Snowbirds in Vietnam: An Exotic Winter in the Heart of Southeast Asia

When Lucie and Alain go travelling in the winter, it's not just to escape the snow like many Canadian snowbirds. They are looking for something new, exotic, and authentic. After discovering Thailand, they decided to take their exploration of Southeast Asia a step further, to Vietnam, a country they had long dreamed of visiting.

In 21 days, they travelled through the north of the country: arriving in Hanoi, taking an unforgettable cruise in Ha Long Bay, stopping in Cat Ba, then visiting artisan villages where silk, incense, and conical hats are made. Led by a French-speaking Vietnamese guide, they enjoyed an authentic trip, where every detour opened the door to the local culture.

Miles away from the beaten track, this trip offered them an unforgettable cultural immersion. Discover how travelling to Vietnam became a unique way for them to experience winter differently.

As Snowbirds, Why Did You Choose Vietnam for a Long Stay?

"Vietnam is a country we had heard a lot about over the years, and what particularly attracted me were the landscapes of the north: the terraced rice fields, the mountains, and of course, Ha Long Bay. It had been a long-time dream of mine to see it in real life, so we decided to focus on that region.

During our stay, we chose to book a private tour with a French-speaking guide. He took care of everything: private transportation, accommodation, meals (except lunches), stops in villages, contact with local people... Honestly, it was an ideal package, especially for the price we paid."

How Did You First Discover Vietnam?

"Since we were already planning to go to Thailand, we thought: while we're in Southeast Asia, why not go a little further? 

Vietnam is a country we had heard a lot about over the years from our friends, and it was the one that appealed to us the most after visiting Thailand."

Before Travelling to Vietnam, How Did You Do Your Research and Prepare?

"For this trip, I didn't spend hours on blogs like I did for other destinations. I bought a paper guidebook about Vietnam, but since we wanted to enjoy the north, we decided to hire a local guide. 

While researching on Facebook, in a group for travellers to Vietnam, I came across a post about the guide we hired. 

What convinced us was that he spoke French very well, was Vietnamese, and accompanied us throughout our stay. We shared the same accommodation, same meals, and transportation with a private driver. And a little extra we didn't expect: he filmed us every day to make a souvenir montage. Just remember to tip the guide at the end, as is the custom there.

For entry visas to Vietnam, we applied for an eVisa online, which we received in a few days and cost about $75 per person. 

I recommend downloading the Grab app (the equivalent of Uber there) on your phone to get around Hanoi, as it's very convenient and affordable.”

Where Did You Stay in Vietnam?

"In the north of the country, we stayed with locals in homestays. Don't expect Canadian standards. Often, we didn't have a private bathroom, but it was always comfortable. What makes the experience so special is the people you meet. They are incredibly warm and welcoming!

In Hanoi, we stayed in small, simple but well-located 2-star hotels. In Cat Ba, on a pretty peninsula by the sea, we had a room with a view of the water for about $66 a night. A really good value for money.

For Ha Long Bay, we slept on a boat. It was such a fun experience. We even had a karaoke night, which is a big deal in Vietnam. Our guide came prepared with his own microphone, which says a lot about the vibe on board.”

What Is the Vibe Like in Vietnam?

“Our only comparison in Asia was Bangkok, where we found there was a lot of traffic. In Hanoi, it's ten times worse! You step outside onto the sidewalk and feel like a scooter is going to run you over. It's not relaxing, it's lively, noisy, and festive. There are always people around, especially in old Hanoi. There's action, it's fun.

In the north of the country, it's a whole different world. It's peaceful, almost bucolic. The landscapes are magnificent and very zen. And the Vietnamese people there are even warmer and more welcoming. You could tell they were a bit curious to see tourists, probably because there aren’t nearly as many here as in other places.” 

What’s the Weather Like in Vietnam During the Winter? Is the Water Warm Enough for Swimming?

“In March, it was cool. We often wore our raincoats with long-sleeved sweaters, especially in the north, in the mountains. The temperature was similar to late spring in Canada. We were prepared and brought warmer clothes, such as merino wool items.

For us, Vietnam was a slightly more adventurous and active trip. So we didn't expect to spend our days on the beach swimming all the time, but we did go swimming in Ha Long Bay."

Did You Feel Safe in Vietnam?

"Yes. It was very safe everywhere. Even in Hanoi, where people are packed in like sardines, I never felt threatened or worried about being robbed.

Our guide told us, ‘In Vietnam, everything is forbidden, but everything is possible.’ And that's kind of how it is. We didn't see any accidents, but sometimes you wonder how it's possible. The number of people they manage to cram onto a scooter... It's unlimited. We even saw a pig piled on top of one!

All this traffic can be stressful at first. You're walking, and a motorcycle brushes against your arm as it tries to squeeze past you. There aren't any sidewalks, so everyone shares the same space.

The most stressful thing for us was to cross the street, but you have to have faith that you'll make it to the other side in one piece! It's important not to change your pace when crossing. You fix your gaze on a point on the other side with confidence, walk at a steady pace, and they will adapt. It's like a magical choreography.”

How’s the Food in Vietnam? Any Local Dishes or Flavours That Stood Out to You?

"In general, it's very good, especially in restaurants. There are also lots of vegetarian options, which I liked. What I loved was the freshness: they use a lot of fresh herbs, like cilantro, mint, and crunchy vegetables.

In homestays, it's a little different: they serve you the best they have, with love, but it's simpler. Beef, for example, is often tough and quite fatty. On the other hand, I've never eaten so much rice and vegetables! 

One thing that struck me was the egg coffee in Hanoi. It sounds weird when you put it like that, but it's delicious. It's like a latte, with a creamy egg-based foam on top. Very surprising and very good!

They often serve everything on a plate with a kind of rice pancake, and you make your little Vietnamese taco with meat, vegetables, herbs... It's simple, fresh, and tasty.”

If You Don’t Speak Vietnamese, Is It Possible to Travel There?

"Yes, but with a few challenges! For part of our trip, we had a guide who spoke Vietnamese, which made things easier. Especially in more remote areas, such as the mountains or small villages, where they don't speak English or French. 

I’m pretty sure I would have needed Google Translate much more often without the guide. In the end, we always managed to communicate, even if it was just with a smile or a few gestures."

What Are Some Things That Shook Up Your Routine During the Trip?

"There were lots of little things we never would have imagined. For example, our guide suggested we buy candy to give to the locals. At first, it made us uncomfortable because we felt like we were in a zoo. It wasn't even for children, but for women our age, sitting weaving on the side of the street. In the end, people were really happy, they thanked us warmly, and it created a real bond. We didn't expect that at all.

Another thing that surprised us: Vietnamese people want to take photos with us all the time! Especially us, because with our white hair, we don't go unnoticed. One day, Alain was sitting quietly when he felt people staring at him. A woman asked him if she could take a photo... and that was it! It was like he was Brad Pitt. We still laugh about it!

And then there are the street vendors who are very pushy, especially in small villages. Once they get hold of you, they won't let go. It's part of the trip, but it took us a little out of our comfort zone.”

Is the Cost of Living More Expensive in Vietnam or Less Than in Canada?

“It's significantly cheaper, even compared to Thailand, where we usually travel! We saw a big difference.”

Transportation:

“Since we were travelling with a guide, everything was included, so we didn't have to worry too much. Even the trips between Hanoi and Ha Long Bay were organized and very affordable. "

Groceries and Restaurants: 

“We often ate in small local restaurants with low chairs, where you almost have to squat to sit down! A full dinner for two costs us about $20 in total. When we were staying with a host family, meals were often included in the price; they were very simple, but sufficient.”

Accommodation:

"In Hanoi, we paid around $50-60 per night for a hotel. But homestays were really cheap: around $12 per night! Honestly, you couldn't get better value for money than that in Canada."

What Day Trips Do You Recommend in Vietnam?

"From Hanoi, I recommend visiting the artisan villages, such as those where they make silk, incense, or the famous conical hats. It's really interesting to see their traditional craftsmanship. It allowed us to have real contact with the local culture.

If you have more time, you should spend two nights on a boat in Ha Long Bay. It's magical, even if the weather in this region isn't always great. 

Then you can explore Cat Ba Island, which is a beautiful nature getaway right next door."

How Did You Stay in Touch With Your Family and Friends During Your Extended Stay in Vietnam? 

“We had fairly easy access to the internet, even in more remote villages, thanks to an eSIM. This allowed us to stay in touch with family and friends without any problems, either by phone or video call.”

Did You Have Travel Insurance for This Long Stay in Vietnam? Did You Ever Need to Use It?

"Yes, always. We never travel without travel insurance, especially at our age. It's an expense we can't avoid. 

Fortunately, we didn't have to use it during this trip, but it's still essential for travelling with peace of mind."

Finally, What Would You Say to Someone Who’s Thinking About Becoming a Snowbird but Still Hesitating?

"The landscapes in Vietnam are absolutely stunning, and it's easy to travel while feeling safe everywhere. There’s nothing to worry about when it comes to food. Everything is made fresh, and there’s something delicious for everyone.

If you have any doubts, hiring an English-speaking guide (or French in our case) can really help you feel more comfortable and ease any concerns about getting around and communicating."

Let Vietnam Surprise You This Winter

For Lucie and Alain, this trip to Vietnam was an opportunity to experience winter differently. You will discover a country where you should take the time to walk through small villages, share a simple meal, sleep in local homes, and above all, open yourselves up to a culture that will touch you deeply. 

Want to do the same? Dare to venture beyond the usual snowbird destinations and immerse yourself in a different, exotic, yet accessible way of life.

Before you leave for Vietnam, think about your travel insurance. Get a quick quote from soNomad and you'll be ready to embark on the unexpected.

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