Impossible
Mysteries at the Museum

Top Domestic

New Orleans
New York City
Washington, DC

Top International

Myrtle Beach
Niagara Falls
San Antonio

Explore By Region

Asia Pacific
Middle East & Africa
North America
South & Central America

Top Interests

Amusement Parks
Arts and Culture
Food and Wine
National Parks
Health and Wellness
Long Weekends
Outdoor Adventure

By Traveler

Family Travel
Girls' Getaways
LGBT Travel
Solo Travel

Travel Tips

Budget Tips
Gear and Gadgets
Hotels and Lodging
Plan Your Bucket List
Savvy Traveler
Travel's Best
Destinations

How to Spend Two Nights in Ho Chi Minh City

Spend the Night on a Pirate Ship in Vietnam

Hotel Saigon's Beef Rolls

Get inspired.

Missing Scene: Vietnam 02:06

Andrew Cooks Beef Rolls 03:31

Relive Vietnam With Tony 05:58

Finding a Scorpion in Vietnam 02:20

How to Take the Ultimate Vietnam Road Trip

Duck-Blood Pudding 02:24

Would You Ever Eat a Rat? 02:16

Near the Water in Vietnam 02:37

Andrew Cooks Spicy Tuna 03:40

Size is Everything 02:07

Gem Hunting Under Supervision 03:12

Walk Away From the Ruby 03:33

Sam's Top 5: Vietnam 01:11

Rough-Cut Rubies 02:07

Vietnam's Best Beaches

Sam's Travel Tips: Vietnam 01:33

Vietnamese Spicy Tuna Salad

Study Abroad With a Twist

Sip and Savor in Vietnam 02:39

Bobby Chinn's in Hanoi 02:41

Dominic Shops in Vietnam 01:47

Top 5 Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City 02:30

Anthony Bourdain's All-Time Favorite Episodes 11 Photos

World's Best Secret Beaches

Mysteries at the hotel, mysteries of the outdoors, terror in the woods, ufo witness, trending now.

High-Fashion Flight Attendants 8 Photos

Best Gay Beach Destinations 20 Photos

Where to Honeymoon in Every State (Plus D.C. and Puerto Rico) 52 Photos

Exclusive Hotels 10 Photos

10 Incredible All-Inclusive Winter Sports Resorts 10 Photos

10 Most Popular Memorial Day Destinations 10 Photos

The Layover: Seattle Pictures 14 Photos

How to Avoid an Amusement Park Meltdown 10 Photos

Bizarre Foods: Ho Chi Minh City Pictures 10 Photos

7 Tiny Vacation Getaways Around the Country 26 Photos

Top 10 Most Forgetful Cities in America, According to Uber 10 Photos

Seville, Spain 12 Photos

Loretta Lynn's Plantation House 14 Photos

Tour Highclere Castle 15 Photos

Southern Space Chase Pictures 11 Photos

10 Times to Wake Your Kids Up Early on Vacation 10 Photos

7 Best National Parks for Families 14 Photos

10 Unique Breweries in Portland, Oregon 10 Photos

The Undiscovered Charm of the Turks and Caicos 11 Photos

Harry Potter Theme Park 19 Photos

San Antonio’s Top Attractions 12 Photos

Celebrity Beach Houses 43 Photos

10 Luxury Ranches Just Right for Romance 10 Photos

10 Wellness Vacations You Need to Take 10 Photos

Soups and Stews 15 Photos

Haunted Tales from the Grave 11 Photos

Glacier Bear Lodge Pictures 15 Photos

NYC Escape: Weekend in North Fork, Long Island 10 Photos

Secret Eats: Atlanta Pictures 7 Photos

Mega Mansions Pictures 22 Photos

Join the party! Don't miss Travel Channel in your favorite social media feeds.

‘The Sympathizer’ depicts war from a Vietnamese point of view, but how does the community see it?

A man wearing a backpack looks out as people run toward the open hatch of a plane.

Show more sharing options
Copy Link URL Copied!

Never before has a television series garnered so much excitement, attention and concern among California’s expatriate Vietnamese community, the world’s largest, as “ The Sympathizer .”

HBO’s seven-part espionage thriller depicting the Vietnam War and its aftermath — or the American War, as seen on the title card that opens the series — premiered Sunday and new episodes will air weekly through May 26. It was co-created by South Korean director Park Chan-wook and Don McKellar , and features Oscar-winning actor Robert Downey Jr. in several roles (he is also an executive producer). “The Sympathizer” is based on Viet Thanh Nguyen’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name, which follows a French Vietnamese communist spy.

The series is groundbreaking for casting actors who are Vietnamese or of Vietnamese descent in lead roles and much of the dialogue is spoken in Vietnamese, though it was made for American audiences. And the opening episode takes place in Vietnam, depicting the fall of Saigon and a harrowing escape on an airstrip.

For a younger generation, the series is an opportunity to showcase Vietnamese stories globally, but for an older generation, “The Sympathizer” has stirred some discontent, especially among those who fought in the war. They point to the show’s lead character, the Captain — a communist spy who infiltrates the South Vietnamese army and follows the General, his boss, to Los Angeles, where they resettle — saying it glorifies the communists, the enemy — by presenting the spy’s disparaging viewpoints about the South.

The Sympathizer Hoa Xuande, Robert Downey Jr.

How the creators of HBO’s ‘The Sympathizer’ explore the ‘American War’ through a Vietnamese lens

Park Chan-wook and Don McKellar, the creators of HBO’s ‘The Sympathizer,’ discuss how they adapted Viet Thanh Nguyen’s 2015 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.

April 11, 2024

Such sentiments were among those shared at a viewing party organized by Alan Vo Ford, held at Pink Moon, a Chinese restaurant in Beverly Hills, where the premiere episode was streamed for 30 friends from the Los Angeles and Orange County area on Sunday. Ford, 49, a Westminster resident, real estate broker and film producer of Vietnamese movies such as “A Fragile Flower” and “Journey From the Fall,” said he felt compelled to organize the event because it’s so rare for a major Hollywood series about Vietnamese people to be made.

“I felt it was my duty as a Vietnamese American to spread the word so the world would know about Vietnam and American history during this historic period of time,” he said. Ford said when he was a baby, his mother held him while “running and dodging bombs during the final days,” just like in the last scenes of the first episode. His father was in a reeducation camp for 9 years, and his family arrived in the U.S. in 1985.

“This is a breakthrough series for the Vietnamese community to be on HBO and work with superstars like Robert Downey Jr.,” said Don Nguyen, 55, a retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel and cybersecurity consultant, who attended the party. He said that as someone who was part of the first generation of Vietnamese to join the U.S. military, he knows what it’s like to break barriers. “It’s a signal to the global community that we’ve arrived in Hollywood.”

“We have many talented doctors, lawyers, engineers [in the community]. But in films we’re still in the infant stage,” he said. He’s the son of Thanh Tuyen, a Vietnamese singer whose trademark Bolero songs were popular during the war.

Despite some of the generational differences, there is agreement in the community that this is a significant moment for Vietnamese representation in Hollywood that furthers their desire for more Vietnamese stories to be told.

And that’s what Viet Thanh Nguyen advocated for, to have the series, like his book, present a Vietnamese point of view on the war. He said that for too long, Hollywood has portrayed “Vietnamese characters to be killed, raped, wounded, silenced, demonized, or rescued while we serve as the backdrop for American moral dilemmas.” The war and its aftermath have been depicted in pop culture largely through an American lens in films such as “Apocalypse Now” and “Rambo.”

“We should have at least as many Vietnamese perspectives on this war being told as we have American perspectives,” he said.

Viet Thanh Nguyen tackles Vietnam War’s aftermath in ‘The Sympathizer’

Much of Viet Thanh Nguyen’s debut novel, “The Sympathizer” (Grove: 371 pp., $26), takes place in the bland stucco flatlands of Los Angeles between the fall of Saigon in 1975 and the staging and aftermath of a failed counterrevolution by members of the displaced anti-communist Vietnamese diaspora several years later.

April 10, 2015

The cast of the series is predominantly Vietnamese, with Hoa Xuande, an Australian actor of Vietnamese descent, in the lead role as the Captain. Other actors in supporting roles include Kieu Chinh , Toan Le, Fred Nguyen Khan, Vy Le, Nguyen Cao Ky Duyen and Alan Trong.

“This is a historical moment for Vietnamese artists, writers and filmmakers in Hollywood,” said Chinh, an acclaimed Vietnamese actress who plays the mother of the Major (Phanxinê, a Vietnamese filmmaker in his acting debut), a character whose story comes into focus midseason. She knows firsthand what the war was like, having lived through it. The chaotic evacuation scene at the end of the first episode was familiar.

A woman in a red dress holds a microphone on a stage. A man stands behind her.

“I heard loud bomb explosions all around us as we were trying to flee. It was frightening and very emotional,” Chinh said. “During the filming, I just relived my past. I didn’t have to act.”

The actor is well-known for her role as Suyuan Woo in 1993’s “ The Joy Luck Club ,” an adaptation of Amy Tan’s bestselling novel. It marked the first time that a film featuring a nearly all-Asian cast was a Hollywood box office success. However, despite the film’s success, it did not bring an increase in Asian-centered films or roles for Asian actors then. Chinh said she believes that “The Joy Luck Club” was too early for a breakthrough. Now, she thinks that it is time for a Vietnamese series to be featured on mainstream TV.

Anna Chi, a filmmaker whose work includes “ The Disappearance of Mrs. Wu ,” worked on “The Joy Luck Club” as a director’s assistant while studying at UCLA’s film school; she attended the viewing party with her husband, Douglas Smith, a visual-effects Oscar winner for “Independence Day.” She agrees with Chinh that “The Joy Luck Club” was ahead of its time. Although progress has been made, Chi said there is still much work to be done for Asian cinema. She sees “The Sympathizer” as an important step toward this goal.

‘The Sympathizer’ is a tense black comedy that’s also a moving story about friendship

HBO’s adaptation of Viet Thanh Nguyen’s Pulitzer Prize-winning post-Vietnam novel is the portrait of a divided people and a divided person.

April 13, 2024

While “The Sympathizer” isn’t the first time a story from a Vietnamese point of view has been told, previous efforts haven’t been as well received because of tensions that have lingered since the war. In January 1994, when Le Ly Hayslip , author of “When Heaven and Earth Changed Places,” visited Orange County on a press tour for the Oliver Stone film based on her memoir, dozens of protesters called her a traitor. It was billed as the first movie about the Vietnam War from a Vietnamese perspective, but anticommunist protesters were incensed that she had aided Viet Cong soldiers.

The premiere of “The Sympathizer” comes two weeks before the 49th anniversary of the fall of Saigon on April 30, known as Black April or Tháng tư đen in Vietnamese. The Vietnam War, the second longest war in U.S. history, killed hundreds of thousands of Vietnamese people and American soldiers. For those who fought on the side of the South and were displaced, the wounds from the war remain unhealed.

“Viet sensationalized things to fit the American spy novel and from that perspective, the show is very intriguing to the viewers. He wrote it from the perspective of a Viet Cong communist spy and therefore the South Vietnamese were depicted as corrupted and cruel,” said Quan Nguyen, a physician and director of the Museum of the Republic of Vietnam , a nonprofit in Little Saigon in Orange County. It was opened in 2016 to honor veterans who fought for South Vietnam and to educate future generations.

“This could reopen a lot of deep wounds within our anticommunist community,” says Quan Nguyen, whose father was an army physician.

A man in a uniform hold a telephone receiver to his ear.

Jenny Thai, 58, a guest at the viewing party who is from Garden Grove, agrees. Thai said it has inspired her to make a film of her own that highlights South Vietnamese heroes. She recalls when she was a child in Vietnam, in the final days of the war, everyone was huddled around the radio and the announcement came that Saigon had fallen, and the adults around her broke down in tears. Weeks later, all the men and women associated with the former regime were sent to reeducation camps. She says her family later escaped Vietnam by boat in 1990.

“Most of the Saigoners stayed home and listened to the radio. It was the only way we could follow what was going on,” says Thai, who has produced short films. “Only a small portion of those who worked with the embassy or with U.S. officers knew about the evacuation.”

She adds, “I’m anticommunist, but I don’t hate the Northerners. We are all Vietnamese; we are all brothers and sisters from the same country. It’s the politics that destroyed us, the war.”

Though there are differing views, “The Sympathizer” has nonetheless spurred conversations about representation in Hollywood, how the story of the war is told and by whom. Ysa Le, executive director of the Vietnamese American Arts & Letters Association, a nonprofit that co-hosted a “Sympathizer” screening and press meeting with the show’s cast in Orange a week before its debut, says she welcomes the series.

“For the first time, we have so many Vietnamese talents, both in front of and behind the camera working on this American series,” said Le, 53, a pharmacist in Fountain Valley. She was 5 when the war ended, and her father was sent to a reeducation camp for six years after being unable to flee Vietnam.

“It could inspire aspiring filmmakers to pursue their own projects,” Le said.

Phong Dinh, 91, a former two-term councilman of the seaside resort city of Vung Tau, Vietnam, who spent three years in a reeducation camp, said he understands the antipathy toward the communists, but the spy character created by Viet Thanh Nguyen and depicted in the series doesn’t bother him.

“It was a well-known fact they infiltrated our government since President [Ngo Dinh] Diem’s regime, and continued with President [Nguyen Van] Thieu,” he said. A father of seven, Dinh experienced tragedy after the war, losing his youngest daughter to malaria because no medication was available, and his wife suffered permanent hearing damage from an artillery explosion near their home.

Now a Huntington Beach resident, Dinh joined his youngest son, Viet, former Fox Corp. chief legal officer and U.S. assistant attorney general, to watch the premiere episode. He gave it an A+.

“Our people have suffered immeasurably. I’m blessed to have my family. I want my children and their children to be good citizens, contribute to society in America and help our people,” he said. “If this TV series opens doors for our younger Vietnamese, then it’s worth it.”

‘The Synanon Fix’ shows how the California dream went awry for a rehab group turned cult

April 22, 2024

County Supervisor Andrew Do listens as Public Health officer Clayton Chau, left, speaks during an Orange County Board of Supervisors meeting in Santa Ana on Tuesday, August 10, 2021.

Scandal shadows Andrew Do’s final year on the O.C. Board of Supervisors

April 8, 2024

Chinese birth tourists gather in the shade during a day trip to the beach. Courtesy Leslie Tai

Column: Chinese birth tourism documentary pulls back the curtain on a controversial industry

Jan. 26, 2024

The complete guide to home viewing

Get Screen Gab for everything about the TV shows and streaming movies everyone’s talking about.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

More From the Los Angeles Times

a shirtless Lukas Gage lounging on a bed lit by a sign shaped like a crown

How the Cat King in ‘Dead Boy Detectives’ captures a familiar queer dynamic

April 27, 2024

Entertainment & Arts

Shannon Sharpe under fire for ‘invalidating’ Amanda Seales’ experiences with autism, racism

April 26, 2024

FILE - Ellen DeGeneres, winner of the Carol Burnett award, poses in the press room at the 77th annual Golden Globe Awards on Jan. 5, 2020, in Beverly Hills, Calif. Three producers of her daytime show, "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," have exited amid complaints of a difficult and unfair workplace environment. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello, File)

Ellen DeGeneres riffs on getting ‘kicked out’ of showbiz after toxic-culture allegations

Stagecoach attendees walk below ferris wheel at festival grounds

Stagecoach 2024: How to stream Morgan Wallen, Miranda Lambert and other sets at home

Best of Vietnam

20 days | the ultimate south to north adventure tour of vietnam.

A small fishing boat crosses the waters of Ha Long Bay at sunset

Experience quintessential Vietnam on this comprehensive trip from south to north. Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi and experience dynamic cities, tranquil backwaters, imperial ruins, faded colonial elegance and picture-perfect landscapes dotted with reminders of the past. Explore the narrow cobbled streets of Hoi An’s Old Town, encounter local tribes on a hike in the mountains of Da Bac and whizz through the back streets of Hue as you uncover the very best of Vietnam.

Trip overview

Experience local life during homestays in the Mekong Delta and Da Bac. Get to know local families, participate in their activities and enjoy a homestyle meal.
Travel to both popular and lesser-known destinations in Vietnam, including tourist hotspots like Halong Bay and hidden gems such as Da Bac
See Vietnam through an exciting mix of transport, including motorbike, sampan, junk-style boat, bus and train
Visit the mind-boggling Phong Nha and Thien Duong Caves. These labyrinthine systems were used to shelter civilians during the Vietnam/American War
Spend a day in Hue, touring the city's sights on a motorbike and eating lunch at a serene nunnery
Relax in the turquoise waters at Nha Trang and discover local fisherman's life on a boat trip.
During this trip, there will be several long days of travelling and you'll be sitting on a bus for many hours at a time. However, road trips often have the best views, and most private buses feature wi-fi
We cover a lot of distance on this trip, including on overnight trains. Accommodation and amenities are shared and basic, but the experience of rubbing shoulders with the locals makes it all worthwhile. For more about what this experience is like, see our blog post here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/what-to-expect-on-an-overnight .
This trip involves a lot of walking - on city walking tours, the hike in Da Bac and during included activities. While being on your feet can be a bit tiring, this is the best way to truly get under the skin of a place
You'll be spending two nights with local families on this trip, where the accommodation is shared and basic. But this is a great opportunity to connect with the local people (and enjoy delicious home-cooked meals!). Read more about the experiences here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/community-based-tourism-vietnam/
Vietnam has an incredibly diverse climate influenced by both tropical monsoons and its range of altitudes and latitudes. Temperatures can vary from a brisk 4°C (39°F) in the northern mountains during winter to a sweltering and humid 36°C (97°F) in Ho Chi Minh City during the middle of the dry season. Please check the weather for the time of year you're travelling in order to pack appropriate clothing - this page may be useful: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/vietnam/weather-in-vietnam

Xin chao! Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm today, where you'll get to know your fellow travellers and meet your legendary group leader. If you arrive early before the meeting, perhaps head to Pham Ngu Lao Street to see the local open-aired market, visit Vinh Nghiem Pagoda or one of the amusements parks. Ho Chi Minh City has a dynamic atmosphere and a French influence. After the welcome meeting, you may like to join your group for an optional meal at one of the city's fantastic eating spots. Because this trip doesn’t spend much time in Ho Chi Minh City, you might even choose to spend an extra day or two here to see the sights.

Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

After breakfast today, you’ll visit one of the most important sites in Ho Chi Minh City, the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. These complex tunnels were used by the Viet Cong in the long war against the Americans and were instrumental to the Vietnamese victory. You'll be amazed by the ingenuity of these dangerous tunnels. Later in the day, take a tour of the city, passing the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Opera House. Head to the War Remnants Museum for a sobering yet informative lesson on the Vietnam War. Here you’ll see things like old military equipment, an F5A fighter and a UH1-Huey helicopter.

Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels
Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum
Ho Chi Minh City - City tour
Ho Chi Minh City - A O show - VND1050000

Today you'll travel south by private minibus to Cai Be. When you arrive, you’ll board a boat and explore the intricate waterways of the Mekong Delta. Often referred to as ‘the rice bowl’ of Vietnam, the fertile delta is where rice, tropical fruit and flowers are grown for the whole country. You'll get a chance to get off the boat to visit an orchard and sample some tropical fruit. You’ll then continue on the cruise and visit a selection of local cottage industries along the way where you'll experience local life and the industries surrounding the river up close. For sunset today, you’ll make your way up one of the many canals to your homestay where you’ll tuck into a wonderful meal of local specialities. Your guesthouse accommodation tonight will be simple, but the experience will be rewarding.

Homestay (1 night)
Mekong Delta - Sightseeing Tour
Mekong Delta - Guesthouse Dinner

Today's total travel time is approximately 3 hours.

Facilities at the guesthouse are basic and can vary as we stay with several different families. We sleep on camp beds in a communal room for all members of the group. Bedding and mosquito nets are provided. Your guesthouse will be located near the Mekong, but may not be on the banks of the river itself.

Travel back to Ho Chi Minh City today and enjoy some free time to do a bit of sightseeing at your leisure. We recommend exploring the city’s restaurants and trying Ho Chi Minh City’s distinctive fresh and flavoursome food. In contrast to the north of Vietnam, the cuisine here is spicier, sweeter and more varied. There are also plenty of street food stalls if you’d like to take a few bites of the local fare.

After exploring Ho Chi Minh City, take a bus transfer to Dalat. Temperate and cool compared to the rest of the country, Dalat has gained the name “City of Eternal Spring” due to the mists that cover its nearby valleys nearly all year around. This fairytale nickname spreads to its amazing architecture – the Hang Na guesthouse, an expressionist masterpiece, stands as a towering, melted stone obelisk over the lush garden below. There’s also plenty of charming Art Deco-influenced structures and gardens littering the area as well. This afternoon, perhaps go for a wander through the streets for a better feel of the city or find a café for a cup of artichoke tea, a regional specialty.

Today's travel time is approximately 6 hours.

Dalat’s soothing climate isn’t just a great reprieve from the heat of Vietnam's coast, it also creates the perfect environment to grow a wide selection of fruits, vegetables and herbs. Take a full day to stroll through the tranquil gardens of this city, darting past plantations full of plump vegetables, dazzling flowers, medicinal herbs, aromatic lavender and juicy strawberries. You'll enjoy a guided garden visit to learn more about this fruitful area.

Dalat - Garden visit

After breakfast this morning travel by minibus to the coastal town of Nha Trang. On arrival, stretch your legs with a leader-led orientation walk. Then, enjoy free time in the afternoon and evening in this stunning coastal city -you might like to make a beeline straight to the beach or try a mud bath. Be sure to find a beach side bar for a cocktail at sunset and then tuck into some of this town's epic seafood - your leader knows all the good spots, so be sure to ask them for their top tips.

After breakfast this morning, enjoy a leisurely boat trip in Nha Trang Bay. You'll stop at Mieu Island to learn about local fishermen's life here, and even get a chance to give it a go yourself with the rowing bamboo basket boat. Then you'll hop to Tam Island and enjoy swimming and snorkelling in the turquoise water amongst the stunning corals. Head back to Nha Trang in the early afternoon. This evening, board an overnight train to Da Nang. Conditions are basic on these trains and hygiene standards may be lower than what you’re used to at home, however overnight trains are the best way to brush shoulders with the locals and make the best use of your time. Most trains have a dining carriage serving simple food, but we recommend stocking up on snacks before you board.

Overnight sleeper train (1 night)
Nha Trang - Nha Trang Bay Boat trip
Nha Trang Bay - Island hopping, Fishing Villages & Snorkelling

We always endeavour to get to the best spots for snorkelling but we won't be able to guarantee this as there's a growing concern of the bleaching of corals in these waters near Nha Trang. Sleeper trains typically have four or six berth compartments with bench seats that convert into sleeping bunks. A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided, although some travellers prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. Depending on the configuration of the group, you may have to share with people of different genders or passengers who aren’t part of the group. Your leader will coordinate and give further information on the trip. Most trains have a dining carriage serving simple food, but we recommend that you stock up on snacks and drinks before departure.

You'll arrive in Hoi An early today. Recently declared a World Heritage site, Hoi An was a major trading port with the West from the 15th to the 19th century. Today it has been restored to look exactly as it did more than a century ago, giving it an old-world feel full of nooks and crannies for you to explore. You’ll have some free time to wonder the city and adventure at your own leisure this afternoon. Hoi An is very much a shopping mecca. Why not browse the paintings, woodwork, ceramics, embroidery all made by the locals? The city is also famous for its talented tailors who work with beautiful fabrics for a good price.

Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
Hoi An - Private Hoi An: Boat & Bike with Local Dinner Experience Urban Adventure - USD85

Enjoy another free day in the town of Hoi An. You’ll have time to see the beautiful Chinese shophouses, enjoy the busy market, visit Cua Dai Beach, cycle to the rice fields or browse the array of art galleries. With plenty of options to keep you busy in this quaint city, you can build the day into whatever you wish.

Hoi An - Food Adventure Urban Adventure - USD44
Hoi An - Private Hoi An: My Son Discovery - USD77

This morning, wave goodbye to Hoi An as we make tracks to the white sand and blue sea of My Khe Beach. Continue on the journey and cross the dramatic Hai Van Pass and make a quick stop at the fishing village of Lang Co before making your way to Hue. The former imperial capital of Vietnan, Hue contains the treasures of Vietnam’s royal history, and has a curious blend of bustling streets and tranquil settings. You'll explore the Imperial Citadel this afternoon - this fortress houses the Imperial City and the citadel-within-a-citadel, the Forbidden Purple City. This icon was almost completely destroyed during the Vietnam War, and the ruins and holes left by bombs are a reminder of the destruction caused by the war.

In your free time here you might like to visit to Dong Ba Market which offers locally made goods, fresh produce and tantalising street food. This is a good place to try the specialties enjoyed by Emperor Nguyen such as the banh khoai royal rice cake.

Hue - Imperial City Full Day Tour

Today's total driving time is approximately 5 hours.

Today’s adventure will be taken on the back of a motorbike. You’ll have your own driver who will take you first on a drive around the Imperial Citadel, including the Forbidden Purple City. The latter was almost completely destroyed during the Tet Offensive in the Vietnam War, but its humble, foliage-covered ruins remain a testament to its proud history. Here you'll gain some insight into the horrific damage endured during the war. Next, you'll ride to a special lunch spot at a convent or Buddhist monastery for a delicious home-cooked vegetarian feast. After lunch, drive to the royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, set amid a lake, frangipani bushes and pine trees. This evening, perhaps ask your leader for the best place to try imperial street specialties.

Hue - Royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc
Hue - Highlights & back streets by motorbike

This motorbike activity has been assessed for safety and is closely monitored. To participate please ensure your travel insurance covers riding pillion on a motorbike. The motorbikes used are 125cc or less. If you prefer not to participate in the motorbike ride, please let your leader know and they will arrange car transportation between destinations (included).

Today, we'll take a minibus to the Vinh Moc Tunnels. These were used during the Vietnam War as shelter for the villagers who were escaping intense bombing. Incredibly, the locals here lived in the underground system that went over three levels. You’ll get a chance to enter the tunnels which remain in their original form. This afternoon, continue on to your home stay tonight located at the center of Phong Nha. Your host is a family of 3 generations and you'll be able to experience how the locals go about their daily routines while staying here.

Quang Tri - Vinh Moc Tunnels
Quang Tri - Hien Luong Bridge

The caves and the area surrounding Phong Nha are subject to flooding. For safety reasons it may be necessary to amend your trip itinerary to avoid flood affect areas.

After breakfast today, visit the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site contains the oldest known karst mountains in Asia. The area is also known for its enormous cave system. You’ll visit the Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave), then take a cruise up the Son River towards the Phong Cave - the scale of the place is truly astounding. In the late afternoon, travel to Dong Hoi and catch an overnight sleeper train to Hanoi.

Phong Nha Ke-Bang NP - Thien Duong (Paradise Cave)
Phong Nha Ke-Bang National Park - Phong Nha Cave

This evening's train journey will take approximately 10 hours.

Arrive in Hanoi early in the morning and transfer to your hotel. Vietnam’s capital is famous for its beautiful lakes, shaded boulevards, public parks and French-style Old Quarter. As an emerging city in South East Asia, Hanoi has an attractive contrast of modern office buildings, old Buddhist temples and a labyrinth of ancient streets. Later in the day, you’ll visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, including One Pillar Pagoda and the Ho Chi Minh Museum.

Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh Complex
Hanoi - One Pillar Pagoda
Hanoi - Old Quarter Walking Tour
Hanoi - Fine Arts Museum - VND30000
Hanoi - Hoa Lo 'Hanoi Hilton' Prison - VND50000
Hanoi - Temple of Literature - VND70000
Hanoi - Women's Museum - VND30000
Hanoi - Army Museum - VND20000

You'll get access to a day room on arrival in Hanoi to freshen up after your train journey.

This morning, visit Vun Art center first, a social enterprise that employs people with disabilities to make art pieces with recycled silk scraps. Hear from them about the great things that they do and then make the drive to Sung village. There are around 70 families living at Sung Village and the majority are Dzao ‘Tien’ people. Farming and forest plantation are their main source of income. You'll enjoy a traditional lunch at your homestay then take an introductory walk around the village. After getting to know the village better, take a short trek (2 kilometres) to the alluring Sung Cave and visit a 100-year-old tea plantation. The trek has some steep and slippery sections so please ensure you have suitable footwear for this activity. After a handicraft workshop, return to your homestay accommodation for a nice hot shower and a delicious dinner.

Da Bac - Sung cave and village tour
Da Bac - Homestay Dinner
Da Bac - Homestay Lunch
Hanoi - Vun Art center visit

Today's travel time is approximately 4 hours.

Tonight's homestay is shared accommodation, usually with the whole group in a single room together. There are separate beds with clean linen, blankets and mosquito nets provided.

Depending on weather, availability and number of visitors to this region, we may stay overnight at an alternative village. If we do change the village on your departure, your leader will advise you as soon as possible. Trek length and activities may vary, depending on which village you’re staying in. Should this region be completely inaccessible due to weather conditions, we will put an alternative itinerary in place, visiting Mai Chau.

This morning, you'll get the opportunity to take in more of the Vietnamese highlands on a 10 kilometre (6.2 mi) trek from Sung Village to Da Bia. The first 8km of the trek is mostly flat ground along well-worn buffalo tracks. The final 2km gradually inclines and for a period of approximately 300m there are some steps to climb, however the walk will be a steady relaxed pace. Keep an eye peeled for the monumental stone at the peak of Da Bia Mountain during the hike that takes us through the local villages, meeting people from the ethnic Muong tribe along the way. Stop for lunch at Da Bia before enjoying a scenic 1.5 hour boat cruise on Hoa Binh hydropower reservoir. Arrive at Thung Nai then board a bus transfer to Hanoi, where you'll arrive at around 6 pm. Enjoy a water puppetry performance later on - a unique and traditional Vietnamese art form.

Da Bac - Da Bia Lunch
Da Bac - Sung village to Da Bia hike
Hanoi - Water puppet show
Hanoi - Street Food Experience Urban Adventure - USD40

Comfortable supportive footwear (running shoes) will be suitable however you are welcome to bring hiking boots if you prefer. It can be quite slippery if there has been recent rain. The homestay hosts can provide bamboo trekking poles on request. Please ensure you have a 1.5 litre water bottle with you for the trek; we will fill bottles at Sung Village and there are no refill points along the way until we have concluded the trek.

Should you wish to skip the 10 kilometre (6.2mi) trek, a taxi can be arranged locally for approximately USD70.

After breakfast today, drive to Bai Chay Harbour towards the famous world heritage site of Halong Bay. A blue-green bay studded with limestone outcrops, this area is full of beaches and natural grottos. You’ll take a boat through the limestone peaks and caves filled with stalactites and stalagmites and have the chance to go for a swim or perhaps take a kayak out on the bay. Spend the night on board the boat beneath a sky alive with starlight. The boat has twin-share cabins with air-conditioning and private facilities. There’s also a dining room and bar where you can enjoy the day’s meals.

Overnight boat (1 night)
Halong Bay - Dinner on Boat
Halong Bay - Lunch on Boat

Today's driving time is approximately four hours.

It is recommended to pack a smaller overnight bag to take to Halong Bay for ease of boarding and disembarking. You can store your main luggage in Hanoi for tonight.

Swimming and kayaking are limited to designated zones of the Bay.

There are restrictions on the number of boats that are permitted to stay in the bay overnight, sometimes resulting in a shortage. To ensure all Intrepid travellers can enjoy the experience of a night on the water, occasionally you will stay on a larger boat (with approximately 12 cabins) and share your boat with another group. Or your group may be split across different vessels, in which case an Intrepid group leader will be present on each boat, and the route taken and inclusions on board will remain the same.

After breakfast today you'll return to Hanoi, arriving mid afternoon and enjoy some well deserved free time. Why not relax with a bia hoi (freshly brewed draught beer) at one of the microbars in the Old Quarter? or perhaps mark the end of your trip with an optional farewell dinner.

Today's driving time is approximately 4 hours.

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. There’s so much to see and do in Hanoi, why not stay a day or two longer? We’ll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). If you have extra time, you may like to do an Urban Adventure tour. Your leader will be able to assist you in booking the tour of your choice. See urbanadventures.com/destination/hanoi-tours.

17 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners

Boat, Overnight sleeper train, Private minibus, Taxi, Train

Homestay (3 nights), Hotel (13 nights), Overnight boat (1 night), Overnight sleeper train (2 night)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for train tickets. Fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes days 3, 16 (homestays), days 8, 14 (overnight trains), and Days 18 (overnight boat) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Filter by rating

Skip to main content
Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

'Conan O'Brien Must Go' is side-splitting evidence of life beyond late night TV

Eric Deggans

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway. Conaco/Max hide caption

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway.

To be honest, when I first heard Conan O'Brien was ending his TV talk show in 2021, I assumed news that he might turn to variety shows and online programs to continue his career was some combination of face-saving and wishful thinking.

But after watching the four episodes of his new Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , it's now obvious — even to a thickheaded critic like me — that leaving late night TV really was liberating for O'Brien. He's leveraged his unique sensibility into several different podcasts, a deal with Sirius XM , specials featuring other stand-up comics and now this travel series for Max — which resembles jokey specials he did for cable channel TBS back in the day.

And as the late night TV genre crumbles under sagging viewership and the decline of traditional media, O'Brien's renaissance also provides an example for the future — where fertile comedy minds and talented performers can spread their work over a much larger canvas.

Pop Culture Happy Hour

Is conan o'brien the best 'hot ones' guest ever discuss., learning a lesson from 'hot ones'.

O'Brien already made a splash recently with his brilliantly maniacal appearance on the interview-while-eating-hot-wings show Hot Ones , slobbering over hot sauces while claiming, as he was checked over by a fake doctor, that "I'm fine! I'm perfectly f*****g fine!"

This is the place where O'Brien shines — he's called it "this strange phantom intersection between smart and stupid" — and it's on full, freakish, super silly display in every episode of Conan O'Brien Must Go .

The conceit of the show is pretty simple. O'Brien heads overseas to visit average folks in Norway, Argentina, Thailand and Ireland who had once Zoomed in to speak with him on the podcast Conan O'Brien Needs a Fan . Sometimes the visits seem like a surprise — he catches one aspiring Norwegian rapper in shorts and Crocs after popping up on his doorstep — and others seem a bit more planned, including his visit to a radio show with about four listeners in Buenos Aires.

Each episode begins with a solemn monologue which sounds like it is delivered by the film world's most eccentric voice, German filmmaker and actor Werner Herzog (he's not credited in the show and when asked, a publicist at Max shared a quote from O'Brien: "I can neither confirm nor deny the voice in question.")

The torturous accent by "Herzog" makes every line sound absurdly hilarious, describing O'Brien as "the defiler ... with dull, tiny eyes ... the eyes of a crudely painted doll ... he scavenges in distant lands, uninvited, fueled by a bottomless hunger for recognition and the occasional selfie."

Now that's smart. And oh so stupid.

A funhouse mirror version of a travel show

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway Conaco/Max hide caption

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway

Fans of O'Brien's Conan Without Borders specials on TBS already know what his style is when he tackles a travel show — throwing himself into outrageous reactions and situations while working his quirky brand of improvised conversations with hapless bystanders.

In the Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , that includes O'Brien offering screechy vocals onstage during a performance of a Norwegian emo/rap band. Or asking provocative questions of a couple therapist/sex expert. Or getting beat up in a "fight" with a 10-year-old boy in a bar.

It's all an excuse for O'Brien to unleash his energetic wit, taste for silly absurdity and skill at drawing laughs from sympathetic — if often befuddled — strangers. Whether you enjoy this special will depend on how you feel about O'Brien's style, which can feel a bit like the world's best class clown doing everything possible to make you crack a smile.

(Rent a family in Norway so they can say goodbye when he gets on a SeaCraft? Check. Get local artists to paint a mural of O'Brien, a soccer star and The Pope on the side of a building in Argentina? Double check.)

'Conan O'Brien Needs A Friend' Is A Joke Name For A Podcast — Sort Of

But what amazes in a larger sense is how O'Brien has turned his sensibility into a comedy brand to fuel work on many different platforms. And, at age 60, with more than 30 years as a comedy star, he's been released from the shackles of any genre to shine wherever he chooses — whether it's an episode of Hot Ones or a streaming service which sometimes looks like a collision between True Detective and 90 Day Fiancé .

Leaving late night TV as late night left him

I'm old enough that I started covering TV not long after O'Brien made his first move from the shadows of life as a comedy writer – he worked on Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons — to succeed David Letterman in 1993 as host of NBC's show Late Night (now hosted by Seth Meyers). Back then, NBC gave O'Brien years to figure out the show, honing his smartly serious comedy in a way that would inspire then-teenage fans like Seth Rogen and Bill Hader .

O'Brien left NBC after a disastrous deal where the network tried to make him host of its venerated late night program The Tonight Show and also keep its former host Jay Leno at the network. He moved to a late night show on TBS in 2010, but even then, there was a sense that his creativity was a bit hemmed in by the format.

After 28 Quirky Years, Conan O'Brien Is Leaving Late Night

By the time he left his TBS show Conan for good, it seemed O'Brien was already caught in a trend which would hobble other late night shows — as young viewers consumed his content online and ratings on cable dropped.

Now, with a podcast and digital media company worth many millions and growing status as a TV comedy legend still willing to do almost anything for a laugh, O'Brien is proving there is a successful life beyond late night.

Particularly, if you have the talent to play the fool while leaving little doubt you're also the smartest person in the room.

The Best TV Shows of 2024 (So Far)

From Shōgun to Feud: Capote vs. the Swans, here's all the television we've loved this year.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The 2024 television landscape is shaping up to be a strong one.

Here, Town & Country editors share their picks for best television of 2024 (so far):

Feud: Capote vs. the Swans

La Côte Basque might no longer exist, but early this year the defunct New York destination for the one percent to pick at their very expensive lunches just might have been the most talked-about restaurant in town. That’s because it was ground zero for Feud: Capote vs. the Swans , the Ryan Murphy-produced series about Truman Capote’s legendary fallout with his squad— Babe Paley , C.Z. Guest , and Slim Keith —over his decision to thinly veil their secrets and publish them in a story in Esquire . The swans did not, to put it mildly, take this betrayal well. Murphy’s series employs a murderer’s row of marvelous actors, including Tom Hollander, Naomi Watts , Chloë Sevigny, Demi Moore , Molly Ringwald , among others, to portray Capote and his cohort at their best (and, more deliciously, their worst) and went all out on the design (by Mark Ricker), costumes (Lou Eyrich, with a Black-and-White-Ball assist from Zac Posen ), and over-the-top drama. Is it historically accurate? Maybe not entirely, but it’s a compelling, unforgettable document of a bygone era that in many ways predicted problems of our own. Above all, it captures an iconic moment in American history with care, humor, and plenty of sour grapes, leaving a glamorous trail of breadcrumbs for the next generations. — Adam Rathe , Deputy Features Editor

Shōgun , FX's period drama set in feudal Japan, is perhaps the only show in the post- Game of Thrones era that has actually lived up to the historical epic hype. Adapted from James Clavell's bestselling novel , the ten-part miniseries is a riveting, multilayered tale that deftly balances political intrigue, romance, and historical drama, and unlike the aforementioned Thrones , the violence never feels gratuitous, but rather, always key to the plot. Anchored by its three leads, Hiroyuki Sanada, Cosmo Jarvis, and Anna Sawai , Shōgun doesn't feels unwieldy, despite the many storylines, and though it is nearly entirely told in Japanese , English-language audiences will hardly notice. To put it simply: Shōgun is by far and away one of the best book-to-TV adaptations I've ever seen. — Emily Burack , Senior News Editor

Watch on Hulu

Mr. & Mrs. Smith

a man and woman standing next to each other and looking at each other

Mr. & Mrs. Smith , the TV show, doesn't share much with the 2005 film of the same name—and honestly, that's a good thing. Donald Glover and Maya Erskine play married spies, yes, but for the majority of the series (no spoilers!, they're working on the same team. Glover and Erskine shine as the titular Smiths, navigating a modern-day relationship while the espionage and world travel provide a nice backdrop. Now we're anxiously waiting to find out if Mr. & Mrs. Smith was renewed for a second season because OMG, that cliffhanger. — Emily Burack, Senior News Editor

Watch on Prime Video

Mary & George

Starz's latest period drama, Mary & George , tells the little-known story of Mary Villiers (Julianne Moore) and her scheme to gain power in court through her son ( Nicholas Galitzine )'s seduction of King James I ( Tony Curran ). It's sexy and it's fun, with gorgeous costumes and sets. Perhaps Galitzine summarized it best: "To see a really fun side of history—debaucherous, in some capacity—it's so watchable. What's not to like about it?" — Emily Burack, Senior News Editor

Watch on Starz

Based on Patricia Highsmith’s Tom Ripley novels (this season pulls from The Talented Mr. Ripley , though there are seeds of other stories woven in) Netflix’s adaptation unfolds the story of the iconic con artist’s criminal path with quintessential Italian glamour. Shot entirely in black and white , it brings not only the look but the atmosphere of mid-century Italian cinema, buoyed by a standout performance from Andrew Scott, who manages to find the broken core of the show’s titular grifter and turns what could feel like pastiche into an entirely fresh take on a well-known tale. – Lauren Hubbard , Contributor

Whatever you thought you know about the assassination of Abraham Lincoln , think again. Apple TV+'s Manhunt , with its stacked cast (standout performances include Tobias Menzies as Secretary of War Edwin Stanton and Anthony Boyle as John Wilkes Booth) is more than a history lesson; it's a fast-paced crime thriller, and one that feels especially timely in 2024. "Overall it's very soothing to watch history and realize, 'oh, we were always on the brink,'" Patton Oswalt , who plays Lafayette Baker, told T&C . "We're living in a scary moment, but we're not living in a unique moment. We have teetered over the abyss, sometimes way farther than we're teetering right now." — Emily Burack, Senior News Editor

Watch on Apple TV+

Sometimes when a new show is so good, it’s hard not to worry that a sophomore season just won’t live up to the first. Tokyo Vice doesn’t have that problem. If its excellent first season introduced us to Tokyo’s glamorously seedy criminal underground, season 2 dives even deeper into this fascinating world. And though this is still very much a show about the Succession -esque machinations taking place among warring yakuza, season 2 has widened the orbit to reveal more of this complex metropolis—and its various inhabitants—in its characteristically nuanced way. — Leena Kim , Editor

Watch on Max

3 Body Problem

This eight episode Netflix series (a second season has yet to be confirmed) is an adaptation of the Hugo Award–winning novel by Chinese author Liu Cixin that skillfully touches on beloved sci-fi tropes. There are unseen, menacing aliens, brilliant-but-flawed scientists/heroes, less-brilliant-and-extremely-flawed apparatchiks, and, of course, time travel. Created by David Benioff and D. B. Weiss, of Game of Thrones fame, and Alexander Woo, the show offers a generous mix of action and somewhat plausible plot twists. The most engaging parts, as is often the case with sci-if, come when the show’s unlikely, everyday heroes face all of the above. — Norman Vanamee , Articles Director

Watch on Netflix

The Gentleman

Though it shares both a name and an underlying concept with Guy Ritchie’s 2019 film, the creator’s Netflix series offers an entirely new perspective on the story, focusing on Eddie (Sanditon’s Theo James), the second son of a Duke who unexpectedly finds himself inheriting the family title and lands… and the illegal cannabis operation secretly running on them. Eddie tries to disentangle his family from their criminal ties with the “help” of his ne’re-do-well brother Freddy (Daniel Ings), his no-nonsense gangster counterpart Susie ( Kaya Scodelario ), and an ever-growing cast of wild and quirky characters worthy of any Ritchie joint—but of course, nothing’s that easy. There’s almost never a moment in the show’s fast-talking, bullet-flying, double-dealing eight episodes where the ante isn’t being upped, giving the series an addictively “let’s just watch one more” quality; perfect for your next big binge. No wonder so many fans are already clamoring for a season 2 . — Lauren Hubbard, Contributor

True Detective: Night Country

Anthology series True Detective returned again this year to make us question our Alaskan travel plans. Set in small town during the region’s annual stretch of endless night, this season melds corporate corruption and supernatural dread for a mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat—and sometimes jumping out of it. At the core of it all are the spectacular performances by Jodie Foster and Kali Reis, who play True Detective’s signature quarrelsome cops with a stunning mix of charm and gravitas. — Lauren Hubbard, Contributor

Colin Farrell plays John Sugar, a bespoke suit–wearing, good guy private detective in Apple TV+’s smart new crime series set in Los Angeles. It is equal parts tribute to great film noir of the past and lovely reimagining of the hard-boiled-sleuth archetype. There is a terrific supporting cast, including James Cromwell as a Hollywood producer searching for his missing granddaughter, Amy Ryan as a recovering addict former rock star, and Kirby Howell-Baptiste as Sugar’s mysterious partner/handler. And, just when the plot threatens to become too familiar, there’s a twist. — Norman Vanamee, Articles Director

The Reluctant Traveler

Season 2 of Eugene Levy's Apple TV+ travel show sees him travel around Europe to off-the-beaten path destinations. ( Here's where he stayed .) "I really do love the show for a number of reasons," Levy told T&C . "At this point in my life it's actually doing good things for me to just have the experience, just do it, and then decide, do you like it? Do I not like it? But you can't just make up your mind without having done it, you know? So that's a good thing for me." It's a joy to watch Levy push himself outside of his comfort zone; here's hoping there are many more seasons to come in the future. — Emily Burack, Senior News Editor

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} Television @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

Mayor of Kingstown Season 3 is Coming in June

Everything We Know About 'My Lady Jane'

wednesday jenna ortega as wednesday addams in episode 102 of wednesday cr vlad ciopleanetflix © 2022

Everything We Know About Wednesday S2

Severance Season 2 Details

cosmo jarvis as john blackthorne cr kurt iswarienkofx

Is 'Shōgun' Returning for a Second Season?

Nicola Coughlan & Luke Newton at S3 Premiere

Maya Rudolph Is TV's Most Flamboyant Billionaire

jean smart and hannah eindbinder start in ‘hacks’ season 2 for hbo max photos by karen ballard

Hacks to Return for Season 3

Watch the Trailer for 'A Man in Full'

'Mary & George' Cast vs. Real-Life Counterparts

Dickie Greenleaf: Forever Menswear Icon

Best Places to Travel Solo | Money

Traveling exposes us to new places, cultures and people. For many, it’s one of the great joys of life. If you’re an independent spirit looking for safe places to travel by yourself, our guide can be an excellent place to start your research.

Keep reading to learn about our top picks for the best places to travel alone and how to make the most of your trip.

Our Top Picks for Best Places to Travel Solo

Barcelona, Spain: Best for first-time solo travelers
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Best for solo backpacking
Montreal, Canada: Best for solo female travelers
Chicago, Illinois: Best for going on solo travel tours
Ljubljana, Slovenia: Best budget solo travel destination

Best Places to Travel Solo Reviews

Best for first-time solo travelers: barcelona, spain.

Offers many travel experiences in a single city
Easy to get around town without a car
Year-round good weather means you can visit in any season
More expensive than other options on our list
Can get very busy during popular travel times

Why we chose it : Barcelona is a beautiful and historic European city with something for everyone to enjoy. It boasts stunning gothic architecture, sandy beaches, a bustling nightlife and prices that will help you stretch your budget.

Spain is considerably affordable compared to other European countries, and Barcelona is its crown jewel. The city has roots tracing back to the end of the 1st century BCE and beautiful architecture throughout its winding streets, such as Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and his world-famous unfinished church, La Sagrada Familia.

If you tire of exploring Barcelona’s impressive history, gorgeous Barceloneta Beach is just a few minutes away from the city center. And at night, you’ll find plenty of entertainment options, from rooftop bars and clubs to concert venues and flamenco shows.

Barcelona is excellent for first-time solo travelers because its compact layout, wide sidewalks and excellent public transportation makes getting around town without a car a breeze. U.S. travelers can also visit for up to 90 days without a visa . However, Barcelona is more expensive than other options on our list and can be very busy during popular travel times.

Best for solo backpacking: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Very affordable accommodations, food and attractions
Is easy to navigate, with a developed transportation system
Has a vibrant expat community
U.S. citizens need a tourist visa to visit Vietnam

Why we chose it : Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling and affordable city that offers a wide range of attractions for solo travelers, from inexpensive food and accommodations to an abundance of cultural and historical sites.

Visiting Ho Chi Minh City has become something of a bucket-list item for many backpackers. Its vibrant culture, friendly people and amazing food attract millions of tourists annually. And it’s also one of Vietnam’s safest cities .

Try some of the mouth-watering street food available in pretty much every corner of the city (especially Districts 1, 3 and 5), do some shopping at the Ben Thanh Market, visit the Notre Dame Cathedral or book a tour of the Mekong Delta to learn more about the local flora and fauna.

Getting around is also pretty easy, with many transportation options, from the new metro to buses, taxis and motorbikes. However, one thing to keep in mind is that U.S. citizens need to apply for a Visa before they can be granted entry into Vietnam.

Best for solo female travelers: Montreal, Canada

Very safe and walkable city
Visitors can stay for up to six months without a Visa
Toronto is only five hours away by direct train
Not a great option for budget travelers
The winter weather can be harsh

Why we chose it : Montreal is one of the safest cities in Canada, and it is only a short flight away for travelers from the U.S. The city has a vibrant art scene, a diverse population and plenty of old-world charm with its mix of classic and modern architecture.

Traveling solo as a woman might cause your loved ones some anxiety. But Montreal is a great place for women to travel alone. The city is safe and offers much to do, from beautiful architecture, such as Notre-Dame Basilica, to artisanal shopping in Old Montreal. And while the population is predominantly French-speaking, many residents also speak English, so you should have no problem communicating.

Visitors from the United States can stay in Montreal for up to six months without a visa. It’s also a good point of departure for exploring the rest of Canada. Trains depart for Toronto several times a day, and the trip is about five hours.

Accommodations in Montreal can be more expensive than in other international destinations, but enrolling in the best hotel rewards programs may help.

Best for going on solo travel tours: Chicago, Illinois

You can find many different types of guided tours
Has an excellent public transportation system
One of the best culinary destinations in the U.S.
Weather can be unpleasant if you visit at the wrong time

Why we chose it : Chicago is home to some of the best travel tours in the country. From river cruises to walking food and drink excursions, you’ll have no problem filling your time in the Windy City.

Chicago is one of the best places to travel in the U.S. It’s home to a wide variety of guided tours, covering everything from the city’s mob history to its architecture and natural landmarks. And if you love Chicago dogs or deep-dish pizza, you can take a walking food tour to enjoy some of the city’s best restaurants in a single day.

Chicago is also home to inspiring architecture, such as Willis Tower and Cloud Gate in Millennium Park. The city is a more affordable place to visit than other U.S. cities of its size, including San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York. And if you visit in summer, you’ll have perfect weather for relaxing on the beaches of Lake Michigan, located in the heart of the city.

Depending on what you’re looking for, visiting the city between May and October could be your best bet, as winters can be very cold, with average temperatures ranging between 22 F and 37 F.

Best budget solo travel destination: Ljubljana, Slovenia

A highly affordable travel destination
Easy entrance requirements for U.S. citizens
Classic European architecture and dining options
Plenty of green spaces to lounge and relax
Doesn't have a strong nightlife culture
Crowds can be overwhelming during peak travel seasons

Why we chose it : Slovenia is one of the most affordable European countries, and Ljubljana is one of the country’s most beautiful destinations. It’s home to classic European cobblestone streets and its stunning architecture and exhibits can keep you busy for weeks without breaking your budget.

Ljubljana is an affordable European destination with beautiful green spaces and incredible architecture, including the Ljubljana Castle and the Robba Fountain. It’s also highly walkable and pedestrian-friendly, as car traffic is banned in the city center.

Hotels are cheaper here than in more popular destinations such as France or Italy, which is a big reason why Ljubljana is one of the best international places to travel . There are also many great affordable restaurants and open-air cafes.

U.S. citizens can remain in Slovenia for up to 90 days without a visa, making it easy to extend their stay with the money they save.

However, Ljubljana is not known for its nightlife, as many bars close earlier than elsewhere in Europe. Plus, it has become more popular in recent years, and crowds are abundant during peak seasons, especially the summer.

Other places to travel solo we considered

We compiled our list of the best places to travel alone by evaluating global destinations based on safety, affordability, cultural and historical sites and convenience, among other factors.

Although the following destinations didn’t make it into our top list, they’re still worth considering as you plan your travels.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Close to beautiful natural landmarks
It's possible to see the Northern Lights when conditions allow
Home to many museums and several Michelin-starred restaurants
More expensive than other popular travel destinations
The region's weather can be bleak
Long periods of darkness and sunlight can interfere with your sleep schedule

Reykjavik is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with stunning mountains and beaches everywhere you look. However, it’s an expensive destination and experiences prolonged periods of darkness and sunlight that may be difficult to adjust to.

Some of the best food in South America
Miles of beautiful coastline to explore
Friendly locals - many of whom speak at least some English
Travelers can suffer from altitude sickness in some popular attractions
The city is sprawling, which can increase travel times and make traffic worse

Lima is a beautiful South American destination with picturesque beaches and affordable accommodations. It’s also a foodie’s dream, with a wide variety of tasty local and international restaurants available at budget-friendly prices.

Just remember that traffic congestions are common and can make it hard to get around. Additionally, some travelers may experience altitude sickness in high-altitude locations like Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Knoxville, Tennessee

Has beautiful outdoor settings
Minimal traffic
Moderate prices for accommodations
There isn't as much to do in Knoxville as in other travel destinations
Public transportation options are limited

Knoxville is the third-largest city in Tennessee, but it maintains a small-town feel. It’s home to beautiful attractions, such as the Great Smoky Mountains and the World’s Fair Park, and has enough cultural exhibits and museums to keep you busy.

Nevertheless, there isn’t quite as much to do here as in other cities, and public transportation is comparatively limited.

Places to Travel Solo Guide

Traveling alone can be intimidating, but a little preparation can go a long way. This guide covers some of the best travel tips to help you plan your next solo trip.

Why travel solo?

As with everything, there are pros and cons to traveling alone.

Some of the benefits of solo travel include:

The ability to plan trips according to your schedule
Paying less for dining and experiences
Stepping out of your comfort zone and getting to know yourself better
Having more time to reflect and relax in peace

Of course, to enjoy your solo vacation to the fullest, practice general safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, do some proper research before visiting new places and consider hiring a guide if you’re doing outdoor activities in remote locations.

How to travel alone

Traveling alone can be a wonderful experience. But it often requires more planning and initiative than group trips. The following tips for traveling alone should help you make the most of your next solo trip.

Research your travel destination extensively

The more research you do before visiting a destination, the more prepared you will be to enjoy it. Pay close attention to the following:

Climate : Be aware of the weather conditions at your destination to avoid potential hazards, pack the right gear and plan appropriate activities.
Top attractions : Plan your itinerary by mapping out the attractions you want to visit and checking their distance from your accommodations. This will help you create a realistic schedule and determine if you need to book transportation for any day trips.
Cost : Consider the average cost of accommodations, meals and attractions to create a realistic budget.
Public transportation : This is an important consideration, as visiting a destination with insufficient or unreliable public transportation translates into additional expenses.
Language barrier : Consider downloading translation apps or learning basic phrases in your destination’s native language if English isn’t widely spoken there.
Food : If you have any dietary restrictions, check the availability of suitable food options at your destination and plan your meals.

Stay connected with your friends and family

When traveling alone, keep your loved ones informed of where you’ll be and what you’ll be doing. That way, your family can call for help if they don’t hear back from you in a reasonable timeframe.

Depending on your destination, you may consider purchasing an international SIM card or an international phone plan with your existing carrier to text and call your people back home.

Finally, you can register your trip with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) through the U.S. State Department. STEP is a free service that allows you to receive automatic safety and travel updates from the U.S. embassy in the country you’re visiting. It also makes it easier for friends and family to reach you in an emergency.

Consider travel insurance

If you’ve spent quite a bit of money on non-refundable travel expenses and it hasn’t been that long since you made your initial trip deposit, consider travel insurance to safeguard your investment. A travel insurance policy can help you recoup a portion of pre-paid travel expenses if you cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason.

Travel medical insurance could also be worthwhile if you’re going on an extended trip, as it would cover some of your medical expenses in an emergency, including medical evacuation and repatriation. And some plans even include additional services like language support, which could be helpful if English isn’t widely spoken where you’re visiting.

If this sounds like something you’re interested in, check out our guide to the best travel insurance companies .

Try new things

Now that we’ve covered some of the most important things to do before leaving for a solo trip, let’s explore how to get as much enjoyment out of your travels as possible while you’re there. The best advice we can give you is to get out of your comfort zone and try new things.

If you genuinely want to experience everything other cultures have to offer, you can’t spend your days doing the same things you do at home. So take a chance and live as the locals do. You’ll be happy you did.

Interact with the locals

The best way to forget you’re traveling alone is to befriend the locals. Your new friends can keep you company, guide you to the best places in town (the ones that aren’t in any tourist guides) and help to make your trip more enjoyable overall.

Meeting locals is much easier to do now than before the Internet. A wide variety of online resources can connect you to local events and groups where you can meet people. Some of the best options for this include:

Facebook expat groups for the destination you’re visiting
The subreddit for your destination (such as r/Paris and r/Chicago)

Some professional and religious groups may have international meetups as well. This can be a fantastic way to meet locals with whom you already have something in common.

Take plenty of pictures (with you in them)

Last but not least, make sure you take plenty of pictures to share with your people back home. Landmarks can be great, but you should also be in some of the photos. Most people will happily snap pictures of you if you ask nicely.

What to do when traveling alone

Traveling alone can be one of the best experiences of your life or a challenge that quickly loses its appeal. To give yourself the best chance of having an ideal trip, remember the following strategies during your travels:

Be flexible : Flexibility is a must for solo travelers. You’ll have more fun if you take advantage of chance encounters and throw away your schedule when necessary.
Take group tours and classes : Just because you arrive at your destination alone doesn’t mean you must spend every minute there alone. Group tours and classes will help you meet people and give you a chance to socialize when you’re feeling lonely.
Stay in places that encourage talking : If you’re concerned about feeling lonely, consider staying at a hostel or bed and breakfast. Shared accommodations like these are more affordable than the best hotels and can be a great way to meet people.
Gather first-hand advice : You can use Reddit and other resources to read about the experiences other solo travelers have had at your destination. These firsthand accounts can alert you to problems you may not have considered otherwise and new opportunities for fun.
Sign up for free rewards programs : Airlines , hotel chains and third-party booking sites often have reward programs that help you save money if you’re a frequent traveler. You may also want to look into the best airline credit cards and best travel credit cards if you plan on traveling alone regularly.
Prioritize your safety : Traveling alone can make you a target, so prioritizing safety is important. Be proactive about telling others where you’ll be and take yourself out of situations you feel unsure about to enjoy your trip without incident.

Staying safe is a critical consideration for solo travelers. One way to do that is by avoiding reckless behavior, such as drinking excessively and venturing alone into places locals deem unsafe.

Take the time to thoroughly research your destination, share your travel plans with friends and family and prepare an emergency plan.

Finally, consider travel insurance. If something does happen while you’re traveling alone, it will provide financial support so you can go to the hospital without worrying about breaking your budget.

You could save up enough money to make the cost of travel insurance negligible by signing up for one of the best airline rewards programs .

Places to Travel Solo FAQ

What are the safest places to travel alone, is solo female travel safe, how old do you have to be to travel alone, how we chose the best places to travel solo.

We evaluated the best places to travel solo based on the following criteria:

Cost of accommodations, experiences and meals
Crime rates
Reviews and guides from experienced solo travelers
Natural and cultural attractions
Strictness of entry criteria

Summary of Money’s Best Places to Travel Solo

This article originally appeared on Money.com and may contain affiliate links for which Money receives compensation. Opinions expressed in this article are the author's alone, not those of a third-party entity, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed. Offers may be subject to change without notice. For more information, read Money’s full disclaimer .

Protect Your Trip »

The 5 best pigeon forge dinner shows of 2024 (+ local tips).

From friendly feuds to murder mysteries, explore the best supper shows in the Smokies.

The Best Pigeon Forge Dinner Shows

A family cheers in the stands while watching Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show in Pigeon Forge.

Courtesy of Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism

From magical theme parks like Anakeesta in Gatlinburg to scenic drives and hiking trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park , the Smokies create vacation memories worth savoring – and quite literally when it comes to Pigeon Forge dinner shows.

Catching a dinner show in the area means good laughs, powerful storytelling, entertaining competitions and fun for the whole family, all while enjoying a tasty Southern supper. Read on to discover the best dinner shows in Pigeon Forge, alongside tips from a local expert.

Best Overall
Best for Adults
Best for Families
Best Comedy
Best Murder Mystery

Best Overall: Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction

Performers of Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction hold flags while sitting on horses.

Courtesy of Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction

Price: From $59.99 Duration: 90 minutes Location: 3849 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

The range of acts at Dolly Parton's Stampede makes it an all-around great show. From arena-style seating, you'll enjoy friendly competition with fellow attendees on the opposite side of the venue – egged on by your show's host. Select guests even get to enter the arena for family fun and games: Kids chase chickens across a finish line, adults swing toilet seats like horseshoes, and one lucky individual gets shuffled around in a barrel as part of a magic trick.

Aside from the lighthearted activities, the show brings spectacular pyrotechnics, horse riding stunts, aerial acrobatics and animal appearances, including buffaloes and longhorns. Dolly fans will also enjoy original songs from the artist played during the performance. The entertainment is paired with a four-course feast of creamy vegetable soup, a homemade biscuit, a whole rotisserie chicken, hickory-smoked pork loin, corn on the cob, a baked potato and an apple turnover; for a drink, choose from unlimited soda, tea or coffee.

View & book tickets on:

Local tip: Have a Dollywood season pass? If so, make sure to take advantage of the deals and discounts it provides at other Pigeon Forge attractions, including Dolly Parton's Stampede. You can get a few dollars off adult tickets when you show your season pass.

Best for Adults: Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Supper Show

A performer of Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Supper Show stand on a platform and chops into a tree trunk.

Price: From $49.99 for adults Duration: 90 minutes Location: 2530 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

In summer 2023, the popular Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud joined the ranks of Pigeon Forge's dinner shows by adding a camp-style meal to the experience: a barbecue sandwich, coleslaw, baked beans, a cookie and a drink. As Pigeon Forge's only outdoor dinner show, Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud takes place rain or shine in climate-controlled grandstands. Audience members pick which family in the feud to root for (Team Dawson or Team McGraw), and then watch the show's competing lumberjacks undertake ax throwing, log sports and other physical challenges. In addition to splitting wood, the event promises "side-splitting" comedy.

You'll also have an option to combine your supper show ticket with access to the Lumberjack Feud Adventure Park. This adjacent theme park includes an 80-foot freefall jump, a high ropes course, logger-related sports and a zip line rollercoaster.

Local tip: If you're looking for another unique show in the area that adults will enjoy, consider checking out The Listening Room. Based on its sister location in Nashville, the venue hosts musicians who sing and tell the stories behind their music. While it's not a true dinner show – meaning your meal is not included with your ticket – audience members are encouraged to order from the restaurant's full menu and bar during the performance.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Best for Families: Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show

A performer in Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show stands on a ship on fire.

Courtesy of Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show

Price: From $59.99 Duration: 90 minutes Location: 2713 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Sea lions and tropical birds may not be what you first associate with the Smokies, but at the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, you'll see these creatures and more. Set in arena-style seating with full-sized pirate ships, the show follows the family-friendly stories of infamous pirate Blackbeard and his quartermaster, Calico Jack, leading the Crimson and Sapphire crews through adventures. You can expect to see high dives into deep water, acrobatic mermaids and performances reminiscent of Cirque du Soleil.

Center seats provide an excellent view. Sit in the lower levels, however, if you and the kiddos don't mind getting a little wet as part of the experience. Along with the entertainment, guests are served a four-course meal. Some of the feast's highlights include swashbucklin' sugar-cured ham, cracklin' pan-fried chicken, a buccaneer biscuit and a specialty dessert.

Local tip: The Pirates Voyage theater sits along the Pigeon Forge Riverwalk Greenway – a paved 4-mile path that follows the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River. The walkway runs from Patriot Park at its southern end (near popular restaurant The Old Mill) up to Old City Park. About halfway along the path, close to the theater, it passes The Island , a go-to spot for rides, shopping, lodging and dining. If you'd like to get some steps in, explore other stops in town and avoid post-show traffic, you'll find free parking at both ends of the greenway and at The Island for an easy stroll to the theater.

Best Comedy: Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud

A performer of Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud stands center stage with their arms raised.

Courtesy of Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud

Price: From $59.99 Duration: 90 minutes Location: 119 Music Road, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

The Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud promises feudin', feastin' and family fun, as it plays off the historical rivalry between two families. The show centers on a hillbilly theme, complete with a flying contraption deemed the "billycopter," as well as "divin' hillbillies and divin' dogs" in an onstage swimming hole. Your dinner servers remain in character as part of the show – offering up fresh roadkill opossum as an entree, for example – and may even surprise you at some point by taking a dive into the pool. In addition, you can expect lots of singing and dancing and plenty of jokes. This dinner show is all about its playful environment.

Rectangular tables with checkered tablecloths form rows of amphitheater seating where you can enjoy your meal and laughs with your party. This production differs from other dinner shows in the area where you sit in single-file rows to dine. The dinner show is also unique in that it offers an all-you-can-eat Southern-style meal, with favorites such as feudin' fried chicken, pulled-to-pieces pork barbecue, smashed mashed taters and coleslaw.

Local tip: If you're looking for laughs but don't need the full dinner service, check out Pigeon Forge's Comedy Barn Theater for clean humor that's suitable for the whole family. Additionally, if you're visiting Pigeon Forge during the holidays, note that the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud becomes the Christmas Disaster Dinner Feud for a seasonal spin on the same antics.

Best Murder Mystery: Great Smoky Mountain Murder Mystery Dinner Show

Price: From $53.84 for adults Duration: 2 to 3 hours Location: 2682 Teaster Lane, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

This interactive whodunit theater offers four different shows: Moonshine Murders, Who Shot the Sheriff, Marriage Can Be Murder and Killer Prom. Attendees can arrive a half-hour before the show's start time to fill out a clue packet while enjoying beverages and the meal's first soup course. After the show's first act, entrees are served, and then the second act begins. Guests then receive dessert before the third and final act reveals the story's murderer. The show takes place throughout the intimate dining room, making every seat a perfect choice.

The theater's menu offers special dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free meal options. Otherwise, every meal comes with a choice of three soups, country fried chicken, white pepper gravy, mashed potatoes, country-style green beans, a dinner roll and a choice of three cheesecake flavors. Soda, coffee and iced tea are included with the meal; beer and wine coolers are available for an additional cost.

Local tip: The Great Smoky Mountain Murder Mystery Dinner Show is located on Teaster Lane across from Pigeon Forge's Mountain Mile shopping, dining and entertainment development. Stop by before or after your show for a moonshine tasting at Junction 35 Spirits or a honey tasting at Savannah Bee Company.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Korrin Bishop , a contributor for the Travel section at U.S. News & World Report, called the Pigeon Forge area home for multiple years and set about exploring its many dining and entertainment attractions using a massive spreadsheet she created of adventure to-dos in the region. She continues to regularly visit the Smokies as a vacation destination. To curate this list, she used her own experience attending the shows and consulted with fellow locals and travelers about their takeaways, including some former dinner show performers. She also leveraged her research expertise and general knowledge of East Tennessee travel.

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

The Best Luggage Brands

Rachael Hood April 17, 2024

IMAGES

Breathtaking nature of Vietnam takes visitors on thrilling journey
17 of the Best Things To Do in Vietnam
15 Inspiring Things to Do in Vietnam
10 Best Vietnam Tours & Trips 2024
Vietnam travel 2022: Guide to the MOST memorable journey
Visit Ho Chi Minh City on a trip to Vietnam

VIDEO

The BEST Experience in Vietnam!
Top 10 Must-See Destinations in Vietnam
All about our Vietnam 🇻🇳 trip!
a week island hopping in Hoi An
Vietnam travel
Vietnam

COMMENTS

10 Documentaries To Watch Before Visiting Vietnam
PBS: The Vietnam War. This extensive PBS documentary is long but extraordinarily informative, exploring testimonies from veterans and witnesses on both sides. The 10-part series chronicles the entirety of the war from the end of French colonization to the fall of Saigon and took over a decade to create. It requires a time commitment but you ...
Vietnam
Sam ventures to Vietnam for the trip of a lifetime in one of the most intoxicating places on Earth. Here, she gears up for a trip full of adventure, compelling history, delectable cuisine and fascinating culture. ... The Visitors Reveals the Horrors of Alien Abduction from Best-Selling Author Whitley Strieber in Terrifying New Doc Sep 3 ...
Top 5 Vietnamese Cultural Shows & Performances
Here are the top 5 Vietnamese cultural shows and performances that you should not miss in your Vietnam tours as below: 1/ Traditional Vietnamese Water puppet. Legend has it that, from about 1000 years ago this performance was inspired from the common life of peasants in Northern Vietnam. The stage has a frugal appearance in the middle of a ...
Must-see Vietnam Cultural Show on your upcoming trip
Best Vietnam cultural shows to add to your itinerary. If you're fortunate enough to be in Vietnam, you're in for a treat as the country is brimming with exceptional Vietnam cultural shows, spotlighting the pinnacle of Vietnamese music and dance. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or new to this enchanting land, delving into the unique ...
Must-See Cultural Shows in Vietnam
Show Details: Show Time: 08:00 PM - 09:00 PM. Location: Hoi An Impression Theme Park - 200 Nguyen Tri Phuong, Cam Nam, Hoi An, Quang Nam Province . Vietnam's cultural shows are a testament to the nation's rich and diverse heritage. Each performance weaves a narrative that traverses time, offering a unique perspective on Vietnam's past, present ...
2 Best Cultural Shows You Should Watch When Visiting Vietnam
The show also established two records recognized by Guinness Vietnam: "The Largest Water Stage Show in Vietnam" and "The Show with the Highest Number of Farmer Performers in Vietnam." Due to its nature as a cultural tourism product, the show has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in temporary suspensions of performances.
A guide to visiting Vietnam for the first time
There's a lot to love about travelling in Vietnam, which stretches from the soaring mountains and fascinating ethnic groups of the north to the endless rice paddies and vibrant waterways of the Mekong Delta in the south, with more than 3000km of glorious coastline in between. Throw in a good transport infrastructure of buses, trains and flights ...
Top Vietnamese Cultural Shows And Performances
Address: 57B Dinh Tien Hoang street, Hang Bac Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. Time: Usually 4 daily shows in late afternoon and evening. Price: Around $6. Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater. Address: 55B Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh. Time: Usually 2 daily shows in late afternoon and evening.
Vietnam after dark: Top 6 cultural shows
At the end, the most popular feeling of the audience is that we all wish it would last like 6 hours rather than 60 minutes. Time: 18:00 - 19:00. Place: Hanoi Vietnam Tuong Theater - 51A Duong Thanh Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. Price Range: From $30 - $69. Ionah Show - T he Cirque du Soleil of Vietnam.
Trade Shows in Vietnam
Vietnam trade shows, find and compare 552 expos, trade fairs and exhibitions to go in Vietnam - Reviews, Ratings, Timings, Entry Ticket Fees, Schedule, Calendar, Venue, Editions, Visitors Profile, Exhibitor Information etc. Listing of 220 upcoming expos in 2024-2025 1. Global Sourcing Fair Vietnam, 2. Mining Vietnam, 3. From Language Training to Professional Training: New Teaching Approaches ...
Cultural Shows Worth Seeing in Vietnam
Hoi An Memories. Part of the Hoi An Impression Theme Park, Hoi An Memories is a large-scale open-air show - the largest in Vietnam. This vast staging includes rocky landscapes and watery expanses and has a cast of over 500 actors. The producers have invested heavily in lighting and sound technologies, which shows in the quality of the production.
The 21 Best TV Series About the Vietnam War
Tour of Duty, CBS (1987 - 1990) Tour of Duty is an Emmy award-winning military drama that shows the American involvement in the Vietnam War as they supported the south of the country. In fact, it is one of the first TV shows to show American soldiers in combat regularly. The series follows an infantry platoon as they're on a tour of duty.
The Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Vietnam, According to Experts
Here's a regional breakdown of the primary tourist seasons in Vietnam: High Seasons: North: September to November, March and April; Central: April to August; South: October to April. Shoulder ...
The 5 Best Vietnam Episodes Of The 'Best Ever Food Review Show' In 2021
We picked out our top 5 favorite Vietnam episodes from one of YouTube's most well-loved food vlogs, the Best Ever Food Review Show. Agnes Alpuerto. Sonny Side calls Vietnam his home, and it's evident in the more than 130 vlogs he's filmed in the country. Since Anthony Bourdain, perhaps no foreigner has brought as much global attention to ...
Top 5 Must-see Cultural Shows in Vietnam
1.Traditional Vietnamese Water puppet in Hanoi. The show was inspired by the common life of peasants in Northern Vietnam from 11th Century. Therefore, the concept based on the heart of rural Vietnamese activities such as fishing, agriculture, and traditional tales and stories. Watching these plays, you will not only be able to witness people ...
10 of the best places to visit in Vietnam
10. Ha Giang. Best for mountain views. Trekking to the minority villages in the hills around Sapa is one of Vietnam's top draws, but the country's trekking capital feels rather commercialized these days. Hikers have to walk further every year to find the rural idyll that first drew people to the northwest.
TRAVEL to VIETNAM
The weather gets really cold from December to March and is not suited for hiking or sailing a junk boat in Halong Bay that time of year. Central Vietnam - The best months for travel to Central Vietnam are January to June. There are heavy rains in October and November and the really hot months are from May to August.
The 14 Best Travel TV Series to Watch On Demand
What you'll watch: It topped the list for best TV show at our 2020 Reader Travel Awards, but if you haven't yet seen The Americas with Simon Reeve, put it straight on top of your must-watch list. And when you've binged on his journeys hiking through the Rocky Mountains, hanging out with the US Border Patrol in Texas and discovering a tropical paradise in Costa Rica, you can turn to his ...
The 20 Best Travel Shows on Netflix to Watch in 2024
Katla. This travel series focuses on Iceland, specifically the volcano Katla, which began constantly erupting just recently. The show has eight episodes and does a wonderful job portraying Iceland's breathtaking beauty. Katla serves as a great reminder of all that we still don't know about the earth.
Vietnam Vacation Destinations, Ideas and Guides
Shows. Main; Program Guide; Watch Live; Shows. Ghost Adventures; Ghost Hunters; Ghost Brothers; ... Sam's Travel Tips: Vietnam 01:33. Vietnamese Spicy Tuna Salad ... The 10 Best 2019 Budget Travel Destinations 10 Photos By: Meredith Rosenberg. Here's Why Kosovo is the ...
How the Vietnamese community is reacting to HBO's 'The Sympathizer
Hoa Xuande in the closing scenes of Episode 1 of "The Sympathizer." The series and how it depicts the Vietnam War have been a topic of discussion in California's Vietnamese community.
The 8 Best Travel Shows (To Binge When You Can't Travel)
3. Long Way Round. This one is many years old now, but it's a timeless classic. In Long Way Round, Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman decide on a lark to ride their motorbikes from London all the way around the world through Europe, Russia, Mongolia, crossing the Bering strait and through Canada and the US.
Best of Vietnam
Hoi An - Private Hoi An: Boat & Bike with Local Dinner Experience Urban Adventure - USD85. Hoi An - Food Adventure Urban Adventure - USD44. Hoi An - Private Hoi An: My Son Discovery - USD77. Hanoi - Fine Arts Museum - VND30000. Hanoi - Hoa Lo 'Hanoi Hilton' Prison - VND50000. Hanoi - Temple of Literature - VND70000.
'Conan O'Brien Must Go' review: The Max travel show proves life after
Each episode begins with a solemn monologue which sounds like it is delivered by the film world's most eccentric voice, German filmmaker and actor Werner Herzog (he's not credited in the show and ...
The Best TV Shows of 2024
Mr. & Mrs. Smith, the TV show, doesn't share much with the 2005 film of the same name—and honestly, that's a good thing.Donald Glover and Maya Erskine play married spies, yes, but for the ...
Best Places to Travel Solo
Barcelona, Spain: Best for first-time solo travelers Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Best for solo backpacking Montreal, Canada: Best for solo female travelers Chicago, Illinois: Best for going on solo ...
5 Best Pigeon Forge Dinner Shows of 2024 (+ Local Tips)
In summer 2023, the popular Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud joined the ranks of Pigeon Forge's dinner shows by adding a camp-style meal to the experience: a barbecue sandwich, coleslaw, baked beans ...