Locals

Local Experience, Travel & Lifestyle Stories. For those who want to explore their destination through the eyes of those who live there.
Hanoi in winter
Art and Music

Hanoi in winter

Early November, when the weather gets chilly, the sunset goes out faster, and the daisies begin to bloom, locals know a new season is coming. These days, while wandering the crowded streets, getting a glimpse of vendors selling daisies,  we knew one thing for sure: Hanoi has entered winter. Known as the unique "winter leopard" flower of Ha Thanh land, the nightingale brings a pure and pure beauty and blooms only for about two weeks in November. It seems that this year winter comes early; a few
All you need to know about Vietnamese Tet food (Northern)
Cultural

All you need to know about Vietnamese Tet food (Northern)

A Hard Life Begets a Taste for Strong Flavors The natural condition of the land shapes its people and the region’s nutritional choices. To economize, they complete their meal with ample amounts of white rice. Also, because most central families work in fisheries, they have to preserve seafood with processes that give it extra flavor. Because of this, Central people tend to prefer salty, spicy, and fermented foods. Fermented foods are served during economic downturns and severe weather conditio
A guide to Vietnamese Tet food (Northern)
Cultural

A guide to Vietnamese Tet food (Northern)

Tết Nguyên Đán [http://www.asian-nation.org/tet.shtml#sthash.r0J2wtaN.dpbs] or simply Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) is the most festive time of year in Vietnam [https://www.citypassguide.com/] as well as the busiest due to the amount of preparation required. You can quickly get a sense of Tet's intense yet joyful atmosphere just by watching streets crowded with a continuous stream of people busy with shopping and preparing in advance for Tet [http://www.vietnamtourism.com/en/index.php/news/it
A guide to Vietnamese Tet food (Southern)

A guide to Vietnamese Tet food (Southern)

Southern Vietnamese food distinction can be wrapped up in 03 words: rich, flavorful, and sweet! Diverse Natural Resources Result in Flavour Richness We all know that regional cuisines differ according to the climate and local products. So in Southern Vietnam, the abundance of rice, fresh fruits, veggies as well as coconuts are reflected in the dishes of this region, which tend to emphasize sweeter flavors. Photo by Lan Anh Võ Ngọc [https://unsplash.com/@lananhv2310?utm_source=ghost&utm_medium=
A complete guide to exploring Elephant waterfall
Adventurous

A complete guide to exploring Elephant waterfall

Da Lat Elephant Waterfall near Linh An Pagoda is an exciting tourist destination for those who love the majestic natural beauty. It has a fast-flowing waterfall all year round, mysterious caves, and countless exciting things that bring new experiences for first-time visitors here. About Dalat Elephant Waterfall Located about 25km southwest of DaLat city center, Elephant Waterfall, also known as Lieng Rowoa waterfall, is one of the three largest waterfalls of the Central Highlands. This Da Lat t
20 best things to do in Phu Quoc (Vietnam)
Phu Quoc

20 best things to do in Phu Quoc (Vietnam)

As you know, Phu Quoc island is the most beautiful island in Vietnam. It is honored by the world when it has a beach in the top 13 most pristine beaches globally. They always think of beautiful clear blue beaches, green coconut trees, and poetic and romantic scenes. But when arriving in the land, each road, each village, one can see that this pearl island has many interesting things hidden behind the poetic beauty that people often mention. This article will introduce the 20 best things to do i
A Guide To Ban Gioc Detian Falls: All You Need To Know
Cao Bang

A Guide To Ban Gioc Detian Falls: All You Need To Know

Seated in the northeastern province of Cao Bang, near Vietnam-China borderline, the Ban Gioc Detian Falls is an attractive tourism destination with unique location. While travelling to the North Vietnam, you can spend 1-2 days to explore this beautiful sight. Here is our complete guideline for your trip to Ban Gioc Detian Falls. Also, this place is named in our top 20 amazing day trips from Hanoi [https://local-insider.com/top-20-amazing-day-trips-from-hanoi/]. Make sure you read them all. Des
Hanoi To Sapa: A Complete Transportation Guide
Things to do in Hanoi

Hanoi To Sapa: A Complete Transportation Guide

Located at the impressive mountainous area in the northern Vietnam, Sapa is a paradise for any traveler with its magnificent rice terraces, ethnic tribal culture and natural sightseeing. Learn how to get from Hanoi to Sapa in a stress-free trip with our completed guideline. Beside transportation, make sure you have a worry-free trip by having a comfortable accommodation. Check out our list for best homestay and hotel options in Sapa [https://local-insider.com/20-best-hotels-and-homestay-in-sapa
10 things to know before arriving Tan Son Nhat Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
Ho Chi Minh City

10 things to know before arriving Tan Son Nhat Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)

Planning your first trip to Vietnam? If you’re heading towards the Southern side of Vietnam, you are most likely to land in Ho Chi Minh City Airport - Tan Son Nhat. With millions of passengers passing through its two terminals every year, Tan Son Nhat International Airport is by far the nation’s busiest. Though being comparatively small by international standards, the airport is conveniently located just a few miles from the city centre, making it easier to navigate to famous attractions. If yo
5 Best Ways To Travel From Da Nang To Hoi An
Hội An

5 Best Ways To Travel From Da Nang To Hoi An

Hoi An is a small town about 30km from Danang with the nearest international airport is Da Nang airport. It takes you about 1-hour drive from Da Nang to Hoi An. In this article, we will give you recommendations for the top 5 best ways to travel from Da Nang to Hoi An. If you are first time visitor, check out our complete guideline to explore this world heritage ancient town [https://local-insider.com/hoi-an-ancient-town-a-guide-to-vietnams-unesco-world-heritage-town/] . Moreover, one of the pop
Comprehensive guide to Hue 20 Best Hotels & Resort
Huế

Comprehensive guide to Hue 20 Best Hotels & Resort

Located in central Vietnam, 100 km to the north of Da Nang, Hue was the capital city of Vietnam in the 18th and 19th century. Like Hoian, Hue is appreciated with its ancient vibe. Encompassing the Imperial City, palaces, shrines, the Forbidden Purple city, Royal Theater, etc., Hue attracts thousands of visits daily to admire its traditional royal architecture. Not only being surrounded by ancient buildings, the city is also filled with luxury Hue hotel and resorts for the most comfortable stay.
15 Best Luxury Halong Bay Cruises
Ha Long

15 Best Luxury Halong Bay Cruises

Well-known as one of the most beautiful bays in the world with a unique nature setup of thousands of small islands, Halong Bay is best experienced by a cruise. However, you don’t need to spend a fortune to board with a luxury with high quality service when travelling to Halong Bay. Here are our top 15 of the best luxury Halong Bay cruises. About Halong Bay Located over 140km away from Hanoi and can be easily accessed by bus, coach or plane from Hanoi, Halong is a beautiful coastal city in the G
30 Best Luxury Hotels And Resorts In Nha Trang
Nha Trang

30 Best Luxury Hotels And Resorts In Nha Trang

Nha Trang is called the Riviera of the South China Sea because of the stunning turquoise sea, the crescent white sand, and rich marine lives. Besides enjoying the tranquility of the seaside in a resort, you can join some dynamic, fun water sport activities or savor fresh seafood in local markets. Giving yourself a vacation in a 5-star luxury Nha Trang hotel is a relaxing and enjoyable treat. Here are our top Nha Trang hotels and resorts list. 1. InterContinental Nha Trang Exquisite decoration t
30 Best Luxury Hotels and Resorts in Hoi An
Hội An

30 Best Luxury Hotels and Resorts in Hoi An

Hoi An is well-known as one of the most visited tourist attractions in Vietnam. Located about 30 km from Da Nang, Hoi An is a peaceful town [https://local-insider.com/hoi-an-ancient-town-a-guide-to-vietnams-unesco-world-heritage-town/] which was once a busy port city from the 15th to 19th century. Along with its tranquil and ancient vibe, Hoi An also offers convenient modernity with various luxury accommodations for tourists. Mark these 30 best 4-star and 5-star Hoi An hotels & resorts for your
20 Best Hotels and Homestay in Sapa
Sapa

20 Best Hotels and Homestay in Sapa

Sapa has amazing trekking routes and is one of the best destinations you should visit in Northern Vietnam. We will give you a comprehensive guide on how to find the best hotels and homestay in Sapa. 1. Christina’s Sapa Despite the huge wave of modernization going on at Sapa, the city still manages to keep its rustic beauty. For a good experience with the culture but still make the most out of your comfort, you can choose Christina’s Sapa. This Sapa hotel is a 4-floor villa featuring French s