This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here.

Revolutionize Your Ride for Effortless Adventures

In the world of adventure cycling, the right gear can make or break your experience. As avid cyclists ourselves, we at My Five Acres know that maintaining the perfect tire pressure can be a game-changer. Whether you’re prepping for a long-distance tour or just heading out for a weekend ride, having a reliable bike pump is essential. Enter the latest innovation: The Cycplus AS2 Pro Max bike pump.

This compact and lightweight pump is designed to quickly and efficiently inflate your bike’s tires. It combines cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design to ensure your tires are always perfectly inflated, giving you the freedom to ride with confidence and ease.

Embrace Simplicity and Precision

Perfect tire pressure makes your ride oh so much better. Riding on rough rocky roads? Lower your PSI. Flying down a smooth as silk newly paved road? Increase your PSI so you feel like you’re flying! With it clear LED screen and simple-to-use buttons you can easily adjust your tires on the go with the digital Cycplus bike pump.

The pump can reach a maximum of 120 PSI, and is easily adjustable with an integrated +/-1 PSI high-precision gauge. As if by magic the pump stops pumping when your preset pressure is reached, and it displays real-time inflation levels as it works.

Roadside Attraction

We’ve all been there: crouched on the side of the road, struggling with a traditional pump and squinting at an analog gauge, while a crowd of locals appear out of nowhere to watch you work away. The AS2 Pro Max digital bike pump changes all that! With its clear digital display, you can easily set your desired pressure and watch as the pump does the rest. No more guesswork or manual adjustments – just accurate inflation every time. And in case your our cycling with a friend who has a different set-up, the pump has easy switching between Presta and Schrader valves too!

Our Test Ride: The Cycplus AS2 Pro Max

We recently had the chance to put the tiny AS2 Pro Max pump to the test, and it did not disappoint. This little powerhouse is not just about being digital; it’s about delivering top-notch performance in a compact, easy-to-carry design.

The AS2 Pro Max can inflate tires up to 120 PSI in just 75 seconds, thanks to its upgraded brushless motor. That means less time pumping and more time riding! Plus it charges fully in 1 hour with a USB-C cable and lasts for roughly seven tires pumps before it will need recharging.

What really stood out during our testing was its one-press operation. All you have to do is set your desired pressure and the pump takes care of the rest, stopping automatically when your tires is fully pumped. The integrated +/-1 PSI high-precision gauge ensures your tires are always at the perfect pressure. Plus, the real-time LED display keeps you informed about the current pressure and remaining battery life, making the whole process straightforward and stress-free.

How we wish we had had this little powerful pump with us when we cycled around the world rather than an old-school bike pump!

︎ A Must-Have for All Cyclists

Whether you’re embarking on a cross-country tour or just commuting to work, the Cycplus AS2 Pro Max digital bike pump is a game-changer. Its compact and portable design means you can take it anywhere, ensuring you’re never left stranded with a flat tire. Plus, its intuitive operation makes it suitable for cyclists of all levels. From seasoned pros to weekend warriors, everyone can appreciate the convenience and reliability this pump offers.

︎ Efficiency Meets Durability

Built with high-quality materials, the Cycplus AS2 Pro Max is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use. Its powerful motor can quickly inflate even the toughest tires, saving you time and effort. And with a rechargeable battery, you can pump up your tires multiple times on a single charge, making it perfect for long trips where access to power might be limited.

︎ Not Your Momma’s Bike Pump

The AS2 Pro Max comes with additional features that make this bike pump even more essential for cyclists. It includes a splash-proof pouch for rainy rides, as well as a silicone insulation case to protect it if you drop it. It also comes with a unique nozzle design that allows for effortless switching between Presta and Schrader valves without the need for extra accessories. This versatility ensures you get the most out of your investment, making it an indispensable tool for any cyclist.

The Road Ahead

At My Five Acres, we understand the importance of reliable gear. Having cycled through 22 countries and experienced the challenges of bike touring firsthand, we know how crucial it is to have equipment that works when you need it most. The Cycplus AS2 Pro Max digital bike pump offers a blend of technology and practicality that enhances every ride.

So, if you’re ready to elevate your cycling experience, consider adding the Cycplus AS2 Pro Max bike pump to your toolkit. It’s not just about making your life easier – it’s about ensuring every adventure is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Embrace the future of cycling with this innovative tool and ride on with confidence and ease.

For more tips and gear recommendations, keep exploring My Five Acres, where we share our passion for travel, adventure, and the open road.

  Happy transformational travels, Jane & Stephen

The post The Ultimate Digital Bike Pump? appeared first on My Five Acres.

Some of our best and most memorable travel experiences have been on Canada’s West Coast. Read this post for all the West Coast Canada travel advice we’ve learned through our many years of living in and exploring this little slice of heaven!

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here.

Is there any place more beautiful than Canada’s West Coast?

If there is, I’ve never seen it.

I may be (slightly) biased, having spent my teens and 20s in Victoria and Vancouver before leaving for a life of global travel. Each time I return, my eyes hungrily gobble up the white peaks of the Coast Mountains, the haunting blue of the wild ocean, and the dense forests of evergreen trees.

Canada’s West Coast is the ideal destination for immersing in nature and getting active in the great outdoors. But it’s also great for history and culture, with much to absorb about the distinct cultures of the Indigenous people of the region, who have inhabited the area for thousands of years.

If it’s an exploration of local food and drink you’re after, West Coast cuisine won’t disappoint. It tends towards the fresh and light, drawing from a wide variety of local organic ingredients.

The food pairs perfectly with a craft beer or cider from one of the West Coast’s hundreds of breweries, or a bottle of crisp white wine from one of the regions many fine wineries.

Stephen and I have had so many transformational travel moments on the West Coast of Canada, we can’t wait to share them with you.

So if you’re planning a trip to BC’s West Coast, let’s jump in… you’re going to love it.

West Coast Canada Quick Facts

Best Places to Visit on Canada’s West Coast

Vancouver

It’s no secret that Vancouver is one of our favourite cities in the world!

On a sunny day, it is also one of the most beautiful. Wherever you go in the city, you’ll almost surely have a view of the snow-capped Coast Mountains or the inlets and harbours that make up Vancouver’s coastline. More often than not, you can see both at once.

Though Vancouver has plenty to offer for all kinds of travellers, our favourite activities here usually happen in the great outdoors.

While in Vancouver you can:

• Cycle the city’s many safe and accessible bike paths
• Kayak the Burrard Inlet
• Take a half-day bike tour
• People-watch and shop for local goods on Granville Island
• Hike or snowshoe in the spectacular provincial parks
• Go on a craft beer crawl in Vancouver’s East End
• Try nude sunbathing at Wreck Beach
• Catch a Shakespeare play at Bard on the Beach

Our Vancouver posts will give you more ideas and help you plan your Vancouver itinerary.

• Things to do in Vancouver BC – Our 17 Favourite Summer Activities
• 3 Vancouver Bike Routes for an Amazing Day
• 7 Fun & Free Things to do in Vancouver, BC

Whistler

For skiers from around the world, a visit to Whistler Blackcomb during the ski season is at the top of many bucket lists. But even if you’re not into skiing, or are visiting in summer, the resort, just a few hour’s drive from Vancouver, is like an outdoor playground.

Summer visitors have hundreds of hiking trails to choose from and there’s also mountain biking, zip lining, bear viewing, lakes and beaches, and plenty more. Whistler also has a wide range of spas and resorts, so if what you really need is some deep relaxation, you’ll find it there.

The Gulf Islands

A smattering of tiny islands that lie between BC’s West Coast and Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands have their own unique vibe.

Island life is a laid-back affair. Many Gulf Islanders earn their living creating art, writing books, or producing artisanal products. Others spend their days tending to small organic farms and orchards, or tending to the tourists who come to find their own sense of peace.

The Southern Gulf Islands are easily accessible by ferry from Victoria or Vancouver. The northern islands are a little harder to reach but deliver ample rewards to those of us who enjoy windswept beaches seemingly on the edge of the world.

In summer, the Gulf Islands offer up amazing opportunities for camping, kayaking, hiking, swimming, boating, and just enjoying the great outdoors.

If you go in spring, fall, or even winter, there’s still plenty to do, like shopping for local goods, relaxing in the spa, sampling the islands’ locally crafted beer and wine, or sitting fireside and sipping a cocktail!

Don’t miss our guide to transformational things to do on the Gulf Islands for more ideas. You can use our Gulf Islands accommodation guide to find the best places to stay.

The Sunshine Coast

Another groovy laid-back region just an hour from Vancouver, The Sunshine Coast is BC’s secret hideaway. Though it’s technically on the mainland, the only access to The Sunshine Coast is by ferry from Horseshoe Bay, on the edge of West Vancouver.

Whether you’re visiting in winter, summer, or somewhere in between, the Sunshine Coast gives you easy access to a slice of all the best things about BC — incredible nature, great food, tremendous craft beer, and the famous friendly Canadian culture!

We spent two weeks cycling The Sunshine Coast last year and wrote extensively about it. These posts will help you plan a transformational trip:

• 11 Transformational Things to do on the Sunshine Coast
• 9 Transformational Things to Do In Sechelt
• 9 Transformational Things to do in Gibsons
• 9 Transformational Things to do in Lund

Vancouver Island

Last summer, as part of our big BC bike trip, Stephen and I spent 6 weeks cycling Vancouver Island. We also lived there for a whole year in 2015 and I went to university in Victoria, on the southern tip of the island.

Suffice it to say, I have spent a lot of time exploring the West Coast’s big island. (Just for reference, Vancouver Island is about the same size as Taiwan or Belgium, but far less populous).

The most popular stop on Vancouver Island is the city of Victoria, BC’s capital. That’s why so many people mistakenly call it Victoria Island. There are week’s worth of attractions to explore in and around Victoria.

But we recommend saving some time to head north, or you’ll miss out on so much!

Make a stop in the fertile Cowichan Valley, where all of Vancouver Island’s wine and much of its food is produced. A little further north, you’ll get to the small cities of Chemainus, Ladysmith, Nanaimo, and Parksville, each offering their own unique flavours.

While in Nanaimo, make time for a whale watching tour!

Heading further north still, stop off to sample the craft beer scene in Courtney and Comox or, in winter, head to Mount Washington to ski.

Tofino is a tourist hotspot on Vancouver Island, attracting surfers from around the world. The north island is less visited but perfect for those who want to get away from people and spend some time alone in nature. The north island offers plenty of opportunities for boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

To help plan your trip, check out these posts:

• 11 of the Best Things to Do on Your Vancouver Island Holiday
• Camping on Vancouver Island – Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
• Best Campgrounds on Vancouver Island – The Ultimate Places to Sleep Under the Stars

Haida Gwaii

From Port Hardy on the north part of the island, you can take an overnight ferry to the remote archipelago of Haida Gwaii. This small string of islands is remote enough that we’ve not yet had a chance to visit!

Haida Gwaii is home to the Haida people and here you’ll find true wilderness – towering forests, isolated beaches, and abundant wildlife. It’s also the ideal place to learn about the history and modern struggles of the first people to inhabit these lands.

How Long Do You Need on the West Coast?

If you read the previous section, you’ll know that Canada’s West Coast is such a diverse region that it would take months and months to explore it properly. Unless you have all the time in the world, our suggested itineraries below will help you plan your BC trip.

4 or 5 days

With only a handful of days to explore, choose one of these options:

• Stay in Vancouver and spend at least one day in the nearby mountains.
• Stay in Victoria and plan for day trips from there.
• Stay in Whistler and ski or explore summertime activities.

7 to 10 days

With a week to 10 days, choose one of these options:

• Visit Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast.
• Visit Victoria and the Gulf Islands.
• Do a Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast loop, starting and ending in Vancouver.
• Visit Victoria and then head north on Vancouver Island to Tofino, stopping in some of the smaller communities along the way.

2 weeks or more

With 2 weeks or more, you can take a little more time with one of the suggested itineraries above. Or do one of these:

• Visit Vancouver, Victoria, and The Gulf Islands.
• Visit Vancouver, Whistler, and The Sunshine Coast.
• Explore Vancouver Island from bottom to top.
• Visit Vancouver Island and Haida Gwaii.

Best Time to Visit

Cost of Travel in BC

When it comes to travel budgets, Canada is a mid-range destination. It’s not as cheap as Southeast Asia and not as expensive as Western Europe or the US.

Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, and Tofino are more expensive than other areas of BC, so the more time you spend in these popular destinations, the more money you will need.

Here are some sample costs so you know what to expect.

Don’t forget to also include your plane ticket and travel insurance costs when working out your budget!

Accommodation

There is a wide range of accommodation in BC, from free campsites with pit toilets to 5-star luxury resorts nestled in the wilderness. Standard hotels tend to be quite expensive, so we prefer to stay in B&Bs, which are a friendly alternative. Airbnb is also a great source for less pricey accommodation in BC.

Prices for accommodation can vary depending on the season — summer is most expensive on the coast, winter is most expensive in the mountains. Cost also varies dramatically by location — you’ll pay more for hotels in Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, and Tofino than in other destinations.

Camping

Some of the best camping in the world can be had in BC, so if you’re a fan of the great outdoors and not afraid of a little rain, plan to camp!

There is plenty of RV-friendly camping around but to get off the beaten track, pack your tent instead. That way you can take advantage of the free forestry campgrounds (especially plentiful on Vancouver Island) which tend to be at the end of dirt or gravel roads.

Of course, there are lots of fully serviced provincial campgrounds right off the highway, if your vehicle can’t take the back roads.

Be aware that in summer, especially on weekends, campgrounds tend to fill up, so make a reservation if you plan to camp during busy times.

We wrote a complete guide to camping on Vancouver Island and a guide to our favourite campgrounds on Vancouver Island. Make sure to read those before you go!

Hostels

If you’ve done any hosteling in Europe or Southeast Asia, you may be used to a better quality of hostel than you’ll find in BC. While I’ll happily hostel when travelling solo on other continents, in the Pacific Northwest, I tend to skip hostels and look for a B&B instead.

Hostels on the Pacific coast tend to be cheap and cheerful. Welcoming, for sure, but the buildings and the beds are often of the old and creaky variety.

Most hostels are aimed at the very young backpacker crowd, or the Jack Kerouac types, so if you are a little beyond that stage in life, they may not be your best option.

B&Bs

One of the most prevalent forms of accommodation in BC are B&Bs. In small towns and on islands, homeowners make their living or add to their incomes by opening their homes to tourists.

The B&Bs I’ve stayed in on the West Coast have been homey, cozy, and tremendously welcoming. In the best ones, it really is like staying with an old friend. Breakfasts are often sumptuous affairs that include local produce and baking.

If you’re travelling in BC on a mid-range budget and want to experience the warmth of a Canadian home, I highly recommend you look for a B&B.

For a slightly cheaper option, search Airbnb, where you’ll find nice rooms in friendly homes but breakfast is not usually included.

Hotels

Most hotels in BC’s cities are run by the big hotel chains and range from basic accommodation to luxury indulgence. Hotels in the province, especially in the south, don’t come cheap — $100/night is at the low end.

In smaller centres, boutique and family run hotels are more common. You’ll even find a few motels if you want the convenience of parking right outside your room!

Unique Accommodations

Coastal BC has a good selection of unique accommodations that defy categorization altogether.

Take, for example, Tzoonie Wilderness Resort outside Sechelt, where we stayed last summer. This rustic resort is only accessible by boat and is a magical, mystical place that we will never forget.

We also did some geodesic glamping on the Sunshine Coast at Backeddy Resort & Marina and a yurt in Pender Harbor. On the Gulf Islands, stay in a luxe airstream or cabin at Woods on Pender.

Eco-Luxury Resorts

There are some astonishingly beautiful resorts and eco lodges in equally beautiful settings on BC’s West Coast.

Nimmo Bay Resort is tucked away in the Great Bear Rainforest and accessible only by helicopter or float plane. Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, on the wild west coast of Vancouver Island, is not far from Tofino. In and around Whistler, you’ll find plenty of chi chi resorts to choose from.

Of course, this eco-luxury in the wilderness is only accessible to those who have a hefty travel budget. So if you’re looking to splash out, BC’s unique resorts will deliver a unique experience with lots of opportunity for transformation.

Food & Drink

Canadian West Coasters tend to be a laid back bunch, not standing on ceremony or putting on airs. West Coast cuisine matches this attitude perfectly.

The best meals are often found in casual restaurants or cafes, where the quality of the food takes precedence over the table settings. It is usually food designed to fill a belly that has worked up an appetite in the great outdoors.

In keeping with the Canadian stereotype, service is usually friendly and efficient. Dining in West Coast restaurants often feels like you’re a part of the family and that nobody would blink twice if you grabbed a glass of wine and headed into the kitchen for a chat with the chef.

The food is usually casual too, with organic salads made from local produce, stacked sandwiches on artisanal bread, and hearty homemade soups making an appearance on most menus. Fish and seafood is a big draw too — salmon and oysters have been a staple of the West Coast diet for thousands of years.

The West Coast even offers a uniquely Canadian twist on fast food. For lunch, do like the locals and stop in a Tim Hortons for soup, sandwiches, and a sampling of their famous donuts.

For vegans and vegetarians

As vegans, we have witnessed a huge leap forward in the last couple of years when it comes to animal-friendly food on the West Coast. There are tons of great vegan restaurants in Vancouver and omni restaurants usually have a few vegan option available. Victoria has a pretty decent vegan scene, too.

Outside of the cities, it’s harder to find dedicated vegan eateries, but most restaurants have animal-friendly options. If not, staff usually have a good understand of what vegan means and are happy to make something suitable.

Thanks to Beyond Meat, there are even fast food options for vegans travelling on Canada’s West Coast. Tim Hortons, A&W, and White Spot (all local chains) serve various Beyond Meat items. Boston Pizza has recently introduced a vegan menu, too.

Cool tip: You can also find vegan Magnum bars in most Shopper’s Drug Marts. Just sayin’.

Responsible Travel on the West Coast

It’s pretty hard to get on the bad side of a British Columbian. For the most part, we are a live-and-let-live people. If you need any help, just ask the closest local and you’ll have more than you need in minutes.

But there are a few tips we can offer to avoid offending the locals.

Culture and Customs

For the most part, friendly, straightforward, and welcoming is the name of the game in BC.

However, we BCers also like our rules, especially as they apply to preserving nature or keeping things rolling along smoothly. So when you’re in a Provincial Park and the sign says “No Smoking” or “Stay on the Trails” it actually means it.

Disobey at your peril. West Coasters are not afraid to take you to task if they perceive that you’re doing something to disrupt the social or environmental order!

First Nations Culture

Thousands of years before Europeans moved into the West Coast, First Nations people were living in harmony with the land. White settlers destroyed this culture, inhabited their land, and created policies that put First Nations concerns last. It is a black mark on our history.

As a visitor to these shores, you can get a glimpse into the culture that once was, while supporting a culture that is currently struggling.

It’s easy to find top-rated tours, accommodations, and other businesses run by First Nations people. There are also lots of museums and other historical attractions dedicated to the culture – so plan some time in your itinerary to expand your perspective.

Eco-Friendly Travel

If you’re going to visit Canada’s West Coast, please be aware of the environmental impact your trip will have. Yes, you will see plenty of locals in outsized RVs cruising the highways of the province — but that doesn’t mean you have to join them.

Think about your choices of accommodation, eating, and activities, and decide if there’s a more eco-friendly approach you could take.

Do you really need that enormous RV or would a tent be a better choice? Are you aware of how the seafood you order impacts the entire ecosystem, including the whales you so desperately want to see? Are you really in such a rush that you need to hit the drive through lane? Could you eat in instead and avoid a lot of paper garbage?

Bringing your own containers to the store, not using disposable shopping bags, and using your own coffee cup are normal in BC, so come prepared to be part of the eco revolution.

We don’t ask you to be perfect, just think a little more carefully about the choices you make when you travel!

Charities and Non-Profits to Support

It’s our big audacious goal to start a movement of travellers who commit 1–10% of their travel budgets to support local people and environmental causes.

If you can afford to travel to BC, you can afford to put part of your travel budget into giving back to local communities and the environment. We encourage you to check out these charities and pick one to support.

I Love First Peoples

Empowers Indigenous children and youth to succeed through education and the motivation to stay in school. We bridge communities through practical projects that promote reconciliation and education.

David Suzuki Foundation

This Vancouver-based organization uses evidence-based research, education, and policy analysis, to conserve and protect the natural environment and to help create a sustainable Canada. Stephen and I personally support this foundation with a monthly donation

Orca Conservancy

Committed to the recovery of the Southern Resident killer whale population in BC and protecting the wild places on which it depends.

Take a Hike Foundation

Empowers vulnerable youth to believe in their potential and discover their own path to success through full-time programs of intensive and continuous clinical counselling, outdoor adventure, academics, and community.

Packing List for BC’s West Coast

What you’ll need to pack for your trip to BC really depends on the time of year and the type of travel you’re planning to do. You’ll want very different items if you’re planning 5 days in Vancouver than you’ll need if you’re going to spend 2 weeks in Haida Gwaii.

Here we recommend some items that most travellers to BC’s coastal region will need, plus a few extra items for specific circumstances.

All travellers

• Comfortable, casual clothing – You won’t need much in the way of dressy clothes on a typical BC holiday. Bring comfortable outfits that work as well on the hiking trail as in a casual cafe and you’ll be set for most occasions. If you plan to splash out on evenings out in Vancouver or Victoria, you might want to bring slightly dressier travel clothes.
• Sunscreen – Despite its rainy reputation, the sun does shine in BC. If you’re planning any beach time, kayaking, or outdoor adventures, you’ll need a good sunscreen.
• Sun hat – Extra important if you plan to do any boating in BC.
• Sunglasses – A necessity for boating, skiing, hiking, or days at the beach.
• Rain jacket – Canada’s West Coast is nicknamed the Raincoast. Need I say more?
• Umbrella – See above. Even in summer, rain can come out of nowhere. Be prepared.
• Waterproof walking shoes – There are thousands of stunning hiking trails in BC and it would be a shame not to experience at least a few on your BC trip. You’ll most likely be stepping over mountain creeks or splashing through puddles, so waterproof shoes are best.
• Refillable water bottle – Tap water in BC is clean and tasty. Bring a bottle that you can fill up before every BC activity.
• Small first aid kit – Adventures can bring minor injuries and blisters. Pack a small first aid kit to make the little things a little less painful.

For winter travel

• Toque/wooly hat and gloves – Though coastal BC is much warmer than the rest of the country, it does get chilly enough to need ear and hand warmers on occasion. Bring them along to help you stay toasty on the coldest days.
• Warm layers – The weather can really vary in BC during the winter, ranging from bright, sunny and temperate, to cold and a little miserable. Pack layers so you can bundle up and strip off as needed.

For camping trips

Aside from the normal equipment you need for camping, we also recommend the following items.

• Camping tarp – Have I mentioned that it rains in BC? Most BC campers bring extra ropes and tarps so that a little rain won’t get in the way of enjoying the outdoors.
• Tent mallet – The campgrounds in BC tend to have hard-packed tent sites. If you have space, bring a mallet to help pound in those tent stakes.
• Cook stove – Some campgrounds are pretty remote and the best option for meals is to cook your own. You’ll also welcome a hot cup of coffee or tea on those cool Canadian mornings.

Is It Safe to Travel in Canada?

For the most part, Canadians are honest, friendly, and helpful, so you don’t have to worry much about safety when travelling in BC. Just use your common sense and you’ll be fine.

Aside for the social distancing and hygiene measures that go along with coronavirus, you won’t have to take too many extra safety precautions.

Wilderness Safety

Every year, Search and Rescue teams in BC are called into wilderness areas to rescue tourists who have strayed off the trail and become lost. British Columbia has an abundance of true wilderness, and it doesn’t take much to go from a fun day out to a terrifying or fatal experience.

When you’re heading out into nature in Canada:

• Always let someone know where you’re planning to go. You can use the AdventureSmart app to help you.
• Pack extra water, snacks, and warm layers in case of emergency.
• Stay on trails and obey posted signs. They are there for your safety.
• Carry a small first-aid kit for minor abrasions and bigger emergencies.
• Fire-making kit, including waterproof matches and a lighter (in case one fails).
• Signalling device, like a mirror or a whistle.

Before you go, read more about wilderness safety on the AdventureSmart website.

Safety in the City

Take the same precautions in Vancouver and Victoria as you would in other cities around the world. While both places are relatively safe, it’s still a good idea not to wander around unfamiliar neighbourhoods late at night. You also shouldn’t leave valuables unattended or dangle expensive cameras, purses etc off your arm.

Coronavirus Precautions

During the pandemic, British Columbia has fared extremely well under the wise guidance of now-famous Dr. Bonnie Henry. The virus barely touched Vancouver Island and the communities surrounding Vancouver, and cases across the province are currently well under control.

Be aware that as you travel around BC, you will be expected to observe the same social distancing measures as the locals:

• Maintain a 2-metre physical distance from others
• Wear a mask in public spaces
• Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer regularly
• Cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your elbow

If you feel ill, do not travel. If you fall ill while travelling, self-isolate immediately and call 8-1-1.

For those coming to BC from outside of Canada, there is currently a mandatory 14-day quarantine in place.

How to Get Around on the West Coast

By Car

If you’re planning a city break in Vancouver or Victoria, driving is not really necessary. Both cities have compact downtown cores and reliable public transportation.

However, if you want to visit the rest of the coast, a car is almost a necessity.

Many locations for outdoor adventures are only accessible by car and some regions have limited public transportation. Driving in BC is very easy, with light traffic and well maintained roads — though you might encounter some dirt or gravel roads on more remote adventures.

Busses and BC Transit

It’s easy to get around Vancouver and Victoria by bus and Skytrain (Vancouver only). BC Transit networks are well planned, clean, comfortable and affordable. Smaller cities on the coast also have transit networks but they tend to be a little less comprehensive.

If you’re planning on visiting very small communities or islands, you may have a tough time getting around by bus, as services are very limited.

There are a few coach services in BC that will help you get between various cities:

• The BC Ferries Connector allows you to board a bus in downtown Vancouver that will take you all the way to downtown Victoria (via BC Ferries).
• The Island Link shuttle runs passengers between Victoria and Campbell River, stopping off at all cities in between.
• Vancouver Island Connector offers summer services between Victoria, Tofino, and Uclulet.

Unfortunately, there are lots of attractions in BC that cannot be reached by public transport, so if you really want to explore off the beaten path, you will need your own transportation.

BC Ferries

Most trips to coastal BC involve at least a couple of journeys on BC Ferries.

Ferries will take you between Vancouver and Victoria, to the Gulf Islands, to the Sunshine Coast, and between Vancouver Island and Haida Gwaii. Though locals complain endlessly about BC Ferries (services, costs etc), to me, they are one of the great joys of travelling in BC.

If you’re walking, cycling, or driving a motorbike, BC Ferries are extremely convenient. Just show up 20–30 minutes before departure time, buy a ticket, and get straight on the ferry.

Taking BC Ferries with a car can add a lot to your travel budget and requires a bit more planning.

During summer and on holiday weekends, BC Ferries routinely get sold out. If you want to get on a specific ferry, you’ll need to make a reservation ahead of time. If you show up without a reservation, you sometimes end up waiting for several sailings (which can be hours apart) before you get onboard.

Bicycle Touring

We spent two months last summer cycling Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast. While we did love it, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it for cycle touring newbies. There are a few reasons for this:

• Hilly terrain – the geography of the coast is made up of islands, inlets, fjords and mountains. While it is undeniably beautiful, all these hills make cycling hard work. One of the steepest hills we’ve ever ridden is in Gibsons on the Sunshine Coast.
• Highway riding – there are lots of places on the coast where there are no secondary roads to get you from point A to point B. That means cycle tourists often have to ride the highway. While BC’s highways usually have wide paved shoulders, it can still be uncomfortable cycling next to traffic going 100km/h, especially in the pouring rain.
• Dirt backroads – if you’re lucky enough to find a back route, it is often gravel or dirt, which provides its own kind of challenge, making cycling with a fully loaded bike slow and grinding.
• Spotty services – some areas of the West Coast have limited access to necessities like groceries. There were segments of our cycling trip where we had to carry 3 days of food and water with us. That makes for one heavy bike!
• Lots of rain – even in the middle of summer, you should be prepared to cycle drenched, or to hide in your tent for entire days. We have experienced both, and neither is ideal.

I don’t mean that to sound terribly negative about cycling in BC.

If you’re an experienced cycle tourist, cycling on the West Coast can be great. And if you’re into bike packing, you’ll find plenty of amazing off-road terrain for your adventures.

However, if you’re a newbie, BC might not be the best place for your first cycle tour.

Hitch-hiking

Especially on the smaller islands and in more remote communities, hitch-hiking is fairly common. It usually works best for short rides. For example, from the campground to the ferry terminal, or from North Vancouver to the mountains. For longer journeys between cities, it’s probably easier and wiser to get the bus.

Cycling in Vancouver

Vancouver is a fantastic cycling city, and in the last decade, huge strides have been made in terms of infrastructure and public education. Most of Vancouver is accessible on bike paths or bike lanes. Plus, the city has reached critical mass, making cycling a normal and expected way to get around.

If you want to explore Vancouver by bike, check out our three favourite bike routes in the city and our guide to renting a bike in Vancouver.

More Posts About the West Coast

A Final Note About Visiting Canada’s West Coast

Whether you’re visiting from inside Canada, from the US, or abroad, the BC Coast provides plenty of opportunities for transformational travel experiences. Plan to include some adventures in the great outdoors, spiritual experiences, or wellness activities into your itinerary.

No matter what kind of transformation you’re looking for, you’ll find it on Canada’s West Coast.

For a truly transformational trip, make sure to plan for activities that have the potential to change your perspective and help you learn and grow as a person.

  Happy transformational travels, Jane & Stephen

I hope this travel guide for Canada’s West Coast helps you create your ideal BC travel itinerary. It’s our goal to help our readers make every trip truly transformational and I know your trip to BC has the potential to be utterly life-changing. Send me an email if you have any questions!

The post West Coast Canada Travel Guide – Our Best Tips for a Transformational Trip appeared first on My Five Acres.

We’ve been to Bali so many times during the last 5 years that we’ve lost count. As I write this, we are living in Bali, getting to know it even better. Read this post for all the Bali travel advice we’ve learned through our many trips to the Island of the Gods!

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here.

Note: This post was written and published during the first few months of the coronavirus pandemic. Bali has been empty of tourists for several months and will continue to be so for several more. Currently, no visitor visas are being issued for Bali, but the government has suggested that Bali may reopen to tourists in September.

Bali Quick Facts

Best Places to Visit in Bali

Soak up the Sand and Surf in Uluwatu

With dramatic cliffs hanging over almost empty beaches, Uluwatu is one of our favourite places in Bali. We like the chill pace of Uluwatu, which is quieter and less touristy than the more famous Bali destinations.

If you’re an experienced surfer, Uluwatu is the place to go for the best waves in Bali. But even if you don’t surf, like us, it’s a fabulous place to recharge for a few days.

A bonus: Uluwatu not far from the airport so makes a great place to spend your first few days in Bali, while you’re recovering from jet lag.

Don’t miss our Uluwatu posts:

• Best vegan food in Uluwatu

Chill with Expats in Canggu

Canggu has become a hub for Bali’s digital nomad tribe — so much so that you often see more foreign faces on the streets in Canggu than Balinese people. While you won’t get much of an “authentic” Balinese experience in the centre of Canggu, there are plenty of spectacular beaches and delicious restaurants to try.

Canggu also offers lots of opportunities for surf lessons, practicing yoga, and sunset cocktails.

Don’t miss our Canggu posts:

• The best yoga in Canggu
• Tasty vegan guide to Canggu

Get Spiritual in Ubud

As the first centre of yoga in Bali, Ubud is still the main draw for those who come to Bali seeking spiritual guidance or transformation. It’s one of the few tourist destinations that’s not on the coast, which makes the ambience here a little more refined.

There are lots of opportunities for exploring jungles, rice fields, and visiting Balinese villages from Ubud, too.

Check out our Ubud posts:

• The best yoga in Ubud
• Our favourite vegan meals in Ubud
• How to visit the Tegalalang Rice Fields

Escape the Crowds in Amed or Lovina

In the very old days, ships from distant lands used to arrive on Bali’s north coast, so it was the natural gathering place of foreigners on the island. However, that was before airplanes. Now, with the airport on the south end of the island, it’s the rare tourist who ventures north to Amed or Lovina.

If you like diving, in Amed you’ll find plenty of places to add some undersea adventures into your schedule.

Lovina is best for laid-back beach time and waterfall trekking. Please avoid the Lovina dolphin-watching tours, as they are fairly unregulated and harmful to the local dolphin population.

For those who want more from Bali than jostling with package tourists and ultra-spiritual types, escaping to the north is a great idea.

Island Hop to the Gilis or the Nusas

Fun fact: Nusa means island in Balinese, while Gili means small island in Bahasa. So when you say you’re going to the Gili Islands, you’re really saying Small Island Islands.

While the Gili Islands are not technically a part of Bali, they are frequently included on Bali itineraries.

And why not? These islands are three small sandy humps that barely peak out of the turquoise waters just off the coast of Lombok. With no cars or petroleum-powered scooters on any of the islands, they’re remarkably peaceful, even when overrun with holiday makers.

Don’t miss our Gili Islands guides:

• Choose the right Gili Island for your travel style
• Best things to do in the Gili Islands
• Best vegan food in the Gilis
• Best places to stay in the Gilis

If you’ve only a got a short time on Bali, a trip to Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan makes for a great substitute for the Gilis. Since the Nusas are much closer to Bali, they’re also better for folks who get seasick — a recent choppy crossing from the Gilis was one of our most terrifying travel experiences ever!

Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan are two tiny islands that have grown massively in popularity during the last few years. Avoid the island day trips, which tend to be rushed and crowded, and make time to stay for a few nights to really absorb the island vibes.

Don’t miss our Nusa Penida guides:

• Essential things to know before visiting Nusa Penida
• Things to know before taking a Nusa Penida tour

How Long Do You Need?

If there’s one mistake people make when coming to Bali, it’s that they don’t plan a long enough trip!

Many people come for one week — we’ve even met people who are here for 3 days. To put it bluntly, a very short trip is not really worth it!

In one week, you’ll barely scratch the surface of what Bali has to offer. You don’t want to be stuck with short-term tourists as they trudge from one over-crowded sight to another.

If you have the time, come for 10 days or two weeks. If at all possible, stretch your Bali trip to 30 days. This will allow you to visit on the free visa and will give you enough time to get away from the tourist and see parts of Bali that seem to exist in a time forgotten.

Best Time to Visit Bali

Bali has two distinct seasons — the rainy season and the dry season.

Dry season, from April to October, coincides with the busiest season on Bali. You can expect perfect beach weather almost every day and the temperatures tend to be a few degrees lower than they are in wet season.

During rainy season, from November to March, you’ll still get tons of sun to play in. We moved to Canggu in January and in our first two months, we had sunny days about 90% of the time. The rain, when it comes, comes hard and fast, and often happens overnight, leaving you plenty of sunshine during the day.

Both seasons are hot, especially in the southern beach towns, like Canggu, Jimbaran, and Uluwatu. Temperatures hover around 30 degrees Celcius almost every day on the south coast. When it’s humid, that can be stifling.

In Ubud and the inland mountainous regions, the weather varies more dramatically. For a start, it gets much cooler — down to the mid 20s during the coldest season. On days like this, the Balinese bundle up in warm jackets and complain about the winter weather!

We’ve been in Ubud when the clouds don’t part for days on end. Other times, the sky is endlessly blue for weeks. Like the rest of Bali, the average temperatures only vary a few degrees all year, so there’s really no wrong time to visit.

Bali Itinerary for 2 Weeks

If you’ve got time, we recommend coming to Bali for the full 30 days allowed on the free visa. If you are hemmed in by work schedules and limited holidays, then don’t come to Bali unless you have 10 days or more.

If you’ve got 10 days to 2 weeks to enjoy Bali, this is our suggested itinerary.

Day 1–3: Exotic Beaches & Smashing Sunsets

Spend your first couple of days in Uluwatu, where you can get over your jet lag and acclimate to the Balinese lifestyle while lounging around on some of the best beaches on the island.

Our picks for Uluwatu:

• Eat at: Bukit Cafe, The Mango Tree Cafe
• Stay at: Despacito Loft

Day 4–6: Surf and Slurp

A couple of days in Canggu will give you time to take those surf lessons you’ve always wanted to try. You’ll also get to eat in some of Bali’s best casual restaurants. Canggu is an expat centre, so expect lots of cute cafes and trendy coffee shops — and not so much authentic Balinese culture.

Our picks for Canggu:

• Eat at: Manggis in Canggu, Plant Cartel, Peleton Cafe
• Stay at: Villa Ranga Bodhi

Day 7–10: Wellness and Culture

Getting away from the south coast and into the cooler climate of Ubud is a must, especially for those who want to explore their spiritual side. Book yourself into an Ubud yoga retreat for a few days, or simply spend some time getting pampered at one of Ubud’s many spas.

There are also lots of opportunities for culture and nature tours around Ubud, so don’t miss out on seeing some of Bali’s wilder side.

Our picks for Ubud:

• Eat at: Sage Kitchen, Moksa Ubud
• Stay at: Kubu Loris Residence

Day 11–14: Discover the Real Bali

After a few days in the more touristy zones on Bali, a getaway to Amed in the far-flung northeast is vital. Enjoy the dramatic landscapes on the volcanic slopes and the chance to immerse yourself deeper into the real Bali.

Cost of Travel in Bali

As Bali has grown increasingly popular, the cost to travel here has grown too. Bali is no longer a budget travel destination, but it is still much less expensive than most Western destinations.

In Bali, the amount you spend will depend a lot upon where you go. Seminyak is expensive and Canggu is quickly catching up to it. Ubud is cheaper, with better accommodation at lower prices.

If you head to more remote places, your budget can be smaller, but you should expect less in terms of service and amenities as well.

If you’re dripping with money, you can splurge in Bali and hang with the high-rollers and the Instagram royalty, sipping Martinis beside private infinity pools and eating gourmet meals every night.

Sounds awful to me, but you do you!

Mid-range Budget for Bali

For a mid-range budget expect to spend $60–80 per person per day. Here are a few sample prices for you:

• $25–50/room/night – clean & stylish accommodation in a guest house or villa
• $20/person/day – meals in some trendy cafes, plus eating a few meals at local warung
• $2–4 – Bintang beer
• $8–10 – cocktail
• $5/day – scooter rental
• $25–40 – longer transfers (e.g., Ubud to Canggu, Airport to Ubud)
• $30–40 – half-day tour
• $70–90 – full-day tour

Shoestring Budget for Bali

If you’re on a smaller budget, you’ll be able to enjoy Bali on around $20–30 per person per day. You will have to skip certain activities, fancy bars and restaurants, and higher-end tours though.

• $3–8/hostel bed/night – not always great, especially on the cheaper end, spend a little more for more comfort
• $10/person/day – meals at local restaurants and street food
• $2 – Bintang beer
• $5/day – scooter rental
• $25–40 – longer transfers (e.g., Ubud to Canggu, Airport to Ubud)
• $30–40 – half-day tour
• $70–90 – full-day tour

Don’t forget to also include your plane ticket, visa costs, and travel insurance costs when working out your budget!

Accommodation

There is a huge range of accommodation in Bali, from cheap and cheerful shacks to over-the-top luxury resorts — and all stops in between.

The standard for accommodation in Bali is getting better, but there are still plenty of duds to be found. Be sure to do your research and don’t be fooled by out-of-date pictures on booking sites.

Prices for accommodation in Bali vary widely depending on the location.

• In the southern beach areas, accommodation can get pretty expensive, even for basic digs.
• In Ubud, where competition is fierce, it’s easier to find good quality accommodation at a lower price.
• On the more remote parts of the island, you’ll find that prices trend upwards while quality tends to be varied.

Hostels & Homestays

For affordable accommodation in Bali, choose a hostel or a homestay. These places tend to be cheap and cheerful and some are cleaner/better maintained than others.

You can find a bed in a basic hostel or homestay for $5–7 per night. A private double room in these budget-friendly places usually costs around $15. Swing towards the higher end for a little more comfort and peace.

Budget Guest Houses & Hotels

If your budget stretches to $25–55 per night, you can get a nice double room in a shared villa or guest house.

These rooms usually face a central swimming pool, include outdoor seating, and often have a small kitchen where you can cook basic meals. Again, the quality varies dramatically, even within the same price range and region, so pay close attention to reviews and pictures before you book.

Beachside Resorts

Because the beach is the big draw in Bali, there are beachside resorts of all kinds available. In Sanur and Nusa Dua, you’ll find clusters of giant name-brand resorts. Some of these cater to families while others are geared at exclusive, wealthy clientele. Many resorts provide accommodation in private villas that range from basic breeze-block cabins to luxe multi-room palaces.

You can get a nice room at a decent resort for $60–100 per night. Luxury properties start at $200 and go up from there.

Private Villas

If you’re looking for a secluded stay in Bali, or you’re travelling with your family, don’t forget to check Airbnb for private villas. You can sometimes find a gorgeous 3-bedroom villa with full kitchen and pool for the same price as a couple of rooms in a hotel.

Again, you’ll want to pay close attention to ratings and reviews, as many properties are not as they appear online!

Responsible Travel

As with almost any destination, being a responsible traveller in Bali is mostly a matter of common sense. Take a few moments every now and then to think about your actions and if they are respectful to the local people who have welcomed you to their home.

Here are a few common ways tourists act offensively in Bali, and what you can do instead:

Culture and Customs

Unlike other parts of Indonesia, Bali is not predominantly Muslim; most of the locals follow the deeply spiritual traditions of Balinese Hinduism. It’s not uncommon to see funerals or other religious ceremonies on the beach or on the streets. Many local women spend a good part of their day making offerings to the gods and people are required to attend frequent ceremonies at the local temple.

Which is why I find it deeply annoying when people show up in a restaurant nowhere near the beach dressed in their tiny bikinis or bare-chested. You will see lots of foreigners dressed like this but that does not make it OK. Please show respect for the local staff and your fellow diners by putting on a cover up once you leave the beach.

If you see a religious ceremony taking place, take a beat before you start filming or sticking your camera in people’s faces. The ceremonies are beautiful and moving but that doesn’t mean you need to share them on Instagram. Think how you’d feel if you attended a funeral for a loved-one and a bunch of foreigners surrounded you to take photos!

Eco-Friendly Travel

If there’s one thing that makes me want to punch other tourists in the face, it’s when they whine about the garbage on the beaches and streets of Bali while sipping from a single-use water bottle or a plastic straw.

Part of the reason there’s a garbage problem on Bali is that there’s a people problem on Bali. With more than 6 million tourists descending on the island each year, you better believe this puts a strain on the local resources.

To reduce your footprint while in Bali:

• Bring a reusable water bottle with you. There are refill stations in almost every cafe and guest house.
• Eat at small, independent restaurants and opt for local food over things like imported Australian beef.
• Stay in small, locally owned accommodation — avoid the sprawling chain resorts that destroy the oceanside ecology.
• Don’t pop over to Bali for a few days or a weekend — save the flight for when you can spend more time and immerse yourself in the culture.

Support Charities & Non-Profits

It’s our big audacious goal to start a movement of travellers who commit 1–10% of their travel budgets to support local people and environmental causes.

If you can afford to travel to Bali, you can afford to commit at least 1% of your travel budget to helping improve the lives of the locals. We encourage you to check out these charities and earmark part of your budget for them.

Bali Street Kids Project (YKPA)

Provides housing, food and education for Bali’s most disadvantaged kids.

Bali Life Foundation

Provides care to those in Bali who are underprivileged, with the aim of restoring their hope, dignity and purpose.

R.O.L.E. Foundation

Created to stop land-based waste from getting into the oceans and to help create sustainable jobs to protect the livelihoods of coastal communities.

BAWA (Bali Animal Welfare Association)

Focusses on easing the suffering of animals in Bali by providing emergency response and rescue, food and medication, rehabilitation, adoption programs and more.

What to Pack for Bali

Packing for Bali is easy! Just throw a couple of bikinis and a few sarongs in your suitcase and you’re done! OK, it might not be quite that simple, but it’s close.

Aside from swimwear and light breezy clothing, here are a few speciality items you might forget to bring.

This is a unisex list so some items may apply to you, some maybe not.

Clothing

• Beach cover-ups — it’s pretty trendy in Bali to show up at a restaurant in only a bikini top or topless. Unless you’re at a beach bar, please don’t do it! It’s disrespectful to the locals, unpleasant for your fellow diners, and plain unhygienic. Throw on a cover-up or a t-shirt when you leave the beach!
• One great travel dress — actually, you might want to bring several. Bali is the perfect place to wear dresses because they keep you cool and are easy to throw on over a bikini.
• Quick-dry t-shirts — did we mention that it’s hot in Bali? And oh so humid? No matter how dry you normally are, you will sweat here, we promise. Quick-dry t-shirts are ideal because you can wash them out in the sink and they’ll be ready to wear again in a few hours.
• Loose-fitting shorts — in 6 months of living in Canggu, I’ve only worn long pants a handful of times. It’s just too hot here! Make sure to pack a few pairs of loose fitting, lightweight shorts or skirts — I promise you will wear them a LOT.
• Lightweight bras — conventional bras can be torture in hot weather. If you can sacrifice the support, bring light breathable bras with less structure to help deal with the heat.
• Yoga clothes — even if you’re not a yoga nerd like us, Bali is the perfect place to try it out. Bring some loose or stretchy clothing so you can experience yoga for the first time (or the millionth).

Accessories and travel gear

• Sarong — the most useful piece of travel gear ever. It’s a beach towel, a pool towel, a skirt, a cover-up, a picnic blanket, a scarf, and so much more.
• Ocean-safe sunscreen — it can be hard to find reef-friendly sunscreen in Bali and sunscreen here is always horrendously expensive. You’re going to need it every day, so bring a big bottle from home.
• International driver’s permit — if you are planning on renting a scooter in Bali, be aware that it’s illegal to drive if you don’t have an IDP. You can easily get around this rule but you can avoid trouble with the cops by having one. They’re super-easy to get, so no excuses.
• Sunglasses & sunhat — probably obvious, but it’s so important to protect your eyes and your head from the glaring sun here!
• Travel yoga mat — if you’re coming to Bali for the yoga, bring a foldable travel yoga mat that you can spread out over the studio mats. It’s nicer to practice on your own surface and, let’s be honest, after the pandemic, who wants to practice on a public mat?

Is it Safe to Travel in Bali?

In general, Bali is a very safe place to travel. We’ve been here many times, and have never run into any trouble with personal safety, pickpocketing, or any of the other common tourist worries.

Just like with any destination, there are some things you should be aware of before you travel to Bali.

Balinese culture and people

Balinese people are warm, friendly, and exceptionally helpful. If you ever get lost or have any kind of problem, expect more help than you can handle! Recently, Stephen drove his motorbike into a deep ditch (he was trying to help another tourist when things went seriously awry).

Within seconds, before Stephen even knew what was happening, several Balinese men had climbed down into the ditch and lifted his bike back up onto the road!

Scams in Bali

The most common Bali scams can do serious injury to your bank account. ATMs are sometimes rigged to steal card details, so always check that the ATM buttons don’t seem odd in any way, and cover the buttons when you enter your pin.

Money changers all over the island play with sleight of hand in a big way. I have several friends who are very experienced travellers who have been short-changed by money changers. Always count and double-count your money before you leave the booth!

Bali traffic

The biggest danger in Bali is the traffic. Crossing the street can be a challenge. If you decide to rent a scooter, exercise extreme caution.

We see way too many tourists walking around here with bandaged limbs. Plus, every few weeks there seems to be a news story about another tourist killed on their motorbike.

Bag and phone snatching

This danger was fading away in Bali but with the economic downturn caused by lockdown, it’s starting to resurface in a big way.

While you’re driving your scooter, always store your bag under the seat — do not wear it on your shoulder! Keep your phone and all other items in the trunk too.

If you’re walking, keep bags and other items away from the street where they can be easily snatched by passing scooters.

Other dangers in Bali

Other dangers comes from mosquitos, who carry dengue fever and Zika. See the Health section below for more on this.

If you’re unlucky, you could end up being in Bali during a volcanic eruption or an earthquake. We’ve been here for both, and while they can be scary, they usually don’t effect the average tourist day very much.

What to Avoid

Aside from a few scams and rip-offs in Bali, there are also a few popular activities we suggest you miss. Trust us, you’ll find much better ways to spend your time than these less-than-great attractions.

Animal Attractions

There are several places you can go to view or interact with animals on Bali. There is very little regulation in Bali about treatment of animals and, though tour operators are practiced in saying all the right things, animal welfare at these places is questionable at best.

We urge you skip all of these:

• Elephant rides
• Civets at a Luwak coffee shop
• Dolphin watching and swimming with dolphins
• Turtle Island near Sanur
• Ubud Monkey Forest

Elephants and civets are captive creatures, subject to the whims of the humans who use them to make money. Dolphin swimming also features captive animals — taken from the wild and imprisoned for their entire lives so tourists can be entertained for the afternoon. The conditions on Turtle Island are just plain horrendous.

Compared to the other animal attractions on Bali, the monkey forest is OK to visit in that it’s reasonably harmless to the monkeys. However, it can be harmful to you! The monkeys can be aggressive and monkey bites are extremely common. You don’t really want to spend your vacation getting rabies shots, right?

If you really want to see monkeys (because… monkeys!!), walk the trail the follows the perimeter of the monkey forest. You’ll get to see lots of the little guys but are less likely to be surrounded by a gang of them.

As a bonus, from the end of the trail, walk about 800m down the road to visit Sage, our favourite restaurant in Bali.

How to Get Around in Bali

Lots of people refer to Bali as “paradise” but I think it would be a lot closer to paradise if it wasn’t so damn hard to get around!

No matter what mode of transport you choose, you are sure to crawl along in impossible traffic more than once on your visit. Tourism has severely outpaced infrastructure here and the roads can’t handle the volume.

These are the primary ways you’ll get around while in Bali.

Scooters

Driving a scooter is by far the most convenient way to get around Bali. Unfortunately, it’s all by far the most dangerous way. If you have never driven a scooter or motorbike before, please don’t learn in Bali! If you are an experienced scooter driver, please be twice as careful in Bali as you would be elsewhere.

The unwritten rules of the road here are completely different than anywhere else we’ve been (and we have driven or cycled around Cairo, Jakarta, Beijing, London and hundreds of other places). Take it very slow at first until you learn how traffic works in Bali. Then keep taking it slow because that’s the only safe way to drive in Bali.

Taxis

We generally avoid taking taxis in Bali. There are too many dishonest drivers who will try to overcharge you, scam you, or otherwise make your trip more stressful than it has to be. Hey guys, you’re ruining the taxi business for everyone, you know!

However, there are times when you probably can’t avoid hopping in a taxi.

For those times, try to get a BlueBird taxi. You can spot them by the blue car and the blue batik uniform shirt and ID tag the drivers wear. You can either flag down a BlueBird or use their app to order one.

Since BlueBird is the only reliable taxi company on the island, there are many copycats that make their taxis look like BlueBird. Be on the lookout for frauds.

Ride Hailing

There is a healthy (unhealthy?) taxi mafia in Bali and the alternative is to try to get a car or motorbike via Grab or Gojek, the two ride-hailing companies in Bali.

If you’re in the most popular tourist areas, like Canggu and Ubud, you will find it hard to book through a ride hailing app. That’s because there’s always the threat of violence from taxi drivers if they go into a mafia zone.

If you’re staying in a less busy area outside the taxi mafia zones, you can easily hail a Grab or Gojek to drive you around. In this case, motorbikes are the way to go — they are speedy, cheap, hassle-free, and will get you there much quicker than a car.

Shuttle Bus

The Perama Tour shuttle bus is great for solo travellers on a budget. This small shuttle goes between some of the major destinations in Bali, like Ubud, Kuta, Amed, and the airport.

You’ll have to book it in advance and go on their schedule but it does greatly reduce the price of some of the longer journeys you might want to take in Bali.

Private Car & Driver

If you are with a group of people who want to take longer journeys around the island, from town to town or for a day of sightseeing, then hiring a private driver makes the most sense.

You can either ask your hotel to recommend somebody, or book a driver through GetYourGuide. There, you can get a driver for 10 hours for up to 5 people for just $50. That’s a great deal and their reviews are outstanding!

Airport Transportation

If the general transport situation in Bali seems messed up, wait until you hear about airport transfers! Getting transport from the airport (especially after a long flight) is a bit of a nightmare.

Do yourself a favour and book a transfer through your hotel or online with GetYourGuide ahead of time. Prices are fair and the joy of avoiding a haggle session with aggressive taxi drivers the minute you step off the plane is priceless. As a bonus, if you like your driver, you can take his number and call him whenever you need a transfer in Bali.

Here are the other options for airport transportation, all of which you are not going to do because you are going to book your transfer ahead. Right?

• Airport taxi – you can go to the official airport taxi desk when you arrive. They will quote you some outrageous price (the wealthier you look, the more outrageous). You will laugh and haggle until you get a lower price. The lower price will also be outrageous!
• BlueBird taxi desk at the airport – remember when we said BlueBird is the only honest taxi company in town? For some reason that doesn’t apply at the airport, where the BlueBird taxi desk will quote you an even more ridiculous price for your journey. Don’t even bother.
• Grab pick-up point – recently added to the airport, there is now a place where you can safely pick up your Grab car at the airport. Except, the drivers there will almost surely ask for twice what the app says you should pay. You can probably haggle to a decent price, but why bother when you could book a car ahead for less?

Visas for Bali

Depending on what country you’re from and how long you plan to stay in Bali, getting a visa can be very easy or sort of difficult.

For more information on Bali visas, including the list of eligible countries and options for more complicated stays, see this post.

Vaccinations & Health Precautions

You don’t need a lot of travel vaccinations for Bali, but there are a few that the CDC recommends for all travellers:

Other health concerns in Bali

Rabies

Though it’s not recommended that you get the rabies vaccine before coming to Bali, be aware that rabies is common in street dogs and monkeys. If you get scratched or bitten, you should head immediately to a medical clinic in Bali for advice on what to do next.

Dengue Fever

Before coronavirus, Dengue Fever was the biggest health risk for travellers coming to Bali (we’ve each had it twice here!). Do your best to avoid getting bitten by mosquitos by wearing mosquito spray every day. It is inexpensive and readily available at every convenience store on the island. Wear long pants and long sleeves in the early morning and evening to reduce the chance of bites.

If you get a headache and fever, go immediately to a medical clinic. Dengue Fever is not that terrible, it just requires complete rest and hydration for a few days. If you ignore it, that’s when it turns vicious and can even kill you.

Malaria

Good news! Malaria is not a big risk in Bali. If you’re going to spend a lot of time in the jungle, consider taking an anti-malarial. Otherwise, just keep yourself well covered in mosquito repellent.

Bali Belly

So far, we’ve only each had one case of bad food poisoning in Bali (from the same meal). Eating vegetarian or vegan is a great way to avoid the dreaded Bali Belly. If you’re here in off-season, be careful about eating in restaurants that serve the traditional Indonesian buffet — only go to ones that are busy and have a high food turnover.

More Posts About Bali

A Final Note About Travel in Bali

Travelling in Bali can be utterly life-changing — but it also has the potential to be pretty miserable if you don’t plan carefully around your interests and travel style.

For a transformational experience, make sure to plan for activities that have the potential to change your perspective and help you learn and grow as a person. Grab our free Transformational Travel Bucket List to find out what kinds of experiences lead to true transformation through travel.

  Happy transformational travels, Jane & Stephen

I hope this Bali travel advice has been helpful in creating your Bali travel plan. It’s our goal to help our readers make every trip truly transformational and I know your trip to Bali has the potential to be utterly life-changing. Send me an email if you have any questions!

The post Bali Travel Advice – Our Best Tips for a Transformational Trip appeared first on My Five Acres.

Are you searching for the right blogging course? If you’re wondering if Blogging Fast Lane Accelerator right for you, my Blogging Fast Lane review will help you decide.

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here.

Here are three things I know for sure:

1. Starting a blog is easy. Almost anyone with an internet connection can do it.
2. Keeping a blog going is hard. You need passion to push your blog forward through good times and bad.
3. Making a profit for a blog is harder still. About 80% (or more) of blogs never turn a profit. Yikes.

There’s a good reason for this.

It’s because most people who start a blog don’t have a solid plan before they begin. They just figure everything out piece by piece as they go along, leading to patchy knowledge and an uncertain path.

To earn real money from a blog, you need a strategy that ties everything together. You need to know where you’re going and how you’re going to get there, so that all of your hard work and passion are pulling you in the right direction.

How I Found Blogging Fast Lane

If you read the intro to this review, you might be wondering how I know these truths about blogging. Here’s how.

Fumbling Around in the Dark…

I started My Five Acres 5 years ago, after leaving my cushy corporate job to travel around the world. All I had was an internet connection and a passion for travel.

But I didn’t have any kind of strategy. No grand plan either. Since I didn’t have a playbook, my success was as patchy as my approach.

I spent years fumbling around in the dark, making all the mistakes, learning random techniques from random YouTube videos and blog posts.

I also did lots of free trainings, paid blogging courses, and paid mentorships with self-styled gurus who promised the world and didn’t deliver.

If I could do it all over again… I would NOT do it this way.

I’m usually a no regrets kinda gal but, when I think back to all the time I wasted, it makes me want to cry.

Years later, I finally reached the point where My Five Acres was profitable and blogging was my full-time job. BUT I was still struggling every day. Money was tight and I never knew what to prioritize and where to focus my energy.

And Then Someone Turned on the Light

It was around that time that Anna and Tom launched their Blogging Fast Lane Accelerator Course.

I’ve been a fan of Tom and Anna’s travel blog, Adventure in You, for a couple of years. I had read all of their monthly income reports and couldn’t understand why I was only making a fraction of what they were even though they started their blog AFTER I started mine!

I also got to know Anna and Tom in various Facebook blogging groups and on a couple of consultation calls. I knew they were down-to-earth, happy to share their “secrets” to success, and legitimately successful bloggers.

I wanted what they had, so I figured taking their course would be a great next step.

To be honest, I hate spending money on stuff like this. I have been burned so many times in the past. But I took the plunge…

And man oh man!

How I wish there had been a course like this when I was first starting out!

It includes everything it took me years to learn, boiled down into an 8-week course. Plus, there’s lots of additional wisdom in there that tied all that knowledge together and gave me a clear path forward with My Five Acres.

I used what I learned in Blogging Fast Lane Accelerator to clean up My Five Acres and ensure that every piece of content was working for me.

(I was just starting to see results when a certain global pandemic put all travel on pause.)

The course also gave me the confidence to start a brand new blog!

Using the Fast Lane road map, my husband and I launched Adventure Yoga Online. With two of us working on it, it only took a month from idea to launch!

With everything I know now, I have no doubt we’ll be seeing great returns on both blogs in a few months.

Blogging Fast Lane Review

Who Should Do the Blogging Fast Lane Course?

I highly recommend Blogging Fast Lane if you’re:

Brand new to blogging

You have a glimmer of an idea, no blog, and no idea where to start.

The course starts from the very beginning, with modules on:

• How to find the perfect topic for your blog
• How to get past blogging roadblocks (this is SO important!!)
• How to set up your blog from scratch (including all the techie things you need to know)

A beginner blogger

You have started a blog in the last year but are struggling to get traffic.

If you’re not getting traffic to your site, it’s almost surely because you don’t have proper training in SEO. In Blogging Fast Lane, you’ll learn:

• How to create an area of authority for your blog
• How to do keyword research (crucial!)
• On-site, off-site, and technical SEO made simple

An intermediate blogger

You’ve been blogging for a couple of years, have a bit of traffic, but aren’t seeing the $$ roll in.

For intermediate bloggers, the early modules on blog set-up and SEO might be familiar, but you’ll find lots of gems in there that help bring everything you already know into clear focus.

And then you’ll get to the modules on Affiliate Mastery and Trust Marketing where things really start to pay off. You’ll learn:

• How to audit your existing content to drive maximum traffic and profitability
• Understanding reader intent and how this plays into successful money-making article
• Types of affiliate articles and ideas on what to create
• How to build an engaged email list and craft profitable emails

Who Should Not Do this Course?

Profitable blogging is not for everyone. Make sure your expectations match reality before you invest in a course.

Blogging Fast Lane is not for you if:

You just want a no-rules place to create

Profitable blogging is creative, but there are rules you need to follow to see success. If you just want a blog where you can write the occasional post about your life or passions, that’s totally cool. But that’s not what this course is about.

This course is about how to turn your passions into a business. It takes commitment, effort, and a business mindset to create a profitable blog. So if you’re just looking for a hobby or a place to rant, this is probably not the course for you.

You just want to make some fast and easy money

If you’re looking for a fast way to make loads of money, blogging is not it. It takes time and a lot of work to set up a profitable blog. Plus, you need to sustain that work over the course of several years to really make it into a full-time business.

Even for bloggers in the Fast Lane, your blog is not going to be earning thousands of dollars in a couple of weeks.

Time + Effort = Profit!

Blogging Fast Lane is for people who want to be in it for the long haul and use their blog to transform their life. If you want an easy way to earn money, look elsewhere.

What I Love About the Course

Focus on Mindset

Anyone can learn the skills and techniques it takes to create a blog. But what most courses don’t teach is how to stay motivated, even when roadblocks get in your way.

Blogging is a marathon, and Blogging Fast Lane Accelerator offers lots of tools to help you keep moving forward, long after most of your peers have dropped out of the race.

Anna and Tom care about the success of each student and it’s their goal to not only enrol students in their course but to ensure they actually come away with all the skills they need to profit from their passions.

Clear and Easy-to-Follow Lessons

Anna has a background in teaching and it really shows in this course. Each video lesson is laid out logically and the information is delivered clearly. There are also workbooks, a road map, templates, and other bonuses to help you keep your learning on track.

Community that is Actually Engaged

I’ve joined so many courses that promise an active community on Facebook. Then you go to the group page and it’s just you and crickets.

The Blogging Fast Lane community is packed with friendly people who are ready with a helpful answer or a pat on the back whenever you need it.

Full Disclosure: I enjoyed the community so much that I recently joined the Blogging Fast Lane team as the Student Success Assistant — so I’ll be in the Facebook group to welcome you and answer questions during your blogging journey!

Personal Support

Every blogging journey is littered with roadblocks — that’s just the way it is.

When you do get stuck, you can get personal help from the Blogging Fast Lane support hub. I am there, along with Anna and Tom, to answer your questions and help you get unstuck and moving forward again :).

I get (and answer) tons of questions each day and it’s the bloggers who are asking for help who I know will be the most successful!

End-to-End Profit-Making Strategy

This is where the Blogging Fast Lane Accelerator really excels. So many blogging courses just teach you one aspect of blogging. Like how to get traffic. Or how to set up your blog. Or how to work with affiliates.

This course guides you through the entire journey, so you come away with a full set of skills to make a profitable, successful blog.

What Niche Does the Course Cover?

Though Anna and Tom are travel bloggers, the Blogging Fast Lane is not designed specifically for travel blogs.

There are students in the course who write about health, wellness, food, lifestyle, and as many topics as you can imagine! Of course, there are lots of travel bloggers there, too.

How Much Time Do You Need for the Course?

The Blogging Fast Lane is set up as an 8-week course, but there are pit stops along the way where you’ll be creating your blog and writing your posts. These will take time, too.

How many weeks to a live blog?

If you’re starting from scratch, you’ll need around 12 weeks to go from no blog to fully formulated live blog, ready and set to make you money. You’ll be able to launch your site in the first couple of weeks and after that you’ll set up the money-making strategies.

How many hours per week?

Ideally, you’ll have at least 5 hours a week to spend on the course and your course work. If you don’t, you can still do the course but you’ll have to adjust your timelines (and your patience) accordingly.

By the way, your membership in the course never expires, so you can take all the time you need. Tom and Anna are constantly updating the materials, so you won’t need to worry about things getting out-of-date.

Do You Have What It Takes to be a Fast Lane Blogger?

If blogging were easy, everybody would do it! So, do you have what it takes?

Not everyone is cut out for the world of profitable blogging. You need a special set of personality traits and skills to become a successful blogger.

No matter how great a course is, it can only take you so far. The rest comes from you!

Ask yourself these questions to figure out if you have what it takes.

What is your why?

Do you have a powerful reason for wanting to blog? Maybe you want to spend more time with your family? Or maybe you want to travel the world while you work? Or possibly, you just can’t stand the thought of cubicle work for the next 4 decades?

Whatever it is, you’ll have to have a powerful enough reason that it will keep you moving forward when everything is telling you to quit.

Can you express original ideas in writing?

Words are the backbone of most profitable blogs.

You don’t need to be Shakespeare, but it helps if you already like to write and are pretty good at it. The love of words is what makes most of us become bloggers in the first place!

If you’re not a good writer, you can learn how to do it. But you need to be prepared to put in some extra work to improve your writing! You might even want to take a separate course for that.

If you really hate writing but still want to blog, you have options:

• Create a video-based blog
• Hire someone to refine your ideas into well structured blog posts

Do you have any tech skills?

You don’t need to be a programmer / tech geek to start a blog. But you should be able to do simple technical things, like set up an email account and use the apps on your computer and phone!

Tech skills can definitely be learned! You’ll need to get comfortable searching for solutions to your tech issues and putting them into practice (often through trial and error).

If you and tech have a complete hate-hate relationship, you can still create a profitable blog.

However, I strongly suggest you budget to hire someone do the technical aspects of blog set-up for you. It will save you lots of pain and energy to get an expert to do it!

If you don’t have extra budget and are not technical, just understand from the start that technical issues might require a little more time for you than they do for others.

Are you self-motivated?

Blogging Fast Lane Accelerator teaches you what to do and how to do it to create a profitable blog.

But no course can do the work for you!

Blogging success comes from consistent work over time. If you can’t motivate yourself to sit down and do that work, even when things get hard, then you might be better off sticking with a more traditional job.

Are you resourceful and a good problem solver?

Even with a detailed course to get you started and a dedicated support team at your fingertips, there will still be blogging roadblocks you’ll need to overcome.

Being a successful blogger requires that you know how to do research, think critically, and solve problems as they arise.

Blogging is a never-ending learning curve — so if you’re not in love with learning, then you might want to look elsewhere for your next career move.

90-Day Refund Policy

If you’re still not sure if Blogging Fast Lane will work for you, then the refund policy should be the assurance you need.

There is a 90-Day Action Guarantee for this course. If you complete the course materials and put everything into action within 90 days and you’re not completely satisfied, you can get your money back.

Like the course, the refund policy is designed for action-takers who really give the course a chance to work.

As Tom and Anna say:

“The point of this refund policy is to encourage you to get the result you set out to get, instead of giving up before you’ve done any of the work.”

In other words, if you invest in the course, then the team is going to do their best to make sure you complete it and succeed in your blogging goals.

How to Join Blogging Fast Lane Accelerator

Before you join the course, you’ll want to attend the free training with Tom and Anna, where they’ll walk you through their complete blogging framework. This will let you discover:

• What it’s like to learn from Anna and Tom
• How to structure your blogging journey for maximum profit
• How you can make real money from your blog
• Whether you’re cut out to be a Fast Lane Blogger

How to Get the Free Bonus

If you decide to sign up for Blogging Fast Lane Accelerator from this review, you’ll get an exclusive limited-time* bonus from me!

Once you’ve launched your blog, I will do a comprehensive User Experience evaluation of your site. You’ll get a site report covering: site structure, color scheme, typography, content, layout, and usability.

Before blogging, I worked as a UX Designer for companies like Disney and AT&T. You’ll get the benefit of my UX expertise — and so will your readers!

To get your bonus:

• Join the free Fast Lane training using this link
• After the webinar, sign up for Fast Lane Blogging Accelerator
• Send me a copy of your receipt as soon as you’ve purchased!
• Once your blog is set up, give me a shout and I’ll do the review for you.

*This is a limited offer because each site review takes a lot of time from my day — so I just don’t know how long I’ll be able to offer this service.

A Final Note About Fast Lane Blogging

If I didn’t scare you away yet, then congrats, you have great potential as a Fast Lane blogger!

Blogging is a hugely challenging and hugely rewarding!

It has the potential to give you ultimate freedom from a cubicle, tyrannical bosses, and annoying co-workers. It also has the potential to give you a job you love, every single day.

If you’re new to blogging or want a roadmap to fast-track your existing blog, then I highly recommending checking out Blogging Fast Lane Accelerator.

So if you’re ready to change your life, then go get started.

  Here’s to the start of a beautiful blogging journey! Jane

I hope this honest review of Blogging Fast Lane Accelerator helped you decide if the course is right for you. If you have any doubts or questions, just give me a shout and I’ll get back to you asap.

The post Blogging Fast Lane Review + Free Bonus – Is This the Right Course for You? appeared first on My Five Acres.

Wondering how to create the perfect 3 day Hanoi itinerary? We’ve spent months in the city and been there on a half-dozen occasions, so we know a lot about what to do in Hanoi. Read on to start planning your stay in the city!

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here.

Stephen and I have been to Hanoi at least a half-dozen times. My first trip was about 10 years ago with my Mom and my sister. Then Stephen and I returned on our world-wide bike trip in 2014. Since then, we’ve been back to teach yoga workshops several times and I once did a 3-month pet-sitting gig in the city.

Hanoi was the first Asian city I ever got to explore on my own and I loved it that first time and every trip since. Yes, it is a chaotic and noisy place but it’s also a city full of wonder. It is ancient (more than 1500 years old) and is steeped in history and culture. On top of that, modern day Hanoi is undergoing constant change and growth, as it finds its way in the 21st Century.

As a visitor, it’s important to go beneath the surface chaos and notice the small things:

• The scent of noodle soup wafting from a street stall
• Small children playing kickball in the streets
• Hidden alleys that reveal the inner life of the city

Being in Hanoi is a full-on sensory experience, so allow yourself to open up to the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and emotions of being in one of the most fascinating cities in the world.

To ensure you get the best out of your trip to Hanoi, read on for your…

Hanoi Itinerary – The Best Things to do with 3 Days in Hanoi

A Quick Guide to Hanoi Neighbourhoods

Before you start planning a Hanoi itinerary, it helps to familiarize yourself with the main areas of the city.

Hoan Kiem (Hanoi Old Quarter)

In the centre of the city, Hanoi Old Quarter is the place where most tourists stay on their first visit to the city. This district contains everything that makes Hanoi utterly distinct from any other city. If it’s your first time in town, I highly recommend staying in the Old Quarter, so you can easily walk the 36 streets, wander around Hoan Kiem Lake, and be close to many of the city’s best places to eat.

If you want to stay near the Old Quarter but not right in the centre of the mad buzz of the city, book a room in the French Quarter (west of Hoan Kiem Lake) or the area around St. Joseph’s Cathedral (east of Hoan Kiem Lake). You’ll find slightly quieter side streets here but it’s still an easy walk to the centre.

Tay Ho

Known as the expats area, Tay Ho District is home to West Lake, the perfect place to go for an early morning run. It’s also where you’ll find some of the most upscale and modern amenities in Hanoi.

If you’re wondering what life is like for expats in Hanoi, or you just want to be away from the frenetic energy of Hoan Kiem, book a room in Tay Ho.

Ba Dinh

This is the district south of West Lake and has many of the sights you’ll probably want to see in Hanoi, like Ho Chi Minh’s Masoleum, the Temple of Literature, and One Pillar Pagoda.

There aren’t as many options for hotels and restaurants in this neighbourhood but there are still quite a few good options if you want to stay away from the noisy centre.

Hai Ba Trung

If you’re looking for an area where you’ll find a less touristy and more local vibe, check out Hai Ba Trung neighbourhood. There are plenty of leafy lanes, cool cafes, and trendy Airbnb’s to satisfy a tourist’s need but without the hectic nature of the city centre.

If you love clothing and fashion, you’ll want to stay near Pho Hue and Ba Trieu, two streets known for their wide range of fashion shops.

Where to Stay in Hanoi

If you read our guide to Hanoi neighbourhoods above, you’ll know that we recommend staying near the Old Quarter, since that’s the heart of the city.

There are literally thousands of places to stay in Hanoi, ranging from $3/night hostels to 5-star hotels. We’ve stayed many times and have found a few places we always recommend.

Hostel: Little Charm Hanoi, 9.4, elegant European-style, comfy beds, great common areas, from $9
Hostel: Old Quarter View, 9.3, bright funky hostel, comfy beds, spotlessly clean, from $7
Budget: Graffiti House Old Quarter, 9.2, minimalist style with mural walls, from $31
Boutique: La Storia Ruby Hotel, 9.5, exceptional service, large rooms, from $40
Apartment: Centraltique Downtown, 9.6, enchanting rooms in an art-deco colonial tube house, from $40
Luxury: Acoustic Hotel & Spa, 9.5, great staff, gorgeous rooms, rooftop bar and jacuzzi, from $66

How Many Days Do You Need in Hanoi?

How many days is enough in Hanoi? The answer really depends on your travel style.

• If you can’t get enough of busy cities, cute cafes, and dazzling restaurants – all with a good dose of culture and history mixed in – then you’ll want to spend at least 3 days in Hanoi and leave a couple of days for side trips from the city.
• If you hate crowds and noise and yearn for the peace, quiet, and beautiful views, then limit your time in Hanoi to one day. There are many nearby places that will suit you better.
• If you like a bit of both, like we do, then 3 days in Hanoi is ideal. This will give you time to see the main sights and soak up the vibes, before heading off to Vietnam’s more remote locations.

What’s the Best Time to Visit?

The great thing about the Hanoi, unlike much of Vietnam, is that it actually has weather beyond hot, hotter, and hottest. In fact, during Hanoi’s winter months, it can get very cool. As I write this, in the middle of the day in late January, it is currently only 17 degrees Celsius (63F) there.

Because of this, there are definitely better and worse times to head to Hanoi. However, we have been there at all different times of year and had lots of fun, hot, cold, or in between.

High Season

Spring, from February to April, and fall, mostly October, are the busiest times of year in Hanoi.

This coincides with the best weather. During these months, it is cool (around 23 degrees), but not rainy, in Hanoi. This makes it pleasant and easy to walk around and visit the sites without getting overheated or soaked.

Low Season

Summer, from May to September, is probably the worst time of year to visit Hanoi. It gets brutally hot (in the mid-30s) and is also rainy, which adds killer humidity to the mix. Stephen often recalls being in Hanoi one August when he had to shower at least 4 times a day just to feel half-human!

Winter, Christmas and New Year’s

December and January are the coldest months in Hanoi and therefore perfect if you can’t stand any kind of hot weather. The temperatures can drop to as low as 10 degrees Celsius. Winter in Hanoi can get busy, especially during the holidays, so book ahead if you plan to stay over Christmas or New Year’s.

Another consideration is that some of the nearby attractions, like Ha Long Bay and Sa Pa can be a bit inhospitable in the winter – think lots of fog, rain, and even some snow in the mountains. So if they’re on your bucket list, take note!

The Story of Hanoi

The area around what is now known as Hanoi (or Ha Noi) has been a settlement since prehistoric times. It first became the capital of Vietnam in 1010 and continued as the capital for hundreds of years, up until the early 1800s. However, it didn’t actually get its modern-day name until 1831, when the Nguyen Dynasty started calling it Ha Hoi, meaning “between two rivers”.

In the early 1900s, Hanoi became the capitol first of occupied French Indochina and then for the Japanese occupation that lasted from 1940–1945.

After some power struggles with the French in the second half of that century, Hanoi became the capitol of Ho Chi Minh’s Democratic Republic of Vietnam. Hanoi was heavily bombed by the Americans during the Vietnam/American War and was badly damaged. After the war, Hanoi became the capital of all of Vietnam once again.

Despite its checkered history and the building boom that has taken place since the 1990s, Hanoi still retains its colonial charm, and is steeped in culture, history, and religion, including more than 600 pagodas. Unlike Ho Chi Minh City, which often just feels like any huge city around the world, Hanoi has a distinct character and atmosphere.

Anyone who has been would instantly recognize it if dropped (by magic) into the city centre.

With Vietnam’s tourism industry booming, Hanoi continues to grow and change at a frantic pace but, at least for now, the grand character of this 1000-year-old city remains intact.

Your Hanoi Itinerary for 2 or 3 Days

Below we’ve created two suggested itineraries for Hanoi based on 2 days and 3 days in the city.

Each includes sights and activities that are explained in detail below. However, these are just our suggestions based on our interests and travel style. We encourage you to use our itineraries as a starting point and create your own perfect itinerary from the activities and sights we list below.

We like to leave lots of breathing space in our itineraries, so you can have more time to wander, relax, and reflect on the experiences you’ve had so far.

2 Days in Hanoi

Day 1

Morning: Get lost in 36 streets
Afternoon: Shopping in Dong Xuan market
Afternoon: Relax at hotel or in a cute cafe
Evening: Chow down on a street food tour

Day 2

Morning: Motorbike City Tour
Afternoon: Visit Vietnam Women’s Museum / or Shop at Hang Da Market
Afternoon: Get a Vietnamese massage
Evening: Go to Water Puppet Theatre

3 Days in Hanoi

Add these activities on your third day in Hanoi.

Day 3

Early Morning: Walk around West Lake
Morning: Go to Tran Quoc Pagoda
Afternoon: Adventure on Banana Island
Evening: Get inspired on the Lotte Observation Deck

Our 3 Favourite Things to Do in Hanoi

Wander the 36 Streets

Our favourite part of Hanoi, the 36 streets, is smack-dab in the centre of the city.

This used to be the trading and commerce hub for the city, with each street being named for the type of vendor you could find there. On some streets, you can still find merchants who sell the same type of goods as the craftsmen who originally started selling their wares there centuries ago.

For example, on Hang Bac Street (Silver Shop Street), you can still buy silver jewelry of all kinds. You’ll also find streets with clusters of merchants selling shoes, or kitchen wares, and there is even a bamboo ladder section.

Alas, many of the streets are now more dedicated to feeding and accommodating tourists than to selling traditional wares.

Still, wandering these streets, gazing up at the tall, narrow houses, listening to the street merchants hock their wares, you can almost feel the 1,000-year history of the city seeping into your pores.

Try to time your Hanoi trip so you’re there on the weekend. Many of the 36 streets plus the large thoroughfare around Hoan Kiem Lake are closed to traffic on Friday evening, and Saturday and Sunday — meaning you can enjoy the atmosphere without worrying about getting run over by an errant scooter.

Fun fact: The reference to 36 streets dates back to the 15th Century but there are way more than 36 these days, so good luck if you try and count them.

Indulge in a Street Food Tour

On almost every corner, nook, and alley in Hanoi, you’ll find someone selling mysterious looking dishes out of small stalls, carts, or tiny store fronts. Locals sit perched on plastic stools while dishes piled high with fresh noodles, herbs, and soups are served at lightning speed.

Coming to Hanoi and not tasting the street food is like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower.

However, our Western bellies aren’t necessarily suited to the range of health and cleanliness standards that can be found on the streets of Hanoi, and some vendors are decidedly better than others.

This is where a street food tour comes in. With a local as your guide, you can discover the very best of Hanoi’s street foods (and cater for any dietary restrictions) without the worry that comes with going out on your own.

As a bonus, you’ll learn the history of the dishes and the vendors, who are often part of a family who have been making the same dish on the same spot for generations.

Even if you only spend a few hours in Hanoi, this is the one activity you cannot miss.

Get Lost in the Aisles of Dong Xuan Market

If you’ve never been to a huge Asian market before, then Dong Xuan market should be at the top of your list of things to see in Hanoi. This expansive market space just north of the Old Quarter was created in 1889 and is Hanoi’s biggest indoor market.

Here, you can find almost anything you might want, and so many things you’ve never even heard of before. Want exotic fruits? How about baby clothes? Toiletries? Fresh flowers? Bolts of fabric? Office supplies? Scorpions in a bottle? You got it!

Don’t miss out on a chance to practice your bargaining skills – everything here can be gotten for a great price if you’re good with numbers and know how to negotiate.

Even if you’re not interested in buying, a trip to Dong Xuan Market is a chance to learn more about Vietnamese culture and the people who live in the city.

The Best Half– or One-Day Tours of Hanoi

If your time in Hanoi is limited, taking a day tour will help you see the most important cultural and historical sights with limited time. It’s not easy to find your way around this maze of a city, so having someone else help you decide what to see in Hanoi is a huge time and stress-saver.

You’ll also learn far more about this wonderful city from a guide than you would on your own.

Hanoi City Tour by Motorbike

4 hours, 4.8/5 stars, $52, book this tour

Explore the biggest sights of the city by motorbike. Don’t worry, you’ll have a driver – all you have to do is sit on the back and enjoy the ride! This tour takes you to The Temple of Literature, Hanoi Opera House, Quan Su Pagoda, and the 36 Streets, where you’ll get lunch with locals.

Amazing Morning Cycling Tour

3 hours, 4.7/5 stars, $52, book ahead

Hanoi in the early morning is like a different world! Get out early on this cycling tour to see a more peaceful side of Hanoi, where women practice Tai Chi by the lake and people slurp their noodle soup on the street before bustling off to work.

This tour will take you to the morning flower market, the flag-raising ceremony at Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum, and to exercise and dance with locals on West Lake. Finish the tour with a superb bowl of Pho from a local restaurant.

Hanoi Highlights Full-Day Tour

8 hours, 4.7/5 stars, $59, book this tour

If you have limited time in Hanoi, this one-day tour is a great way to see all the sights with ease. The tour starts in the morning at Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, and also goest to the One-Pillar Pagoda, the Ethnology Museum, and the Temple of Literature. After a hearty lunch, a walking and cyclo tour of the Old Quarter finishes off the day.

Find more tours in Hanoi →

Best Markets in Hanoi

Dong Xuan Market

Open 7am–6pm daily

The biggest indoor market in Hanoi, the sights, sounds, and pungent smells of Dong Xuan are not to be missed. Read more about it in our Must-See Sights in Hanoi section above.

Quang Ba Flower Market

Open around 2am–noon daily

If you want to see and smell vibrant flowers from all around Vietnam, get up early to visit Quang Ba Flower Market. The narrow aisles are often packed with locals (some on foot, some on scooter) picking up flowers for their homes, offices, shops and even hotels. If you see a beautiful bouquet on display anywhere in Hanoi, it probably originated at this market.

Hang Da Market

Open 5am–5pm daily

If you want to buy clothes when in Hanoi, Hang Da Market is the place to go. This is the best market for fabrics and stylish clothing, imported from around the world. There are also stalls selling hand-picked second-hand clothing and lots of places to buy fabric if you want to get something tailored. You can also find lots of other great buys here, from paper products to fruit and freshly cooked food.

Museums & Attractions in Hanoi

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Open mornings, closed Fridays, closed October & November, free

Entering the square where Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum sits, you’ll feel echoes of Beijing’s Tiananmen Square and its Mao Zedong monument. This Communist tribute to Uncle Ho was built against his wishes, which were to be cremated and scattered across the country he loved. Instead, lines of tourists file past daily, getting a glimpse of the leader in his glass sarcophagus.

Lines here can be very long and slow-moving – one of the reasons we have never entered! You will have to dress respectfully to visit the mausoleum, with your knees and shoulders covered. Also, you can’t take pictures and have to turn over your phone and cameras during the visit.

Fun fact: The mausoleum is closed in October and November so Ho Chi Minh’s body can be sent to Russia for maintenance.

Ho Chi Minh Museum

Open 8am–12pm daily, 2pm–4:30pm Tue-Thu, Sat & Sun, $2

An eclectic museum dedicated to Ho Chi Minh’s life, it covers his childhood, formative years, his entry into politics and his eventual transformation into a national hero. You can book a guided tour to make sure you don’t miss the important points or get lost in the details.

Vietnam Women’s Museum

Open 8am–5pm daily, $1.50

I have never met such smart, capable, and driven women as the women I’ve met in Vietnam. That’s why it’s so great that there’s a museum dedicated in their honour. The focus is on family life and motherhood, but there is also an interesting section about Vietnamese women during war-time and samples of traditional costumes from many of the ethnic minorities in Vietnam.

Tran Quoc Pagoda

Open 7:30am–6pm, free by donation

If you’re looking for a peaceful island amidst the chaos of Hanoi, Tran Quoc Pagoda is a place to find it. It is situated on a literal island (a tiny one) on the edge of West Lake. The pagoda is said to be more than 1500 years old, though it was originally located on the banks of the Red River and was only moved to its current location in the 1600s. The tall pillar pagoda is a Buddhist shrine and you can visit a small museum there as well.

Arrive early in the morning to have the best chance of exchanging smiles with the monks as they get their day started.

One Pillar Pagoda

Open 8am–5pm daily, free

Like the name suggests, One Pillar Pagoda is a small pagoda that rests on a single pillar in the middle of a square pond. The pagoda is designed to look like a lotus flower rising out of the lake. The pagoda is a pretty sight if not a fascinating stop, but the park it’s located in makes a nice place to stop and cool down during your day out in Hanoi.

Unusual Activities

Explore Banana Island

3 hours, free

Want to feel like a true explorer while in Hanoi?

Then rent a bike and ride out to Long Bien Bridge. Part way across the bridge, you’ll see a place to descend onto the island below, known by Hanoi expats as Banana Island. Here, narrow dirt paths criss-cross between banana plantations, small farms and large gardens. Most of the housing here is in neatly-kept shacks and locals will wave and greet you like you’re a long-lost relative.

We loved the contrast between this quiet, green island and the madness that reigns in the rest of Hanoi. The city’s museums and pagodas have nothing on this.

Make Your Own Knife

3 hours, 4.6/5, $37, book now

Have you ever wanted to hammer steel into a sleek, sharp blade, ready for anything the world throws at you? Well, just outside Hanoi, you can. Visit a traditional blacksmith’s village where one of the local tradesmen will show you how to forge and sharpen your own blade.

You’ll come away from the class with a head full of ideas and your own hand-made knife!

What to do in Hanoi at Night

Water Puppet Theatre

Afternoon & evenings daily, 1 hour, $5, book tickets

I’m ashamed to say we’ve never been to a water puppet show! It’s a traditional Vietnamese art form and one of the biggest attractions in Hanoi. According to others who have been, the show is entertaining and funny but the real highlight is getting to watch and listen to the musicians at work.

Hanoi Opera House

Open for performances, prices vary

Built in the early 1900s by a pair of French architects, Hanoi Opera House is hard to miss if you get out and about in Hanoi. Its imposing Neo-Classical structure sticks out like a swan in a field of ducks. Plus, being at the junction of five streets means that it can feel like all roads lead to the opera house.

To see inside, you’ll have to buy a ticket to a performance. The opera house official website is a bit confusing, so it might be better to ask at your hotel if they can help you find out what’s on and book a ticket.

Lotte Observation Deck

Open 9am–10pm, $6, book online

There’s nothing quite like seeing a city from above to really appreciate just how many people are living their stories in the square miles around you. Because of that, a journey to the 65th floor of the Lotte Tower can be an awe-inspiring experience. Venture up at night for the full lights and splendour experience.

Long Bien Wholesale Market

Open 11pm–7am daily

If you’re a night owl, or if you just want to experience the weird and wonderful world of Vietnamese wholesale, stop by this market in the wee small hours. This is where market traders from around the city come to buy the goods for their stalls and shops. So if you see stall owners napping behind the counter in the afternoon, now you know why!

Hanoi Mindful & Wellness Activities

Take a Cooking Class

Times and prices vary

Taking a cooking class is about far more than just learning to cook spring rolls and noodle soup — though you’ll get to do that too.

A cooking class in Hanoi will introduce you to the local culture through your senses of taste, smell, and touch. It will also teach you what to look for when you’re searching for your own meals in Hanoi. Plus, I’ve never left a cooking class without being stuffed full of delicious local food!

Practice Yoga in Hanoi

Times and prices vary

In the last few years, yoga has skyrocketed in popularity in Vietnam. Now, it’s hard to meet a young Vietnamese woman who doesn’t practice yoga. Our favourite spot to do yoga in the city is Zenith Yoga, an Iyengar-based studio where Stephen has taught several times. Another popular spot to practice is Om Hanoi (an offshoot of Zenith) which also houses a tasty vegan cafe.

Indulge at a Spa

Times and prices vary

There are hundreds of spas in Hanoi, mostly set up to treat visitors to a range of massages, facials, and other self-care activities. If you want to keep it simple, just ask your hotel which nearby spa they would recommend. But, for something extra-special, culturally speaking, make a trip to Huong Sen spa instead.

This famous spa caters mostly to locals, and here you’ll experience the real delights of a Vietnamese massage. As soon as you arrive, the staff takes over, getting you to strip off, soak in a perfumed bath, dip in a hot tub, and then knead, prod, and climb all over you in traditional Vietnamese massage style.

This is not a sweet relaxing massage that will send you off to sleep but it is effective and getting out the knots and stress caused by travel. Plus, it’s an exceptional window into Vietnamese culture.

Books to Read in Hanoi

There’s nothing like a good novel or gripping non-fiction book to help you really understand the heart and soul of a place. Here are a few books that would be perfect to read before or while you visit Hanoi.

The Beauty of Humanity Movement: A Novel by Camilla Gibb

Set in contemporary Hanoi, this novel explores the lives of three characters: Maggie, searching for clues as to the fate of her father, a dissident artist; Old Man Hu’ng, the elderly owner of a pho stall; and Tu’, an ambitious entrepreneur.

Start reading →

Fishing for Tigers by Emily Maguire

Ever thought of giving expat life a try? This is the story of single 30-something Mischa, who escapes an abusive relationship in the states and reinvents herself as a privileged expat in Hanoi. When she meets a much younger man, romance ensues – but along with it comes the questions of identity, morality, and what it means to be “home”.

Start reading →

Paradise of the Blind: A Novel by Duong Thu Huong

A heartbreaking look at what it means to be a woman in Vietnam, where subservience to men is expected, but so is strength, sacrifice, and self-sufficiency. Paradise of the Blind is a portrait of three women struggling to survive in the realities of Vietnamese society.

Start reading →

Where to Go After Hanoi

One of the great things about Hanoi, and one of the reasons many tourists arrive and leave Vietnam from there, is that it’s well placed for short trips out of the city.

These are our suggestions of where to go after Hanoi.

Go West to Mai Chau

Just a short trip west of Hanoi (we cycled it in two days), Mai Chau is a great place to recover from the city’s hectic streets. It’s a small village nestled among rice fields in the foothills of the Annamites.

There, you’ll find fresh air and a slower pace of life, where you can cycle, walk, or just enjoy the green of the rice paddies. It’s also a perfect place to experience a Vietnamese homestay.

Go South to Ninh Binh / Tam Coc

If karsts are your thing, or you just like breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, then Tam Coc is a must-visit after Hanoi. It’s only an hour away by train and home to some of the most extraordinary landscapes we’ve seen.

In Tam Coc, you can take a row boat ride up the river, with a woman who will row with her feet, where you’ll see awesome karst formations, caves, and temples.

You can do Tam Coc as a day trip from Hanoi, but staying overnight will allow you the time to appreciate the quiet without all the tour groups in town!

Go East to Cruise Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay

Possibly the most famous attraction in Vietnam, Halong Bay’s karst mountains rising out of the ocean are an incredible sight to see. However, especially in high season, most travellers report that the bay is now overrun by tourist boats, making it hard to appreciate.

Nearby Bai Tu Long Bay is the better alternative, offering many of the same views, but with fewer people to ruin the fun. Spending two nights on your cruise will give you a chance to get even further away from the majority of travellers, who only stay overnight.

Most tour companies offer a return package from Hanoi which is totally worth it.

Go North to Sapa or Ha Giang

Sapa is another area that is a victim of its own success. The mountainous region has been attracting tourists since French colonists first visited and is one of the most visited regions of Vietnam.

Taking a 2-day trek (with a night in a homestay) is still a good way to get away from the bulk of tourists who stay in the town or just spend one day exploring the area. Whatever you do, don’t stay in the city, which is the ultimate tacky tourist haunt.

If you want to get really remote, venture even further north to Ha Giang, where locals still dress in traditional costume and only a few tourists make it that far.

Don’t Miss Our Other Vietnam Guides

We have spent so much time in Vietnam that we’ve written enough about it to publish a book. Instead, it’s all on this site for free. So make sure you take advantage by checking out these posts.

A Final Note About Things To Do in Hanoi

We truly love Hanoi and have enjoyed our many visits to the city. But, we’re not gonna lie, it can be pretty overwhelming! There is a lot of traffic and there are a lot of people, both locals and tourists. The streets of the Old Quarter are narrow and they are full of a constant stream of scooters with a few cars mixed in. Even crossing the street is an adventure!

Travelling in a place like this can take its toll faster than in a quiet environment. So when you’re planning your Hanoi itinerary, remember to leave more time and space for relaxing, sleeping, and recharging. You may see fewer big sights and attractions but you’ll enjoy yourself a whole lot more!

We hope this 2 and 3 day Hanoi itinerary is a useful starting place when planning your trip to the city. Our goal is to help every reader find the best, most transformational activities in their destination. Let us know by email or on Instagram if you have any questions about Hanoi or Vietnam.

  Happy transformational travels, Jane & Stephen

The post Hanoi Itinerary – Transformational Things to Do in 3 Days in Hanoi appeared first on My Five Acres.

Looking for the best places to stay in Amsterdam? In this guide, we recommend the best neighborhoods for different travel styles and pick the best beds for every budget — from cheap and cheerful to expensive and elegant. Read on to find out where to stay in Amsterdam.

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here.

Oh Amsterdam, how I adore you. You really have it all going on. From your curvaceous canals, to your long slender houses, and the dulcet tones of bike bells ringing in your alleys — I think you might just be the one!

Having been a frequent visitor to Amsterdam, I have seen her grow and change through the years.

Old buildings fall down, new ones go up. Old neighbourhoods go out of fashion, new ones step into their place. But through it all, Amsterdam has held onto that undeniable charm that makes her unique.

The only downside to visiting Amsterdam (other than the crowds and the tendency towards drizzle) is the eye-watering cost of accommodation.

Cheap places to stay in Amsterdam are very hard to find! Fortunately for travellers, the quality tends to be as high as the price. Plus, there are tons of incredibly cool places to stay in Amsterdam, so get ready to be impressed.

In this guide, I introduce you to my favourite Amsterdam neighbourhoods and help you pick the one that’s perfect for your travel style. Then I recommend some of the funkiest, charming-est, and most glamorous accommodations for all budgets, from backpacker to jet-setter.

Being the best, these hotels are liable to sell out fast, so be sure to book as soon as you find your fave.

If you’re heading to this smashing city, read on for your guide to…

The Best Places to Stay in Amsterdam

Amsterdam Neighbourhood Guide

For first-timers, Amsterdam can be hella confusing. None of the roads go straight anywhere and the public transport routes all zig and zag around the city like a game of Snake. That’s what makes Amsterdam perfect for wanderers and dreamers — and a nightmare when it’s time to get back to your hotel!

While there’s no single best place to stay in Amsterdam, each neighbourhood has a unique vibe which will align with different travel styles.

Our neighbourhood guide will orient you and help you choose the best places to stay in Amsterdam for your travel style.

Jordaan – Best Place to Stay for First-Time Visitors & Design Lovers

Jordaan might be the prettiest neighbourhood in Amsterdam with its narrow tree-lined streets and network of picturesque canals. It’s also super central, within an easy walk of most of Amsterdam’s most popular sight. Travellers who like to shop will spend hours browsing the arty boutiques, while foodies will find sustenance in the world-class cafes and restaurants as well as the famous Lindengracht Market.

What to Do in Jordaan

• Anne Frank House (book months ahead to get a ticket)
• Do an Anne Frank walking tour
• Wander the 9 Streets
• Browse exceptional fashion and homewares boutiques
• Eat at Amsterdam’s best cafes & restaurants. We loved Men Impossible!

Jordaan is the place to stay if you want a glimpse of Amsterdam’s unique beauty at every turn.

Red Light District / De Wallen – Best Place to Stay for Nightlife

The central Amsterdam neighbourhood De Wallen is home to the famous red light district. It is the medieval city center and the heart of Amsterdam’s nightlife scene. If you want bars and clubs on your doorstep, De Wallen is perfect for you.

Perhaps curiously, De Wallen is also the right neighbourhood for people who want first-class luxury accommodation, which is clustered around Dam Square, where everything starts in Amsterdam.

What to do in De Wallen

• People watch in Dam Square
• Walking tour of the Red Light District
• Imbibe at “coffee” shops, clubs and bars
• Drink craft beer at Brouwerij de Prael
• Visit Oude Kerk & Nieuwe Kerk

The Red Light District is the place to stay if you want to enjoy the beating heart of Amsterdam and be close to everything.

The Museum Quarter / Vondelpark — Best Place to Stay for Culture & Green Space

If you’re travelling to Amsterdam primarily for the history and culture then the Museum Quarter is the perfect location for your Amsterdam stay.

The neighbourhood is green and leafy, plus you’ll have some of the world’s most impressive museums on your doorstep. The Museum Quarter is right next to the expansive Vondelpark, which is the perfect spot for morning jogs or lazy afternoon picnics.

What to do in The Museum Quarter / Vondelpark

• Museum Square: Rijksmusuem, Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum
• Picnic with locals in Vondelpark
• Take in a concert at the Royal Concertgebouw
• Shop on Cornelis Schuytstraat
• Eat and drink your fill at Kebabi or Vegan Junk Food Bar

The Museum Quarter is the best place to stay if you want leafy surroundings and easy access to the world’s best museums.

De Pijp — Best Neighbourhood for Culture Vultures

One of the most diverse neighbourhoods in Amsterdam, De Pijp has a chilled out, arty vibe with lots of galleries, craft breweries and street food. It’s also a melting pot of Amsterdam’s diverse culture, where you’ll find people from all over the world living and working side-by-side.

One of the biggest attractions is the Albert Cuyp Market where you can find food and goods representing this amazing diversity. De Pijp is where locals go when they want an evening out.

What to do in De Pijp

• Brunch at Little Collins, Scandinavian Embassy, Bakers & Roasters
• Go gift shopping at a great selection of independent boutiques
• Get craft cocktails with a view at Twenty-Third Bar
• Sip craft beer at Brouwerij Troost
• Sample Dutch treats at at Albert Cuyp Market

De Pijp is the place to stay for people who want to mingle with locals and taste Europe’s best brunches!

Best Hostels to Stay at in Amsterdam

Best hostel in Jordaan

Shelter Jordan Hostel

Rating 8.5, $35 dorm bed, breakfast included

Truth be told, Jordaan is not a great neighbourhood if you’re on a budget as most hotels in the neighbourhood are pretty pricey. If you’re set on staying here, the Shelter Jordan Hostel is your best bet.

Stephen stayed here on a visit to Amsterdam to teach yoga a few years ago and it was basic but extremely clean, really well run, and the 24-hour front desk is helpful and super friendly. The hostel is run by Christians with a mission to show the world Christian hospitality, meaning they go out of their way to provide great service here.

Lockers and baggage storage are available and you can also rent bicycles to explore the city. There is free WiFi but it’s not that fast or stable.

There’s a cafe on the ground floor and a good breakfast is provided.

Read reviews and check prices →

Best Hostel in De Wallen

The Flying Pig Downtown

Rating 8.3, $35 dorm bed

Right on Amsterdam’s main shopping street, The Flying Pig Downtown has a modern kitchen and a funky lounge area, making it an ideal place for meeting new travel buddies.

The dorm rooms range from 6 beds to 32 beds (!) and have huge private lockers to store your stuff.

The on-site bar and the terrace are great spots to kick off your evening before a night out in Amsterdam.

Read reviews and check prices →

Best Hostel in De Pijp

Cocomama

Rating 8.3, $35 dorm bed, 2-night minimum stay

The eclectic rooms at Cocomama are a perfect base to explore the city for travellers on a budget. They offer dorm rooms, family rooms, and private rooms, plus an outdoor deck and garden and a play area for kids.

Stephen stayed here about six years ago. It was a great location, affordable, cool and hip. More recently, Jane’s 17-year-old nephew stayed at Cocomama on his first few nights in Europe and absolutely loved it. He met friends and travelling companions here that would accompany him on his travels around the continent.

Read reviews and check prices →

Best Hostel in the Museum Quarter

Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark

Rating 8.5, $37 dorm bed

The clean and bright hostel rooms are just the icing on the cake at Stayokay. What really sets this hostel apart are the common areas. There are bright window seats, long co-working desks, comfy couches, and even an outdoor courtyard — all of which are perfect for getting to know your fellow travellers better.

There’s also an on site coffee shop to help you recover from the night before and packed lunches are ideal if you fancy a picnic in nearby Vondelpark.

Read reviews and check prices →

Best Budget Hotels in Amsterdam

Best Budget Hotel In Jordaan

Backstage Hotel

Rating 8.5, $73 single room with shared bathroom

A rock ‘n’ roll themed hotel, each room is decorated with murals of rock legends, and the furniture is all designed to look like road cases, amps, and other music paraphernalia. Each room has a TV and Bluetooth speakers.

Of course, a rock hotel must have a bar on site and Backstage does not disaapoint. They also have a pool table as well as a wide range of whiskeys.

Read reviews and check prices →

Best Budget Hotel in De Wallen

Mauro Mansion

Rating 9.3, $120 double room

It is not easy to find anything resembling a budget hotel in the center of Amsterdam but somehow Mauro Mansion manages it! The rooms are designed with an eclectic mix of stripes and patterns, antique furniture and modern pieces, and have beautifully tiled bathrooms.

The location is as central as you can get, just hopping distance from the central station and looking out over a canal.

If you’re travelling solo or a couple on a budget, this might be the best place for you to stay in Amsterdam.

Read reviews and check prices →

Best Budget Hotel in De Pijp

Hotel Asterisk

Rating 8.9, $107 single room, $143 twin room. Breakfast not included.

The rooms at Hotel Asterisk occupy two restored 19th century buildings. They are well-designed, and in a great location for exploring the city. There’s a small garden with tables and chairs — a real find in Amsterdam where outdoor space is at a premium — and a shared lounge where you can meet other guests.

This hotel is very popular with solo travellers and guests rave about the friendly staff.

Read reviews and check prices →

Best Budget Hotel in the Museum Quarter / Vondelpark

De Bedstee Boutique Capsules

Rating 8.4, $120 single capsule, $150 double capsule

Amsterdam can be tough for people on a budget, especially if you’re past the age where hostels make sense! The clever capsule concept was made for cities like Amsterdam, where space is at a premium. The capsules at De Bedstee feature super comfy mattresses and excellent ventilation for a good night’s sleep.

The hotel common areas are decorated with a wild splash of colors and patterns, with traditional Dutch touches, like blue and white tilework, thrown in for good measure.

Not for claustrophobes but anyone else on a budget will love it.

Read reviews and check prices →

Best Mid-Range Hotels for Your Amsterdam Visit

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Jordaan

Mr. Jordaan

Rating 9.2, $213 double room

We love this cleverly designed hotel that started in the 60s when the owner advertised his couch at the local tourist office, basically inventing couchsurfing. Don’t worry, if you stay at Mr. Jordaan now you’ll get a real bed in your room but it still feels just as homey as it did in the early days.

This unique hotel is great for couples and older travellers who want a quiet and comfy place to stay close to Amsterdam’s center.

Read reviews and check prices →

Best Mid Range Hotels in De Wallen

Hotel V Nesplein

Rating 9.0, $370 double room

The Hotel V Nesplein blends textures with unexpected colors and patterns to create a design hotel that is as eye-catching as it is comfortable.

Guests love the location, just minutes from Dam Square, the luxurious beds, the excellent restaurants, and the morning Bloody Marys ;).

During good weather, take advantage of the terrace to soak up the sun, and during bad, relax in a well-worn chair with a good book in one hand a craft cocktail in the other.

Hotel V Nesplein is a great hotel for couples and older travellers who want to explore the bustling city during the day and retreat to an outstanding room to rest.

Read reviews and check prices →

Nova Hotel

Rating 8.2, $234 twin room, breakfast included

The rooms in the Nova Hotel are nestled within 5 historic buildings in the heart of the city. Their spacious rooms come with comfortable beds and funky lime-green carpets to brighten your day.

The location couldn’t be more central, with Amsterdam’s most iconic sights right on the doorstep. Snag a room on the inner courtyard for a peaceful stay sans traffic noise.

Family rooms are available so it’s perfect for small groups or people travelling with kids.

Read reviews and check prices →

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Vondelpark / The Museum Quarter

Conscious Hotel The Tire Station

Rating 8.7, $165 double room

What do we love most about Conscious Hotels, a small chain in Amsterdam? Their eco-friendly ethos which is a the heart of everything they do. The rooms at The Tire Station are simple and modern, with extra-special Dutch beds for a superb sleep. There’s an organic restaurant onsite and they offer a free wine hour every day!

Just around the corner from Vondelpark, The Tire Station is perfect for people who love to walk or spend time outside.

Read reviews and check prices →

Best Mid-Range Hotel in De Pjip

Amsterdam Canal Hotel

Rating 8.5, $176 double room

With ornate wallpaper and modern funky furnishings, the rooms at Amsterdam Canal Hotel ooze character.

The quiet terrace is the ideal place to start your day and you can take your afternoon rest break at the complimentary bar which provides free drinks and snacks every afternoon and evening.

Couples especially love this hotel, so if you’re planning a romantic getaway to Amsterdam, make sure to check it out.

Read reviews and check prices →

Best Luxury Hotels When Staying in Amsterdam

Best Luxury Hotel in Jordaan

Pulitzer Amsterdam

Rating 9.1, $372 queen room

Set inside 25 inter-linked 17th and 18th century canal houses, Pulitzer Amsterdam offers exceptional rooms decorated with a combination of modern and traditional Dutch design. Guests rave about the unique design, the exceptional location along Prinzengracht, and the comfy beds.

There is an upscale restaurant on site as well as a garden cafe and a sleek bar. They also provide a fitness center and 5-star quality room service.

For families, there are babysitting services as well as indoor and outdoor play areas. If money is no object, this is the ideal place to stay in Amsterdam.

Read reviews and check prices →

Best Luxury Hotel in De Wallen

Hotel TwentySeven

Rating 9.6, $780 junior suite

If you’re looking for opulence in the center of Amsterdam, look no further than Hotel TwentySeven. Think velvet drapes, striking photography and textured patterned wallpaper on every wall. Think quilted throws, overstuffed cushions, and sofas so comfy you’ll never want to stand up.

Think windows overlooking Amsterdam’s most expensive bit of real estate — Dam Square.

Now go look at the photos because words can never do this place justice.

If you’re considering this hotel it means money is no object for you. We recommend you check into one of their junior suites where you’ll enjoy city views, relax in the spa tub, and entertain in the suite’s living space, at twice the size of most Amsterdam apartments.

Don’t miss a visit to the Michelin-starred restaurant, make sure you take a journey through their extensive cocktail menu, and don’t forget to uncork a bottle of wine recommended by the world’s best wine taster and sommelier Lendl Mijnhijmer.

Read reviews and check prices →

Best Luxury Hotel in De Pijp

Hotel Okura Amsterdam

Rating 8.9, $300 double room

Offering a fusion of Japanese and Dutch design and service, Hotel Okura might have the best views in the whole city. In a city where most buildings are at most 5 storeys tall, their 22 floor tower, located in a quiet residential area at the south end of De Pijp, provides guests with unobstructed views in every direction.

The rooms are elegant, modern, and comfortable, while the common areas are designed to evoke Japanese minimalism while still feeling welcoming and homey. With not one but two Michelin-starred restaurants on the property, this is the place to stay for the luxury foodie!

Read reviews and check prices →

Best Luxury Hotel in the Museum Quarter

Conservatorium Hotel

Rating 9.0, $589 single room, $769 junior suite

Originally the home of Sweelinck Music Conservatorium, the Conservatorium was redesigned in 2008 to become one of Amsterdam’s most beautiful hotels. Crisp lines and modernist design are combined with warm earth tones and heaps of natural light to create a space that is minimalist and homey at the same time.

We would love to spend time at their spa, Spa Akasha, a 1,000 square metres holistic wellbeing center on the property. They offer everything from nutrition guidance, to meditation, to yoga, pilates, barre, and Watsu (we had to Google that one!). Best for those who want their Amsterdam trip to be therapeutic as well as adventurous.

Read reviews and check prices →

More Posts About Amsterdam

A Final Note on Where to Stay in Amsterdam

Though Amsterdam has plenty of hotels to choose from, it can be tough to find one in the perfect location at the perfect price. And even if you do, because Amsterdam is such a popular city, you might find that by the time you book, it’s sold out. So after you check out our list above, make sure you plan to book your top choice as soon as you know you are travelling to Amsterdam.

Most hotels on Booking.com have generous cancellation policies, so it’s best to secure a place now and cancel later if your plans change.

  Happy transformational travels, Jane & Stephen

We’re not going to lie, it takes a LOT of work to create travel guides like this. But it’s easy to help us out! If you book or buy something using one of our personal links in this post, we’ll earn a small fee at no extra cost to you. Of course, we would never recommend anything we didn’t 100% believe in! Huge thanks in advance! –S&J

The post Best Places to Stay in Amsterdam for Every Budget appeared first on My Five Acres.

Wondering what to do in Ho Chi Minh City? Use this guide to find transformational activities and tours in Ho Chi Minh City to suit your tastes and travel style. We also include our ideal itinerary for 2 or 3 days.

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here.

During the past several years, we have visited Ho Chi Minh City more times than we can count. Seriously. We don’t know how many it is now. During those visits, we’ve had a chance to explore different neighbourhoods, see the most and least touristy sights, take a few great tours, eat at a huge range of restaurants, and really get a feel for the city.

But we also remember what it was like the first time we touched down in Saigon, as it’s still locally known.

There was a huge sense of overwhelm and awe. Millions of people and scooters everywhere! No sidewalks and no crossing lights! Unbearable heat and torrential rain, sometimes at the same time!

Saigon is not like any city we’d seen before and we had to re-learn a lot of what we thought we knew about travel before we could really start to enjoy it.

This guide is your shortcut to skipping some of the overwhelm and finding the Saigon that we know and love today.

It will help you to:

• Plan a transformational itinerary that works with your interests and travel style
• Decide how long you need in the city
• Skip the overwhelm and dive right into this amazing city
• Figure out where to go next

So, read on for your guide to…

What to do in Ho Chi Minh City

The Story of Ho Chi Minh City

The biggest city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City has an official population of around 13 million people and is one of the most densely populated cities in the world.

But, of course, it hasn’t always been like that.

There have been settlements in the Saigon area as far back as the 4th Century, and until the 17th Century, Saigon was originally a part of the Kingdom of Cambodia, and was then a small fishing port known as Prek Nokor, meaning forest city.

Waves of Vietnamese migrants populated the city and eventually, Vietnamese nobles took the area from Cambodia, which was too weak at the time to object.

Living with the French

In the mid-1800s, the French colonized Saigon, bringing some the distinctive architecture you can see there today. In the mid-1950s, a power struggle among the French, Ho Chi Minh, and Vietnamese emperor class resulted in the division of Vietnam into the communist north and the capitalist south.

The American War

Of course, these factions did not play nicely together and Saigon was embroiled in the Vietnam war from the late 60s to the early 70s. Despite the south having support from American and other foreign forces, the northern Viet Cong were victorious in 1975, when they captured Saigon, effectively ending the war.

As the Viet Cong moved in, foreigners and southern Vietnamese scrambled to leave, leading to a wave of migration that established Vietnamese populations all over the world.

What was then known as Saigon was combined with other neighbouring areas to form the new Ho Chi Minh City – named for the famous communist leader Ho Chi Minh.

However, the name Saigon, usually referring to the central areas of the city, is still more commonly used by locals.

The Era of Tourism

In the 80s, when the Vietnamese government started to open up the country, Ho Chi Minh City began growing at a furious pace and still continues on that trajectory today. The population has far outstretched the city’s infrastructure, leading to high population density, treacherous traffic, pollution, and flooding.

It has also responsible for turning Saigon into the vibrant, culturally diverse metropolis that you’ll find in Ho Chi Minh City today.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

A Quick Guide to Saigon Neighbourhoods

Before deciding what to do in Ho Chi Minh City, it pays to have an understanding of how the city is laid out. Saigon is huge and traffic is crazy, so you’ll need to plan activities by their location to make the best use of your time.

Saigon is divided into large areas that are known simply by their district number. From booking hotels, to seeing attractions, to finding restaurants, the district number is used to give you a general idea of the location. So, before making plans for you Ho Chi Minh City itinerary, you’ll need know what each district is like.

District 1 – Tourist & Commercial Centre

Smack dab in the centre of Ho Chi Minh City, District 1 contains almost everything a first-time tourist will want to see or do. It is also the hub for most hotels and tourist restaurants in the city. However, District 1 is huge – it can take 20 minutes or more to get from one end to the other on a motorbike, and much long on foot or in a car.

For tourist purposes, District 1 can be divided into two main sections.

City Centre

The city centre area of District 1 is the commercial and financial hub. It’s where you’ll find the most upscale hotels, high-end shopping, trendy coffee shops, and fine dining. In District 1, you’ll see lots of tourists but will also rub shoulders with the well-to-do Vietnamese locals.

To see this on a map, search for The Old Compass Cafe, which is in the heart of this area of District 1.

If you stay in District 1, you’ll be within easy walking distance of most Ho Chi Minh City attractions.

We’ve only stayed in District 1 once, and though it was convenient location, we felt it lacked a bit of the exotic charm of the other districts.

Backpacker Street

Just southwest of the city centre, there is a large area which houses most of the mid-range and budget hotels in Saigon. This is the Backpacker District where most tourists stay when they come to the city. You’ll find hundreds of options for accommodation here, plus more restaurants and bars than you could try in a year.

To view this area on a map, search for Bui Vien and September 23rd Park. Most of the hotels are in the wedge-shaped area between.

At night, Bui Vien Street is closed off to traffic and becomes a heaving party district, with all the bars blaring music and scantily dressed girls waving you inside their places of employment.

Yes, it is as yucky as it sounds. It’s easy to avoid by choosing a hotel on one of the quiet back alleys a short walk away from Bui Vien.

We’ve stayed in this area too many times to count. It’s still our favourite because there so much life, both local and tourist, to observe and enjoy.

District 2 – Expat Living

In this district, especially around the Thao Dien area, you’ll find many of Saigon’s expats from around the world. If you’re planning a longer stay in Ho Chi Minh City, an Airbnb in District 2 might be a good choice.

The district has plenty of Western and Vietnamese restaurants, most of them in the mid-range to upscale market. There are also lots of low-key bars that are good for a quiet evening out. And if you’re in the mood for a movie, head to the Vincom Mall where you can catch a flick in a modern cinema for about $4.

We’ve only stayed in District 2 once, in an Airbnb in a shared apartment. It gave us a window into the life of an expat in Ho Chi Minh City, but we’d only recommend it for longer stays in the city.

Binh Thanh District – Local Culture

Not to be confused with Ben Thanh (which is an area of District 1), Binh Thanh is the place to go if you’ve had it with tourists and want to immerse yourself in the local culture of the city.

There aren’t many traditional tourist attractions in this district, but you’ll find plenty of hole-in-the-wall restaurants, street food, local parks, and markets to entertain and educate you.

Our Hotel Picks for Ho Chi Minh City

If you’ve read the section above about Saigon neighbourhoods, you’ll know that we recommend staying in District 1.

If you’re looking for budget or mid-range accommodation, you’ll find the biggest selection in the “backpacker area” near Bui Vien Street.

For upscale accommodation, the city centre and various areas alongside the river are your best bet. For a longer-term Airbnb, you’ll find the best selection in District 2.

Here are some quick recommendations for you:

• Hostel: Vy Da Backpackers 2, 8.8, comfy beds in perfect location with rooftop garden, from $4
• Budget: Nest Hotel, 8.8, extra comfy beds in clean stylish rooms in ideal location, from $19
• Budget: The Art – G9 Homestay, 9.4, stylish rooms with kitchenettes in local neighbourhood, from $28
• Boutique: Christina’s Saigon, 9.4, spotless fashionable apartments & suites in quiet location, from $56
• Luxury: Fusion Suites Saigon, 9.1, modern high-end rooms and on-site spa, from $141

Practical Travel Advice for Saigon

How to Get Around

As you can see from the map, Saigon is a sprawling metropolis. What you won’t see on the map is the snarl of cars and motorbikes on the roads, making driving painfully slow and walking across the street a life-threatening challenge.

While you can walk between most attractions in District 1, be aware that it takes about twice as long to walk anywhere as it would in a typical Western City. Add to that the almost-constant oppressive heat and humidity of Ho Chi Minh City, and you’ll want to have another form of transport!

Enter Grab. Grab is a ride-hailing app similar to Uber but with the bonus of allowing you to hail cars or motorbikes to drive you around. Cars are more comfortable but can take 10 times longer to get places because of the city’s traffic.

If there are only one or two of you, hail a couple of Grab bikes instead. Depending on your driver, the ride can be exciting / scary, so make sure you’re feeling brave! But, the cost for a ride clear across District 1 is usually under a dollar, so it sure beats walking.

How Many Days Do You Need in Saigon?

How many days should you stay in Ho Chi Minh City? The answer depends on your travel style and what you like to do.

If you thrive on the buzz of a big, busy city, are looking for nightlife, or want to explore an endless array of trendy cafes, rooftop bars, and incredible restaurants, then you’ll want to spend at least 3 days in Ho Chi Minh City.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for interesting culture experiences or want to get out in nature, then you can cut your trip to Ho Chi Minh City a little shorter, to leave more time for Vietnam’s other attractions.

For me, Saigon is a little too much of a big noisy city and there’s not a lot (beside the food) to hold my attention here. I prefer to get in and out as quickly as possible!

When’s the Best Time to Visit?

We have been to Ho Chi Minh City at all times of year and there really is no bad time to visit. Since this isn’t a city you’ll want to spend too much time walking around, and most of the attractions are indoors, the weather doesn’t affect your visit as much as it might in a more outdoor-focussed city.

What’s the weather like?

Saigon has two distinct kinds of weather: hot and dry or hot and wet. When you’re planning your itinerary, no matter what time of year you travel, it’s vital that you make allowances for the energy-sapping qualities of all this hot weather. Typical tourists find that they have less energy during the day and need to plan more time to rest and recharge.

The dry season in Saigon runs from November to April, and you’re almost guaranteed endless sunny days. In winter, you might also get some (relatively) cool weather, with temperatures peaking in the high 20s. Spring during the dry season can be painfully hot.

Rainy season, from May to early November, and brings some relief from the endless heat of spring. Usually, rain comes in violent downpours that last only an hour or so. Later in the season, the rain can be more constant and some city streets may become flooded and impassible.

High season in Saigon

The most popular tourists season in Saigon is from December to February, during the Christmas, New Year’s and Tet seasons. There is a vibrant, festival atmosphere in the city during these months, with decorations and celebrations everywhere.

Prices for accommodation do rise during high season and you’ll have to book ahead to secure the best properties.

Your Ho Chi Minh Itinerary

Here’s our recommended itinerary for your 2 or 3-day stay in Saigon. The sections below will give you details on all our suggested activities, plus some more you can fit in if you have time.

2 Days in Saigon

Day 1

• Morning: Free or Self-Guided Walking Tour
• Afternoon: War Remnants Museum
• Evening: Street Food Tour

Day 2

• Morning: Cafe Apartments
• Afternoon: Markets and Shopping
• Evening: AO Show & Rooftop Bar

3 Days in Saigon

Day 3

• Morning: Cu Chi Tunnels Tour
• Afternoon: Spa / Yoga / Relaxation
• Evening: Craft Beer Crawl

Our 3 Favourite Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Delight Your Taste Buds on a Food Tour

3 hours, $35–$45, book ahead

A food tour is an ideal introduction to Vietnamese culture and the culinary delights you’ll find in the country. Saigon is so huge and spread out that finding the best food stalls and sampling the local favourites would be almost impossible on your own.

On a food tour, local experts will take you to their favourite foodie spots and teach you about how each food relates to Vietnamese culture. Plus, you’ll stuff your face with so much yum!

Try an evening food tour by motorbike, or a private street food walking tour. And if you’re vegan, hop on a plant-based food tour run by an all-female team!

Take a Free Walking Tour

9am or 2pm, 3 hours, by donation

Though Ho Chi Minh City is not very walkable — think 7 lanes of traffic squeezed into roads only 4 lanes wide — many of the main sights, like the War Remnants Museum, the Central Post Office, and Ben Thanh market are all close together.

So while you might find walking around on your own more of an adventure than you bargained for, a walking tour makes perfect sense.

Not only will your guide help you cross the street without being run down by a scooter, they will show you the most interesting spots in the city, help you understand the history and cultural context of what you’re seeing, and be able to give you tips for what else to see, do, and eat during the rest of your time in Ho Chi Minh City.

You’ll get more than your money’s worth, especially if you opt for a free walking tour!

Try Saigon Free Day Tours, who will show your around the main sights, or tailor a tour just for you. While the tours are free, be prepared to give your guide a generous tip at the end to thank them for their time and knowledge.

Have Your Heart Broken at the War Remnants Museum

Open 7:30am–6pm daily, 1–2 hours, 40K VND ($2)

There are certain places around the world (think Auschwitz or Cambodia’s Killing Fields) that are must-see places, despite being very difficult to handle. The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is one of these.

It tells the story of the Vietnam War from a far different perspective than the American war movies takes. Instead of tales of heroic soldiers, the museum shows the impact of the war on the normal people who lived through it. Needless to say, it is a gut-wrenching journey into the devastation war can cause.

Don’t miss it.

Best Activities & Tours

If you want to see Saigon from a local’s perspective, the best way to do that is on a tour. Tours are very inexpensive in Vietnam, so even if you’re on a budget, it’s well worth the money for the depth of experiences you’ll get.

Get Your Motor Running on a Saigon City Motorbike Tour

8am or 2:30pm, 3.5 hours, $27, book ahead

You may have heard that the traffic in Saigon is insane – and that is totally true. Don’t worry though, on this tour you won’t be driving your own motorbike, but you’ll get to ride on the back of a bike driven by a local student and guide.

On this tour, you’ll get away from the typical tourist haunts in the city centre and visit a Saigon wet market, see some of the most beautiful architecture in the city, and visit important cultural and historical sights.

Get the details & book →

Take it Slow on a Cyclo Tour

8am, 3 hours, $36, book now

For an eco-friendly tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s main attractions, try an old-fashioned cyclo ride. In case you don’t know, a cyclo is a traditional 3-wheeled cycle with a carriage at the front for a passenger.

This tour will take you around to the city’s biggest sights plus you’ll be taken for a traditional bowl of pho and your guide will give you tips to keep exploring. Perfect for your first afternoon in the city!

Get the details & book →

Ignite Your Appetite at a Cooking Class

9:30am, 2pm, 6:30pm, 3 hours, $33, book now

While we love food tours, learning to cook the local specialities yourself is even better. A cooking class in Ho Chi Minh City will introduce you to the most beloved local foods, help you understand the culture better through it’s meal-time traditions, and give you a a new skill to take home with you.

We love the sound of Lua Le’s cooking school, where the emphasis is on home-style dishes and the social aspects of cooking and eating together. Contact the school for a vegan / vegetarian option.

Get details & book →

Best Markets in Saigon

Ben Thanh Market

One of the biggest tourists attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh Market is better as a touristy experience than it is for getting your shopping done. There are so many stalls selling such a range of clothing, home goods, souvenirs, food, and other items, it’s a little overwhelming.

As you pass through the narrow aisles, stall-holders call out “hello miss”, “want to buy something?”, and “what are you looking for?”. To truly enjoy the experience, remember that every person who calls out to you is a human being, with their own personal story.

At the very least, smile and respond “no thanks” as you pass by. For a deeper experience, stop and chat to a few sellers and see what you can learn about life as a marketeer in Saigon.

When buying, remember to bargain – prices are inflated for tourists, so you should be able to get 30–50% off the original price.

Binh Tay Market

The cultural heart of Chinatown, Binh Tay Market (also known as Cholon Chinatown Market), is where the locals go to shop. Much of the market is dedicated to wholesale, so don’t be surprised if you are not able to buy some of the things you see. You will still experience pressure to buy from the stall holders though, so don’t expect a quiet wander around the market.

For street food lovers, the food court at Binh Tay Market might be more enticing than the goods inside. There’s a wide array for Vietnamese and Chinese-influenced food on offer, all prepared for locals and at local prices. There will be plenty of things to eat that you don’t recognize, so be brave and dive in!

Dan Sinh Market (War Surplus Market)

For something a little different in your market shopping trip, visit Dan Sinh, the War Surplus Market. Here, alongside industrial supplies purchased by local business owners, you’ll find every imaginable knick-knack related to the American War. Rusty dog tags, clunky military boots, army green jackets, lighters, canteens, hammocks and oh so much more.

Almost none of it is original, and everything comes at an inflated price, so be sure you know what you’re getting and what you’re willing to pay before you start to bargain!

Museums & Attractions

The Reunification Palace / Independence Palace

7:30am–11:30am & 1pm–5pm daily, 1–2 hours, 40K VND ($2 USD)

An outstanding 1960s modernist building, The Reunification Palace is the place where the Vietnam War ended, with a tank smashing through the front gate and a soldier unfurling a Viet Cong flag on the balcony. Before that fateful day, it had been used as the presidential residence, and was decked out in the latest 60s finery. Going inside is like stepping into a Bond film, one where the baddie and his henchmen have very expensive taste. This is a Ho Chi Minh City landmark not to be missed by architecture buffs!

Central Post Office

Open 7am–7pm weekdays, 7am–6pm Saturday, 8am–6pm Sunday, 30 minutes, free

Though it’s one of the main stops on any tour of Saigon, the Central Post Office isn’t tremendously exciting. Sure, the 1800s colonial architecture is impressive and the portrait of Ho Chi Minh framed by a leading line of archways is striking.

But after a few minutes inside, you might find the most diverting part of your visit is to stand back and watch as tourist after tourist tries to take just the right selfie for Instagram.

There’s a small market inside as well but if you’re looking for bargains, you won’t find them here.

By the way, it is still a working post office, so at least you can mail a few postcards home during your visit.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Closed for renovation, 10 minutes, free

Right next to the Central Post Office, the Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica was built in the same period by French colonists. Despite the French having long ago been run out of town, the Cathedral still operates and many Catholic Vietnamese attend mass each Sunday.

The red brick landmark seems to be perpetually under construction and is closed to visitors while the work continues. The outside, though picturesque, won’t take more than a few minutes to look around.

Jade Emperor Pagoda

Open 5am–6pm daily, 30 minutes, free

Unlike the post office and cathedral, the Jade Emperor Pagoda is a little trek out of the centre of town and we only recommend visiting if you’re a die-hard Buddhism or pagoda nut.

While the interior is interesting, it is rather small and cluttered. The pond outside is overflowing with turtles, most in a sad state, which doesn’t seem very kind considering the Buddhist tradition to us – but whatever.

Plenty of locals go to pray to the Jade Emperor for fertility or help with their love lives. Meanwhile, tourists snap photos and talk too loudly.

Museum of Vietnamese History

For most of us, our knowledge of Vietnamese history starts and ends with the Vietnam war. A rainy afternoon in the Museum of Vietnamese History will take care of that!

It covers thousands of years of history, and can be a bit confusing and overwhelming for the Vietnam history novice – hire a guide to show you around to get a better sense of the most important milestones in the history of this country.

Unusual Things to do in Saigon

Apartment Cafes & Boutiques

Hours vary, 1–3 hours, free to browse

In Saigon, you will not find the trendiest cafes and boutiques at street level. Many of the best are hidden away inside Saigon’s old, run-down apartment buildings, which are perpetually under threat of being torn down and redeveloped.

For the cutest cafes you’ve ever seen, head to the now-famous Cafe Apartments at No. 42 on Nguyen Hue Walking Street. To enter, walk down an unlikely looking alley and either mount the dingy staircase or pay for a ride up in an untrustworthy-looking elevator.

Then wander from floor to floor, popping your head inside anywhere you see a sign for a cafe or boutique. We recommend the third-floor donut shop Dosh, for excellent views, amazing drinks, and the most Instagrammable donuts you’ve ever seen.

If you’re into fashion, don’t miss the boutique shopping at two of Saigon’s most popular fashion apartments. There you’ll find clothing created by independent designers who are on the cutting edge of Saigon’s fashion scene.

• Ton That Thiep apartment is at 42 Ton That Thiep, Ben Nghe Ward
• Ly Tu Trong apartment is at 26 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Nghe Ward.

Museum of Traditional Medicine

Daily 8:30am–5pm, 1 hour, 120K VNK (6 USD)

Want to explore thousands of years of medical history? The 3,000+ artifacts at Saigon’s Museum of Traditional Medicine date all the way back to the stone age. You’ll find organized explanations in English and the whole thing is housed in a gorgeous traditional wooden house. To top it all off, there’s a Cham tower where you can view several Cham linga.

Craft Beer Crawl

Hours vary, 3 hours, prices vary

Did you know that Ho Chi Minh City has Asia’s best craft beer scene? The boom began a few years ago, when some enterprising expats decided they were sick of drinking Bia Saigon and 333. It didn’t take long until new breweries were popping up everywhere, and now, you can easily spend a whole evening going from brewery to brew pubs around the city.

Don’t miss Pasteur Street Brewing, which started it all, Winking Seal, which might be the friendliest of the lot, and Heart of Darkness, which has the most amazing bottle labels. Of course, all of them provide top-notch beers for every palette!

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh at Night

Get High as the Clouds

Open 9:30am–8:45pm daily, 1 hour, $10, book ahead

It’s hard to get a sense of the expanse of Ho Chi Minh City from the ground. Buildings rise high out of narrow streets and the noise and chaos pulls your attention to the minutiae of every day life. See the city from above gives you a big picture view and you get a sense of the millions of lives playing out below you, one story at a time.

One of the most popular spots to inspire rooftop awe is the Saigon Skydeck at the Bitexco Tower, which was, until recently, Saigon’s tallest building. The Skydeck gives you a 360 degree view of Saigon, for a 200,000 VND ($10) entrance fee. You can also skip the Skydeck and go to the 50th floor restaurant and bar. There’s no fee for entry but you’ll have to order some drinks of course.

You can also get high at the newest tallest building, the Landmark 81, which is even taller than the famous Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur. This building contains a high-end shopping mall, state-of-the-art cinemas, Vietnam’s most luxurious hotel, plus an 80th floor deck for viewing, equipped with telescopes and touchscreen information.

Shout from the Rooftops

1–2 hours, prices vary $10–$50

If you prefer a more alcoholic rooftop experience, go for cocktails at one of Saigon’s many rooftop bars. The Hotel Des Art Social Club is an oasis in the sky, complete with breathtaking infinity pool.

Watch the sunset with a signature cocktail at Skyloft by Glow, where the chill vibes turn clubby as the evening draws in. For a more elegant experience, try the Rooftop Garden at the Rex Hotel, which is open all day and is the perfect place to connect to your inner 1960s film star.

AO Show at the Saigon Opera House

6pm most days, 1.5 hours, from $30, book ahead

For a touristy but fun experience that is family-friendly, check out the AO Show at the Saigon Opera House. This is two events in one. First, you’ll get to see the design and architecture of one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most recognizable landmarks, the French Gothic opera house.

Second, you’ll experience the delights of the AO Show, where talented young Vietnamese people tell the varied stories of life in Vietnam through song, dance, and acrobatics.

We saw the AO show in Hoi An and were pleasantly surprised by how enjoyable it was!

Tickets can sell out quickly at busy times of year so book ahead if this is a must-see attraction for you.

Bui Vien Street

8pm til late, 1 hours, free to wander

To experience the tackier side of Ho Chi Minh nightlife, head down to Bui Vien street (aka Backpacker Street, aka ) after dark. In the evening, the busy thoroughfare is closed off to most traffic, and the bars that line the street compete to see who can play louder club music and who has more scantily clad waitresses.

It is every bit as bad as it sounds, but makes for an interesting spectacle nonetheless.

Mindful & Wellness Activities

Treat Yourself to a Treatment

All day, 1–2 hours, prices vary

There seem to be almost as many spas in Ho Chi Minh City as there are motorbikes, but it can be very hard to find a good one. The cheap places tend to be staffed by women who have little or no training and your massage will be disappointing at best. Some even still offer “extras” that should be avoided at all costs.

There are plenty of excellent spas in the city too. But it can be tough to find them! Try the traditional Vietnamese services at My Spa, where the masseuse are skilled practitioners and the products are all organic. Head to Cat Moc Spa for a full range of beauty and aesthetic treatments, or the highly rated Saigon Heritage Spa for some of the best massages in the city.

If you’re looking for something in the alternative medicine realm, like reflexology, acupuncture, or reiki, check out the range of treatments at Mandala Wellness. We know the owners well and can attest to their integrity and caring natures.

Unwind at a Yoga Class

All day, 1–2 hours, prices vary

In the past few years, the yoga scene has exploded in Vietnam. While a few years ago, there were only a handful of yoga studios around the country and locals didn’t really know much about the practice, now, almost every Vietnamese woman we talk to says she practices yoga. This rapid expansion has led to lots of options, both good and bad, for doing yoga in Saigon.

For a well rounded selection of classes, in many styles and for all levels, head out to the Yoga Pod in District 2. They have well trained teachers and you’ll get a quality yoga class there. In District 1, there’s Yoga Living, which is a good place to sweat out your stresses, though the quality of the teaching staff ranges quite a bit and classes hold up to 50 people.

More Saigon Travel Tips

Books to Read in Saigon

There’s nothing quite like a good novel or non-fiction book to help you understand the heart and soul of a city like Ho Chi Minh. Here are a few great books we suggest you read before or while you’re in Vietnam.

The Quiet American

by Graham Greene

One of the most well-known books set in Vietnam, The Quiet American takes place in 1950s Saigon and tells the story of a young man who wants to help end the conflict in Vietnam between French colonists and the Viet Minh.

It’s an atmospheric tale that will give you more insight into the history of the city and Vietnam as a whole.

Start reading →

The Sympathizer

by Viet Thanh Nguyen

Winner of the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, this thriller actually takes place in Los Angeles just after the Vietnam War.

It’s an examination of the impact the war had on countless Vietnamese immigrants and shows how every war has two distinct side, each believing they are in the right.

Reading The Sympathizer will give you a great understanding of what Saigonese families suffered in the aftermath of war.

Start reading →

Saigon: An Epic Novel of Vietnam

by Anthony Grey

Taking place over 5 decades, this novel begins in Saigon in 1925 and follows Joseph Sherman as he returns to the country, first as a tourist, then as a soldier, and finally as a reporter.

He becomes embroiled in the turbulent world of Saigon’s most influential families and witnesses the biggest turning points in Vietnam’s 20th Century history. This one will give you a deeper understand of what led to the Vietnam War and how politics turned the world upside down for millions of Vietnamese people.

Start reading →

(Related: If you are a reader, check out this book-lovers guide to Ho Chi Minh City.)

Day Trips from Ho Chi Minh City

Mekong Delta Speed Boat Tour

8 hours, 4.7/5 stars, $109, book ahead

A few days in the chaos of Ho Chi Minh City can be completely overwhelming – a speedboat trip on the Mekong will be the perfect antidote.

Along the river, the only sound you’ll hear is the motor from your boat and at the oohs and aah of fellow passengers as you pass impossibly thick tangles of rainforest along the shoreline. Traditional stilt huts along the riverside are an eye-opening reminder that Saigon is home to the very poor as well as the very rich.

When you disembark, you’ll get to meet local villagers who earn their living off the land.

Get details & book →

Mekong Delta Non-Touristy Bike & Boat Ride

9 hours, 4.3/5 stars, $40, book ahead

For a slightly more active Mekong Delta adventure, get out on this bike and boat ride from Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll row through narrow jungle-lined canals and then cycle country lanes, with only local farmers and kids cycling to school for company.

Bike to a local market, visit the famous Cao Dai Temple and have lunch at a local restaurant before motoring along the wide Mekong River to get a look a local life.

Get details & book →

Cu Chi Tunnels 1/2 Day Guided Tour

6 hours, 8am daily, from $15, book ahead

You’ve probably heard of the Cu Chi Tunnels — but do you really know what they are? On this half-day tour, you’ll explore the tunnels and learn about the people who survived by going underground during the war. You’ll also get to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of rural Vietnam!

Get details & book →

Where to go After Saigon

Mekong Delta

Though you can easily take a day tour of the Mekong Delta from Saigon, there is so much to see here, and so much sheer beauty in the endless canals and rice fields, that it makes an excellent destination for a few days.

Can Tho makes a picturesque overnight stop, while Ben Tre and My Tho will give you a chance to boat through the wilds of the delta. Tan Lap Floating Village is an eco-tourism destination that will show you the symbiotic relationship between people and the water in this region.

For a local perspective (and to make planning super-easy), check out this immersive 2-day tour from Ho Chi Minh City.

Mui Ne

If you’re looking for a good place to break up the journey towards central and northern Vietnam, consider Mui Ne, a stretch of beach resort just a half-day from Ho Chi Minh City. Low– and high–end accommodations line the beach and there are other attractions, like the Mui Ne Sand Dunes, that you won’t want to miss.

Phu Quoc

For a full-on beach resort holiday, visit Phu Quoc, a sun-drenched island on Vietnam’s southwest coast. This is where wealthy people from all over Asia come to play and it’s a hot destination for Western tourists too.

Just don’t expect a deserted island experience. Phu Quoc is built up with resorts, casinos, and other tacky tourist attractions. However, it still has some of the best beaches in Vietnam.

Cambodia

As much as we love Vietnam, we may love Cambodia just a tiny bit more. Shhh, don’t tell our Vietnamese friends!

If you’re doing a full Southeast Asia trip, then plan to head to Cambodia from Ho Chi Minh City. There are several ways to get to go. Taking the bus to Cambodia is the cheapest, if not the easiest. Or, you can book an inexpensive tour of the Mekong Delta which will drop you off in Phnom Penh at the end. Now that’s an efficient use of time and cash!

More Transformational Travel Tips

We have spent so much time in Vietnam that we’ve written enough about it to publish a book. Instead, it’s all on this site for free. You’re welcome!

Try these posts to keep planning your trip.

We hope this guide to what to do in Saigon is a useful starting place when planning your trip to the city. Our goal is to help every reader find the best, most transformational activities at their destination. Let us know by email or Instagram if you have any questions.

  Happy transformational travels, Jane & Stephen

The post What to Do in Ho Chi Minh City for a Transformational Trip appeared first on My Five Acres.

Finding great food can be a tough task for a traveller! It can be hard to side-step bland made-for-tourists food and dig into authentic local cuisine. Our foodie travel tips will help you find the best food and learn about local culture, too!

This post was created in partnership with Eatwith.

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here.

It’s no secret that I’m a little obsessed with food. Not in a gluttonous I’ll eat anything and everything you put in front of me way. It’s more like a I can’t be bothered eating unless it’s utterly delicious thing. When travelling, (as I have done full-time for the last 7 years) that can be a tall order.

There are days when you are just too busy to seek out the perfect meal. And days when exhaustion from a long journey makes the idea of going on the hunt for food unbearable. And days when you are in a small town with seemingly no possibility of finding a restaurant, let alone one with great meals.

Then there are just the normal days, when you’re in a popular area with lots of options, but it’s so hard to cut through the noise and find that ideal meal to satisfy your tummy and your soul.

Finding a great meal is one the biggest challenges — and the biggest pleasures — of travelling.

Why is Food Such an Important Part of Travel?

There are travellers who don’t care about food. It’s true! I have met them! And each time I meet another one, I am utterly astonished.

How can you be interested in seeing the world and not interested in trying its food?

These travellers happily eat at McDonald’s in Paris and Pizza Hut in Bangkok. As long as calories are going in, it doesn’t matter to them where those calories come from.

To me, travelling without seeking out food prepared by passionate locals is missing out on half the travel experience.

That’s why we’re so crazy about foodie travel: the essence of any culture can be discovered through food.

Food is at the heart of almost everything humans do.

Our days are organized around our need to eat. Meal times are when we gather with family and friends. Plus, every big event in our lives is celebrated with special foods, like birthday cake, wedding feasts, and home-made dishes brought to grieving families at a funeral.

Paying extra attention to what we eat when we travel can reveal plenty about the culture.

Ask yourself:

• What are the ingredients, the flavours, the textures?
• How is the food presented?
• Where and how did each dish originate?
• How is it eaten? Forks, chopsticks, fingers?
• What are the rituals around the serving and consuming of food?

Think about the difference between an elegantly presented meal of gourmet sushi in Japan versus a chilli cook-off in the southern United States. That is culture, my friends!

Of course, great foodie travel is much more than just an intellectual exercise.

There’s nothing more satisfying to the senses than sampling a unique combination of flavours and textures, prepared with love and expertise. Each meal is unique. You will never experience that exact combination again!

How Did we Learn to Be Foodie Travellers?

After 7 years of full-time travel, we have eaten almost everywhere:

• Uber-hip European restaurants heaving with foodies in the know
• One-burner street stalls in exotic Indian cities
• Family-run holes-in-the-wall in tiny villages
• Silent forests where we cooked on our camp stove
• Home stays in stilt huts with only a charcoal fire to cook on

Once, we even ate at a staff canteen in Chibi, China, having mistaken it for a restaurant!

Admittedly, not all of our meals have been great. Some of them were downright horrifying; others were so incredible I still remember the smell and taste of the food years later.

But each meal has been a lesson learned. Each meal has taught us, little by little, what to do and what not to do to find the best food while travelling.

Read on to take advantage of everything we’ve learned and learn…

How to Find the Best Food When Travelling

Don’t miss our post about slow travel and how to do it, our guide to being a green tourist, and our pro tips on how to beat jet lag.

Tips for Before You Leave Home

For those of us who are extra food-obsessed, finding great meals on the road starts long before we set our feet out the door.

Sometimes, I’m a little lazy in the pre-travel research department. But other times, I plan out my eating adventures in detail. I research the local cuisine and learn where I can find all the regional specialities.

Only then do I choose my accommodation, with the first criteria being that it is close to the restaurants where I want to eat.

Even if you don’t go that far, doing a little planning before you leave home will help you find the best food on your trip.

Make a picture-based bucket list

One of our staff writers, Kris, is the ultimate foodie traveller. She picks her destinations based on the type of food she’ll find there. She starts researching her food adventures months in advance.

Kris spends weeks stalking restaurants and foodies on Instagram, drooling over their photos and reading the captions. She’ll even reach out to ask questions if something isn’t clear. Then she saves the most enticing photos into a folder on her phone.

By the time Kris leaves, she has an eye-popping collection of must-eats at her destination — and a plan to fit them all in.

Rely on passionate experts

When we’re heading somewhere new, blogs are my go-to resource for food (and all travel) tips.

Blogging is not an easy business; it takes real dedication and passion to create a blog and keep it running. Plus, unlike journalists for glossy magazines or researchers for the big guide books, most bloggers travel just like average tourists: independently; on a budget; and trying to get the best bang for their buck.

All this adds up to a major trust factor. I trust that other foodie travel bloggers are just like me — passionate about sharing their knowledge to help others have the very best travel experiences.

Pinterest is the best way to find blog posts about food at your destination.

While Google tends to prioritize corporate sites written by people who have never even been to the destination, Pinterest will show you posts by bloggers who have on-the-ground experience.

Just search “Best food in [your destination]” to find blog posts by locals and foodie travellers.

Don’t trust review sites

Though I find review sites and apps generally useless, in less-travelled destinations, they can be handy. If you have to turn to TripAdvisor, Yelp, or Happy Cow, just be aware that reviews are notoriously untrustworthy.

It’s not that the reviews are fake – they usually aren’t. It’s just that some people are a bit crazy when it comes to writing reviews.

To get the most out of them, you need to be able to read between the lines.

First, ignore the outrageously positive reviews.

If you see something like “this is the best pizza I’ve ever eaten” you can be pretty sure the reviewer was drunk or just hasn’t tried very much pizza.

Also forget about the one-star reviews. They are often so ludicrous Stephen and I have a running joke about it.

It goes something like this. “I was shocked to see that my napkin was folded unevenly. One star!” “I got in a traffic jam on my way to the restaurant. One star!” Anyway, it’s funny to us :)

I scan the mid-range reviews and only read the long, descriptive ones. Those tend to be the ones you can trust the most.

Pro tip: If you’re looking for specialty foods, like vegan options or gluten free, you can search within the reviews on TripAdvisor to check if anyone has mentioned those terms.

Book a food tour for your first night

If you love food and culture, the number one way to spend your first evening a new place is on a food tour.

Food tours are not just about stuffing your face with some of the finest hidden food treasures available (though there is a LOT of that).

They are a chance to learn about the local food culture, to meet vendors and restaurateurs who are as passionate about food as you, and to get your bearings in a new place.

Plus, your guide will offer lots of hints and tips to help you find even more great food for the rest of your stay.

I’ve done extraordinary food tours around the world and never been disappointed. So worth the time and money!

How does a Filipino food tour and lunch in New York’s East Village sound?Or how about a market tour and tasting with a French food journalist in Paris? Yes, please!

Use Eatwith to find a unique tour that’s run by a local guide who is even more passionate and knowledgable about food than you are.

Search for pop-ups and festivals

In cities around the world, secret dining events, food festivals and restaurant pop-ups are happening all the time.

Do a quick search on an event site like Eventbrite or on the local tourism board site before you travel to see what’s coming up at your destination. You might just luck into a one-off or annual event that you would never learn about from your guide book.

Tips for When You Arrive

Ask around

Here’s a secret only frequent travellers know. Locals often know next-to-nothing about the place they live!

You’ve probably had the experience of hosting an out-of-town house guest who ends up introducing you to the best things in your neighbourhood. I know we have!

So, when we say to ask the locals, that comes with a big caveat. Don’t just ask any random local about where to eat. They will often point you in the direction of the most popular tourist restaurant in town. Yuck.

Be picky about who you ask.

Tour guides are some of the most helpful when it comes to food recommendations. Airbnb owners can be great too, pointing you towards their favourite places to eat. Waiters and bartenders are also great sources of tips — and don’t worry, they won’t mind recommending a competitor’s restaurant if you’re already eating in theirs.

Second, be specific in what you ask.

Instead of asking “Where should we go get lunch?”, try asking about a specific local speciality, like “Who serves the best pizza rustica in town?” That will help you get the most interesting and most honest answers.

Eat with locals

Though we’ve been invited to local’s houses for dinner many times, we often decline because it’s not necessarily safe to head off to a random stranger’s home!

Luckily, there’s a great, safe way to eat with locals.

Eatwith is the Airbnb of food, connecting locals who love to cook with tourists who love to eat!

Hosts range from decorated professional chefs to amateur food enthusiasts and everything in between. The locations are equally enticing, with many hosts inviting you into their home for conversation and sensational food.

If you have a passion for people, food, and unique experiences, check out the amazing food experiences on Eatwith.

Take your time

The worst time to find good food is when you’re hungry. Start your search before you feel those hunger pangs coming on or you’ll end up wandering aimlessly around with a gnawing ache in your belly and a growing case of the hangries.

Looking for food while we’re hungry has led Stephen and I to the worst meals on our travels (and some of our biggest arguments).

Have a back-up plan

This tip goes with the one above. If you’re a serious foodie traveller, you don’t want to leave anything to chance!

If you have a specific restaurant you’re heading to, make sure you have a Plan B. I can’t count the number of times we’ve been heading our for a delicious treat only to:

• Not be able to find the place
• Find the place is closed
• Find the place so unfriendly or so crowded we want to eat elsewhere

Now, I always try to have a nearby second choice in my back pocket in case my Plan A is a no go.

Get off the beaten track

It’s easy to stop in at the first likely looking restaurant you see, just outside a popular tourist attraction or along a main street.

These restaurants are often packed with tourists. Because of their location, they are also often the most popular restaurants on TripAdvisor, even though the food is mediocre at best.

It’s pretty obvious that moving away from busy tourist areas will help you score better food.

But you’ll get even better, more interesting food experiences if you get away from touristy destinations altogether. Go to a neighbourhood where only locals live. Head to a small village you’ve never heard of before.

We stayed in Torino, Italy for three months last year and although the city is full of amazing restaurants, we had our best meals in a family-run eatery in a small village nearby.

Venturing out from your comfort zone is a great way to find the food experiences of your dreams.

Look for locals

Restaurants that are packed with locals are packed for a reason — because the food is so good they keep coming back and bringing their friends.

But what if you’re eating a little early or a little late and nowhere is busy? Look for other signs of popularity.

Are the staff busy prepping and cleaning for the next rush — or are they sitting languidly staring at their phones? Are tables all cleared and spotless or are the staff busy cleaning up after a busy meal time?

While we were cycling in rural China, it took us a while to learn that the restaurants with the most garbage on the floor served the best food in town. Instead of using waste bins, it’s common in small Chinese eateries for customers to throw napkins and other garbage on the floor.

At the end of the day, it all gets swept away, but during opening hours, it was a sure sign that there had been lots of people eating there.

Learn to spot signs of a busy restaurant and you’ll get fed well, even if you eat outside of regular mealtimes.

Be brave

Travellers often let cultural bias get in the way of a great meal. Where we’re from, a spotless restaurant means the food will be good, a dirty restaurant is to be avoided.

In other cultures, the opposite can be true.

In Vietnam’s popular Ha Long Bay, we met my parents for lunch one day. They didn’t want to eat in the busy local restaurant because it looked pretty grungy. Instead, we ate in a clean but almost empty Western-style place that obviously catered to bus tours.

Guess who ended up with food poisoning?

Not the people who chose the busy local restaurant, that’s for sure!

Be flexible

Sometimes, the best-laid food plans go inextricably awry. Instead of sulking or throwing a tantrum (as I often have when I am hungry), you’ve gotta learn to be flexible.

Was the gourmet pizza place inexplicably closed when you got there? Search for a random street pizza stall instead! Did you get in too late to hit that cafe you wanted to try? Head out into the night for some late-night fast-food.

There are plenty of food experiences that cannot be found through research, review sites, and word of mouth. Sometimes, the best ones are a matter of pure happy accident — so be flexible and let those accidents turn into amazing meals.

Tips To Use at the Restaurant

Use Instagram to order

Even if you’ve found the ideal eatery, it’s still possible to get a bad meal. Menu descriptions are rarely detailed enough to give you a real idea of what you’re eating, and if you’re anything like me, deciding what to order is so hard!

Enter my favourite use of Instagram ever.

If you’re in a popular restaurant, find their account on Instagram. If you’re lucky, you’ll find gorgeous pics of their food so you know exactly what to expect. Then you can just point at the picture you want and ask the waiter which one it is.

Do a food crawl

If you’ve found too many restaurant options in your destination and you’re not sure where to eat, just choose them all. When Stephen and I are in a city like London, there’s nothing I love more than doing a food crawl.

We share an appetizer in the first couple of restaurants and split mains in the next ones. Finally, we head somewhere else for dessert. Once we’ve had a chance to try multiple places, we often return to the best one the next day for a full meal.

Tips for Eco-Friendly Eating

Since we focus on eco-friendly travel, we couldn’t have a foodie travel guide on our site without addressing the issue of eco-friendly eating.

Here are a few tips to make sure your meals are as planet-friendly as they are delicious.

Eat local

Food is a window into culture, and regional food traditions are often based on what is locally produced and grown.

When you’re travelling, opt for restaurants serving local specialities, which are more likely to include ingredients from nearby.

While it might be tempting to order the Australian Wagyu beef while in Bali, it’s ludicrous to eat imported food when there is plenty of local deliciousness to be had. Skip the homogenous “Western” food and try one of the hundreds of local dishes available instead.

Don’t over-order

Food production is one of the biggest contributors to pollution and climate change. While we can’t stop eating, we can reduce the amount of food that is produced and then thrown away on our behalf.

Almost every time we go out to eat, we see people leaving half-eaten plates of food behind when they leave.

I get it. When you’re eating at a restaurant for the first time, it can be tough to gauge exactly how much food to order.

Start by ordering the minimum you think you’ll need and if it’s not enough when the food comes, just order something else. This is a great way to save the planet, save your wallet, and slow down your meal so you can appreciate each bite.

Eat in

If you’ve been out doing touristy things all day, it can be tempting to order food to be delivered to your hotel. The problem is, every dish comes in individual boxes and bags that all end up in the garbage. Even if you’re exhausted, go to a restaurant and eat there instead of contributing to excess waste with takeaway food containers.

It will also enhance your travel experience, since you’ll spend the evening people-watching instead of binging Netflix.

Go veggie

Not eating meat is one of the most impactful actions you can take to reduce your carbon footprint.

Even if you’re not willing to give up meat and dairy 100%, try it for at least one or two meals a day. Be adventurous and seek out a vegan restaurant at your destination!

This will give you the chance to try new foods, improve your health and reduce your carbon footprint.

A Final Note About Foodie Travel

Even though food experiences are important when travelling, it is possible to get too food obsessed! I have had some seriously sulky moments on the road when the meal I’m served is below par and overpriced, or just not what I felt like eating that day.

I’m not proud of it!

No matter how carefully you plan, not all your food exploits will be a home-run. Some days, you will have to prioritize getting some calories into you over finding the absolute best meal. That’s just the way travel goes.

But if you plan ahead, ask around, and be a little brave, you will almost surely make a few amazing food memories that will last a lifetime.

We hope this guide to finding the best food while travelling is useful. It’s our goal to help people have more satisfying and transformational experiences when they travel — food is a great way to do this! Give us a shout by email or on Instagram if you have any questions.

  Happy transformational travels, Jane & Stephen

The post Foodie Travel Tips – How to Find the Best Food While Travelling appeared first on My Five Acres.

If you’re thinking about backpacking Vietnam, the first thing you need to know is that you definitely should! Now that decision is made, here are the essential travel tips to help make the most of your Vietnam backpacking adventure!

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here.

Vietnam might be the perfect destination for backpackers, especially for those who are travelling to Asia for the first time. The people are incredibly welcoming, the infrastructure for tourism is well organized, and there is a huge variety in landscapes, culture, food, and interesting things to do.

Beyond that, Vietnam is still extraordinarily cheap, so you can backpack on a budget and still have a great time.

I’ve travelled to Vietnam so many times now that I’ve lost count. I’ve been there as a solo backpacker, as a cycle tourist, as a house and pet sitter, as a volunteer, and most recently as a temporary expat in Hoi An.

These adventures have taken me from the far north-eastern border with China all the way to the southwest coastal border with Cambodia, and all stops in between.

If it’s your first time backpacking in Vietnam, the tips below will help you make the absolute most of your journey to Vietnam.

So read on for your guide to…

Backpacking Vietnam – The 15 Things You Must Know Before You Go

1. How long do you need to backpack Vietnam?

Even though it looks small on a map, that narrow strip of land is deceiving. Vietnam is about a thousand miles from north to south, and on slow trains and overnight busses, this is a huge distance. Not only that, but across this distance there’s a huge variation in culture, food, landscape, and atmosphere.

We’ve spent close to a year in Vietnam over the course of at least 7 different trips and have still not seen everything there is to see or learned nearly as much about the culture as we’d like!

Alas, you probably don’t have unlimited time to spend wandering Vietnam’s many incredible destinations. If not, here are our recommendations for what you can see in the time you have.

One month to six weeks

If you want to cover the three main regions of Vietnam – north, central, and south – without flying or rushing from place to place, you’ll need at least a month. Six weeks will give you a better chance to get off the beaten track, spend some time relaxing on the beach, and to avoid hellish 15-hour bus rides!

Three weeks

If you have 3 weeks or less, we recommend concentrating your visit in the north and central regions of Vietnam. Leave the south for another time unless your main goal in life is to visit beautiful beaches. If that’s the case, go beach and island hopping in the south and add in some adventures in Dalat and the Mekong Delta.

Two weeks

If you only have two weeks or less in Vietnam, just visit the north or the central region. The north is better for rugged adventures and breathtaking wild scenery, while central is better if you want a combination of history, culture, and beaches.

One week

If you only have one week in Vietnam, reconsider whether it’s worth going. If you only have a week of vacation, it would be much better to travel somewhere in your home country – you’ll have more time to enjoy yourself and less stress.

If you’re planning one week in Vietnam as part of a Southeast Asia trip, think again. With limited time, it’s much better to just go to one country and spend longer there, than to try and pack several countries into a couple of week’s vacation!

2. How much does it cost to backpack in Vietnam?

The great news about Vietnam is, even though it’s a hugely popular backpacking destination, you can visit very cheaply and still have a great time. Backpackers with a sense of adventure and a tight budget can still travel in Vietnam for under $15 per day.

Here are some typical costs of things in Vietnam:

• A filling banh mi or noodle soup from a street stall is less than $1.
• Hostel beds, in nice hostels with lots of amenities, cost $5–10.
• A clean and comfortable double hotel room is about $12–20 per night.
• A 5-hour bus ride will run you about $6.
• A pair of elephant pants is $3–8.
• A street food tour is $15–25.

Not including your flights or visa, for three weeks in Vietnam, budget $500–700. This leaves room for a few nights of more comfy accommodation, a few tours, and some nicer meals.

Handling Vietnamese dong

In Vietnam, the currency is Vietnamese Dong (VND). It is used for everything except paying for your visa on arrival. For that, you will need USD or Euros.

Dong is one of those currencies which can be desperately confusing because there are so many zeros.

$1 USD is worth about 23,000 VND. 100,000 VND is a little less than $5.

When dealing with currency like this, it’s important to always pay attention and take your time when paying for things.

It can be all too easy to hand someone 500,000 VND instead of 50,000! I have done it countless times. While most Vietnamese people are very honest and will point out your mistake, there are always a few bad apples waiting to take advantage of rich, mathematically challenged foreigners.

3. Where to go when backpacking Vietnam

We love travelling in Vietnam so much – there are seemingly endless options for fun, adventure, beautiful landscapes, and deep cultural experiences.

Our don’t-miss highlights for backpacking Vietnam include:

Northern Vietnam

• Hanoi, just an amazing city
• Sapa / Ha Giang, for incredible views and cultural immersion
• Bai Tu Long Bay / Cat Ba Island, a little touristy but you really have to see those karsts
• Tam Coc / Ninh Binh, luscious inland karst landscapes

Central Vietnam

• Phong Nha, incredible caves and a small village experience
• Hoi An, touristy but so pretty and unique in Vietnam
• Hue, great food and imperial history
• Da Nang, beach city with lots of nightlife

Southern Vietnam

• Mui Ne, budget beach destination
• Dalat, for highland trekking and the Crazy House
• Ho Chi Minh City, big city life in Asia
• Can Tho, to experience the mighty Mekong Delta

This is a just a shortlist of places to visit in Vietnam. For a more detailed look at our favourites, check out our Vietnam 2-week itineraries and our guide to transformational things to do in Vietnam.

4. What’s the best Vietnam backpacking itinerary?

While there is no optimal route for backpacking Vietnam, we can make some suggestions based on variations in the length of time you have there and where you plan to go next.

Here’s a route that you can expand or reverse, depending on how much time you have and which other countries you are visiting.

10 days to 2 weeks in Vietnam

If you only have 10 days or 2 weeks in Vietnam, we recommend travelling only in the north. Fly in and out of Hanoi.

• Day 1–3: Soak up the culture in Hanoi
• Day 4–5: Trek in Sapa or Ha Giang
• Day 6–8: Cruise Ha Long Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay
• Day 9–11: See the karsts in Tam Coc
• Day 12–13: Stay at a homestay in Mai Chau
• Day 14: Back to Hanoi for your flight

3 or 4 weeks in Vietnam

If you have more time, you can also visit central Vietnam. After your northern adventures, head south to go:

• Day 15–18: Caving in Phong Nha
• Day 19–20: See the Imperial Palace in Hue
• Day 21–23: Take in the night life in Da Nang
• Day: 24–28: Visit the ancient city of Hoi An

You can then fly out of Da Nang or return to Hanoi and fly from there.

5–6 weeks in Vietnam

If you have even more time, then you can also add the south to your itinerary. Lucky you! From central Vietnam, you can make the long trek south by train or bus.

• Day 29–31: Beach time in Nha Trang or Mui Ne
• Day 31–33: Trek in Da Lat
• Day 34–35: Marvel at Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 36–39: Boat trip on the Mekong Delta
• Day 40–42: Luxury beach escape on Phu Quoc

Arriving from Laos

If you’re coming overland to Vietnam from Laos, you have a couple of options.

1. You can take the bus from Vientiane to Hanoi but that’s 18 hours of pure torture!
2. Make your last stop in Laos at Muang Khua and then take the bus across the border, arriving in Dien Bien Phu. Much better option.

Leaving via Cambodia

If you plan to leave Vietnam and head to Cambodia, do it! We love Cambodia too.

There are two main routes out of Vietnam and into Cambodia.

The first option is to go by bus, or bus and boat, from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh. You can break this up by stopping in Chau Doc overnight.

The second option is a little more adventurous. Take the bus south to Hat Yai and then travel by hired scooter across the border to Kep. This is how I did it last time and it was a great independent adventure.

5. What’s the best time to visit Vietnam?

For backpackers heading to Vietnam, the best time to go is right now.

Seriously. Vietnam’s long coastline and varied geography means that it has three distinct climate patterns (or more). Since the weather varies so much from place to place, it’s hard to find a specific month or two when everything will be perfect everywhere.

Plus, budget travellers tend to have a better tolerance for “adventurous” weather and we are happiest when fewer people are around – meaning we can get better deals on accommodation and tours!

6. What’s the weather like in Vietnam?

Here’s what you can expect from the seasons in northern, central, and southern Vietnam.

Northern Vietnam Weather

Best time to backpack: October & November, March

In northern Vietnam the best weather is from October to December, when it’s usually sunny but not unbearably hot — although we have sweated buckets in October plenty of times!

December is high season, so if you can go earlier in the year, you’ll find everything less crowded and less expensive.

For backpackers, March is also a great time to go north. It’s just before rainy season and not usually too hot. You’ll see fewer crowds than in December but it can still be busy at this time of year.

Central Vietnam Weather

Best time to backpack: February–April

The rainy season on Vietnam’s central coast tails off towards the beginning of February, making this month the ideal time to visit. Book your ticket for after the Tet holidays, which can close down lots of places for about a week as locals celebrate their new year.

If you’re a beach bumming backpacker, June to August are perfect in central Vietnam. It’ll be too hot to do much sightseeing but it will be perfect beach weather almost every day.

We lived in Hoi An during November and December last year and really loved it. The weather was often cool and rainy but we also had plenty of hot sunny days to get out and explore. Hoi An is quieter at this time of year too, so you’ll have fewer crowds to wrangle.

South Vietnam Weather

Best time to backpack: Jan–March

Southern Vietnam has the least volatile climate of the three regions, with temperatures remaining hot but bearable throughout most of the year. Rainy season is from May to November — but the rain tends to fall in a predictable pattern with a short mega-downpour every afternoon.

This leaves the rest of the day for sightseeing, and keeps the dust down, too.

It can be very busy in December, especially in Ho Chi Minh City, when prices will rise accordingly. Wait until late January to visit for cool(ish) weather plus a less crowded experience.

7. Is backpacking Vietnam safe?

Yes! Vietnam is a very safe country to travel in. Whether you’re a solo female traveller, travelling with small children, or going as part of a group, you’ll find little to worry about in Vietnam.

Throughout my many months of travelling in Vietnam, in both busy cities and remote mountain areas, both alone and as part of a couple, I have never once felt threatened or had an unpleasant incident.

In fact, by far the most dangerous thing about Vietnam is trying to cross the street in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City!

Of course, as with any place you go, a little common sense goes a long way.

Just like anywhere, there are bag snatchers and scammers and dodgy guys in Vietnam – so always be aware of your belongings and surroundings to make sure you’re not a target.

Don’t get so drunk you don’t know what you’re doing and don’t wander around alone in unfamiliar areas late at night. Same stuff you’d do anywhere in the world to stay safe.

8. How do you get a visa for Vietnam?

Vietnam has a slightly more complicated visa system than the other countries in Southeast Asia. The requirements vary depending on which passport you hold, how long you want to stay, where you’re arriving, and whether you need multiple entry or not.

Almost everyone will need to start by getting a visa letter from an online visa agency before you arrive in Vietnam. Bring your letter with you to the airport or land border and apply for your visa when you arrive.

9. How to get around in Vietnam?

Another bonus for backpackers in Vietnam is the organized and inexpensive transportation network. The system is super easy for travellers in Vietnam to get around!

Here are our favourite ways to travel in Vietnam.

By Bus

The bus network in Vietnam is extensive and unless you’re going somewhere really crazy, you won’t have a problem getting a bus. Usually, you can book your bus ticket at your hostel, and someone will come and pick you up to take you to the bus station. You might pay an extra dollar for the service but it’s totally worth it! Busses are also extremely cheap in Vietnam.

They are usually slightly run down sleeper busses, where the seats recline three-quarters of the way and there’s a raised spot for your legs to stretch out. If you’re taller than about 6 feet, they can be pretty uncomfortable, so you might want to limit your time on the bus.

Busses can also be noisy, bright and smelly, so don’t plan on getting a great night’s sleep. I have found it possible to get some shut-eye on a few overnight bus rides though, so it can be done.

Recently, some bus companies have introduced snazzy VIP busses with bigger, comfier seats, better air conditioning, WiFi and more. So if you hate busses, you might want to look into this option, which costs a little more but might be worth it.

We use 12go.asia to book our bus and train tickets in Vietnam.

By Plane

There are internal flights in Vietnam and since the country is so huge, it can be tempting to fly. We say “don’t do it!”.

First of all, there’s a climate crisis on, so you don’t need to be adding extra CO2 into the atmosphere. Second, you came to experience Vietnam, so why spend your time flying over it? Third, Vietnamese airlines are notoriously unreliable so you will almost certain face flight delays and spend hours sitting in the airport instead of soaking up the culture.

If you’re short on time, plan a Vietnam itinerary that is focussed on one region of the country. You’ll find plenty of amazing experiences without having to fly.

Train

The train network is limited in Vietnam. You can take the train from Ho Chi Minh City to the west coast and up north along the coast, but stations are often pretty far from tourist destinations. The few trains I’ve taken in Vietnam have been pretty uncomfortable and noisy. Along with frequent delays and a higher cost, I would recommend taking the bus instead.

Motorbike

Buying a cheap motorbike and driving around Vietnam yourself is a popular option which will give you lots of freedom to come and go as you please. However, traffic in Vietnam is utterly crazy so if you’re not an experienced driver, take the bus instead. No one wants to spend their Vietnam holiday in the hospital.

10. How should you dress in Vietnam?

Unlike some of the neighbouring countries, where religion (or sexism) dictates a certain kind of clothing, there is no strict dress code in Vietnam. In cities and small towns, most Vietnamese people wear Western-style clothing and in the cities, some women wear extremely revealing outfits. In remote areas, many local people still wear their traditional costume and are generally more conservative with their clothing.

As a tourist, you can choose to wear just about anything. It’s OK to wear shorts, tank tops, short dresses and whatever else you might pack for hot weather.

However, to show respect for your hosts and for those in the community who are more conservative, covering up a little bit is not a bad idea.

For women, I’d recommend leaving your super short shorts at home, along with your low-cut tank tops and extra tight mini-dresses. For guys, avoid wearing your chest-revealing sleeveless shirts except at the beach.

If you’re visiting temples or other religious sites, you will be asked to cover your shoulders and knees. This is where a sarong and a light scarf can come in handy.

To help deal with the hot weather and protect your skin from the sun, light loose clothing with long sleeves and long pants works best.

11. What to pack for Vietnam

Our biggest tip about packing for Vietnam is to pack light!

There are a few great reasons for this:

• In Vietnam, many hostels and hotels are hidden down narrow alleys where cars can’t go, so you will be carrying your luggage quite a lot.
• Hotels are usually narrow and tall, with no elevator, so be prepared to lug your bag up multiple staircases as well.
• If you don’t pack something you need, it can usually be bought in Vietnam easily and cheaply.

12. Is street food safe in Vietnam?

Yes! And no! There are a huge range of street stalls in Vietnam and they are only as safe as the person who runs them makes them.

Once, in Vietnam, we were sitting waiting for our food at a street stall when we saw the cook tip some honey from a jar into the dish and then, before putting the lid back on the honey, she LICKED THE EDGE OF THE JAR to clean away the excess honey.

So gross and potentially virulent.

However, most street stalls are not run like this and we highly recommend you try at least some street food during your trip.

Here are a few safe ways to eat street food in Vietnam.

1. Take a street food tour. These are run by pros who already know where the best stalls are and have already fed the same food to other tourists, so you know you’ll be safe.
2. Look for stalls with long lines or crowds. If locals will spend extra time in line at a stall, you know that the food is not only clean, but delicious. Don’t forget to check who is in that line. A more diverse crowd, including women and children, indicates a better offering. While if it’s just a line of local workmen, they are probably not as picky with what they eat.
3. Eat at local mealtimes. Vietnamese people eat early. Usually 7am for breakfast, 11am for lunch, and 6pm for dinner. If you’re eating street food, go at those times so you’ll get freshly prepared food.
4. Bring your own cutlery. Often in Vietnam, while the food is great, the chopsticks are disgusting. Bring your own portable cutlery, like these ones we use, for cleaner street eating.

13. Three things avoid in Vietnam

There’s not really a lot you have to watch out for in Vietnam. But there are a couple of things we recommend you avoid in Vietnam.

Avoid Mosquitos

If you’re a frequent reader of this blog, you’ll know that I almost died of malaria a couple of years ago. I’ve also had dengue fever a couple of times and so has Stephen. The good news is, we have never gotten mosquito-borne illnesses in Vietnam.

The bad news is, malaria and dengue fever do exist in Vietnam, along with Zika and Japanese Encephalitis. Wear your mosquito repellent and cover your arms and legs during the peak mosquito hours near dawn and dusk.

Avoid taxi scams

We don’t know why but all around the world, taxi drivers seem to take great pleasure in scamming their customers. They’ll either overcharge, pretend they don’t have change, or drive you around in circles to up the fare. To avoid this, we use Grab (a ride-hailing app) whenever we can.

If it’s not possible, then hop into a Mai Linh or Vinasun taxi which are reputable companies with (mostly) honest drivers. Whatever you choose, bring small change with you and always follow your route on the map so you can keep track of where you are and where you’re going.

Avoid bag snatching

Not a huge problem in Vietnam but bag or phone snatching does happen. It works like this. Motorbike driver sees unaware tourist dangling their camera, bag, or phone near the side of a busy street. Driver revs the engine, grabs the item, and drives away. Say goodbye to your stuff. You will never see it again.

To avoid this, either wear a backpack or cross-shoulder bag or carry your shoulder bag on the shoulder that’s away from the street. If you have to check your phone, don’t do it while walking. Instead, step into a doorway or corner away from the street to look.

14. What Vietnamese words should you know?

Most Vietnamese people in tourist areas speak at least enough English that you will be able to get by without learning any Vietnamese. But where’s the fun in that?

Hello = xin chào (sin chow)
Please = làm ơn (lahm uhn)
Thank you = cảm ơn (kahm uhn)
Yes = dạ (ya)
No = không (khohm)
I am vegetarian = tôi ăn chay (toy ahn jai)

It’s very hard to pronounce phrases correctly but at least you’ll get a few smiles for trying!

15. Our Favourite Hostels in Vietnam

When it comes to hostels and other inexpensive accommodation, Vietnam is the best country in Southeast Asia. Hostels tend to be of very high standard, staff are amazingly friendly and helpful, and you can get a comfy, safe bed for $5 or less per night!

It’s almost always worth spending a dollar or two more instead of getting the absolute cheapest bed you can find. A couple of dollars can take you from dingy cockroach-infested fleapits to a gorgeous boutique hostel with all the bells and whistles. Totally worth it!

• Hanoi: Nexy Hostel – Comfy full-privacy beds, plus great spaces for meeting people and hanging out.
• Hanoi: Old Quarter View – Spacious well-equipped rooms with lots of social spaces and daily free beer.
• Hoi An: Tribee Bana Heritage Hostel – Located right in Old Town, this hostel is famous for their amazing list of activities.
• Ho Chi Minh City: Prei Nokor – Small and extremely clean hostel, with comfy beds and perfect location.
• Ho Chi Minh City: The Art Nice to Home – Cozy and friendly, on a quiet street but centrally located.
• Phong Nha, Ninh Binh, Can Tho: Nguyen Shack – In three off-the-beaten path locations, Nguyen Shacks offer bargain beds in a beautiful setting.

A Final Note About Backpacking Vietnam

Many backpackers to Vietnam make the huge mistake of trying to cover too much of the country in a single trip. Though it looks small on a map, Vietnam is deceptively huge and it can take a long time to get between destinations.

When planning your trip, stick to one or two regions and immerse yourself in the variety of activities available there. We want you to meet local people and get a chance to experience a few transformational activities! If you try to do too much, your memories of Vietnam will mostly be of long, uncomfortable bus journeys!

By planning more activities in fewer locations, you’ll get to see and experience the best of Vietnam.

We hope these tips for backpacking Vietnam are a huge help in planning and taking your trip. Our goal is to help you make every journey a transformational one, where you come back home a little different than when you left. If you have any questions about backpacking in Vietnam, give us a shout on Instagram or by email.

  Happy transformational travels, Jane & Stephen

The post Backpacking Vietnam – The 15 Things to Know Before You Go appeared first on My Five Acres.

Wondering what to pack for Vietnam? Here’s your complete Vietnam packing list, with our recommendations of what to bring, what to leave at home, and what you can buy for less in Vietnam. Read on to make packing for Vietnam simple.

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here.

It can be so hard to figure out what you need to pack when you’re heading to a new country! We know exactly how you feel — we’ve played the “What to pack?” guessing game dozens of times.

That’s why we decided to create our ultimate Vietnam packing list. We have been to Vietnam 7 or 8 times (yes, we actually lost count!) and have spent more than a year total in the country, cycle touring, exploring, volunteering, house sitting, and, most recently, renting a house in Hoi An for two months!

We love the country and its people so much, we just can’t seem to stay away.

Since we’ve spent so much time in Vietnam, we have a pretty good handle on what items you’ll need in your backpack and what you can safely leave at home.

So read on for our…

Vietnam Packing List – What to Bring to Vietnam for All Seasons

5 Packing Tips for Vietnam

1. Pack light: In Vietnam you’ll be hopping in and out of taxis, busses, and even onto motorbikes from time to time. Hotels and guest houses are often down narrow alleys where walking is the only option. Many others have steep stairs with no elevators.

So keep your bag as light as possible – you will thank me when you have a 5th floor room! To do this, leave any “maybe” items at home and bring only the “for sure” ones.

2. Leave formal wear at home: Vietnam is a little rough around the edges, which means you’ll hardly ever have an occasion to dress up. You can leave your Manolos, your suit jacket, and your expensive jewelry at home. Instead, bring casual clothes that will wear well in the heat.

3. You can’t buy big sizes: Almost everything is available to buy in Vietnam, except larger size clothing and shoes. If you are on the upper end of the size scale, it can be hard to find replacement clothes and impossible to find shoes that fit, so be sure you pack adequately. Of course, if you really need something, you can get it tailored in Hoi An.

4. You can buy lots of things for so cheap: Big sizes are about the only thing that’s not available in Vietnam. Everything else, from toiletries to fashion to jewelry and bags, is readily available and mostly super cheap. The one thing you won’t find while shopping in Vietnam is deals on is authentic high-end brands. Real Prada costs just as much in Vietnam as anywhere else in the world.

5. Leave room for luxury. Travel can be tough, so bring one or two luxury items along. I have a cozy travel pillow. Stephen carries a hand-powered coffee grinder. You might want your teddy bear or a comfy but bulky sweatshirt. These little luxuries can go a long way to adding comfort and sanity to your trip.

Essentials to Pack in Your Carry-On

When you’re packing for Vietnam, start with our quick list of essentials. These items, which you should pack in your carry-on, will help you have a hassle-free journey and really are must-haves on your Vietnam packing list!

• Passport
• Boarding pass for the plane
• Visa paperwork – Our guide to Vietnam visas will help you sort this out in a quick minute.
• Details on how to get from the airport to your accommodation – Are you taking a taxi, the airport shuttle, a bus? Know before you land to avoid your first minutes in the country being overly stressful.
• First night’s accommodation details – Make the confirmation, address, map location, and phone number all offline. It can be hard to find locations in Vietnam, especially in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, so make sure you have as many details as possible.

Also don’t forget:

• Glasses or contacts
• Prescription medication
• Travel insurance – keep your details handy in a few places so you can find them in an emergency

Our pre-flight international travel checklist will help make sure you don’t forget anything essential!

What’s the Right Suitcase for Vietnam?

If you’re a luxury traveller who will stay in 5-star accommodation, pack in whatever luggage you like. For everyone else…

We recommend a backpack or convertible suitcase with straps for Vietnam.

Why?

1. Most of the roads and streets in Vietnam are rough and full of rubble and dust. Once you leave the airport, a wheelie suitcase will be useless. You’ll either end up lugging it everywhere in your hand or dragging it across so much rough terrain that your wheels break.
2. If you think you’ll never be walking anywhere with your suitcase, think again. Many hotels in Vietnam are down narrow side alleys that are not wide enough for a car. Plus, there are always times when you have to walk to the bus station or need to walk to a bigger street to find a taxi.

Keep your bag below 35–40L and under 10kg, which will make it within the carry-on limit on most airlines. If we can travel full-time with that little stuff, you can do it for your trip to Vietnam!

Pro-tip: I pack all my heaviest gear (laptop, camera, etc) in my small carry-on backpack. Airlines hardly ever weigh those, since the bag appears too small to be over the weight limit.

Suitcase Accessories

There are three more packing items I recommend for all travel.

• A daypack / carry-on bag for the plane – I always pack all my essentials in this anti-theft bag so that, even if I check my luggage, I have everything I need on the plane.

• A foldable daypack / shopping bag – In the heat of Vietnam, there are some days when I don’t feel like carrying a real daypack. Instead, I used my light foldable pack to carry my essentials.
• Packing cubes – For me, packing cubes keep me from going insane while living out of a suitcase. I think of them as mini drawers for my bag, keeping me organized and making it easy to find anything in a few seconds.

What Clothing to Pack for Vietnam

Once you have a bag all picked out, the next big chore is to decide what clothing to bring to Vietnam.

When you’re getting ready, you’ll want to consider three things:

• What’s culturally appropriate in Vietnam?
• What season are you travelling?
• What region will you be visiting?

Thinking about these three things will help make sure your Vietnam packing list is perfect for whatever kind of trip you are planning.

What to wear in Vietnam

While there is no real dress code for tourists in Vietnam and, in recent years, many Vietnamese woman have started wearing quite revealing clothes, there is still a way to dress that will show your respect for the people and their culture.

How you dress in Vietnam is completely your decision. But here are a few tips if you’re interested in being culturally sensitive.

For women:

• Try to avoid super revealing clothes like short shorts with your butt hanging out and boob tubes (more common than you’d think!).
• Tank tops, short dresses, and normal shorts are fine in the cities, where you’ll see lots of Vietnamese women dressing the same way.
• I prefer longer loose dresses and light tops with sleeves since they protect your skin from the glaring Vietnamese sun and show the more conservative locals that you respect their culture.

Men can get away with the typical guy uniform of shorts and a t-shirt, and plenty also wander around in tank tops (though almost all women wish they wouldn’t).

There are some temples and other spaces where you will need to have your knees and shoulders covered to enter. Often you can borrow a sarong at the door, but we always recommend carrying a light sarong because it has so many uses.

Seasons in Vietnam

In Vietnam, the clothing you’ll need will change depending on the season you’re travelling and the region you’re going to visit. Vietnam has several distinct climate zones, all with different rainy seasons and different average temperatures.

Here’s a quick guide:

Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa and north coast).

Can be hot in summer but in the winter months, it can get very cold and actually snow in the mountains. Rain and fog are common in the winter, too.

Definitely pack layers and rain gear if you’re heading north in the winter. It can also get very hot in the north, sometimes on the same day as it’s cold, so you need to be ready for anything.

Central Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An, Phong Nha).

Being in the middle, this area has the most forgiving climate, too. In winter, especially January and February, it can get down to about 15 degrees celsius, which feels cold on a damp day.

It can also get very hot here, so you’ll need to pack a few extra layers but can probably leave your parka at home.

Southern Vietnam (Mui Ne, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc).

Almost always hot, sometimes hot and ridiculously humid, you can pack a few less layers if you plan on staying in the south. However, you might want to pack more bathing suits, since the beaches are incredible.

What Outerwear & Shoes to Pack

• Light rain jacket – for those days you get caught in the middle of nowhere in a tropical storm.
• Light fleece or sweater – only for winter in the north or central Vietnam.
• Lightweight closed-toe shoes – bring sneakers or sport sandals but make sure the toe is closed. Roads and sidewalks are rough in Vietnam and you will be kicking loose debris a lot! We love our Keen Sandals because they protect our toes while keeping us cool.

• Hiking or trail shoes – if you plan on trekking in Sapa or Da Lat, bring water-resistant shoes with good grip. On my Sapa trek, I was with many tourists who only had sneakers and they were slipping and sliding on the mucky trails all day.
• Flip-flops – ideal if you’re heading to the beach or to use as indoor shoes in your guest house, hostel, or hotel.

What Clothing to Pack for Women

Note: I give a range of items you need on your Vietnam packing list. Don’t pack the maximum of everything or you’ll have too much stuff. It’s a balance; if you pack more skirts, pack fewer dresses, if you bring more t-shirts, bring fewer tanks!

• 3–5 quick drying t-shirts/tank tops – I’m not a fan of tank tops because they are often not culturally appropriate and lead to the need for more sunscreen / burned shoulders. So I usually pack a range of quick drying t-shirts like these ones from Bluffworks.
• 1–2 light, loose dresses – loose dresses are ideal for the hot weather in Vietnam and make it super easy to get dressed in the morning.
• 1 pair light, loose pants – the lighter the better. If you can’t find them at home, pick them up for a few dollars in the market or local shops when you arrive.
• 1–3 pairs of shorts / skirts – again, try to bring loose ones made of light fabrics.
• 1 light long-sleeved shirt – I love my Bluffworks Azores blouse to keep the hot sun off or as a layer on a cool evening.
• workout / yoga clothes – I bring one pair of cropped yoga pants, a sports bra, and a tank top so I can keep in shape on the road.
• 5 pairs of underwear – I like quick dry so I can wash them in the sink and hang them overnight when necessary.
• 2–3 bras – if you can find them, bring light breathable bras that won’t make you feel like your boobs are suffocating!
• bathing suit – there are plenty of pools and beaches in Vietnam, and you will definitely want to swim.
• sarong – can be used as a beach towel, regular towel, scarf, skirt, picnic blanket and more.

Optional add-ons for winter travel in Vietnam

• 1 pair thicker chinos / jeans – only if you’re travelling in central or northern Vietnam in winter.

What Clothing to Pack for Men

• 3–5 quick drying t-shirts – Bring quick drying t-shirts like these ones from Bluffworks so that you can wash them out and hang to dry overnight.
• 1 pair travel pants – the lighter the better. You’ll probably wear shorts most of the time in Vietnam, but a pair of pants is great for cooler evenings, visits to temples, or nights out.
• 1–3 pairs of shorts – try to bring loose shorts made of light fabrics. Thicker shorts can feel incredibly hot in the Vietnamese climate.
• 1 light long-sleeved shirt – this can be useful to prevent sunburn, for cooler evenings, or to keep the mosquitoes away.
• workout / yoga clothes – Stephen brings shorts and t-shirts specifically designed for workouts so he has something to wear when we do yoga.
• 3–5 pairs of underwear – quick dry underwear are best so you can wash them in the sink and hang them overnight when necessary.
• bathing suit – there are pools and beaches in Vietnam, and you will definitely want to swim.

Optional add-ons for winter travel in Vietnam

• 1 pair thicker chinos / jeans – only if you’re travelling in central or northern Vietnam in winter.

Essential Toiletries for Your Vietnam Trip

The key to keeping your toiletries organized is to get a good bag to keep it all organized. Stephen and I both have this Eagle Creek toiletry kit which is just the right size and shape to keep everything in its place.

Packing tips for toiletries:

1. Most common toiletries can be easily bought in Vietnam but, of course, you won’t necessarily find your favourite brand.
2. Instead of buying travel sized containers of all the items I want to bring, I use GoToob containers, which are easily refillable, complete leak-proof (mine have never leaked in 7 years of adventure travel), and small enough to carry on the plane.
3. Don’t fall into the trap of overpacking your toiletry kit. While travelling, you won’t have the time or the patience to keep up your 7-step skincare routine.
4. Keep make-up to a minimum. It just melts off in the heat and is not good for your skin in the Vietnamese climate.

Unisex Toiletry List

• small bar of soap – I keep mine in a mini tupperware
• small bar of solid shampoo – solid shampoo is better because there’s no plastic packaging and it can never leak
• gentle face cleanser – to keep those sweaty pores clean
• moisturizer with SPF – I use this so I never accidentally go outside without sunscreen
• toothpaste, floss, and toothbrush
• lip balm with SPF – I adore my Hurraw balms
• razor
• ocean-friendly sunscreen
• nail clippers
• deodorant
• tweezers
• small packet of tissues – for those times when the bathroom doesn’t have toilet paper
• hand sanitizer – for those times when the bathroom doesn’t have soap
• mini first-aid kit – with bandaids, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, pain killers, etc.

Optional Toiletries for Women

• menstrual cup – if you’re still using disposable pads or tampons, it’s time to take your periods into the 21st century with a cup, the perfect period tamer for travel
• minimalist make-up – keep this to a minimum! Really, trust me on this. I like to use a tinted SPF CC cream and that’s it. You might want some mascara, lip color, and powder too.

Optional Toiletries for Men

• shaving kit – bring shaving oil for those with light beards or a shaving brush and soap for hairier fellas

Toiletries You Can Buy in Vietnam

• activated charcoal – if you get food poisoning, taking activated charcoal after the first 12 hours can help clear it up.
• mosquito spray – easily found in any convenience store, if you don’t see it, just ask the clerk.
• sunscreen – can be found in any touristy beach area but it is expensive and not always reef-friendly, so bring some from home if you have space.
• small packet of tissues – you will see women selling tissues in the touristy areas of big cities and you’re helping support their family if you buy from them rather than the big drug stores.

Travel Accessories for Vietnam

These are the little extras that will keep you comfy and safe on your trip to Vietnam.

• sunglasses
• sunhat
• earplugs – no getting around it, Vietnam is noisy! Earplugs will help you get a good sleep and keep you sane on longer bus or train rides.
• refillable water bottle – most hotels now have a water refill station so you don’t need to buy water in single-use plastic bottles. If your hotel doesn’t have one, ask them to add it!
• reusable cutlery set – I’ve had mine for more than 10 years and take it everywhere

Electronics We Recommend for Vietnam

I wouldn’t say there are any specific electronics you need in Vietnam that you don’t need in other countries. As a general rule, we advise you to keep your electronics to a minimum. They are heavy and expensive, two things you want to avoid!

Here’s what we recommend you bring.

• phone and charger – bring a phone with a good camera and you won’t need separate camera equipment.
• power adaptor – Vietnamese plugs generally take two kinds of power plugs. The European style with two round prongs, and the north American style with two flat prongs. If you have a different kind of plug, you’ll need an adaptor.
• headphones – this is a travel essential for us as listening to music or podcasts is a great way to make long journeys go by more quickly. Noise-cancelling headphones are a must if you’re sensitive to noise, as Vietnam is almost always noisy!
• portable power bank – only necessary if your phone runs out of power after a day of normal use. When you’re out taking photos and videos, looking up restaurants, and navigating with your map, you don’t want your phone to die halfway through the day.
• camera, spare batteries, spare memory card – if your phone isn’t up to the task, you’ll need your camera kit.
• laptop – if I didn’t work online, I would never bring my laptop travelling. It’s heavy, hard to pack, and expensive. So if you don’t 100% need your laptop, leave it at home!

A Final Note About Your Vietnam Packing List

There’s no doubt about it, packing can be stressful. But try not to get too obsessed about having exactly the right combination of clothing and items for your trip to Vietnam.

There’s no such thing as a perfectly packed suitcase.

On any trip, there will be items you pack and never use, and others you wished you had brought but didn’t.

The good thing is, in Vietnam, you can easily buy most of the travel necessities and clothing items you might have forgotten — usually at much cheaper prices than things cost at home.

So, while paying attention to what you’re packing is important, it doesn’t need to be that stressful. Just do your best and adjust to the circumstance you find once you set off.

More Posts About to Vietnam

We’ve written a lot about our adventures in Vietnam — and it’s all extremely valuable info that will help you have an amazing time on your trip. Here are a few we suggest you read next.

Complete Vietnam travel guide →
Perfect Vietnam two-week itineraries →
Guide to accommodation in Vietnam →
How to travel solo in Vietnam →

We hope this Vietnam packing list is useful while you’re planning your trip. Our goal is to help you make your trip into a transformational experience and packing the right gear can definitely help. Don’t miss our other guides to Vietnam and feel free to email or message us on Instagram if you have questions.

  Happy transformational travels, Jane & Stephen

We’re not going to lie, it takes a LOT of work to create travel guides like this. But it’s easy to help us out! If you book or buy something using one of our personal links in this post, we’ll earn a small fee at no extra cost to you. Of course, we would never recommend anything we didn’t 100% believe in! Huge thanks in advance! –S&J

The post Vietnam Packing List – What to Bring to Vietnam for All Seasons appeared first on My Five Acres.