5 Local Must-Try Experiences in Vietnam

Visiting Vietnam isn’t just about ticking off tourist spots — it’s about living the culture. Whether you're sipping iced coffee on a tiny stool or getting pampered with a foot scrub, these local experiences make the trip unforgettable. 

1. Cà Phê Sữa Đá on the Sidewalk

Order a Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk, sit on a tiny plastic stool, and just watch the world go by. It’s the most local way to start your day — bold, sweet, and unforgettable.

2. Nail Day, the Local Way

After exploring in flip-flops all day, your feet need some love. If you're searching for a manicure and pedicure near me, make your way to:

📍Emnails – Beauty Room
7/19A Nguyễn Trãi, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, TP.HCM

Loved by both locals and savvy travelers, Emnails offers everything from basic pedicures to spa-level foot care and trending nail designs. The space is cozy, clean, and tucked right in the heart of the city — a perfect break between markets and museums.

3. Gội Đầu Dưỡng Sinh – The Vietnamese Hair Wash

More than a shampoo, this is a multi-step scalp massage ritual with herbal oils, facial treatment, and shoulder rub. Local salons offer this for the price of a fancy coffee — and it's heaven after a long day out.

4. Hop on a Grab Bike

Forget taxis — download Grab and ride behind a local on a motorbike. It’s the quickest, most authentic way to move around the city. Bonus: It feels like you're in a movie.

5. Bargain Like a Pro at Local Markets

Skip the malls and hit up wet markets or old apartment bazaars. Practice your bargaining skills — it’s part of the fun — and walk away with anything from custom clothes to handmade souvenirs.

Vietnam’s magic is in the small, everyday things. Whether you're sipping street coffee or getting your nails done at a hidden gem like Emnails, lean into the local vibe. Trust us! It’s where the real travel memories begin.