When I decided to travel to Vietnam by myself, I expected a few things: delicious phở, countless motorbikes, and beautiful landscapes. But once I arrived, I discovered so much more. Traveling solo gave me the chance to see Vietnam on my own terms, strike up conversations with locals, and learn about the culture in ways I never anticipated. Here’s a rundown of all the surprises I encountered along the way.
1. The Hospitality is Next-Level
I knew Vietnamese culture placed a high value on hospitality, but I wasn’t prepared for how incredibly welcoming people would be. From the moment I landed in Hanoi, locals were keen to help me find my way or recommend the best street food stalls. Even shop owners who didn’t speak English tried their best to chat. This warmth made me feel comfortable right away—especially important as a solo traveler.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to approach locals if you’re lost or just curious about something. Most people will be happy to help, even if it means using lots of hand gestures and smiles.
2. The Traffic Looks Chaotic—but It Works
Before my trip, friends warned me about Vietnam’s traffic. I’d seen videos of motorbikes streaming through cities like a never-ending river, and it was definitely accurate. Crossing the street for the first time in Hanoi felt like an intense game of “Frogger.”
Surprisingly, though, you get used to it quickly. The trick is to walk slowly and steadily so drivers can predict your path. After a day or two, I was crossing roads with ease—although it never stopped feeling just a bit thrilling.
3. The Food Scene is Mind-Blowing
I expected great food in Vietnam, but I was floored by the variety and flavor. You’ve got your classics like phở and bánh mì, but the regional dishes are incredible too. In Hội An, I fell in love with cao lầu (a noodle dish with pork and greens). In the south, cơm tấm (broken rice with grilled pork) became my go-to lunch.
Plus, street food is where Vietnam truly shines. Tiny plastic stools on the sidewalk, hot bowls of noodles, and the buzz of the city all around you—there’s nothing quite like it.
4. Bargaining is an Art (But Also Fun)
In many markets, prices aren’t set in stone, so bargaining is expected. At first, it felt awkward for me—like I was being rude. But it’s normal. Vendors often quote higher prices to tourists, and a bit of friendly negotiation is part of the culture.
I learned to keep it light and polite, offering a counter-price with a smile. Most of the time, the vendors smiled back and we’d meet in the middle. If it seemed too high, I’d just walk away. Often, that’s when vendors would agree to a lower price.
Tip: If the price difference is small but means a lot to the vendor, don’t worry about paying a bit more. It’s part of the experience, and you’re helping local families.
5. The Landscapes are Incredibly Diverse
Before my trip, I pictured green rice paddies and city skylines, but Vietnam is so much more diverse. From the striking karst formations in Hạ Long Bay to the rolling hills of Sapa, every region seemed to have its own unique charm. The scenery completely changed from north to south.
In the north, you can hike through cool mountain regions and see waterfalls. In the central regions, there are ancient towns and coastal beaches. Down south, the Mekong Delta’s lush waterways and floating markets are a must-see. It’s like visiting multiple countries in one trip.
6. Nightlife Has Something for Everyone
If you’re into nightlife, Vietnam won’t disappoint. Hanoi’s Old Quarter transforms in the evening, with lively bars and beer joints popping up on every corner. “Bia hơi” (fresh beer) is incredibly cheap, and it’s easy to make new friends when you’re sharing a low table on a crowded sidewalk.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) has a more cosmopolitan vibe, with nightclubs, rooftop bars, and live music venues. But you don’t have to love clubbing to enjoy the evenings—plenty of people relax with a cup of coffee, go for a night walk around the lake in Hanoi, or head to a night market for street food and souvenirs.
7. You Can Get Around Easily (and Cheaply)
Vietnam’s transport options surprised me with their convenience and affordability. Grab (the local ride-hailing app) is a game-changer—cheap motorbike taxis and cars are widely available in major cities. For longer distances, the train system is decent and offers scenic views, although it’s slower than buses or planes. Budget airlines like VietJet and Bamboo Airways make domestic flights quick and painless, often costing just a few dollars if you book in advance.
Tip: If you have time, try a sleeper train at least once. It’s not the most luxurious experience, but it feels like an adventure (and you can save on a night’s accommodation).
8. Language Barriers Don’t Have to Be a Problem
Sure, not everyone speaks English—especially outside tourist hotspots. But a little Vietnamese goes a long way, and I was amazed by how much we could communicate with just a few key phrases, smiles, and sign language.
Learning a couple of basics like “cảm ơn” (thank you) and “xin chào” (hello) helped me bond with locals. When I made the effort, even if I butchered the pronunciation, people were always appreciative. Google Translate also came in handy more than once for menu items I couldn’t decipher.
9. The Culture is Deeply Rooted
Vietnam’s long history and blend of influences are evident everywhere—from ancient Chinese-style temples to traces of French colonial architecture. I was especially moved by the stories shared by older locals about the war. Many museums and historical sites offer a window into Vietnam’s past, and visiting them gave me a deeper appreciation of the country’s resilience and culture.
10. The Country is Moving Fast
Vietnam is growing rapidly, and there’s a noticeable energy in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Modern coffee shops, start-up hubs, and high-rise buildings pop up alongside centuries-old pagodas and street markets. It feels like the country is constantly balancing tradition and progress—which makes it a fascinating place to explore right now.
Final Thoughts
Traveling solo in Vietnam was one of the most enriching experiences I’ve ever had. The mix of warm people, jaw-dropping landscapes, amazing food, and unique traditions completely drew me in. If you’re thinking about going, I’d say do it. Embrace the traffic, try the weird and wonderful street foods, learn a few Vietnamese phrases, and you’ll uncover a side of this country that truly surprises and delights at every turn.
Safe travels—and chúc may mắn (good luck)!
