The Best Vietnam Retirement Vacation Guide for Your Big Senior Adventure

Taking a trip to Vietnam during your retirement period is an exciting and safe idea. The Asian country offers exotic locations, foods, and locals. You will also find the usual creature comforts in Hanoi and other major Vietnam cities. 

Below is our Vietnam retirement vacation guide for seniors looking to get the most out of their retirement. 

Why Choose Vietnam

Vietnam is one of the best Asian countries to spend your retirement trip. Let’s list the reasons why you should visit: 

Affordability Without Compromise

Your dollar stretches far in Vietnam, and that’s great news for a fulfilling solo trip or couple vacation. You can enjoy a warm serving of Pho or a cup of Vietnamese coffee for just a few bucks. Let’s not forget the affordable souvenirs like handcrafted silk scarves and lacquerware. Even the five-star resorts in places like Da Nang offer luxury at a fraction of what you’d pay back home.

Year-Round Warm Weather

Forget packing layers of clothing. In Vietnam, it’s summer all year long. Whether you’re cruising through Halong Bay or lounging on the sandy beaches of Nha Trang, the sun is your constant companion. This is where to break out those shorts and flip-flops you’ve saved for a special occasion.

Natural Beauty at Every Turn

Vietnam is a feast for the eyes. We’re talking lush rice terraces in Sapa, intricate cave systems in Phong Nha, and the serene Mekong Delta. And have you seen the sunrise over the Marble Mountains? It’s a sight you won’t soon forget. Each region offers its unique landscape, making every part of your trip feel like a new adventure.

A Mix of Tradition and Modernity

Vietnam is where the past meets the present most beautifully. One minute, you’re exploring ancient pagodas in Hoi An, and the next, you’re sipping a cocktail in a sleek Ho Chi Minh City rooftop bar. Whether it’s the bustling markets or the tech-savvy youth, Vietnam offers a blend that makes every experience rich and textured.

Friendly Locals, Easy Communication

The Vietnamese people are known for their warmth and hospitality. Don’t be surprised if locals invite you to join a street-side chess game or share a home-cooked meal. And while not everyone speaks fluent English, basic phrases and universal gestures go a long way. It’s easy to make friends and even easier to feel at home.

Culinary Delights for Every Palate

If you love food, you’re in for a treat. Vietnam is a food lover’s paradise. From the world-famous Banh Mi sandwiches to fresh seafood dishes like grilled squid, your taste buds are in for an adventure. And for the adventurous eater, there’s even “Banh Xeo,” a crispy, stuffed pancake you must try.

History and Culture Worth Exploring

Vietnam is steeped in history, from ancient dynasties to the recent Vietnam War. See the country’s past by visiting Cu Chi Tunnels and the Imperial City of Hue. But it’s not all heavy; traditional puppet shows and vibrant festivals like Tet the Lunar New Year, provide lighthearted cultural immersion.

Vietnam Retirement Vacation Guide Locations

Vietnam is a country of contrasts, and its cities are no exception. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach bum, or a foodie, there’s a Vietnamese city that’s perfect for you. 

From the cultural depths of Hanoi to the modern pulse of Ho Chi Minh City, let’s explore some cities you won’t want to miss.

The Timeless Charm of Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital city, is like a living museum. Don’t miss Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. For a taste of history, head to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. 

Quan An Ngon is a great spot for local food when you get hungry. For shopping, Trang Tien Plaza has got you covered. As for activities, a cyclo tour of the Old Quarter is a must.

Da Nang: A Beach Lover’s Paradise

Da Nang is all about sun, sea, and sand. My Khe Beach is the place to be for sunbathing and water sports. Marble Mountains offer a blend of natural beauty and spirituality. Seafood lovers should try the local cuisine at Be Anh Restaurant. 

If shopping is more your speed, check out Vincom Plaza. Round off your day with a visit to the Dragon Bridge, especially during its fire-breathing display.

Nha Trang: The Underwater Wonderland

Nha Trang is the go-to city for scuba diving and snorkeling. The stunning Coral Reefs at Hon Mun Island are a diver’s dream. But if you prefer to stay dry, Long Son Pagoda offers spectacular views. 

Hungry? The Sailing Club is a popular dining spot. Nha Trang Center is the mall for your shopping needs. For an exciting day, join a boat tour to explore nearby islands.

Ho Chi Minh City: The Heartbeat of Vietnam

Also known as Saigon, this bustling city blends old and new. The War Remnants Museum displays snapshots of the country’s struggle during that period. For food, Pho Phuong 25 offers some of the best pho in town. 

For the bargain hunters, head to the Saigon Centre mall. To feel the city’s pulse, explore the local markets or take a motorbike tour of the city’s districts.

Hue: A Step Back in Time

Hue is your go-to for a history lesson. The Imperial City, one of the UNESCO World Heritage, takes you back to Vietnam’s past. Thien Mu Pagoda is another landmark worth your time. When dinner is near, the Ancient Hue restaurant brings royal cuisine. 

Dong Ba Market offers a shopping experience steeped in tradition. As for activities, a boat trip on the Perfume River is a great way to see the city.

Hoi An: A Picturesque Port City

Hoi An is famous for its well-preserved architecture and colorful lanterns. The Japanese Covered Bridge is an iconic landmark. 

For dining, Morning Glory serves up traditional dishes in a cozy setting. Hoi An Central Market is your spot for unique souvenirs. Try a cooking class for a hands-on experience with Vietnamese cuisine.

Phu Quoc: Island Escapade

Phu Quoc is all about the beach life. Sao Beach is a must-visit with its white sand and clear water. The Vinpearl Safari offers a break from the beach with its wildlife. 

Looking to catch something tasty for dinner? The Ham Ninh Crab Shack serves up delicious seafood. The Dinh Cau Night Market is perfect for picking up local crafts. Try a snorkeling tour for an underwater adventure.

Sapa: For the Mountain Adventurer

Sapa is a mountainous region known for its terraced rice fields. Fansipan Mountain is a climber’s dream come true. Cat Cat Village offers a taste of local life. 

The Hill Station serves up hearty mountain fare. Sapa Market is a good spot for local produce and crafts. For activities, trekking and homestays in local villages are popular choices.

Can Tho: Life on the Mekong Delta

Can Tho is the fourth-largest Vietnamese city full of incredible locations and restaurants. The Floating Market is a unique experience that shouldn’t be missed. For landmarks, check out the Ong Pagoda. Local eateries near Ninh Kieu Pier offer fresh fish dishes.

Looking for some souvenirs? Cai Khe Commercial Center has a variety of goods. A river cruise on the Mekong Delta is an essential activity here.

Vung Tau: A Quick Seaside Getaway

Vung Tau is perfect for a quick beach trip near Ho Chi Minh City. The Jesus Christ Statue offers panoramic views of the city. The Ganh Hao Restaurant is a great spot for seafood. Imperial Plaza is the place for some retail therapy. 

Accommodation Tips

Your accommodation is the foundation of your Vietnam trip enjoyment, especially when looking for comfort and convenience. But don’t worry. Vietnam offers a range of options to fit every budget and lifestyle. 

Let’s go through some tips to help you find your perfect home away from home in Vietnam.

Budget-Friendly Options That Don’t Skimp on Comfort

You don’t have to empty your pockets to enjoy a comfy stay in Vietnam. The country offers various budget-friendly options that provide both comfort and quality. 

Let’s explore some of these wallet-friendly choices.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses in Vietnam often provide a cozy, home-like atmosphere. They’re usually family-run, offering personalized service and sometimes even a home-cooked meal. These spots are great for group or solo travelers who want a more authentic, localized experience.

Pros:

• Homey and personalized experience.
• Often cheaper than hotels.
• It may include home-cooked meals.

Cons:

• Limited amenities compared to larger hotels.
• The location may not be central.

Local Chain Hotels

Local chain hotels offer the consistency of known amenities like in-house restaurants, Wi-Fi, and sometimes even a gym. They’re a reliable option and often have multiple locations within a city, giving you flexibility in where you stay.

Pros:

• Consistent quality and amenities.
• Usually, they have multiple locations in a city.
• May offer loyalty points or rewards.

Cons:

• It can be more expensive than guesthouses or hostels.
• It may lack the local charm and personalized service.

Apartment Rentals

Renting an apartment provides you with a home away from home. These often come with a living area, a kitchen, and sometimes even a washing machine. This option is excellent for longer stays or if you prefer a more domestic living situation.

Pros:

• More space and privacy.
• Amenities like a full kitchen and laundry.
• Good for longer stays.

Cons:

• Usually, it requires a deposit upfront.
• You’re responsible for cooking and cleaning.

Choosing Locations with Easy Healthcare Access

When planning your stay, it’s wise to consider places close to healthcare facilities, especially for seniors. Hotels near hospitals, clinics, or with in-house medical services offer an extra layer of security. This way, you can have peace of mind knowing help is readily available should you need it.

Nearby Hospitals

These hotels are usually within a short drive or walking distance from a hospital. It’s an excellent option for those with ongoing medical needs or who want to be extra cautious.

Walk-in Clinics

Hotels located near walk-in clinics are great for non-emergency medical concerns. They offer convenient access to doctors without the hassle of a hospital visit.

In-House Medical Services

Some upscale hotels offer in-house medical services, ranging from a doctor on call to a fully-equipped medical room. These are ideal for those who prioritize healthcare but don’t want to venture far for it.

Pharmacy Access

Hotels close to pharmacies make it easy to pick up over-the-counter meds or fill prescriptions. It’s a good option for those needing quick medication access.

All-Inclusive Resorts vs. Local Hotels

All-Inclusive Resorts

All-inclusive resorts offer a one-stop vacation experience. Everything is included in the initial booking price, including your breakfast, amenities, and side activities. These resorts are designed to provide everything you need without leaving the property.

Pros:

• Convenient and stress-free.
• No additional costs for meals, drinks, or activities.
• Wide range of amenities.

Cons:

• It can be expensive upfront.
• Limited exposure to local culture.

Local Hotels

Local hotels in Vietnam provide a more authentic experience. They’re usually smaller and offer fewer amenities compared to all-inclusive resorts. These hotels let you immerse yourself in the local culture, giving you the freedom to explore nearby restaurants, shops, and attractions.

Pros:

• More authentic local experience.
• Usually cheaper upfront.
• Greater freedom to explore.

Cons:

• Meals and activities are not included.
• Fewer amenities compared to resorts.

Health and Safety

Your health and safety should be top priorities when traveling, especially in a new country like Vietnam. Knowing what precautions to take and what to watch out for can make your trip more enjoyable and worry-free.

Common Scams to Watch Out For

Being aware of common scams is crucial for a stress-free vacation. While Vietnam is generally safe, it has its share of scams, like any tourist destination. Knowing what to look out for will help you avoid falling victim to these tricks.

Motorbike Rental Scams

Some motorbike rental shops may claim you’ve damaged their bike and demand excessive fees. To avoid this, take pictures of the bike and use reputable rental services before renting.

Overcharging Taxis

Some taxi drivers may take longer routes or rig meters to overcharge tourists. Stick to reputable companies and always insist on using the meter.

Fake Tour Guides

People may pose as tour guides and offer you a tour at a cheap rate but provide little to no value. Always go through registered tour operators or trusted referrals for your tours.

Street Vendor Scams

Some street vendors may hand you an item like a hat or a bracelet and then demand payment. If interested, politely decline or agree on a price before accepting anything.

Restaurant Scams

You may encounter menus with no prices or inflated bills at the end of your meal. Always ask for a menu with prices and double-check your bill before paying.

Currency Switch

Some vendors might try to switch the higher-value notes you give them with lower ones, claiming you paid less. Always count your change carefully and be aware of what notes you’re handing over.

How to Avoid Them:

• Research and use reputable services for taxis, tours, and rentals.
• Always count your change and be aware of the local currency.
• Politely but firmly decline any unsolicited offers on the street.
• Double-check prices and bills before making any payments.

Food and Water Safety

You’ll likely want to dive into the local cuisine when traveling to Vietnam. However, food and water safety is crucial to avoid health issues. Here’s how to enjoy Vietnam’s culinary offerings while staying safe.

Street Food

Street food in Vietnam is delicious but can pose risks if you’re not careful. Stick to vendors that are busy and appear clean. If you see the dishes and produce being cleaned with clean water, that is a safe Vietnam eatery. 

Tap Water

The tap water in Vietnam is generally not safe to drink. You can boil the water to kill any microorganisms. Buy bottled water from nearby convenience stores if you need a cool drink. Vietnam has plenty of them in major cities.  

Dubious Restaurants

The worst scenario of eating out is coming home with your stomach hurting and spending a good chunk of your Vietnam vacation in the toilet. It pays to check online reviews of a restaurant or eatery before dining out. Another tip is to check their menu. The chefs will likely not cook what you order properly if they have too many choices. 

It pays to be vigilant while in the crowd or sampling the country’s food. While Vietnam is relatively safe, preparing for the worst never hurts. Consider getting coverage that fits your budget with services like Travelexinsurance.com. They offer a wide range of plans for any type of senior travel.

Vietnam Food

The food in Vietnam emphasizes the freshness of its vegetables and ingredients. Below are three iconic dishes you can try at home to know what the Asian country offers. 

Aromatic Beef Pho with Fresh Herbs

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef bones
• 1 lb beef brisket or flank steak, thinly sliced
• 8 cups water
• One large onion, halved (leave the skin on)
• One thumb-sized piece of ginger sliced
• Three star anise
• Two cinnamon sticks
• Five cloves
• One cardamom pod, crushed
• Two tablespoons of fish sauce
• Salt to taste
• 8 oz rice noodles
• Fresh herbs like basil, mint, and cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving
• Optional: bean sprouts, sliced chilies, green onions for topping

Preparation:

1. Bring your oven up to 400°F (200°C). 
2. Roast the onion and ginger until their skins are charred. 
3. Peel and set aside.

Making the Broth:

1. Put your beef bones and water in a large pot. Bring it to a boil. Once boiling, remove any scum that rises to the top.
2. Add the roasted onion, ginger, star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and cardamom to the pot.
3. Lower the heat and let it simmer for at least 2 hours. The longer, the better for a more flavorful broth.
4. Add the sliced beef brisket or flank steak about 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve. Cook until it changes color but remains tender.
5. Stir in your fish sauce. You can add salt or more fish sauce for taste. 
6. Remove all the large spices and bones, leaving a clear broth.

Preparing the Rice Noodles:

1. While the broth simmers, prepare rice noodles as per package instructions. 
2. Drain and set aside.

Assembling the Pho:

1. Arrange your rice noodles in each serving bowl.
2. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles, including the beef slices.
3. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil, mint, and cilantro. If desired, add optional toppings like bean sprouts, sliced chilies, and green onions.
4. Serve while it is piping hot, along with some lime wedges.

Grilled Pork over Cơm Tấm with Tangy Sauce

Cơm Tấm, or broken rice, is a Vietnamese staple often enjoyed with grilled meat. This unique recipe features marinated pork and a tangy homemade sauce, giving this traditional dish a fresh twist.

Ingredients:

• Two cups of broken rice
• One lb pork shoulder, thinly sliced
• Two tablespoons of soy sauce
• One tablespoon fish sauce
• One teaspoon sugar
• Three cloves garlic, minced
• One stalk of lemongrass, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• One cup of cucumber, sliced
• One cup of pickled daikon and carrot
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Tangy Sauce:

• Three tablespoons fish sauce
• One tablespoon of lime juice
• One teaspoon sugar
• One clove of garlic, minced
• One small chili, finely chopped

Marinating the Pork:

1. Combine soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and chopped lemongrass.
2. Add the pork slices to the marinade. Make sure each piece is well-coated.
3. Marinate your pork for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.

Cooking the Rice:

1. Rinse the broken rice in cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Place three cups of water and your rice in a pot.
3. Bring it to a boil. Turn down the heat when it boils, and cover the pot. 
4. Let your rice simmer for 20 minutes until it is fluffy. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Grilling the Pork:

1. Heat your grill pan on medium fire. 
2. Place your marinated pork onto the grill. Each slice should cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.

Making the Tangy Sauce:

1. Mix fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, and chopped chili in a small bowl. 
2. Stir until sugar is dissolved.

Assembling the Cơm Tấm:

1. Place a serving of broken rice on a plate.
2. Arrange the grilled pork, sliced cucumber, pickled daikon, and carrot next to the rice.
3. Add your chopped cilantro as garnishing, and serve with the tangy sauce on the side.

Cơm Gà with Herbal Infusion

Cơm Gà, Vietnamese chicken rice, is a comforting and flavorful dish. This unique recipe infuses the rice and chicken with herbal notes, giving a fresh twist to this classic meal.

Ingredients:

• Two cups jasmine rice
• Three cups of chicken broth
• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, bone-in
• One tablespoon of olive oil
• One onion, chopped
• Three cloves garlic, minced
• One stalk of lemongrass, crushed
• One thumb-sized piece of ginger sliced
• Two bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro and mint leaves for garnish

Herbal Sauce:

• Three tablespoons fish sauce
• One tablespoon of lime juice
• One clove of garlic, minced
• One teaspoon sugar
• Fresh mint leaves, finely chopped

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Bring your broth to a boil in a pot.
2. Place your chicken, ginger, and bay leaves into the broth. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Take out your chicken and let it cool on the side. Shred the meat off the bones.

Making the Herbal Rice:

1. In another pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
2. Add jasmine rice and stir for a few minutes to coat the grains.
3. Add lemongrass and the chicken broth you used for boiling the chicken. Cook until rice is tender.

Preparing the Herbal Sauce:

1. Mix fish sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, and sugar.
2. Add finely chopped mint leaves and stir well.

Assembling Cơm Gà:

1. Place a serving of herbal rice on each plate.
2. Top with shredded chicken.
3. Garnish with fresh cilantro and mint leaves.
4. Serve with the herbal sauce on the side.

Conclusion

Vietnam is rich in cultural locations, wildlife, and dishes that will change your outlook on life. Following our guide helps you get the most out of your exotic Asian travel while keeping safe. Your trip here will grant you amazing stories to tell at your next family reunion.