A Vietnam Podcast: Stories of Vietnam

The Vietnam Is Awesome Podcast will help you discover the real Vietnam with awesome experiences.

In this episode, we’ll share our recommendations for boutique hotels across Vietnam.

My guest today is Lauren Pienaar. She has been in Vietnam now for 7 years, she's from South Africa originally. She's a singer-songwriter with Moon Rise City and is now the Head of Communications for Vietnam Is Awesome. The very maker of this podcast, she has traveled all over Vietnam to many different luxury and eco-friendly boutiques.

Hotels and activities mentioned.

Phu Quoc

• Mango Bay
• Fusion Resorts
• Premier Village

Saigon

• Myst
• An Lam Retreat
• Mia Resort
• Villa Song

Mui Ne

• 
  
• Clown Car
• Minh On Hotel
• Cargo Remote
• The Cliff
• Joe’s Cafe
• Bo Khe
• Mini Golf

Da Lat

• Twin Lam Lake (sic
• Lavender Valley
• Mo Stay
• Lang Biang Peak

Phong Nha

• Victory Villas
• Phong Nha Homestay

Da Nang

• La Salle de Mer

Hoi An

• An Bang Beach
• Royal Riverside Hotel
• Cao Lau
• Nem
• Mi Quang

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Elizabeth Nguyen is from Honolulu, Hawaii, and is the daughter of Vietnamese refugees who arrived in 1975. 

She has a background in Human Biology and Psychiatry, which gives her a unique perspective on the cross-cultural aspects of mental health.

Her career in community mental health and her interests in spirituality and psychiatry led her to write her first book, Aloha Vietnam.

Elizabeth reached out to me a while ago and shared her book with me. I am a notoriously slow reader so this interview has been a long time in the making but I’m so excited to talk to share her story with you today. 

In this episode we discuss the gap between mental health needs in Vietnam versus the reality, and compare the perspective of mental health in Vietnam to Western outlooks in countries like the USA and UK.

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Elizabeth Nguyen is from Honolulu, Hawaii, and is the daughter of Vietnamese refugees who arrived in 1975. 

She has a background in Human Biology and Psychiatry, which gives her a unique perspective on the cross-cultural aspects of mental health.

Her career in community mental health and her interests in spirituality and psychiatry led her to write her first book, Aloha Vietnam.

Elizabeth reached out to me a while ago and shared her book with me. I am a notoriously slow reader so this interview has been a long time in the making but I’m so excited to talk to share her story with you today. 

In this episode we discuss the gap between mental health needs in Vietnam versus the reality, and compare the perspective of mental health in Vietnam to Western outlooks in countries like the USA and UK.

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

As an affiliate partner it also means that I will get a small commission when you sign up, but at no extra cost to you. 

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 kSupport the show

These are the programs the Seven Million Bikes Podcasts uses. These are affiliate links so they will give us a small commission, only if you sign up , and at no extra cost to you! You'll be directly supporting Seven Million Bikes Podcasts too.

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Uncover the Unique Aspects of Saigon's Underground Art Scene

In this episode of the Vietnam is Awesome podcast, host Niall Mackay takes us on a journey into the vibrant underground art scene of Saigon. He introduces us to two extraordinary individuals who are at the forefront of this creative movement: Truong Que Phuong, the owner of Twist Cafe and Barzinga, and Sabra Johnson, the creator of the Jackfruit Cabaret Show.

Guests:

- Truong Que Phuong is the owner of Twist Cafe and Barzinga, two premier LGBTQ+ venues in Saigon.

- Sabra Johnson is the creator of the Jackfruit cabaret show and the founder of Eva Dance Company.

Discussion Points:

- The LGBTQ+ scene in Vietnam and its acceptance in big cities like Saigon and Hanoi.

- An overview of LGBTQ+ venues in Saigon, including Twist Cafe and Barzinga.

- Collaboration between Truong Que Phuong and Sabra Johnson to create the Jackfruit cabaret show at Barzinga.

- Exploring the concept of burlesque cabaret and how it combines stripping with theater and variety performances.

- Addressing the unique atmosphere of Barzinga and its resemblance to the creative vibe of Berlin.

Key Takeaways:

- Vietnam is surprisingly progressive and LGBTQ+ friendly, especially in big cities like Saigon.

- Saigon's underground art scene offers a diverse range of experiences, from drag shows to comedy and music events.

- Barzinga provides a unique atmosphere reminiscent of Berlin's creative clubs.

- The Jackfruit cabaret show brings elegance and grunge together, showcasing the talent of local dancers and performers.

Links:

- Twist Cafe

- Barzinga

- Eva Dance Company

LQBTQ+ Friendly Venues and Events In Saigon

• Twist 
• Barzinga
• Frolic
• Pride Cafe
• Gender Funk
• Haus of Drag

Join Niall Mackay as he delves into the hidden world of Saigon's underground art scene in this captivating episode of the Vietnam is Awesome podcast. Discover the unique experiences awaiting you and gain insights into the LGBTQ+ community's acceptance in Vietnam. Prepare to be inspired, informed, and intrigued!

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

As an affiliate partner it also means that I will get a small commission when you sign up, but at no extra cost to you. 

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 kSupport the show

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Uncover the Unique Aspects of Saigon's Underground Art Scene

In this episode of the Vietnam is Awesome podcast, host Niall Mackay takes us on a journey into the vibrant underground art scene of Saigon. He introduces us to two extraordinary individuals who are at the forefront of this creative movement: Truong Que Phuong, the owner of Twist Cafe and Barzinga, and Sabra Johnson, the creator of the Jackfruit Cabaret Show.

Guests:

- Truong Que Phuong is the owner of Twist Cafe and Barzinga, two premier LGBTQ+ venues in Saigon.

- Sabra Johnson is the creator of the Jackfruit cabaret show and the founder of Eva Dance Company.

Discussion Points:

- The LGBTQ+ scene in Vietnam and its acceptance in big cities like Saigon and Hanoi.

- An overview of LGBTQ+ venues in Saigon, including Twist Cafe and Barzinga.

- Collaboration between Truong Que Phuong and Sabra Johnson to create the Jackfruit cabaret show at Barzinga.

- Exploring the concept of burlesque cabaret and how it combines stripping with theater and variety performances.

- Addressing the unique atmosphere of Barzinga and its resemblance to the creative vibe of Berlin.

Key Takeaways:

- Vietnam is surprisingly progressive and LGBTQ+ friendly, especially in big cities like Saigon.

- Saigon's underground art scene offers a diverse range of experiences, from drag shows to comedy and music events.

- Barzinga provides a unique atmosphere reminiscent of Berlin's creative clubs.

- The Jackfruit cabaret show brings elegance and grunge together, showcasing the talent of local dancers and performers.

Links:

- Twist Cafe

- Barzinga

- Eva Dance Company

LQBTQ+ Friendly Venues and Events In Saigon

• Twist 
• Barzinga
• Frolic
• Pride Cafe
• Gender Funk
• Haus of Drag

Join Niall Mackay as he delves into the hidden world of Saigon's underground art scene in this captivating episode of the Vietnam is Awesome podcast. Discover the unique experiences awaiting you and gain insights into the LGBTQ+ community's acceptance in Vietnam. Prepare to be inspired, informed, and intrigued!

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

As an affiliate partner it also means that I will get a small commission when you sign up, but at no extra cost to you. 

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 kSupport the show

These are the programs the Seven Million Bikes Podcasts uses. These are affiliate links so they will give us a small commission, only if you sign up , and at no extra cost to you! You'll be directly supporting Seven Million Bikes Podcasts too.

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Welcome to the Vietnam Is Awesome podcast. We’ll help you discover the real Vietnam with Awesome experiences.

I interviewed Mischa Smith who has lived in Vietnam for 10 years now. He's worked at Pasteur Street Brewing Company for eight and a half, most of those as the sales director spreading amazing craft beer across Vietnam.

In our main interview we both starting reminiscing about "old" Saigon. Which isn't that old but vastly different from 10 years ago. 

We talk about;

• What Saigon looked like 8-10 years ago
• How much the city has changed in that time
• Places that aren't here any longer that we miss

Vietnam Is Awesome

• Listen to the main episode 
• 6 Best Bars With Craft Beer In Ho Chi Minh City | Guide To Delicious Saigon Beer
• Facebook

These are the programs the Seven Million Bikes Podcasts uses. These are affiliate links so they will give us a small commission, only if you sign up , and at no extra cost to you! You'll be directly supporting Seven Million Bikes Podcasts too.

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Welcome to the Vietnam Is Awesome podcast. We’ll help you discover the real Vietnam with Awesome experiences.

I interviewed Mischa Smith who has lived in Vietnam for 10 years now. He's worked at Pasteur Street Brewing Company for eight and a half, most of those as the sales director spreading amazing craft beer across Vietnam.

In our main interview we both starting reminiscing about "old" Saigon. Which isn't that old but vastly different from 10 years ago. 

We talk about;

• What Saigon looked like 8-10 years ago
• How much the city has changed in that time
• Places that aren't here any longer that we miss

Vietnam Is Awesome

• Listen to the main episode 
• 6 Best Bars With Craft Beer In Ho Chi Minh City | Guide To Delicious Saigon Beer
• Facebook

These are the programs the Seven Million Bikes Podcasts uses. These are affiliate links so they will give us a small commission, only if you sign up , and at no extra cost to you! You'll be directly supporting Seven Million Bikes Podcasts too.

NordVPN | Descript | Buzzsprout | Fiverr | PodcastMarketing.ai

Welcome to the Vietnam Is Awesome podcast. We’ll help you discover the real Vietnam with Awesome experiences.

In this episode my guest, Mischa Smith, has lived in Vietnam for 10 years now. He's worked at Pasteur Street Brewing Company for eight and a half, most of those as the sales director spreading amazing craft beer across Vietnam.

And he's also the co-host of the Beer Stories podcast, which is produced by myself and Seven Million Bikes podcast and shares stories of craft beer, highlighting the amazing beer that we have here in Vietnam.

We talk about;

• Why he loves Saigon so much
• The growth of the craft beer industry in Vietnam
• The best places to eat and drink in Saigon

And like every guest, he shares;

• What is a good 24 hour itinerary in Saigon
• What life is like for locals?
• Is it a good place to live? And why?
• Where should travellers go next in Vietnam after Saigon?

Places to visit

• Rum Bar
• Malt
• Bui Vien
• Quán Ăn Quang Mập
• Steersman Brewery

Vietnam Is Awesome

• 6 Best Bars With Craft Beer In Ho Chi Minh City | Guide To Delicious Saigon Beer
• Facebook

Join us at The Tourist Trap Stand Up Comedy Show - every Thursday night!
Or our Weekly Quiz Night Saigon @ Rabbit Hole Irish Sports Bar

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

As an affiliate partner it also means that I will get a small commission when you sign up, but at no extra cost to you. 

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 kSupport the show

These are the programs the Seven Million Bikes Podcasts uses. These are affiliate links so they will give us a small commission, only if you sign up , and at no extra cost to you! You'll be directly supporting Seven Million Bikes Podcasts too.

NordVPN | Descript | Buzzsprout | Fiverr | PodcastMarketing.ai

Welcome to the Vietnam Is Awesome podcast. We’ll help you discover the real Vietnam with Awesome experiences.

In this episode my guest, Mischa Smith, has lived in Vietnam for 10 years now. He's worked at Pasteur Street Brewing Company for eight and a half, most of those as the sales director spreading amazing craft beer across Vietnam.

And he's also the co-host of the Beer Stories podcast, which is produced by myself and Seven Million Bikes podcast and shares stories of craft beer, highlighting the amazing beer that we have here in Vietnam.

We talk about;

• Why he loves Saigon so much
• The growth of the craft beer industry in Vietnam
• The best places to eat and drink in Saigon

And like every guest, he shares;

• What is a good 24 hour itinerary in Saigon
• What life is like for locals?
• Is it a good place to live? And why?
• Where should travellers go next in Vietnam after Saigon?

Places to visit

• Rum Bar
• Malt
• Bui Vien
• Quán Ăn Quang Mập
• Steersman Brewery

Vietnam Is Awesome

• 6 Best Bars With Craft Beer In Ho Chi Minh City | Guide To Delicious Saigon Beer
• Facebook

Join us at The Tourist Trap Stand Up Comedy Show - every Thursday night!
Or our Weekly Quiz Night Saigon @ Rabbit Hole Irish Sports Bar

Get more info about our shows at Seven Million Bikes Comedy and Events.

Support independent podcasting and A Vietnam Podcast Vietnam by joining the Seven Million Bikes Community. 

• Start from just 90k a month, stop at any time, 
• get episodes early, bonus content, free tickets to shows, invites to member-only events 
  • next 5 people to join up will get an SMB reusable mask for free! (Worth 129k)

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

As an affiliate partner it also means that I will get a small commission when you sign up, but at no extra cost to you. 

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 kSupport the show

These are the programs the Seven Million Bikes Podcasts uses. These are affiliate links so they will give us a small commission, only if you sign up , and at no extra cost to you! You'll be directly supporting Seven Million Bikes Podcasts too.

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This episode is going to be more than a little bit different.

Instead of me interviewing a guest, I'll be answering questions written by chat GPT. That's right, I'll be interacting with a machine to explore the intersection of technology and human interaction?

And chat GPT wrote that sentence.

So, what you're about to hear was written by chat GPT, and then it's voiced by AI from Descript the program. I used to edit all my podcasts. So I'm going to hand you over to today's host., whose voice is called, Nancy.

Nancy
I'm your host, Chat Gee Pee Tee.

As an AI language model, I'm programmed to understand natural language and generate responses that mimic human speech. 

But how well can I really understand the complexities of Vietnam and its people? That's what we're going to find out.

I'll be using GPT-3, one of the most advanced AI models available today, to generate questions based on a range of topics related to Vietnam, such as culture, history, and daily life. I have no idea what questions I will come up with, so this is going to be an exciting and unpredictable conversation.

Of course, as an AI I'm not a Vietnam expert by any means. But I hope that by engaging in this AI-human dialogue, we can learn something new and thought-provoking about Vietnam and ourselves.

Meet Niall Mackay the entertaining and knowledgeable host of A Vietnam Podcast. Niall is a seasoned comedian, teacher, and podcast expert who has been hosting his show since 2019. With over 40,000 downloads and a spot in the top 10% of podcasts worldwide, A Vietnam Podcast is the leading English language podcast in Vietnam. Niall's passion for sharing stories, insights, and experiences about Vietnam has captivated audiences around the globe. Through his podcast, Niall takes listeners on a journey through Vietnam's rich history, culture, and people. Join Niall and his guests as they explore everything from food and travel to music and politics. With Niall as your guide, you're sure to have a fun and informative experience on A Vietnam Podcast.

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

As an affiliate partner it also means that I will get a small commission when you sign up, but at no extra cost to you. 

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 kSupport the show

These are the programs the Seven Million Bikes Podcasts uses. These are affiliate links so they will give us a small commission, only if you sign up , and at no extra cost to you! You'll be directly supporting Seven Million Bikes Podcasts too.

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