Blog

Vietnamese Learning Blog

Practical guides, cultural insights, and tips for learning Vietnamese as a traveler.

Latest articles

A sleek modern electric scooter in vibrant GSM cyan-blue glides silently down a narrow, wet alleyway in Ho Chi Minh City at dusk, surrounded by weathered yellow walls and neon lights.

By Xinchao team

The Silent Alley Threat: Your Survival Guide to Vietnam's Ultra-Quiet EV Revolution

Vietnam's iconic, roaring alleyways are falling silent as electric bikes and mini-EVs take over. Here is how to navigate these sensory-shifted streets safely.

· 9 min read
A wide-angle, eye-level view of Hanoi Train Street at twilight with glowing red lanterns and mustard-yellow buildings.

By Xinchao team

The Cat-and-Mouse Game of Hanoi's Train Street: Your 2026 Survival Guide to Visiting Safely (and Legally)

How do you navigate the guards, barricades, and narrow tracks of Hanoi's Train Street in 2026? Learn the insider rules to visit safely, legally, and respectfully.

· 8 min read
A peaceful and atmospheric view of Hàng Dương Cemetery in Côn Đảo at night, illuminated by soft candles and incense smoke.

By Xinchao team

Midnight at the Cemetery: Why Thousands of Vietnamese Pilgrims Flock to Cô Sáu under the Stars

Discover the deep history, essential etiquette, and practical steps for participating in Côn Đảo's famous midnight pilgrimage to the grave of Cô Sáu.

· 8 min read
Elegant Cham women performing a traditional fan dance in front of the ancient red-brick Po Klong Garai towers during the vibrant Cham Kate Festival in Ninh Thuan.

By Xinchao team

Beyond the Beach: Why You Must Experience Ninh Thuan’s Mystical Cham Kate Festival

Ready to go beyond the beach? Experience Ninh Thuan's mystical Cham Kate Festival at Po Klong Garai. Learn the deep cultural meanings, crucial etiquette, and expert survival tips for expats.

· 8 min read
A Vietnamese street vendor performing the dot via ritual in a narrow Hanoi Old Quarter alleyway at dawn, holding a small burning piece of paper.

By Xinchao team

Don't Be the First Customer! An Expat’s Guide to Vietnam's Sacred Morning Rituals of 'Mở Hàng' and 'Đốt Vía'

Ever wondered why a Vietnamese street vendor looked terrified when you asked for a price early in the morning? Welcome to the delicate, sacred rituals of Mở Hàng and Đốt Vía.

· 8 min read
A traditional Vietnamese basket boat spinning dynamically in the narrow, sun-drenched canals of the Cam Thanh Coconut Forest in Hoi An.

By Xinchao team

Survival of the Spinnest: Your Expat Guide to Navigating Hoi An’s Dizzying Basket Boat Culture

Get ready to spin! Dive into the history, pricing, and survival tips for navigating Hoi An's iconic basket boats in Cam Thanh Coconut Forest.

· 7 min read
A misty morning at a Ha Giang highland market, showing a local Hmong elder clinking a ceramic bowl of corn wine with a traveler amidst colorful stalls.

By Xinchao team

A Bowl of Corn Wine and a Handshake: Your Expat Survival Guide to Highland Market Etiquette in Ha Giang

Ready to brave the legendary Sunday markets of Ha Giang? Discover the essential rules of highland etiquette, from sharing a bowl of fiery corn wine to mastering the physical handshake ritual.

· 10 min read
A multi-generational Vietnamese family and an expat guest gathering around a rich feast during a traditional Đám Giỗ celebration in a warm home.

By Xinchao team

The Ultimate Honor: Your Expat Survival Guide to Attending a Vietnamese Death Anniversary (Đám Giỗ)

An invitation to a Vietnamese death anniversary (Đám Giỗ) is a milestone in any expat's journey. Learn how to pay respects at the altar, choose the right gift, and survive the legendary feast with confidence.

· 9 min read
A wide-angle interior view of a Vietnamese luxury cabin sleeper bus at night, featuring glowing neon pink and blue LED lights lining two tiers of private sleeping pods.

By Xinchao team

Spaceships on Highway 1: An Expat's Survival Guide to Vietnam's Neon-Drenched 'Cabin' Sleeper Buses

Hurtling down Vietnam's Highway 1, the modern cabin sleeper bus looks less like public transit and more like a rogue spaceship. Here is how to survive and thrive on your first overnight journey.

· 8 min read
An expat traveler and a Vietnamese friend sitting on a wooden deck in Tà Xùa, looking out over a thick sea of white clouds during sunrise.

By Xinchao team

Chasing the Fog: Why Vietnam’s Expats Obsess Over 'Cloud Hunting' (Săn Mây)

Ready to chase the legendary seas of fog in Vietnam's Northern Highlands? Here is your ultimate expat survival guide to 'săn mây' in Tà Xùa and Y Tý.

· 9 min read
A cinematic low-light view of the Dinh Yen Ghost Market reenactment, with an elderly artisan carrying a vibrant hand-woven mat under the warm glow of oil lamps at Dinh Yen Temple.

By Xinchao team

Midnight in the Ghost Market: An Expat’s Guide to Dong Thap’s Revived 'Chợ Chiếu Định Yên'

Once a fading memory, Dong Thap's legendary 'Ghost Market' has been spectacularly revived. Here is your ultimate guide to navigating this midnight cultural treasure.

· 8 min read
A high-energy crowd during the Giật Cô Hồn street ritual in Saigon's Chinatown, with cash falling from the sky and burning incense smoke in the background.

By Xinchao team

Scramble for Cash: An Expat's Survival Guide to Saigon's Wild 'Giật Cô Hồn' Street Ritual

Discover the wild, high-octane street ritual of Giật Cô Hồn in Saigon's Chinatown. Learn how to safely watch or participate in this unique Ghost Month tradition.

· 8 min read
Exterior of Hanoi's Hoa Lo Prison at night with yellow-ochre stone walls, illuminated by eerie red and blue theatrical spotlights under a dark sky.

By Xinchao team

Why Gen Z is Queuing for a Prison: The Expat's Guide to Hanoi's Viral Hoa Lò Night Tour

Hanoi's historic Hoa Lò Prison has become the city's most elusive ticket. Learn how to secure your spot, navigate the booking system, and respect the cultural etiquette of this viral night tour.

· 9 min read
A vibrant night scene of a traditional Bai Choi game in Hoi An, showing elevated bamboo huts, performers in red silk Ao Dai, and an excited crowd.

By Xinchao team

Step Into the Hut: How to Play (and Win) Central Vietnam’s Musical Bingo, Bài Chòi

Discover how to play Bài Chòi, Central Vietnam's beloved musical bingo. From the historic streets of Hoi An to the riverfront of Da Nang, learn the rules, phrases, and cultural secrets of this UNESCO-listed folk game.

· 9 min read
A cinematic, wide-angle street photo of a 'Đi Bão' celebration in Hanoi, Vietnam, at night. A dense, packed river of motorbikes fills the neon-lit street, reflecting red brake lights and white headlights.

By Xinchao team

Red Flags and Roaring Engines: Your Expat Survival Guide to Vietnam's Wild 'Đi Bão' Street Celebrations

Discover 'Đi Bão'—Vietnam's wild, joyful post-football street celebrations. Our survival guide helps expats navigate the red-and-gold chaos safely.

· 8 min read
A chaotic but vibrant scene outside a gold shop on Tran Nhan Tong Street in Hanoi during God of Wealth Day, with crowds of locals queuing on the wet sidewalk under bright signs.

By Xinchao team

The Gold Rush: An Expat’s Survival Guide to Vietnam’s Chaotic 'God of Wealth' Day

Survive God of Wealth Day Vietnam like a local. Learn how to buy gold, avoid the chaotic crowds, decode regional prices, and understand this unique cultural…

· 8 min read
A cozy, hidden cafe inside a rustic tiger cage balcony of a Soviet-era Hanoi collective housing block with warm golden afternoon light.

By Xinchao team

Chasing the "Tiger Cages": Your Guide to Finding Hanoi's Coolest Cafes Hidden in Soviet-Era "Nhà Tập Thể"

Ready to hunt down Hanoi's coolest secret cafes? Step inside the historic Soviet-era collective housing blocks and discover cozy coffee shops tucked into makeshift 'tiger cage' balconies.

· 7 min read
A glowing metal burner on a Hanoi sidewalk at dusk, surrounded by colorful paper replicas of modern luxury goods like cars and smartphones.

By Xinchao team

Burning a Paper Tesla for the Ancestors: Decoding Vietnam's Wildly Creative 'Vàng Mã' Rituals

Discover the fascinating world of Vietnam's 'vàng mã' ritual, where families burn paper Teslas and iPhones for their ancestors, balancing ancient piety with modern life.

· 9 min read
A close-up, cinematic photo of a traditional Vietnamese ear-cleaning session inside a vintage Hanoi barbershop.

By Xinchao team

Whispers in the Alley: Why Every Expat Needs to Brave a Traditional Vietnamese Ear-Cleaning Session

Curious about traditional Vietnamese ear cleaning? Discover the cultural secrets, safety tips, and best spots to experience the blissful art of lấy ráy tai.

· 8 min read
A traditional Vietnamese octagonal Bagua mirror with a red and gold frame hanging over a rustic wooden door lintel on a yellow plaster wall in Hanoi.

By Xinchao team

Why is There a Mirror Hanging Over Your Neighbor's Door? Decoding the Secret Feng Shui of Vietnamese Streets

Ever noticed those octagonal mirrors hanging over doorways in Hanoi or Saigon? Discover the secret world of Vietnamese street feng shui, neighborhood 'mirror wars,' and how to spot them respectfully.

· 7 min read
Interior of a traditional Vietnamese Whale Temple (Lăng Ông) with a massive whale skeleton displayed in a dark wood and glass case behind an altar draped in red silk with burning incense.

By Xinchao team

The Sea’s Gentle Giants: Why Vietnam’s Fishermen Build Elaborate Tombs for Whales

Why do coastal villages in Central Vietnam hold royal funerals for washed-up whales? Discover the fascinating legend of Cá Ông and how to visit their sacred temples.

· 9 min read
A close-up shot of a Vietnamese Grab driver standing respectfully with hands clasped in prayer in front of his modern motorbike on a wet Saigon street at dusk, with a small colorful ritual offering arranged on the seat.

By Xinchao team

Why is Your Grab Driver Offering Fruit to His Motorbike? Inside Vietnam's Fascinating 'Cúng Xe' Ritual

Ever seen a Vietnamese Grab driver offering fruit and burning incense to their motorbike? Discover the fascinating spiritual world of Cúng Xe, the vehicle blessing ritual.

· 8 min read
A group of cyclists riding along the neon-lit shores of West Lake in Hanoi at night, with the glowing Lotte Mall in the background.

By Xinchao team

Saddle Up After Dark: The Expat’s Guide to Joining Hanoi’s Massive West Lake Night-Cycling Craze

Join Hanoi's massive West Lake night-cycling craze. Discover where to rent bikes, the vital unwritten rules of the loop, and the local ritual of mental healing after dark.

· 8 min read
A cinematic night view of the summit of Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh, featuring the glowing sandstone Maitreya Buddha and vibrant neon laser beams cutting through swirling mountain mist.

By Xinchao team

Lasers, Gods, and High-Altitude Chill: Your 2026 Survival Guide to Ba Den Mountain's Cosmic Light Show

Ready to see a giant Buddha illuminated by state-of-the-art 3D lasers? Here is your ultimate survival guide to exploring Tay Ninh's sacred Ba Den Mountain in 2026.

· 8 min read
A traditional wooden sampan boat decorated with glowing lanterns gliding on the calm waters of Trang An at night, surrounded by towering limestone karsts under a twilight sky.

By Xinchao team

Trang An by Night: Is Ninh Binh’s New Lantern-Lit Cave Tour Worth It?

Discover the magic of Ninh Binh after dark. Our complete guide to the Trang An night tour covers ticket prices, cultural etiquette, and how to capture the perfect lantern-lit photo.

· 7 min read
Two powerful white bulls charging through a muddy track at the Khmer Bull Racing Festival in An Giang, Vietnam, with a mud-splattered jockey balancing on a wooden harrow.

By Xinchao team

Mud, Sweat, and Steers: Your 2026 Guide to the Thrilling Khmer Bull Racing Festival in An Giang

Get ready for the muddy, high-speed thrill of An Giang's Khmer Bull Racing Festival in October 2026. Here is your ultimate survival and cultural guide.

· 8 min read
An elderly Vietnamese woman in a conical hat selling colorful street lottery tickets on a plastic folder to a customer on a vintage motorbike during the golden hour in Saigon.

By Xinchao team

The 4:30 PM Rush: An Expat's Guide to the Etiquette and Excitement of Vietnamese Street Lottery (Vé Số)

Every afternoon at 4:30 PM, Southern Vietnam pauses for the traditional street lottery draw. Discover the deep cultural etiquette, social solidarity, and practical steps to join this daily ritual.

· 8 min read
A serene Vietnamese Cơm Chay restaurant interior during a rainy late afternoon in Hanoi with warm lighting and rustic ceramic bowls

By Xinchao team

The Lunar Shift: How to Navigate Vietnam's Twice-Monthly 'Ngày Chay' Without Starving

Twice a month, Vietnam's food scene undergoes a quiet, plant-based revolution. Here is your ultimate survival guide to navigating 'Ngày Chay' like a local.

· 8 min read
A cinematic, wide-angle shot of a cozy wooden A-frame cabin nestled in a dense, misty pine forest in Măng Đen, Vietnam, during a cool morning.

By Xinchao team

Forget Da Lat’s Concrete: Why Măng Đen is Vietnam’s Best-Kept 'Healing' Secret

Da Lat is crowded and noisy. Enter Măng Đen: a misty, pine-scented sanctuary in Vietnam's Central Highlands. Discover why urban youth are escaping here for 'healing' and how to plan your 2026 trip.

· 8 min read
A atmospheric street-level photo of a narrow alleyway in Hue, Vietnam, featuring a local vendor, low plastic stools, and a cup of traditional salt coffee.

By Xinchao team

Chi, Mô, Tê, Răng? Your Survival Guide to Decoding Central Vietnam's Mind-Boggling Local Dialect

Heading to Hue, Da Nang, or Hoi An? Standard Vietnamese textbooks won't save you here. Master 'Chi, Mô, Tê, Răng'—the ultimate linguistic handshake of Central Vietnam.

· 9 min read
A realistic, high-detail photo of a roadside police checkpoint on the Ha Giang Loop, Vietnam. In the foreground, two Vietnamese traffic police officers (CSGT) in light mustard-yellow uniforms and neon-green reflective vests are inspecting the documents of a foreign tourist. The tourist is wearing dusty adventure-riding gear, knee pads, and holding a passport. Next to them is a dusty red-and-black Honda XR150 motorcycle parked on the gravel shoulder of a winding mountain road. In the background, towering, dramatic emerald-green limestone karst mountains rise into a misty, overcast sky with low-hanging clouds. A blue metal sign with white Vietnamese text 'CHỐT KIỂM TRA' is visible.

By Xinchao team

No License, No Loop? Your 2026 Survival Guide to Ha Giang’s Strict New Road Rules

Heading to northern Vietnam? The rules on the Ha Giang Loop have changed dramatically. Discover how to navigate the 2026 police checkpoints legally and safely.

· 8 min read
A wide-angle, photorealistic shot of the Ban Gioc Waterfall on the Vietnam-China border. In the foreground, a traditional Vietnamese bamboo raft with a bright blue and yellow umbrella glides on the emerald-green Quay Son River, carrying tourists in orange life jackets. In the background, majestic multi-tiered waterfalls cascade down lush, jade-green limestone karst mountains shrouded in soft morning mist. On the riverbank, a local Tay woman in a traditional dark indigo-blue tunic and a conical hat stands near a rustic wooden signpost. Warm, natural morning sunlight filters through the mist, creating a cinematic, serene atmosphere.

By Xinchao team

No Visa Required? Your 2026 Guide to Crossing the Border at the Joint Vietnam-China Ban Gioc Waterfall Zone

Discover how to cross the Vietnam-China border visa-free at the breathtaking Ban Gioc-Detian Waterfall. Learn the step-by-step registration process, local etiquette, and survival tips.

· 7 min read
A vibrant Lên Đồng spirit mediumship ceremony in a historic Hanoi temple, featuring colorful silk robes and burning incense.

By Xinchao team

Chasing the Mother Goddess: Inside Vietnam's Trance-Inducing Lên Đồng Rituals

Uncover the colors, trance music, and sacred etiquette of Vietnam's hypnotic Lên Đồng rituals—a UNESCO-recognized celebration of the Mother Goddess.

· 8 min read
A traditional wooden boat with painted eyes (Mat Ghe) on the muddy waters of the Mekong River at sunrise

By Xinchao team

Why Do These Boats Have Eyes? The Wild, Sacred Legend of Mekong’s 'Mắt Ghe'

Before you book your Mekong Delta river cruise, discover the ancient legend of 'Mắt Ghe'—the painted boat eyes that protect sailors from river monsters and hidden currents.

· 8 min read
A vintage Vietnamese train carriage winding along the misty Hải Vân Pass with a cup of Vietnamese salt coffee on a wooden table.

By Xinchao team

Sipping Coffee through the Clouds: Why the Hue-Da Nang Heritage Train is 2026's Ultimate Slow-Travel Experience

Discover the magic of the 'Connecting Central Heritage' train between Hue and Da Nang. Sip salt coffee, view the Hải Vân Pass, and embrace Vietnam's slow-travel movement.

· 7 min read
A bustling street food festival in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, with stalls selling various types of Vietnamese Banh Mi.

By Xinchao team

Crunch Time in District 1: Why the Saigon Banh Mi Festival is a Must-Visit?

Discover the sensory explosion of the Saigon Banh Mi Festival. From traditional pate to fusion fillings, learn the history and etiquette of Vietnam's iconic street food.

· 7 min read
A rustic blue-patterned plate of Ly Son garlic salad (Goi toi) with fresh herbs, crushed peanuts, and toasted sesame rice crackers against a soft-focus background of the turquoise ocean.

By Xinchao team

Why Vietnam’s Hottest Summer Island is Covered in Garlic: The Legend of Ly Son and Its Boldest Salad

Journey to Ly Son Island, Vietnam's volcanic 'Kingdom of Garlic', to discover why locals turn young male garlic stalks into a legendary, sweet summer salad.

· 7 min read
An older Vietnamese person performing cạo gió on a family member's back using a coin and green oil in a traditional living room.

By Xinchao team

Why Does Everyone in Vietnam Have Red Stripes on Their Back? The Mystery of 'The Wind'

Ever seen red stripes on a Vietnamese person's back? It's not an injury—it's 'cạo gió'. Learn about the 'wind' and why this coin-rubbing ritual is the ultimate sign of family care.

· 8 min read
An immersive night-time gong ceremony in Vietnam's Central Highlands. Ethnic minority men and women in traditional attire (earthy tones with vibrant red, white, blue, green, gold patterns, sarong skirts, loincloths) play gleaming bronze gongs of various sizes around a large, crackling bonfire. The scene is set in an open village space, with traditional wooden stilt houses (nha rong/nha dai) in the background, under a clear night sky. Warm firelight and torchlight illuminate the faces and instruments, casting long shadows. The atmosphere is spiritual and communal, with people sharing rice wine from jars. Focus on authentic details and the interplay of light and shadow.

By Xinchao team

Gongs, Gods, and Good Times: Why Central Highlands Gong Culture is Vietnam's ULTIMATE Immersion!

Experience the spiritual heart of Vietnam's Central Highlands. Explore UNESCO-recognized Gong Culture, where ancient rhythms connect communities to ancestors and divinities. Discover how to respectfully join a ceremony and witness this profound living tradition.

· 9 min read
A vibrant scene in Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, Vietnam, with a local artisan in traditional clothing arranging large bundles of bright red incense sticks drying in the sun, surrounded by green fields and traditional village houses.

By Xinchao team

From Ancient Hands to Modern Homes: Why Vietnam's Traditional Craft Villages Are the Hottest New Cultural Experience (and Where to Find Them!)

Experience the heart of Vietnam's culture by visiting its traditional craft villages. From the delicate artistry of Bat Trang pottery to the shimmering silks of Van Phuc, these vibrant communities offer authentic encounters with generations-old skills and stories.

· 11 min read
A bustling Vietnamese street scene, vibrant with contemporary murals on old building facades and railway arches. Dominant colors are rich reds, golden yellows, and deep blues, with accents of emerald green. People in modern clothing mingle with some wearing elegant, flowing Áo Dài and conical hats, riding motorbikes or browsing small handicraft stalls. The air is humid, with soft, diffused daylight filtering through the narrow alleys, highlighting intricate details of lacquerware and silk paintings displayed in open-front shops. Tropical plants spill from balconies, and traditional lanterns add pops of color.

By Xinchao team

From Venice to the Streets: How to Dive Into Vietnam's Booming Art Scene (Even If You Skip the Gondola!)

Vietnam is making waves on the international art scene with its Venice Biennale debut. Explore the nation's dynamic galleries, vibrant street art, and rich cultural expressions in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, blending ancient traditions with modern perspectives.

· 9 min read
A vibrant night scene at the Hue Festival 2026. The Imperial Citadel's ancient walls are illuminated with golden and red lights, showcasing intricate architectural details. In the foreground, people in colorful traditional Vietnamese áo dài (long dresses in blues, greens, and pinks) and imperial yellow robes are watching a performance. Ornate lanterns glow along the Perfume River, where traditional dragon boats are adorned with lights. The atmosphere is lively yet elegant, with a warm, humid evening glow and a hint of mist over the water.

By Xinchao team

Hue Festival 2026: Time-Traveling to Vietnam's Imperial Heart!

Experience the magic of the 2026 Hue Festival, a year-long celebration of Vietnam's imperial past. From royal court music to dazzling river parades, get ready for an unforgettable cultural immersion in Hue.

· 11 min read
A solemn Vietnamese funeral setup with yellow and white drapes, a central altar with incense, and visitors paying respects.

By Xinchao team

The Yellow Tent on the Street: A Respectful Guide to Attending a Vietnamese Funeral

An essential guide to navigating a Vietnamese funeral (đám tang) with respect, covering dress codes, condolence envelopes, and key cultural taboos.

· 9 min read
Vibrant Vietnamese heritage cafe scene in Hoi An, with warm yellow colonial architecture, intricate wooden details, and colorful silk lanterns. People are enjoying slow-drip phin coffee at small tables on low stools, surrounded by lush potted plants. Sunlight filters through an open doorway onto a narrow street.

By Xinchao team

Why Vietnam's 'Heritage Hubs' Are the Hottest New Spots for Culture, Coffee, and Community (And Where to Find Them!)

Vietnam's heritage hubs are buzzing – from ancient towns to repurposed colonial cafes. Discover why these spots are a must-visit for culture, community, and the best slow-drip coffee experiences.

· 10 min read
Vietnamese youth (Gen Z) enthusiastically playing traditional street games. One group is focused on Ô ăn quan with pebbles on a chalk-drawn grid, another child is mid-air with a jump rope, and a third group is kicking a feathered shuttlecock (Đá cầu). The scene is a bustling Hanoi Old Quarter pedestrian street during a warm, golden hour evening, with vibrant street food stalls, parked motorbikes, and traditional Vietnamese architecture in the background. Dominant colors are warm yellows, oranges, reds, and greens, with casual, modern Vietnamese clothing.

By Xinchao team

Ditch the TikTok! Why Vietnam's Youth are Rediscovering Ancient Street Games (and You Can Play Too!)

From Hanoi's Hoan Kiem Lake to quiet city alleys, Vietnamese youth are reviving ancient street games. Learn how to join in, connect with locals, and experience a vibrant part of Vietnam's cultural heritage firsthand.

· 10 min read
Elderly Vietnamese calligrapher in traditional áo dài meticulously writing Quốc Ngữ script with a bamboo brush on red rice paper, surrounded by yellow apricot blossoms and red lanterns at a bustling Tết market in Hanoi.

By Xinchao team

Beyond the Screen: Why Vietnamese Calligraphy (Thư Pháp) is the Soul-Soothing Art You Need!

Uncover the ancient yet modern art of Vietnamese calligraphy, Thư Pháp. Learn its history, cultural significance, and how travelers can experience this soul-soothing practice through workshops and festivals across Vietnam.

· 10 min read
A bustling Vietnamese night food festival in Da Nang, May 2026, with vibrant street stalls under warm string lights. Vendors in conical hats cook fresh seafood and noodles in woks. Crowds of locals and tourists sit on small red and blue plastic stools at low tables, enjoying colorful dishes. The air is hazy with steam and smoke, and motorbikes are parked nearby.

By Xinchao team

Da Nang's Flavor Fiesta: Will Your Stomach Survive the 2026 Food Tour Festival?

Get ready for Da Nang's 2026 Food Tour Festival! Learn how to navigate the vibrant stalls, savor Central Vietnamese street food safely, and immerse yourself in the local culinary scene. Your ultimate survival guide starts here.

· 12 min read
Luxury glamping tent in Vietnam, nestled amidst lush green rice terraces and misty mountains at sunrise. The tent is a spacious canvas bell tent or a glass-domed structure, with warm interior lighting, a comfortable bed with white linens, and a private wooden deck. In the foreground, a small campfire with a few wooden stools, and perhaps a cup of Vietnamese coffee.

By Xinchao team

Why Sleep Under the Stars When You Can Glamp Like a VIP in Vietnam?

Forget traditional camping! Vietnam's glamping trend offers luxurious nature escapes across its diverse landscapes. Explore eco-chic tents in Sapa, Da Lat, or Ha Long Bay for an unforgettable blend of adventure and indulgence.

· 8 min read
A vibrant street scene in Vietnam during Culture Day, with people in colorful traditional áo dài and modern clothes, banners, and traditional crafts like conical hats. The atmosphere is festive and celebratory, blending historical architecture with modern cityscapes.

By Xinchao team

Gặp nhau! Why You Can't Miss Vietnam's First-Ever Culture Day on November 24, 2026!

Mark your calendars! Vietnam's new Culture Day on November 24, 2026, promises a nationwide celebration of heritage. Learn what this "spiritual rendezvous" means for locals and how travelers can dive into unique cultural experiences across the country.

· 9 min read
A serene Vietnamese pagoda, vibrant with traditional red and golden hues, nestled amidst lush green foliage and a tranquil lotus pond. Sunlight filters through the tropical humidity, casting soft shadows. Worshippers in modest, light-colored clothing (long pants/skirts, covered shoulders) are quietly lighting incense and offering flowers. Intricate dragon carvings adorn the tiered roofs.

By Xinchao team

Zen & Lens: Your Guide to Pagoda-Hopping for Peace and Perfect Shots in Vietnam

Ready to explore Vietnam's stunning pagodas? Learn the 'whys' behind local customs, master respectful etiquette, and discover the best spots for breathtaking photos and serene reflection. Your guide to an unforgettable cultural adventure awaits!

· 10 min read