Experiences in Vietnam

[donJ]

A friend invited me to potentially visit Vietnam for a few weeks early next year. Know a little about it but not much, and heard it's only getting more and more popular as destination. I've never been to Asia before, but I've always wanted to go & see some of the big cities. I love meeting new people & going out way too late. But I'd also enjoy some barefoot walks & hammock naps, & some humid jungle weather. Anyways, does anyone have any experiences of any kind or thoughts on the country? Just trying to get a general feel & this is more interesting group than the generic travel forums. 

I also spent a LOT of my time working so I'd love to reap some of the rewards of being leisurely & not worrying too much about the wallet. We're both in our mid 30s.

[bkkmfj2648]

Hello @donJ,

I wrote the below thread more than 1 year ago about my long stay in Da Nang, Vietnam - a beautiful coastal city.

It is very Da Nang centric - and perhaps it will give you a small glimpse on gay life in Da Nang.

During your trip to Vietnam please update us here as it would be nice to see Vietnam through the eyes of 2 guys who are in their 30s.

Thanks

 

[FunFifties]

Hi @donJ I was in Vietnam for three weeks early this year and had a really good time. People I met also reccomended the Ha Giang Loop and I think I will do that next time I visit. Vietnam is easy on the wallet and people are very friendly. I also really enjoyed the food and coffe. The only negative experience was the high levels og smog in Hanoi. I am not someone who goes out late, but there were plenty of opportunites in both Hanoi and Saigon for someone who enjoys that.

 

[donJ]

I enjoy reading these anyway so I will go through it & if we end up going I'll report back

[donJ]

On 5/21/2026 at 4:35 PM, FunFifties said:

Hi @donJ I was in Vietnam for three weeks early this year and had a really good time. People I met also reccomended the Ha Giang Loop and I think I will do that next time I visit. Vietnam is easy on the wallet and people are very friendly. I also really enjoyed the food and coffe. The only negative experience was the high levels og smog in Hanoi. I am not someone who goes out late, but there were plenty of opportunites in both Hanoi and Saigon for someone who enjoys that.

 

Exactly something I was looking for, like I said I don't know much. I really want to go to Saigon, & I want to be somewhere more quiet as well, where I can take my shoes off, cheap massages everyday, & just generally take it easy