What Makes Life So Different in North and South Vietnam? | S13 E06 Viet Anh
05/14/25 • 51 min
“In the south it's always more dynamic. Everyone is just moving around all the time. In the north, it's slower. People are a bit meaner.” - Viet Anh
For nearly ten years now, I've called Vietnam home, and while I've experienced the incredible energy and warmth of the south, Viet Anh's perspective on the north offered a viewpoint I hadn't fully considered. It's fascinating how regional differences can shape the experience of living in the same country.
We touched on the sometimes-surprising toxicity that can bubble up online, both within expat communities and among Vietnamese internet users. It's a stark contrast to the welcoming spirit I've largely encountered here. We also reflected on how things change over time – from cinema etiquette to the increasing polarization of opinions, it feels like the Vietnam I first encountered is constantly evolving.
Key Takeaways:
- There are perceived significant differences in pace and demeanor between the north and south of Vietnam.
- Online toxicity is a notable issue within expat and Vietnamese online communities.
- Cultural norms and perspectives are constantly evolving in Vietnam.
- Stereotypes about foreigners in Vietnam, particularly English teachers, exist and need to be addressed.
- The economic contribution of foreigners in Vietnam is often misunderstood, with many filling roles that locals don't typically pursue.
Chapters and Timestamps:
05:59: Discussion on Online Toxicity
10:59: Changing Perspectives and Behaviors Over Time
14:59: Stereotypes of Foreigners in Vietnam
24:00: Economic Contributions of Foreign Workers
This Season is sponsored by Premier Dental.
The full list of winners is here.
🎙️ 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:
🔒 Protect Your Privacy with NordVPN!
👉 Get 70% OFF their 2-year plan and enjoy a secure, ad-free internet!
These are affiliate links, and I’ll earn a small commission if you sign up, at no extra cost to you.
✅ Subscribe for More!
If you enjoy content about life in Vietnam, food adventures, and great conversations, hit that subscribe button.
📸 Follow Me on Instagram 🌐 Visit My Website 🎉 Join Our Community!
“In the south it's always more dynamic. Everyone is just moving around all the time. In the north, it's slower. People are a bit meaner.” - Viet Anh
For nearly ten years now, I've called Vietnam home, and while I've experienced the incredible energy and warmth of the south, Viet Anh's perspective on the north offered a viewpoint I hadn't fully considered. It's fascinating how regional differences can shape the experience of living in the same country.
We touched on the sometimes-surprising toxicity that can bubble up online, both within expat communities and among Vietnamese internet users. It's a stark contrast to the welcoming spirit I've largely encountered here. We also reflected on how things change over time – from cinema etiquette to the increasing polarization of opinions, it feels like the Vietnam I first encountered is constantly evolving.
Key Takeaways:
- There are perceived significant differences in pace and demeanor between the north and south of Vietnam.
- Online toxicity is a notable issue within expat and Vietnamese online communities.
- Cultural norms and perspectives are constantly evolving in Vietnam.
- Stereotypes about foreigners in Vietnam, particularly English teachers, exist and need to be addressed.
- The economic contribution of foreigners in Vietnam is often misunderstood, with many filling roles that locals don't typically pursue.
Chapters and Timestamps:
05:59: Discussion on Online Toxicity
10:59: Changing Perspectives and Behaviors Over Time
14:59: Stereotypes of Foreigners in Vietnam
24:00: Economic Contributions of Foreign Workers
This Season is sponsored by Premier Dental.
The full list of winners is here.
🎙️ 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:
🔒 Protect Your Privacy with NordVPN!
👉 Get 70% OFF their 2-year plan and enjoy a secure, ad-free internet!
These are affiliate links, and I’ll earn a small commission if you sign up, at no extra cost to you.
✅ Subscribe for More!
If you enjoy content about life in Vietnam, food adventures, and great conversations, hit that subscribe button.
📸 Follow Me on Instagram 🌐 Visit My Website 🎉 Join Our Community!
Previous Episode
Is Thailand REALLY Better than Vietnam for Tourists? | On The Road (In Thailand) with Niall and Adrie #12
"So those bastards bumped the bridge down so that nobody could use it, and the locals got pissed off at that 'cause they enjoyed having a bridge. So they rebuilt it."
This trip was one of the most fun and immersive ones we’ve recorded so far. Pai has this laid-back charm and unexpected beauty that really took us by surprise.
Adrie and I take you along as we explore some of Pai’s must-see spots — and wow, what a day. We started with the National Park Hot Springs, where the water gets hot enough to boil eggs (or a human, seriously). Then we checked out the WWII Memorial Bridge (Nara Bridge), which has a surprisingly cool history behind it. After that, we made our way across the Bamboo Bridge, a nearly 1-kilometer-long structure built for the ‘Gram, complete with swings, hearts, and even a ladder to nowhere.
Finally, we wrapped things up at the breathtaking — and slightly terrifying — Pai Canyon for sunset. It was beautiful, hilarious, a bit slippery, and definitely memorable. If you’re heading to Pai or just want to know what it’s really like, this one’s for you.
Key Takeaways
Pai Hot Springs are natural and beautiful, but can be dangerous — always check temperatures and wear grippy shoes.
Respect local customs — the hot springs are used by locals, so be clean and mindful (no peeing, no weed, no booze!).
Tha Pai Memorial Bridge has a rich WWII history — rebuilt multiple times and now a perfect selfie stop.
Bamboo Bridge is a modern tourist gem, filled with photo ops — hearts, swings, and “ladder to nowhere” included.
Pai Canyon offers stunning views, but be prepared for narrow paths, sheer drops, and zero handrails — not for the faint-hearted.
Chapters & Timestamps
[00:02:00] Cultural Tips + Slippery Rocks
Local etiquette, weed laws in Thailand, and practical warnings.
[00:04:00] WWII Memorial Bridge History
A Japanese-built war bridge turned tourist stop — and a lesson in resilience.
[00:06:00] Bamboo Bridge Adventures
815 meters of Instagram heaven, odd photo props, and a sandy, bouncy stroll.
[00:10:00] Sunset at Pai Canyon
Stunning views, sketchy ledges, and why alcohol is not sold up there.
[00:17:00] Final Thoughts and Laughs
Slipping, climbing, joking, and reflecting on Pai’s wild charm.
This Season is sponsored by Premier Dental.
🎙️ 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:
🔒 Protect Your Privacy with NordVPN!
👉 Get 70% OFF their 2-year plan and enjoy a secure, ad-free internet!
These are affiliate links, and I’ll earn a small commission if you sign up, at no extra cost to you.
✅ Subscribe for More!
If you enjoy content about life in Vietnam, food adventures, and great conversations, hit that subscribe button.
📸 Follow Me on Instagram 🌐 Visit My Website 🎉 Join Our Community!
Next Episode
We Tried the Craziest Road in Thailand! On The Road (In Thailand) with Niall and Adrie #13
This trip was one of the most fun and immersive ones we’ve recorded so far. Pai has this laid-back charm and unexpected beauty that really took us by surprise.
Adrie and I take you along as we explore some of Pai’s must-see spots — and wow, what a day. We started with the National Park Hot Springs, where the water gets hot enough to boil eggs (or a human, seriously). Then we checked out the WWII Memorial Bridge (Nara Bridge), which has a surprisingly cool history behind it. After that, we made our way across the Bamboo Bridge (NAME), a nearly 1-kilometer-long structure built for the ‘Gram, complete with swings, hearts, and even a ladder to nowhere.
Finally, we wrapped things up at the breathtaking — and slightly terrifying — Pai Canyon for sunset. It was beautiful, hilarious, a bit slippery, and definitely memorable. If you’re heading to Pai or just want to know what it’s really like, this one’s for you.
Key Takeaways
Pai Hot Springs are natural and beautiful, but can be dangerous — always check temperatures and wear grippy shoes.
Respect local customs — the hot springs are used by locals, so be clean and mindful (no peeing, no weed, no booze!).
Tha Pai Memorial Bridge has a rich WWII history — rebuilt multiple times and now a perfect selfie stop.
Bamboo Bridge is a modern tourist gem, filled with photo ops — hearts, swings, and “ladder to nowhere” included.
Pai Canyon offers stunning views, but be prepared for narrow paths, sheer drops, and zero handrails — not for the faint-hearted.
Chapters & Timestamps
[00:02:00] Cultural Tips + Slippery Rocks
Local etiquette, weed laws in Thailand, and practical warnings.
[00:04:00] WWII Memorial Bridge History
A Japanese-built war bridge turned tourist stop — and a lesson in resilience.
[00:06:00] Bamboo Bridge Adventures
815 meters of Instagram heaven, odd photo props, and a sandy, bouncy stroll.
[00:10:00] Sunset at Pai Canyon
Stunning views, sketchy ledges, and why alcohol is not sold up there.
[00:17:00] Final Thoughts and Laughs
Slipping, climbing, joking, and reflecting on Pai’s wild charm.
This Season is sponsored by Premier Dental.
🎙️ 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:
🔒 Protect Your Privacy with NordVPN!
👉 Get 70% OFF their 2-year plan and enjoy a secure, ad-free internet!
These are affiliate links, and I’ll earn a small commission if you sign up, at no extra cost to you.
✅ Subscribe for More!
If you enjoy content about life in Vietnam, food adventures, and great conversations, hit that subscribe button.
📸 Follow Me on Instagram 🌐 Visit My Website 🎉 Join Our Community!
If you like this episode you’ll love
Episode Comments
Generate a badge
Get a badge for your website that links back to this episode
<a href="https://goodpods.com/podcasts/vietnam-podcast-culture-community-and-conversations-242137/what-makes-life-so-different-in-north-and-south-vietnam-s13-e06-viet-a-91148550"> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/goodpods-images-bucket/badges/generic-badge-1.svg" alt="listen to what makes life so different in north and south vietnam? | s13 e06 viet anh on goodpods" style="width: 225px" /> </a>
Copy