Afleveringen
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Niall and his frequent guest and friend, Mischa Smith, embark on a conversation about Mischa's favorite Bloody Mary spots in Saigon.
Reviews cover the Bloody Marys from Bardo, Malt South, Layla, Ministry of Men, Wkend, and Summer Experiment, culminating with their top pick.
The episode is part of a broader theme of exploring stories and experiences connected to Vietnam, including insights into brunch cultures, cocktail bars, and the growing craft beer scene.
Listeners also get a glimpse of their upcoming podcast venture focused on rewatching the series Deadwood.
00:00 Hungover Brunch and Bloody Mary Revelation
01:01 Introduction to the Vietnam Podcast
02:26 Exploring Saigon's Craft Beer and Cocktail Scene
03:38 The Quest for the Perfect Bloody Mary
17:05 The Downside of Free Flow Deals
17:43 Testing the Limits at Malt's House
21:44 Exploring Saigon's Best Cocktail Bars
24:35 Top Bloody Marys in Saigon"Send me a message!"
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Niall meets up with his friend and personal trainer Thinh to try bánh bèo, a traditional dish from Central Vietnam. They discuss Vietnamese regional cuisines, accents, and Thinh's experience as a personal trainer while enjoying the food at a local restaurant in Saigon.
Key Points:
Discussion of regional differences in Vietnamese cuisine (North, Central, South)
Comparison of Vietnamese and British regional accents
Thinh explains the proper technique for eating bánh bèo
Conversation about Thinh's work as Niall's personal trainer
They learn about the restaurant owner's background and menu expansion
Plans to return to try other dishes like bánh xèo"Send me a message!"
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Become a Bắp Xào Đâyer on Patreon and you would have gotten this episode ages ago!
In this special bonus episode exclusive to Patreon members, Niall Mackay shares a riveting tale about the intense and surreal experience of acquiring a COVID-19 vaccine during the deep lockdown in Saigon.
Niall recounts the chaotic situation where his friend, Lewis Wright, tested positive for COVID-19 at a vaccination center, leading to an unexpected journey to deliver essential supplies to Lewis in a government quarantine facility.
With a gripping narrative, Niall details the eerie, almost apocalyptic atmosphere of the lockdown, the challenges faced, and ultimately the triumph of safely getting supplies to his friend. This story highlights the extreme measures and human resilience experienced during the pandemic in Vietnam."Send me a message!"
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In this special episode of 'A Vietnam Podcast,' host Niall Mackay discusses the transformative two-year journey of living through the pandemic in Vietnam with his wife, Adrie.
From their initial excitement over new jobs, a new dog, and a new apartment, to navigating a stringent lockdown in 2021, they share a candid look at their unique challenges and experiences.
The episode covers their successful efforts in building a school for underprivileged children, the early days of the COVID-19 outbreak, their extreme lockdown experience, the mental health impacts, and the eventual easing of restrictions.
This episode provides a compelling look at expat life in Vietnam during unprecedented times.
00:00 New Beginnings in Vietnam
01:02 Special Guest Introduction
03:07 Settling Down with Biscuit
10:19 The Onset of the Pandemic
25:42 Navigating COVID-19 in Vietnam
33:29 Facing Uncertainty: Job Challenges and Contract Woes
34:26 Navigating the Pandemic: Shifts in Work and Life
36:38 Building a Business Amidst Chaos
40:25 The Harsh Reality of Lockdown
56:03 Emerging from Lockdown: New Beginnings and Reflections"Send me a message!"
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Please vote for A Vietnam Podcast here!
I have some crazy, exciting, unbelievable news to share with you. I have just found out that A Vietnam Podcast has been nominated in the Asia Podcast Awards 2024 for the best interview podcast.
So I am absolutely buzzing right now.
There are 61 finalists in total that they've whittled down from hundreds of entries.
We are up against 9 podcasts in our category and it's People's Choice SO WE NEED OUR HELP!
Please vote today and make sure to let me know!"Send me a message!"
Support the Show.
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Have you ever wondered how a short vacation can turn into a life-changing adventure?
Niall Mackay shares the incredible story of how he and his wife Adrie ended up living in Vietnam for over eight years. What started as a brief six-week trip to complete an English teaching certification course turned into a multi-year adventure filled with unexpected twists and turns.
Niall takes listeners on a journey through their initial travels in Southeast Asia, their decision to teach English in Vietnam, and the serendipitous circumstances that led them to put down roots in Saigon. He shares the challenges and joys of their first years teaching, their plans to leave for Oman, and the last-minute job opportunity that changed everything. Throughout the episode, Niall's passion for Vietnam and the impact it has had on his life shines through, offering listeners a glimpse into the transformative power of embracing the unexpected.
Key Takeaways:
Niall and Adrie initially came to Vietnam for just 6 weeks in 2015They decided to do their CELTA certification in Vietnam after a year of savingThe couple made the decision to stay and teach English at ILA after completing the courseA last-minute job opportunity as Community Network Manager made them decide to stay longerCreating the podcast has changed Niall's life and led to nearly 75,000 downloads"Send me a message!"
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Comments & Community:
I love hearing from you! Drop a message below and let me know your favorite Vietnamese dishes or any places you recommend I try next. Have you had similar experiences with Vietnamese food? Let's chat!
Subscribe:
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Follow Me: https://www.instagram.com/seven_million_bikes_podcasts/
Podcast: avietnampodcast.com
Support the Podcast:
If you enjoy my content and want to support the podcast, consider becoming a patron on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/AVietnamPodcas]
More About Me:
I'm Niall Mackay, aka The Podcast Guy, founder of Seven Million Bikes Podcasts. I love sharing my passion for podcasting and the incredible stories from Vietnam. Thanks for joining me on this journey!"Send me a message!"
Please vote for A Vietnam Podcast here!
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"You discover everything you want by bike. It's easier."
Niall Mackay sits down with Mihai Constantinescu, a long-time expat and passionate motorbike enthusiast known for his YouTube channel "The Vietnam Rider". With 16 years of experience living in Vietnam and fluency in Vietnamese, Mihai shares invaluable insights into the world of motorbiking in Vietnam.
The conversation covers everything from choosing the right bike and essential safety tips to navigating the bustling city traffic and embarking on epic cross-country journeys. Mihai and Niall discuss the freedom and adventure that comes with exploring Vietnam by motorbike, as well as the cultural experiences and interactions with locals that make such trips unforgettable. They also delve into the practicalities of motorbiking in Vietnam, including licensing laws, bike maintenance, and how to stay safe on the roads.
Key Takeaways:
Choose a common bike model for easy repairs and parts availability Always wear a properly fitted and securely fastened helmet Stay away from trucks and buses for safety Take smaller, less crowded roads for a better experience Familiarize yourself with your bike before embarking on long tripsChapters and Timestamps:
01:40 Getting into motorbiking in Vietnam
04:40 First motorbiking experiences
09:10 The appeal of motorbiking in Vietnam
15:40 Choosing the right bike
22:10 Electric bikes in Vietnam
29:40 Traffic safety in Vietnam
35:50 Final tips for motorbiking in Vietnam
38:20 Where to find Mihai's contentQuotes:
"You discover everything you want by bike. It's easier." [09:40]"The ride is the destination." [32:30]"It really annoys me when you see people wearing a helmet and they don't clip it. Do these people go home and have sex with a partner and just hold the condom?" [33:50]"The speed that you're at always seems less dangerous than it actually is." [36:20]"20's plenty." [37:30]"Send me a message!"
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"Send me a message!"
Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
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"Vietnam is 20, 30 years behind most countries. So being here right now, though, and watching it catch up so quickly is just really, really exciting."
Niall Mackay reconnects with Nhi Mai, a former guest who moved to Vietnam in 2019 to discover her heritage. Nhi, a third-culture kid born to Vietnamese immigrants in Switzerland, shares her experiences of living in Vietnam for three years and her decision to return to Switzerland during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The conversation explores the stark contrasts between life in Vietnam and Switzerland, from the bustling nightlife and constant changes in Saigon to the structured, slower-paced lifestyle in Switzerland. Nhi reflects on her parents' initial concerns about her move to Vietnam and how her experiences helped bridge the gap between generations. The episode also touches on the challenges of reverse culture shock and the unexpected ways in which Vietnam has modernized compared to some European countries.
Key Takeaways:
Nhi's motivation for moving to Vietnam and her decision to leaveThe surprising aspects of life in Vietnam compared to preconceptionsHow Nhi's parents' perspective on Vietnam changed through her experiencesNhi's process of deciding to move back to SwitzerlandComparison of social life and pace between Vietnam and SwitzerlandChapters and Timestamps:
00:02:20 - Nhi's journey to and from Vietnam
00:05:50 - Third culture kid experiences
00:09:50 - Surprising aspects of life in Vietnam
00:15:00 - Parents' changing perspectives
00:17:40 - The pandemic's impact on Vietnam
00:21:30 - Decision to return to Switzerland
00:24:40 - Cultural differences between Vietnam and Switzerland
00:27:10 - Comparing lifestyles: Vietnam vs Switzerland
00:29:50 - What Nhi misses most about Vietnam"Send me a message!"
Save Frustration. And time!
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"Your life like 80 years, 90 years max, you are old sickly if you get to 90. So if you are 30, you are 1 third there. What have you done with that 30?"
Niall Mackay reconnects with Nam Den, a Nigerian YouTuber and content creator based in Vietnam. Nam reflects on his journey since their last conversation, sharing how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped his perspective on life and work-life balance.
Nam discusses the challenges of maintaining his YouTube channel while juggling multiple responsibilities, including running a business, teaching, and participating in various TV productions. He offers insights into the intricacies of creating multilingual content and the technical hurdles of video editing and subtitling. The conversation also touches on the financial aspects of being a YouTuber in Vietnam and the quest for social media verification.
Key Takeaways:
COVID-19 taught Nam to appreciate life more and prioritize self-care [05:50]Creating multilingual content presents unique challenges in editing and subtitling [17:10]YouTube revenue in Vietnam is significantly lower compared to Western countries [20:40]Nam balances his YouTube channel with other professional commitments [14:30]The importance of consistency in content creation and maintaining audience engagement [11:00]"Send me a message!"
Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
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"Vietnam is a massive beer drinking country. Per capita it's top ten ." - Mischa Smith
In this special episode of the Vietnam podcast, host Niall takes listeners on an epic craft beer crawl through Ho Chi Minh City. Joined by a rotating cast of friends and beer industry insiders, Niall visits his seven favorite craft beer bars in Saigon over the course of 8 hours. The crawl begins at Two Guys Belgian Fries in Thanh My Loi and winds its way through popular spots like Mixtape, Brick and Barrel, Pasteur Street Craft Beer, Heart of Darkness, Seven Bridges, before ending at Malt.
Along the way, Niall and his companions sample a wide variety of local craft beers while discussing the evolution of Vietnam's craft beer scene. They dive into topics like the challenges facing breweries post-COVID, efforts to win over more local customers, and debates over pricing and free water policies. The episode offers an inside look at Saigon's thriving craft beer culture through conversations with brewery owners, beer experts, and enthusiastic drinkers.
Key Takeaways:
• Vietnam has a strong beer drinking culture, but the craft beer industry is still working to convert more locals from mass-market lagers
• Many craft breweries are recovering post-COVID, though some have closed and the market was likely oversaturated before the pandemic
• Pricing remains a challenge, with craft beers significantly more expensive than local lagers, though still cheaper than in countries like Australia
• Having a diverse tap list with guest beers from other local breweries is seen as important by some bar owners
• The craft beer scene has evolved rapidly in Saigon over the past 5-8 years, with many new breweries and bars opening
"I don't look at us anymore as a craft beer business. I look at us as an F&B business." - Seamus from Seven Bridges"Send me a message!"
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"There's a lot of controversy about Michelin Guide coming here. But for me, I look at it as an opportunity for Vietnam to attract more tourists."
In this episode of A Vietnam Podcast, host Niall Mackay welcomes back Thuyen Vo, a renowned food influencer and KOL (Key Opinion Leader), who previously appeared in Season 6. Thuyen discusses her journey over the past three years, sharing insights into her life, her passion for Vietnamese cuisine, and her current endeavors. The conversation touches on the impact of the Michelin Guide's entry into Vietnam, the importance of warm meals in Vietnamese culture, and Thuyen's personal favorite dining spots in Saigon. With her vibrant personality and deep knowledge of the local food scene, Thuyen provides listeners with a delightful and informative discussion about the evolving culinary landscape in Vietnam.
Key Takeaways:
1. Warm Meals Are Essential: Thuyen emphasizes the cultural significance of warm meals in Vietnamese cuisine, contrasting it with the Western preference for cold foods like cereal and sandwiches.
2. Impact of Michelin Guide: The introduction of the Michelin Guide in Vietnam is seen as an opportunity to attract more tourists and highlight the diverse culinary offerings of the country.
3. Favorite Dining Spots: Thuyen shares her top dining recommendations in Saigon, including Pizza 4P’s and The Deck, highlighting their consistent quality and unique dining experiences.
4. Influencer Insights: As a KOL, Thuyen discusses the shift in her career, her reduced public appearances, and her focus on studying and personal growth.
5. Leveraging LinkedIn: Thuyen encourages influencers to utilize LinkedIn for professional networking and business growth, sharing her own positive experiences with the platform."Send me a message!"
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"There are misconceptions about Vietnam, People just think of water buffaloes, rice paddies and lanterns if you live in the big city, like Saigon, it's just like any other big city."
Ever wondered where to find the best cocktails in Saigon? Join Niall Mackay as he takes you on a tour through the city's top cocktail bars, sharing insider tips and personal favorites. Whether you're a Saigon local or planning a visit, this episode is your ultimate guide to the best drinks and hidden gems in the city.Niall delves into the juxtaposition that makes Saigon so alluring, where modern cocktail bars coexist with historic buildings and hidden alleyways. From the renowned 86 Proof and Layla to the enigmatic Lost and Found, each establishment offers a unique ambiance and expertly crafted cocktails. Niall's recommendations span a diverse array of venues, from the newly opened Junka to the cozy confines of Stirr, perfectly tucked away behind a bustling market.
"The opinion of Vietnam is so different to the reality here. In the eight years I've been here, I've seen it change dramatically." - Niall on Saigon's evolution.
86 ProofLaylaSummer ExperimentStirLost and FoundMamiYunkaThe CompanyThe Trieu InstituteRacha roomFirkin
Key Highlights:
1. An in-depth look at trendy hotspots like 86 Proof, Layla, Stirr, Lost and Found, and more, with insights into their distinct vibes and must-try cocktails.
2. The juxtaposition of old and new in Saigon's cocktail bar scene, with hidden gems tucked away in historic buildings and alleyways.
3. The rise of Vietnamese-owned and inspired cocktail bars, showcasing local flavors and ingredients.
4. The increasing variety of nightlife options in Saigon, catering to diverse tastes and experiences.
5. Niall's personal journey and newfound passion for the city's cocktail culture, challenging assumptions about traditional Vietnamese experiences.
All 11 Cocktail Bars"Send me a message!"
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Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
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"When you're at rock bottom as a drug addict, you'll know. Cause, as I explained it, there is that choice that you have to make. And when you're ready to look up, then I have plenty of advice."
- Tue-Si on reaching the turning point in addiction.
In this powerful episode, Niall revisits the story of Tue-Si, a recovering crystal meth addict who shares his journey from addiction to recovery. Tue-Si candidly discusses his relapse experiences, health scares, and the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions. He also explores the role of trauma in addiction and the need for a supportive system during recovery. The episode offers raw insight into the challenges of overcoming substance abuse and the ongoing process of healing.
"It wouldn't have taken much to prevent and it didn't take much to fix it. It just took a lot of courage and a lot of yeah, just a few medicine, a few pills." - Tue-Si on his health scare and recovery.
Key Takeaways
1. The importance of seeking support and surrounding oneself with non-judgmental individuals during recovery.
2. The need for self-forgiveness and taking responsibility for one's actions in the healing process.
3. The role of trauma in addiction and the courage required to confront and define one's traumas.
4. The value of implementing healthy routines and finding alternative coping mechanisms.
5. The ongoing nature of recovery and the acceptance of potential setbacks or relapses along the journey."Send me a message!"
Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
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On the Vietnam Is Awesome Podcast Niall Mackay is joined by Natalya Wissink, the founder of Secret Experiences, to talk about the thriving cocktail scene and hidden gems in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).
They discuss the modern side of Vietnam, the use of local ingredients in craft cocktails and beer, and Natalya's company, which offers unique experiences like the Secret Cocktail Experience.
Key Takeaways:
1. Vietnam, especially Saigon, has a surprisingly modern and vibrant cocktail and culinary scene that often goes unnoticed by tourists.
2. Local ingredients like spices, herbs, and fruits are being used in innovative ways to create craft cocktails, gins, and beers, showcasing a fusion of traditional and modern Vietnamese culture.
3. Secret Experiences offers unique tours like the Secret Cocktail Experience, where guests are taken to hidden bars and venues, allowing them to explore Saigon's nightlife scene in a truly immersive way.
4. Vietnam's food and beverage industry is not just catering to expats and tourists but is driven by the young, affluent Vietnamese population.
5. Saigon is full of hidden gems and speakeasy-style bars that are often difficult to find unless you know where to look, making guided experiences like those offered by Secret Experiences valuable for visitors.
"What I love is... how surprising Saigon is to a lot of people. So when you come here, there's so much to do that you wouldn't expect, which I think is really exciting." - Niall Mackay
"We don't want our guests to, although we support our partners, but we don't want them to discover places too early. We want them to be surprised and not know where we're going exactly." - Natalya Wisnick"Send me a message!"
Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
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"Who likes to spend money though? If you can save money, you want to do it, right?"
Niall shares his top 7 favorite happy hour spots in Saigon, the bustling city he now calls home.
As a self-professed happy hour enthusiast, Niall has strong opinions on what makes a true "happy hour" deal, favoring bars that offer 50% off drinks over the dreaded "buy 2 get 1 free" promotions.
He highlights spots like the expertly-crafted cocktails at 86 Proof, the stylish ambiance of Mami, and the unbeatable sunset views at Café des Stagiaires. Throughout the episode, Niall marvels at the exceptional talent of Saigon's bartenders, who seem to elevate even classic cocktails like the Whiskey Sour.
He encourages listeners to share their own Saigon happy hour recommendations, as he knows there are many more hidden gems to discover.
Key Takeaways:
1. Niall is a self-proclaimed happy hour aficionado who loves finding the best drink deals in Saigon
2. He has strong preferences for true 50% off promotions over "buy 2 get 1 free" setups
3. Saigon's cocktail scene is thriving with incredibly talented bartenders that impress Niall
4. The 7 happy hour spots Niall highlights each offer something unique, from killer views to expertly-mixed libations
5. Niall encourages listener participation, inviting others to share their Saigon happy hour recommendations
"If you have a happy hour and it's buy two get one free, that's not a happy hour to me. That's the worst happy hour you can possibly do, I don't understand it. Who does that work for?""Send me a message!"
Please vote for A Vietnam Podcast here!
I have some crazy, exciting, unbelievable news to share with you. I have just found out that A Vietnam Podcast has been nominated in the Asia Podcast Awards 2024 for the best interview podcast.
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Please vote today and make sure to let me know!Support the Show.
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"COVID really affected me that by the time the pandemic was over, I felt rusty as a performer and in my whole adult life, I'd never, ever experienced that."
The importance of maintaining personal connections and friendships over time and distance, as exemplified by Niall and Ella Beth's long-lasting friendship.An inside look at the challenges of navigating immigration processes, particularly the U.S. green card process, and the difficulties faced by many seeking residency.Insights into the resilience required to overcome major life disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ability to adapt and find new paths forward.The unique experiences of an Australian expatriate adjusting to life in America after living abroad for many years, and the cultural shifts involved.The power of pursuing one's passions, as Ella Beth was able to reestablish her musical career after moving to the United States, showcasing determination and commitment to her craft.
In this heartwarming episode, Niall is reunited with his friend Ella Beth, who first appeared on the podcast back in Season 2. They reminisce about their friendship, revisiting Ella Beth's journey from being a singer in Vietnam to navigating the challenges of the pandemic and ultimately finding love and a new life in America.
5 key takeaways:"Send me a message!"
Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!Please vote for A Vietnam Podcast here!
I have some crazy, exciting, unbelievable news to share with you. I have just found out that A Vietnam Podcast has been nominated in the Asia Podcast Awards 2024 for the best interview podcast.
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In his first solo episode of A Vietnam Podcast, host Niall Mackay shares his top seven places to enjoy craft beer in Saigon, Vietnam. From long-standing establishments to newcomers, Niall provides an insider's perspective on the city's vibrant craft beer scene.
1. Malt Saigon on Mac Thi Buoi is an OG craft beer bar in Saigon, known for its shuffleboard table and Fuzzy Logic Pale Ale on draft.
2. MixTape Drinks offers unique brews like Peaches and Cream Pale Ale and the green tea seltzer Partea.
3. Brick and Barrel by James Jolokia and Tyler Maurice Kooy is renowned for its pizza, chicken sandwiches, and extensive craft beer menu.
4. Heart of Darkness Brewery crafts some of Saigon's best-tasting but pricier beers, like the Dream Alone Pale Ale and Kurtz Insane IPA.
5. Two Guys Belgian Fries offers just two house beers - a blonde and a dark - along with their famous Belgian fries in a nice canal-side setting.
6. Pasteur Street Brewing Company (now Pasteur Street Craft Beer) is one of the pioneering craft breweries, with standouts like the Pomelo IPA and Jasmine IPA.
7. 7 Bridges from Da Nang is a newcomer with great beers and New York-style pizza, offering a hot sauce that's a must-try.
"Which to me is immoral and insane to be serving beer so strong and not offer free water to your customers.""Send me a message!"
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Niall sits down with Thuyen Vo, a former host on the Best Ever Food Review Show and the founder of Easy English and Easy Vietnamese language centers. Thuyen opens up about her experiences navigating the post-pandemic world, content creation, and her newfound passion for the fine dining industry.
Thuyen reflects on her time with the Best Ever Food Review Show, sharing behind-the-scenes anecdotes and the challenges of unscripted on-camera moments. She also delves into the magic of editing and how it transforms the viewing experience.
As she explores her journey into content creation, Thuyen discusses the impatience of the millennial mindset, the allure of instant gratification, and the art of labeling one's identity. She reveals her newfound love for the fine dining segment, fueled by her exposure to Michelin-starred restaurants and the realization that food can be an art form.
Thuyen also touches on the impact of the Michelin Guide's arrival in Vietnam and the transformation of Saigon's culinary scene. She shares her desire to further her education in hospitality and discover the fine dining cultures of other countries.
Key Takeaways:
- The power of unscripted moments in creating authentic content and audience connections.
- The millennial need for labels and the generational differences in self-expression.
- The evolution of Saigon's culinary landscape, from street food dominance to the emergence of fine dining experiences.
- The transformative impact of exposure to Michelin-starred restaurants and the appreciation of food as an art form.
- The drive to continuously learn and explore new avenues within the hospitality and culinary industries."Send me a message!"
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I have some crazy, exciting, unbelievable news to share with you. I have just found out that A Vietnam Podcast has been nominated in the Asia Podcast Awards 2024 for the best interview podcast.
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Please vote today and make sure to let me know!Support the Show.
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