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Xin chào! This is Dung (Emma) again 👋 After hosting many guests from all over the world, we wrote this guide to share honest, practical, and local tips so you can travel more comfortably, enjoyably, and memorably - not only during your time with us but throughout your entire journey in Vietnam. 1. If Hanoi Is Your First Stop, Please Take It Slow If Hanoi is your first destination in Vietnam, we strongly recommend that you take it easy for at least half a day after arrival ,

One of the most interesting Vietnamese traditional toys — and also one of the best Vietnam’s souvenirs to bring home — is the bamboo dragonfly (chuồn chuồn tre). Small, colorful, and surprisingly balanced, this toy carries much more than playful fun. It carries stories of village life, the spirit of handmade craftsmanship, and a window into Vietnamese childhood where nature, patience, and creativity meet. For families visiting Hanoi, it’s not just a toy — it’s a cultural expe

Many travelers have asked us what to bring home after their Vietnam trip, so we wrote this blog to share our honest suggestions. Not the usual touristy stuff, but something truly authentic - items that carry stories, souls, and culture. They’re light, easy to pack, and meaningful enough that when you give them to someone you love, they can feel the care and thought behind your choice. Almost like they’ve touched a small piece of Vietnam themselves. Vietnamese Coffee – A Local

Hanoi street food isn’t about fancy restaurants or long menus. It’s about timing, balance, and eating what locals eat at the right moment of the day. If you’re visiting the city for the first time, don’t try to eat everything. Eat smart. In this blog, we’re sharing the Hanoi street food dishes you shouldn’t miss, based on how locals actually eat — what we enjoy daily, and what we’d suggest you try if you want to understand the city through food. Pho Made with flat rice noodle

A Slow, Thoughtful Journey from North to South If this is your first time in Vietnam, it’s tempting to rush. Many travelers try to see everything in two or three weeks, moving quickly from one famous name to the next. At Beyond Vietnam, we believe Vietnam reveals itself best when you slow down just enough to listen, observe, and live alongside local people. This guide is written to give you a clear overview of the country—North, Central, and South—while helping you sense whic

February is one of the most beautiful — and most misunderstood — times to visit Vietnam. The weather is great, the country feels alive with color and emotion, and Tet in Vietnam (Lunar New Year) often takes place during this month. At the same time, traveling during Tet is very different from traveling at any other time of year. Things slow down, prices change, crowds appear in unexpected places, and routines disappear. In this guide, we share honest, local tips to help you u

Hanoi is not a city you “do” in a rush. It’s a city you slowly get to know — through food, stories, everyday life, and human connections. As locals, we often see travelers trying to squeeze too much into a short time. What usually stays with them, though, are not the famous names — but how they felt walking by the lake at sunset, sharing a meal with locals, or watching their kids proudly hold something they made themselves. This guide is for you if you’re looking for things t

Planning a trip to Vietnam but feeling overwhelmed? This local guide covers where to go, when to visit, what to eat, safety tips, scams, SIM cards, and everyday travel advice.

Just a few steps off Hanoi’s busy Old Quarter streets, there’s a little alley that leads to "The little plan" - a vintage hidden cafe in Hanoi that you'll enjoy, especially cat lovers.

No sign, no clue, just a quiet alley and your instincts will lead you to Kismet - a secret wonderland far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Nestled in a peaceful alley in Hanoi, Hidden Alley Cafe is a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. True to its name, remember to look out for signs directing you there as it can be easy to miss! Hidden indeed! You’ll need to slip through a narrow alley into a tiny courtyard, then climb a couple of twisty staircases before stepping into a cozy, dimly lit space that feels miles away from the hustle outside. The moment you enter, a wave of warmth and tranquility washe

Discover Hidden Gem Café in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Colorful, eco-friendly, and full of creative charm, with recycled décor and rooftop views.

Discover Hanoi’s best hidden cafés in the Old Quarter. Vintage vibes, egg coffee, lake views, and secret alley cafés with real local charm.

Worried about food poisoning in Hanoi? Wondering if street food is safe? Here’s a friendly, experience-based guide to eating safely in Vietnam — from choosing the right restaurants to understanding ingredients, avoiding common mistakes, and knowing what to do if you get sick.

From Ao Dai photoshoots to street food tours, explore 10 fun and unique things to do in Hanoi with your besties — food, laughter, and memories await!

Discover 7 stunning pink churches across Vietnam — from Saigon’s iconic Tan Dinh to Da Lat’s dreamy Domaine de Marie. Faith, color, and charm await!

Discover Hanoi’s most unique architectural landmarks — from Turtle Tower to Bat Trang Pottery Museum and more! Explore the city’s creative soul.

When autumn arrives, Hanoi turns poetic with white daisies (cúc họa mi) and flower vendors on every corner. A walk around West Lake or Phan Dinh Phung Street will show you the city’s most beautiful, heartwarming season.

Hanoi’s autumn is pure magic — golden leaves, milk flowers, cozy coffee moments, and gentle breezes that make everyone fall in love with the city.