Travelers to Vietnam can eat like kings on shoestring budgets thanks to the popularity of what’s called “street food.” Every day vendors at Vietnam’s markets and roadside stalls serve up tasty Asian dishes that cost less than you’d expect.

You’ll find street food in all of Vietnam’s major centers, from Nha Trang’s fish markets to Saigon’s city streets. Many of the dishes are unfamiliar to Western tourists, but don’t be afraid to be adventurous. The meals cost as little as one American dollar, so you’ve lost very little if you don’t like what’s served. Simply move on to the next stall and sample something else!

Some travelers are concerned about the hygiene of street stalls, but they’re actually very clean. In fact, the conditions are better than you’ll find in some Vietnam’s restaurants, where kitchens are hidden away from prying eyes! As street stalls are so popular, especially with locals and backpackers visiting Vietnam, their fresh food doesn’t sit around waiting for buyers for very long.

Street Food in Vietnam

Vietnam’s street stalls serve up a banquet of different local specialties, but there are a few meals you definitely shouldn’t miss. We’ve all had spring rolls before, but the Vietnamese ones are especially good. They’re made from boiled rice wrappers, rather than fried ones, so they’re much healthier than their Chinese counterparts. Vietnam is also famous for its pho, a clear soup flavored with noodles, meats, vegetables, and spices. And when you’re eating on the run grab a bahn mi, a bread roll packed with meat, mayonnaise, and local veggies including pickled carrots, cucumbers, and daikon.

So learn to love street food while in Vietnam. Your bank balance and your taste buds will thank you!

[Image Source: Chelsea Hicks/Flickr]

Most of us love to start the day with a stiff cup of joe. But while you’re vacationing in Vietnam, why not be a bit more adventurous and bypass the espresso for a cup of weasel coffee?

It’s best to get this out of the way first; yes, this Vietnamese delicacy does have something to do with weasels, or more correctly the weasel-like Asian Palm Civet. Coffee growers feed their beans to the beast, and collect them once they pass through. That sounds disgusting, granted. But once you can get past its origins, you can enjoy this smooth, musky drink.

If you’re starting to get squeamish it’s worth noting that most cups of Vietnamese weasel coffee, or café Chon as the locals call it, aren’t made with any animal interference. Clever Vietnamese coffee growers have actually perfected a chemically simulated version, called Legendee. The growers use a synthetic process to mimic the effects of the beans’ weasel journey. Many sensitive tourists prefer this alternative, especially as it’s much kinder on the hip pocket. It’s generally still called weasel coffee though, despite the lack of weasels involved.

The country’s upscale cafes have begun to sell weasel coffee, but it’s just as good and much cheaper at Vietnam’s street tea stalls. Just make sure you don’t fall for the imitations. It’s not uncommon for enterprising Vietnamese traders to pass off the chemical version as the genuine article, complete with the high price tag! You should be able to find Legendee beans for between $10 and $15 US for 500 grams, while the same quantities of the real café Chon will cost around $70.

During a busy day sightseeing in Asia, lunch often tends to be an afterthought. Too many of us resort to Western-style junk food and overpriced meals at tourist attractions. They’re not just costly; they’re also unsatisfying. A much better option is to eat like the locals do and enjoy some of the Eastern continent’s best meals on the go.

Singapore’s chili crab doesn’t sound like the best meal to eat on the run, but this Asian delicacy is not to be missed. The mud crab is cooked in a thick tomato chili sauce. This certainly gives the dish some heat, but the sweet crab meat ensures it’s not overpoweringly spicy. The sauce makes the dish a bit messy, but it’s so good that most tourists won’t mind a stained shirt. Crab is generally an expensive meat, but the competition between hawkers and kopi tiam at the East Coast Seafood Center keeps the prices reasonable.

While in Vietnam make sure you try the country’s famous noodle soup, pho. The rice noodles are traditionally served in a broth with beef or chicken, and a variety of traditional Asian vegetables and spices. Most Vietnamese restaurants serve pho, but you’ll save money buying it from street vendors or market stalls.

Japan’s bento boxes have come a long way over the last century, with the original lacquered lunch boxes giving way to more modern, disposable versions. The philosophy remains the same though, with each one containing an organized meal of rice, meat or seafood, and vegetables. You’ll find this balanced and affordable Japanese lunch at the country’s convenience stores, bento outlets, and train stations.

Pho noodle soup

And finally in Bali they have padang, a traditional curry sold at local market stalls. You’ll find a variety of padang in Bali, from classics like beef and tapioca leaves to the more adventurous fish head variety. Each one is served wrapped up in a banana leaf to help you eat it on the run.

So next time you’re thinking of settling for a burger and fries in Asia, why not be a bit more adventurous and sample some of the local cuisine? Your stomach and wallet will thank you!

[Image Source: Rob Sinclair/Flickr]

Tipping is a way of life for anyone living in North America or Europe. But in Asia the practice is less common, and the etiquette surrounding it can cause confusion.

This guide will tell you what gratuities are expected in Asia’s major tourist centers.

Tipping is most common in Thailand, where it is expected in all establishments that don’t apply a service charge to the bill. It’s typical to tip 10% of your restaurant bill, but you may give 15% for outstanding service. There is no need to tip Bangkok street vendors, or staff at food halls and noodle huts. Massage therapists and salon employees are also generally given 10% of your treatment cost as a tip. Thais tend to round up their taxi fare, offering the odd amount of baht as a tip, although you may be more generous if the driver helps you with your bags. Porters should also be tipped; while there are no rules for this 20 baht per bag is a good guide.

The Japanese consider the practice of tipping rude, so do not leave extra yen under any circumstances. Instead, reward good service by saying the appreciative phrase “gochisou sama deshita” with a smile.

Tipping is also restricted in Singapore, so keep your change in your pocket. Most large hotels and restaurants will add a 10% service charge to your bill, but workers in other establishments and taxi drivers will refuse any extra payment.

Tipping is not expected in China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and The Philippines, but workers in these countries will not be offended if you leave a gratuity. Employees of hotels and restaurants in large cities are used to international tourists leaving tips, but the practice may confuse workers in smaller establishments. Don’t be surprised if they chase you to return your change!

While the Western concept of tipping is not practiced in India, the country has a similar custom called baksheesh. This idea encourages wealthy people to give to those less fortunate. Hotel porters will expect some rupees for their service. Restaurant staff won’t anticipate these kinds of kickbacks, but they’ll certainly appreciate a gift of 5-10% of the total bill.

We all know that counterfeit goods are bad, but those affordable handbag copies and super-cheap pirated DVDs hawked in Asian marketplaces are mighty tempting.

While we’d never encourage loading up your suitcase with these faux products, if you can’t help yourself we suggest frequenting the following cheap and cheerful shopping centers.

Thailand is the king of the counterfeiters, with most of them doing a roaring trade in Bangkok. The latest bootlegged albums and even fake IDs are available on Khao Sarn Road. Factory seconds and other cheap gadgets are sold at Pantip Plaza. Quality does vary, and you won’t get any of those shiny warranties, but you might just find a bargain. Just make sure that your preferred language is switched from Thai to English before you depart with your new toys. If your needs are less specific, then the Chatuchak Weekend Market is ideal. It’s the world’s largest market, selling everything from live chickens to handicrafts. You might spot Coach and Gucci logos on the accessories, but if they’re sold here don’t expect authenticity.

If Thailand’s capital is a little hectic for you, then enjoy life at a slightly slower pace at Chiang Mai. The city is famous for more than its elephant nature park; its night bazaar has a diverse array of goodies including many impressive designer copies. Shop from sunset each night for these treats, but be prepared to haggle. Prices typically start higher than they do in Bangkok, so you’ll need to do some work to get a bargain.

Hong Kong loves to shop for fine designer goods, but if you want them you’ll need to frequent the country’s malls. For the same looks at much cheaper prices, the markets are your best bets. The Ladies Market in Hong Kong is great for a girl’s night out, with vendors selling handbags, apparel, and other items targeted at fashion-forward females. While you’re spending up, your other half can busy himself at Mongkok Computer Shopping Center around the corner, or the tech-focused Sai Yeung Choi Street South located one street over.

The underperforming dong allows most Western travelers to live the high life in Vietnam, which makes it a great shopping destination. For the best bargains head to Ben Thanh Market, just outside Ho Chi Minh city. I’m not sure any of the Nike shoes, Ray-Bans sunglasses, and Tag watches are genuine, but they certainly look it. The dollar DVDs are also a big attraction for movie buffs.

But before purchasing designer replicas and counterfeit goods, it’s important to remember that you get what you pay for. Often that’s watches that will turn your wrists green, sunglasses that won’t protect your eyes, films that are barely watchable, and apparel that will fall apart quickly. It could also land you a nasty fine when you return home, so make sure you research your own country’s rules on counterfeit goods before shopping up a storm.

A tailored suit is one of life’s luxuries that those of us on a budget can rarely experience. But if you’re planning a trip to Asia, there’s no better time to indulge.

Tailors in cities around the continent can create fully lined suits in your choice of fabric for a fraction of the price you’ll pay back home. And best of all, they’ll do it in as little as a day.

Despite the quick turnaround, it’s advisable to give your tailor as much time as possible. Second or even third fittings may be required for the perfect fit, so it’s best to plan your trip to the tailor early in your vacation. It’s also smart to have some idea of the suit you’d like. Bringing photographs from fashion magazines or the internet will help the tailor create your dream garment.

Once you’re organized, you’re ready to find your tailor. Ask your hotel concierge or some friendly locals who they recommend, and seek them out. Make sure you negotiate a fair price up front, including hotel delivery costs, to ensure you’re treated justly.

Thailand is the home of some of the world’s finest silks, and in Bangkok it comes at a relatively affordable price. Rajawongse Clothier is one of the city’s best, with more than 30 years experience in the business. Father and son owners Jesse and Victor have even made suits for American presidents George Bush and his son George W. Bush!

When in Vietnam, forget the bustling shopping districts of Hanoi and the action packed Vietnamese markets. Instead travel to the casual coastal town of Hoi An, where tailors will handcraft suits and a wardrobe to wear with it! Master craftsman will make dresses, shoes, and even handbags. Yaly Couture is regarded as one of the town’s best tailors for its high quality garments and fast, friendly service. Staff will even keep your measurements on file in case you want to order something else once you arrive home.

Custom suits in Hong Kong are a bit more expensive than in other Asian centers, but they’re still a fraction of the cost you’ll pay on the High Street back home. There’s also plenty of choice with many tailors of distinction. Bill Clinton chose Sam’s for several suits during his presidency, and he’s still a popular choice for travelers today. But don’t overlook other tailors in the city. The family-owned Roger Concepts is another good option for Western travelers as it specializes in suits and shirts for larger men.

So why travel to Milan or Paris for fine fashion? You’ll find it for far less in Asia!

[Image Source: Teodora Vlaicu/Stock.Xchng]

Sheraton hotels and resorts around Asia are amongst the first in the world to experience the chain’s latest spa concept, Shine for Sheraton.

The retreats are designed to feel upscale and luxurious, yet more approachable and accessible than your average day spa.

The spas come hot on the heels of Sheraton’s reported $6 billion spend on brand revitalization, but it seems the investment will be worth it for guests who love to be pampered. The Shine for Sheraton spas deliver five signature treatments. These are classic offerings: a massage, a facial, manicure and pedicure, a full body treatment, and a treatment for two. That sounds like a great option for couples honeymooning or simply enjoying a romantic retreat. Sheraton spas will use products from global skincare brand Germanine de Capuccini to ensure their guests enjoy only the most luxurious treatments.

Plunge Pool at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

The Shine for Sheraton spas sound like easy places to relax, with their marble, mahogany, and polished metal surrounds rendered in warm cream, burnished gold, and cobalt blue shades. These hues and materials were specifically chosen to create an atmosphere that feels playful, yet opulent.

“Introducing the Shine spa experience across our portfolio on the heels of our $6 billion revitalization effort will be an invaluable, welcome addition to the Sheraton guest experience,” Hoyt H. Harper II, senior vice president for Sheraton, said in a press statement. “With this global roll-out, we plan to make spa a cornerstone of the Sheraton brand experience, one that guests will truly embrace as part of their lifestyle.”

The Shine for Sheraton service is currently available at selected new Sheraton hotels in China and Vietnam, along with the Maldives and the Slovak Republic. It will be rolled out to 12 other Sheraton hotels around the globe over the next 15 months, including the Sheraton Shanghai Hongkou and Sheraton Beijing Dongcheng.

Vietnam is a country of extremes, with bustling cities and quiet rural villages. Somewhere in the middle you’ll find Hoi An, a small city on Vietnam’s south central coast which enjoys the best of both worlds.

Hoi An is the place to come if you want to experience cosmopolitan Vietnam without the traffic or the crowds. With relatively few cars on the roads, pedestrians rule here. It’s becoming increasingly popular with tourists, especially backpackers who flock to the city for its inexpensive dining and interesting array of shops.

Hoi An was a major international seaport in the 16th and 17th century, and these foreign influences are still apparent today. Hoi An is a cultural melting pot, with the flavors of France, The Netherlands, Spain, China, and Japan informing the city’s food, architecture and culture.

The streets are lined with stores peddling arts and crafts, silver jewelry, and made-to-measure clothes and shoes. Such stylish indulgences would cost a small fortune in the West, but the services of tailors and shoemakers here are surprisingly inexpensive.  While these stores cater to the tourist trade, Hoi An’s buildings have been largely preserved. This makes walking around the city an exciting experience, even if your wallet is bare.

Tourists must purchase a sightseeing pass before entering Hoi An’s Old Town. They cost approximately US$5 and include a pass to a historic house, a landmark, a museum, an assembly hall, and a cultural experience. Visitors can choose which of the local attractions interest them most in each category.

These tickets are available at various entry points to the area including some of the attractions and Hai Ba Trung Street.

While a dress code is not strictly enforced, tourists are advised to dress conservatively when visiting the Old Town. Sleeveless blouses and short skirts are frowned upon, particularly when visiting sites of culture significance.

Da Nang is the closest airport to Hoi An. You can catch a connecting flight from major Vietnamese cities including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and international destinations such as Bangkok, Singapore, and Cambodia. A taxi from Da Nang airport to Hoi An costs approximately US$15.

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest city, and the heart of the Asian nation. Its bustling pace can intimidate tourists at first, but with a little know-how the area is much easier to navigate than many Eastern centers.

Life moves fast on the streets of Ho Chi Minh City, so it’s not advisable for tourists to try to drive themselves about.

Instead rely on the expert taxi drivers and motorbike taxi riders, who are accustomed to the city’s pace.

Transport is quite centrally located. Trains run from District 3, which is just north of the heart of the city. Buses are a more affordable, and often more accessible transport option. They run all over the city, and due to recent upgrades are much safer and more reliable than they have been in the past. Buses from Cholon will take you to the Mekong Delta, and those from Binh Tranh travel to the north. The Tan Son Nhat International Airport is also just seven kilometers from the city.

Mopeds and bicycles are available for hire, and these are a great way for tourists to explore the city at their own page. If you’ve got time to spare, you could also consider walking about. If you do decide to set off on foot though, make sure you heed the city’s traffic. Follow the lead of the locals and exercise plenty of caution when crossing roads.

Unlike so many Asian locations, the Vietnamese writing system predominantly uses Latin-based lettering. This makes signs quite easy to read, although street numbers are less straight forward.

Ho Chi Minh City’s most affordable accommodation and eateries are located around Pham Ngu Lao. If you’ve got more cash to spend on a bed, you’ll be pleased with the hotels around Dong Khoi Street.

Ho Chi Minh City is a hive of activity, with market stalls, al fresco cafes, and sidewalk vendors lining the streets. It’s an area made for exploring, so follow our tips and don’t be afraid to lose yourself in this exciting part of the world.

Vietnam is a safe and friendly country, but its unique culture can come as a shock to foreign travelers.

As with entering any country, it’s important to be sensitive of these customs and do your best to fit in. The advice you’ll find here will help you avoid making any embarrassing faux pas.

Friendliness is something the Vietnamese people pride themselves on, and you will never see one drop this happy façade in public. Travelers should do the same and avoid losing their temper, especially when bargaining in the markets or dealing with members of the hospitality industry. This kind of scene is interpreted as a loss of face for both parties.

Vietnamese people dress conservatively, particularly by Western standards. While in summer it’s especially tempting to wear singlet tops and shorts, the locals frown on foreigners who show too much skin. It’s particularly important to dress modestly when visiting pagodas and other religious sites, as the Vietnamese see the wearing of immodest clothes in these sacred places as offensive.

Visit Vietnam

This call for modesty extends to the wearing of jewelry or carrying of large sums of money. It is considered impolite to flaunt your wealth, and on a practical level it may make you a target for pick-pocketing.

It also extends to behavior. While public displays of affection are accepted in the Western world, they are frowned upon in Vietnam. A couple may hold hands, but they should only hug and kiss behind closed doors.

If you strike up a friendship with one of the locals there are some rules to remember when visiting their home. Shoes should be left at the front door before entering. Most Vietnamese homes have a family altar, a place where they can honor their ancestors and consult them on important family matters. Visitors should never sleep or sit with their feet pointing towards this family altar.

It is also considered impolite to snap a person’s photo before asking them. Many locals will be happy to star in your shot, but some will not. It’s important to respect the wishes of any unwilling models. You should not push the issue or offer them money in an attempt to change their mind. You should also never take a photograph of a military installation, officer, or anything else to do with Vietnam’s military. This may be seen as a security breach, and dealt with accordingly. While you may want to preserve your entire vacation, you should leave your video camera at home when visiting small villages. The locals consider these modern devices to be intrusive.

There is a lot to remember when visiting Vietnam, but don’t worry if you get it wrong. The Vietnamese people will appreciate your efforts and forgive any indiscretions.