Join me, Niall Mackay, and my guests Misha Smith, Adria Lopez Mackay, and Ben in a lively debate on the Vietnamese dish, Phở, in this episode of Saigon Sunday Sessions. We discuss the pronunciation, different types (Phở Gà and Phở Bò), and our personal experiences with the dish.

Opinions vary, with arguments ranging from Phở being labeled as 'dirty dishwater with noodles' to it being considered an underrated culinary gem.

We delve into the cultural significance of Phở, addressing misconceptions and contrasting it with other Vietnamese foods. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and join the Seven Million Bikes community on Patreon.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:26 Setting the Scene: Saigon Sunday Sessions
00:41 Segment Introduction: Underrated, Overrated, Properly Rated
01:21 Pho: The Great Debate Begins
02:06 Pho: Personal Experiences and Opinions
04:18 Pho: Cultural and Culinary Insights
09:56 Pho: Final Thoughts and Ratings
17:02 Conclusion and Farewell

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“I keep forgetting that I'm in Vietnam, the country that I live in.”

This episode was one of the most exciting and adventurous ones we’ve done so far.

Exploring the caves in Phong Nha truly felt like stepping into another world—massive chambers, stunning rock formations, and even a bit of a Lord of the Rings vibe. The trek itself was no joke either—river crossings, steep climbs, and the constant challenge of staying warm and dry made it a real test of endurance. But that’s what made it so rewarding.

Pushing ourselves physically and getting to experience such a breathtaking environment was absolutely worth it.

- Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways:

• Hang Tien Cave is part of the world's largest cave system
• Huu explains how the tour supports local employment
• Detailed explanation of limestone cave formation process
• Riverside campsite with sauna facilities
• Evening meal featuring local Vietnamese cuisine prepared by porters

Chapters & Timestamps:

01:00 – What’s Ahead: Trekking, River Crossings & Cave Exploring
02:00 – The Brutal Climb Out of the Cave
04:00 – Inside the Hang Tien Cave: A Geological Wonder
06:00 – A Proper Lord of the Rings Experience
07:00 – The Freezing River Challenge: To Swim or Not to Swim?
08:00 – Camping by the River & Sauna Time
09:00 – Local Food & Stories from the Porters
10:00 – The Haunting Sounds of the Cave: A Ghost Story

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Rabbit Hole Irish Sports Bar - Check out their new location on Tran Nao with the best views in the city over Landmark 81!

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Click here for Adventure Travel inspiration from our friends at Explore Worldwide. Don’t Just Travel, Explore.

"Hanoi is this magical blend of chaos and serenity—you’ll never want to leave." - Claire Simpson

Having this episode with Clair was an absolute delight—a perfect blend of nostalgia and discovery.

Hearing Clair's unique journey, from arriving in Hanoi on a whim to becoming a local expert and food influencer, was both inspiring and eye-opening. Her insights into how Hanoi’s culture, tourism, and food scene have evolved over the years gave me a fresh perspective on a city I thought I already knew so well.

It reminded me of the magic that Hanoi holds, from the chaotic charm of Train Street to the serenity of Halong Bay, and how it continues to captivate both newcomers and long-term residents alike. Clair’s passion for sharing her love of Hanoi is infectious, and it made me fall in love with the city all over again. - Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways:

Train Street Magic - A thrilling combination of local charm and tourist allure, where a train rushes through narrow streets lined with cozy cafes.

Hanoi’s Foodie Paradise - Discover Hanoi’s culinary gems, from the famous Bun Cha to the divisive Bun Dao Mam Tom.

The Allure of Halong Bay - Why this UNESCO World Heritage Site remains a must-see, even after multiple visits.

Cultural Evolution Post-COVID - The shift in Hanoi’s tourism demographic from backpackers to families and older travelers.

Bia Hoi Culture - The unique experience of enjoying freshly brewed, ultra-affordable beer while mingling with locals.

Chapters & Timestamps:

04:30 – Clair’s journey: From the UK to Hanoi.
13:00 – The timeless beauty of Halong Bay.
21:30 – Post-COVID tourism in Hanoi: What’s changed?
26:10 – Train Street: Controversy and charm.
30:20 – Foodie Heaven: Must-try dishes in Hanoi.
34:00 – The Bia Hoi experience: Hanoi’s beer culture.
41:00 – Exploring Hanoi: Unique neighborhoods and cultural gems.

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"I can't imagine how massive the cave is... it could be fit one Boeing airplane in the cave, or four 50 Building Floors." - Hoàng Văn Hữu

This trek through Phong Nha with Hoàng Văn Hữu offered an incredible glimpse into how tourism has transformed this region of Vietnam. What struck me most was the stark contrast between past and present - where locals once had to resort to dangerous activities like logging and collecting unexploded bombs for metal, they now have opportunities in the growing tourism sector. Hữu's personal journey from learning English to becoming a cave guide perfectly exemplifies this transformation.

The most fascinating aspect was learning about Son Doong Cave and how carefully they're managing its tourism. Limiting visitors to just 1,000 per year shows remarkable foresight in preservation, especially considering the cave's massive size - being able to fit a Boeing airplane or a 50-story building inside is mind-boggling. The detailed organization of the tours, from fitness checks to the high guide-to-tourist ratio, demonstrates their commitment to both safety and conservation.

5 Key Takeaways

The Life-Changing Power of Learning English – Huu shares how learning English transformed his opportunities in Phong Nha, shifting his career from farming to becoming a tour guide.
The Danger of Unexploded Bombs – Many villagers still risk their lives collecting scrap metal from unexploded bombs, a remnant of past wars in Vietnam.
The Conservation Efforts Behind Son Doong Cave – Tourism in Son Doong Cave is highly restricted to protect its fragile ecosystem, allowing only 1,000 visitors per year.
The Toughest Challenges of the Trek – From river crossings to steep jungle climbs, this adventure demands serious fitness a

"Send me a message!"

7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!

Rabbit Hole Irish Sports Bar - Check out their new location on Tran Nao with the best views in the city over Landmark 81!

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"Our traffic jams are herds of ducks and families of water buffaloes." - Faryl Hoang

Talking with Faryl about her journey, her experiences as a Vietnamese-American rediscovering her roots, and what it’s really like to live in a place as magical as Hoi An was fascinating. Her perspective offered a really balanced view—yes, it’s paradise, but it also has its challenges. That’s something I always try to emphasize when we romanticize a place. Hoi An isn’t just lanterns and slow riverboat rides; it’s also a living, breathing community that’s evolving in real time.

One of my biggest takeaways from this conversation was how we, as expats, often view progress differently from locals. The discussion about KFC and Starbucks coming to Hoi An was a perfect example. While foreigners might resist these changes, the local community celebrates them. It’s a reminder that we’re guests in these places, and our nostalgia for an "untouched" Vietnam doesn’t necessarily align with what people living there actually want.

Also, I just loved the moment when Faryl’s dog started barking because a family of buffalo was walking by her house! That’s the kind of real-life, unfiltered Vietnam I love capturing on this podcast. It was a great episode that blended travel, history, and a bit of cultural reality check all in one.
- Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways:
- The Reality of Living in Hoi An – Hoi An is stunning but lacks Western conveniences. No shopping malls, no major grocery stores—life here requires a slower pace.
- The Changing Face of Vietnam – The arrival of big chains like KFC and Starbucks sparked debates among expats, but locals were thrilled. It’s a sign of progress and accessibility, not just commercialization.
- The Complexity of the Vietnamese Language – Even for someone with Vietnamese heritage like Faryl, learning the language is incredibly challenging due to regional dialects and pronunciation differences.
- Hidden Gems Near Hoi An – Bac Ma National Park between Da Nang and Hue is an under-the-radar spot for hiking, wildlife conservation, and stunning landscapes.
- Hoi An’s Nightlife is Underrated – From backpacker chaos at Tiger Tiger to r

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Support the show

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"If you want to come to see some of Vietnam that's a little bit of a hidden gem, then I would definitely get yourself to Phong Nha." Niall

Join us on an unforgettable journey from Saigon to Phong Nha Farmstay, where the excitement builds as we prepare to meet Ben Mitchell and explore the stunning landscapes of Phong Nha.

Our adventure kicks off with caving at Phong Nha and Tien Son caves, accessible only by boat. Cruising down the peaceful river, we step into a world of towering stalactites and breathtaking underground beauty, perfect for private or group tours.

The at the Pub With Cold Beer, we experience an incredible farm-to-table moment as a meal is prepared fresh on-site—a spontaneous and authentic slice of local life.

And then, there’s the Duck Stop. Picture quirky fun like a duck foot massage and meeting their buffalo, Mr Donald Trump. It’s as hilarious as it sounds and adds a playful twist to an unforgettable trip filled with adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

02:04 Exploring Phong Nha Cave
05:11 Encounter with a Giant Spider
06:53 Admiring Vietnamese Women
11:46 The Pub with Cold Beer
17:24 Unexpected Chicken Experience
21:35 Reflecting on the Experience
27:28 Exploring Bong Lai Valley
28:45 Visiting the Duck Stop
31:05 Meeting Donald Trump the Buffalo

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7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!

Rabbit Hole Irish Sports Bar - Check out their new location on Tran Nao with the best views in the city over Landmark 81!

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"Here in Phong Nha, tourism isn’t just an industry—it’s a lifeline for local communities." – Ben Mitchell

Spending time with Ben Mitchell, someone who has dedicated 18 years to nurturing and showcasing Phong Nha—Vietnam’s most stunning and underrated regions—was an absolute privilege. His stories about the region’s transformation, from remote villages to a budding hub of sustainable tourism, were nothing short of inspiring.

It’s incredible to see how tourism here is not only preserving the natural beauty of the National Park but also empowering local communities to thrive.

What struck me the most was the balance Phong Nha has achieved—it remains raw and untamed while offering unforgettable experiences, from exploring massive caves like Son Doong to riding through misty mountain roads on a motorbike. This episode reminded me why I fell in love with Vietnam’s landscapes, its rich history, and the resilience of its people.

Phong Nha is not just a destination; it’s a journey into the heart of Vietnam’s culture, nature, and soul. I left with a sense of awe and a promise to return—and I hope this episode inspires others to do the same.
- Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways:
The Magic of Phong Nha’s Caves - From Paradise Cave to Son Doong, these caves are among the most spectacular in the world.

Sustainable Tourism Success - How tourism has transformed Phong Nha while preserving its natural beauty.

Biodiversity and Six Seasons - Phong Nha boasts incredible biodiversity and a unique climate with six seasons.

The Ho Chi Minh Trail and History - Phong Nha’s critical role during the Vietnam War and its historical significance.

Experiencing Phong Nha on a Motorbike - Why exploring this region on two wheels is the ultimate adventure.

Chapters:
03:00 – Meeting Ben Mitchell: The Journey to Phong Nha
10:00 – Exploring Phong Nha’s Breathtaking Caves
22:00 – Sustainable Tourism in Action
28:00 – The Unique Biodiversity of Phong Nha
35:00 – The Ho Chi Minh Trail and Vietnam’s History
40:00 – Motorbike Adventures and Hidden Gems
43:00 – Reflections on Phong Nha: A Must-Visit Destination

"Send me a message!"

Support the show

🎙️ Start Your Podcast Today!

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💬 Comments & Community:

I love hearing from you! Drop a comment and let me know your thoughts on this episode.

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"Here in Phong Nha, tourism isn’t just an industry—it’s a lifeline for local communities." – Ben

Spending time with Ben Mitchell, someone who has dedicated 18 years to nurturing and showcasing Phong Nha—Vietnam’s most stunning and underrated regions—was an absolute privilege. His stories about the region’s transformation, from remote villages to a budding hub of sustainable tourism, were nothing short of inspiring.

It’s incredible to see how tourism here is not only preserving the natural beauty of the National Park but also empowering local communities to thrive.

What struck me the most was the balance Phong Nha has achieved—it remains raw and untamed while offering unforgettable experiences, from exploring massive caves like Son Doong to riding through misty mountain roads on a motorbike. This episode reminded me why I fell in love with Vietnam’s landscapes, its rich history, and the resilience of its people.

Phong Nha is not just a destination; it’s a journey into the heart of Vietnam’s culture, nature, and soul. I left with a sense of awe and a promise to return—and I hope this episode inspires others to do the same.

• Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways:

The Magic of Phong Nha’s Caves - From Paradise Cave to Son Doong, these caves are among the most spectacular in the world.

Sustainable Tourism Success - How tourism has transformed Phong Nha while preserving its natural beauty.

Biodiversity and Six Seasons - Phong Nha boasts incredible biodiversity and a unique climate with six seasons.

The Ho Chi Minh Trail and History - Phong Nha’s critical role during the Vietnam War and its historical significance.

Experiencing Phong Nha on a Motorbike - Why exploring this region on two wheels is the ultimate adventure.

Chapters:

03:00 – M

"Send me a message!"

7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!

Rabbit Hole Irish Sports Bar - Check out their new location on Tran Nao with the best views in the city over Landmark 81!

Support the show

🎙️ Start Your Podcast Today!

👉 Book a FREE Discovery Call with me and let’s bring your idea to life!

🎥 Edit Videos Like a Pro with Descript!

👉 I use Descript to create my content—try it for FREE here:

🎨 Need a New Logo or Animation?

👉 Fiverr is my go-to platform for YouTube thumbnails, translations, SEO articles, and more. Whatever you need, Fiverr has you covered!

🔒 Protect Your Privacy with NordVPN!

👉 Get 70% OFF their 2-year plan and enjoy a secure, ad-free internet!

📈 Boost Your YouTube Channel!

Get the tools I use to grow my channel and improve my videos with VidIQ!

👉 https://vidiq.com/refer

These are affiliate links, and I’ll earn a small commission if you sign up, at no extra cost to you.

💬 Comments & Community:

I love hearing from you! Drop a comment and let me know your thoughts on this episode.

✅ Subscribe for More!

If you enjoy content about life in Vietnam, food adventures, and great conversations, hit that subscribe button.

📸 Follow Me on Instagram:

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