"The dirtier the place, the better the food and that is 100 percent guaranteed."

Niall Mackay takes listeners on a mouthwatering journey through his favorite Vietnamese dishes and where to find them in Ho Chi Minh City. After eight years in Vietnam, Niall shares his insights on the local food scene, from street food to Buddhist vegetarian restaurants.

Niall explores seven of his top places for Vietnamese dishes, including Com Tam, Bun Thit Nuong, and Bun Cha Hanoi - Tran Nao.

Niall also provides detailed descriptions of each dish he loves eating, along with personal recommendations for the best places to try them. Interestingly, Niall reveals that he's not a big fan of pho, Vietnam's most famous soup, and encourages listeners to explore beyond this well-known dish.

Key Takeaways:

1. Vietnamese food can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner
2. The dirtier the place, the better the food in Vietnam
3. Adding lime is crucial to enhance the flavors of bun cha Hanoi
4. Com chay (scorched rice) is a delicious and unique Vietnamese dish
5. Pho is not necessarily the best Vietnamese dish, despite its popularity

Bun Thit Nuong

Com Tam

Hu Tieu Chay

Com Nhieu (All over Saigon)

Pho Ga Tron

Com Ga

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"Vietnam is 20, 30 years behind most countries. So being here right now, though, and watching it catch up so quickly is just really, really exciting."

Niall Mackay reconnects with Nhi Mai, a former guest who moved to Vietnam in 2019 to discover her heritage. Nhi, a third-culture kid born to Vietnamese immigrants in Switzerland, shares her experiences of living in Vietnam for three years and her decision to return to Switzerland during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The conversation explores the stark contrasts between life in Vietnam and Switzerland, from the bustling nightlife and constant changes in Saigon to the structured, slower-paced lifestyle in Switzerland. Nhi reflects on her parents' initial concerns about her move to Vietnam and how her experiences helped bridge the gap between generations. The episode also touches on the challenges of reverse culture shock and the unexpected ways in which Vietnam has modernized compared to some European countries.

Key Takeaways:

• Nhi's motivation for moving to Vietnam and her decision to leave
• The surprising aspects of life in Vietnam compared to preconceptions
• How Nhi's parents' perspective on Vietnam changed through her experiences
• Nhi's process of deciding to move back to Switzerland
• Comparison of social life and pace between Vietnam and Switzerland

Chapters and Timestamps:
00:02:20 - Nhi's journey to and from Vietnam
00:05:50 - Third culture kid experiences
00:09:50 - Surprising aspects of life in Vietnam
00:15:00 - Parents' changing perspectives
00:17:40 - The pandemic's impact on Vietnam
00:21:30 - Decision to return to Switzerland
00:24:40 - Cultural differe

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Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
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Support the Show.

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"Your life like 80 years, 90 years max, you are old sickly if you get to 90. So if you are 30, you are 1 third there. What have you done with that 30?"

Niall Mackay reconnects with Nam Den, a Nigerian YouTuber and content creator based in Vietnam. Nam reflects on his journey since their last conversation, sharing how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped his perspective on life and work-life balance.

Nam discusses the challenges of maintaining his YouTube channel while juggling multiple responsibilities, including running a business, teaching, and participating in various TV productions. He offers insights into the intricacies of creating multilingual content and the technical hurdles of video editing and subtitling. The conversation also touches on the financial aspects of being a YouTuber in Vietnam and the quest for social media verification.

Key Takeaways:

• COVID-19 taught Nam to appreciate life more and prioritize self-care [05:50]
• Creating multilingual content presents unique challenges in editing and subtitling [17:10]
• YouTube revenue in Vietnam is significantly lower compared to Western countries [20:40]
• Nam balances his YouTube channel with other professional commitments [14:30]
• The importance of consistency in content creation and maintaining audience engagement [11:00]

"Send me a message!"

Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
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"Vietnam is a massive beer drinking country. Per capita it's top ten ." - Mischa Smith

In this special episode of the Vietnam podcast, host Niall takes listeners on an epic craft beer crawl through Ho Chi Minh City. Joined by a rotating cast of friends and beer industry insiders, Niall visits his seven favorite craft beer bars in Saigon over the course of 8 hours. The crawl begins at Two Guys Belgian Fries in Thanh My Loi and winds its way through popular spots like Mixtape, Brick and Barrel, Pasteur Street Craft Beer, Heart of Darkness, Seven Bridges, before ending at Malt.

Along the way, Niall and his companions sample a wide variety of local craft beers while discussing the evolution of Vietnam's craft beer scene. They dive into topics like the challenges facing breweries post-COVID, efforts to win over more local customers, and debates over pricing and free water policies. The episode offers an inside look at Saigon's thriving craft beer culture through conversations with brewery owners, beer experts, and enthusiastic drinkers.

Key Takeaways:

• Vietnam has a strong beer drinking culture, but the craft beer industry is still working to convert more locals from mass-market lagers
• Many craft breweries are recovering post-COVID, though some have closed and the market was likely oversaturated before the pandemic
• Pricing remains a challenge, with craft beers significantly more expensive than local lagers, though still cheaper than in countries like Australia
• Having a diverse tap list with guest beers from other local breweries is seen as important by some bar owners
• The craft beer scene has evolved rapidly in Saigon over the past 5-8 years, with many

"Send me a message!"

Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!

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"There's a lot of controversy about Michelin Guide coming here. But for me, I look at it as an opportunity for Vietnam to attract more tourists."​​

In this episode of A Vietnam Podcast, host Niall Mackay welcomes back Thuyen Vo, a renowned food influencer and KOL (Key Opinion Leader), who previously appeared in Season 6. Thuyen discusses her journey over the past three years, sharing insights into her life, her passion for Vietnamese cuisine, and her current endeavors. The conversation touches on the impact of the Michelin Guide's entry into Vietnam, the importance of warm meals in Vietnamese culture, and Thuyen's personal favorite dining spots in Saigon. With her vibrant personality and deep knowledge of the local food scene, Thuyen provides listeners with a delightful and informative discussion about the evolving culinary landscape in Vietnam.

Key Takeaways:
1. Warm Meals Are Essential: Thuyen emphasizes the cultural significance of warm meals in Vietnamese cuisine, contrasting it with the Western preference for cold foods like cereal and sandwiches.
2. Impact of Michelin Guide: The introduction of the Michelin Guide in Vietnam is seen as an opportunity to attract more tourists and highlight the diverse culinary offerings of the country.
3. Favorite Dining Spots: Thuyen shares her top dining recommendations in Saigon, including Pizza 4P’s and The Deck, highlighting their consistent quality and unique dining experiences.
4. Influencer Insights: As a KOL, Thuyen discusses the shift in her career, her reduced public appearances, and her focus on studying and personal growth.
5. Leveraging LinkedIn: Thuyen encourages influencers to utilize LinkedIn for professional networking

"Send me a message!"

Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
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"There are misconceptions about Vietnam, People just think of water buffaloes, rice paddies and lanterns if you live in the big city, like Saigon, it's just like any other big city."

Ever wondered where to find the best cocktails in Saigon? Join Niall Mackay as he takes you on a tour through the city's top cocktail bars, sharing insider tips and personal favorites. Whether you're a Saigon local or planning a visit, this episode is your ultimate guide to the best drinks and hidden gems in the city.

Niall delves into the juxtaposition that makes Saigon so alluring, where modern cocktail bars coexist with historic buildings and hidden alleyways. From the renowned 86 Proof and Layla to the enigmatic Lost and Found, each establishment offers a unique ambiance and expertly crafted cocktails. Niall's recommendations span a diverse array of venues, from the newly opened Junka to the cozy confines of Stirr, perfectly tucked away behind a bustling market.

"The opinion of Vietnam is so different to the reality here. In the eight years I've been here, I've seen it change dramatically." - Niall on Saigon's evolution.

Key Highlights:
1. An in-depth look at trendy hotspots like 86 Proof, Layla, Stirr, Lost and Found, and more, with insights into their distinct vibes and must-try cocktails.
2. The juxtaposition of old and new in Saigon's cocktail bar scene, with hidden gems tucked away in historic buildings and alleyways.
3. The rise of Vietnamese-owned and inspired cocktail bars, showcasing local flavors and ingredients.
4. The increasing variety of nightlife options in Saigon, catering to diverse tastes and experiences.
5. Niall's personal journey and newf

"Send me a message!"

Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!

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Get 68% off and three months free when you join NordVPN today with Seven Million Bikes.

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"When you're at rock bottom as a drug addict, you'll know. Cause, as I explained it, there is that choice that you have to make. And when you're ready to look up, then I have plenty of advice."
- Tue-Si on reaching the turning point in addiction.

In this powerful episode, Niall revisits the story of Tue-Si, a recovering crystal meth addict who shares his journey from addiction to recovery. Tue-Si candidly discusses his relapse experiences, health scares, and the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions. He also explores the role of trauma in addiction and the need for a supportive system during recovery. The episode offers raw insight into the challenges of overcoming substance abuse and the ongoing process of healing.

"It wouldn't have taken much to prevent and it didn't take much to fix it. It just took a lot of courage and a lot of yeah, just a few medicine, a few pills." - Tue-Si on his health scare and recovery.

Key Takeaways

1. The importance of seeking support and surrounding oneself with non-judgmental individuals during recovery.
2. The need for self-forgiveness and taking responsibility for one's actions in the healing process.
3. The role of trauma in addiction and the courage required to confront and define one's traumas.
4. The value of implementing healthy routines and finding alternative coping mechanisms.
5. The ongoing nature of recovery and the acceptance of potential setbacks or relapses along the journey.

"Send me a message!"

Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!

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On the Vietnam Is Awesome Podcast Niall Mackay is joined by Natalya Wissink, the founder of Secret Experiences, to talk about the thriving cocktail scene and hidden gems in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).

They discuss the modern side of Vietnam, the use of local ingredients in craft cocktails and beer, and Natalya's company, which offers unique experiences like the Secret Cocktail Experience.

Key Takeaways:

1. Vietnam, especially Saigon, has a surprisingly modern and vibrant cocktail and culinary scene that often goes unnoticed by tourists.
2. Local ingredients like spices, herbs, and fruits are being used in innovative ways to create craft cocktails, gins, and beers, showcasing a fusion of traditional and modern Vietnamese culture.
3. Secret Experiences offers unique tours like the Secret Cocktail Experience, where guests are taken to hidden bars and venues, allowing them to explore Saigon's nightlife scene in a truly immersive way.
4. Vietnam's food and beverage industry is not just catering to expats and tourists but is driven by the young, affluent Vietnamese population.
5. Saigon is full of hidden gems and speakeasy-style bars that are often difficult to find unless you know where to look, making guided experiences like those offered by Secret Experiences valuable for visitors.

"What I love is... how surprising Saigon is to a lot of people. So when you come here, there's so much to do that you wouldn't expect, which I think is really exciting." - Niall Mackay

"We don't want our guests to, although we support our partners, but we don't want them to discover places too early. We want them to be surprised and not know where we're going exactly." - Natalya Wisnick

"Send me a message!"

Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!

Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?
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Get 68% off and three months free when you join NordVPN today with Seven Million Bikes.

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So not only will you be getting a great deal through Seven Million Bikes, you get a great VPN and you'll be supporting Seven Million Bikes Podcasts. Stay safe online and enjoy the shows you love. Any questions, just let me k

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