VIETNAM’S SIDEWALK: 7 WAYS TO ENJOY THESE

Vietnam’s sidewalks are more than just pedestrian paths; they are vibrant hubs of daily life, rich with cultural flavor and local charm. Every nook of Vietnam has been seized by the pavement, and its uses extend far beyond simple strolling. To truly experience Vietnamese street life, it is best to join the people on the pavement. Be at ease about not fitting in—all are welcome. I will introduce you to 7 ways to fully engage with the vibrant pavement culture of Vietnam.

7 Ways to enjoy Vietnam’s pavements

1. Savor Street Food

Vietnam’s street cuisine is well-known throughout the world, and foodies may find a gourmet playground on the pavements. In Vietnam, experiencing street food is more than just tasting it; it’s about immersing yourself in the cuisine and relishing the vivid flavors that define Vietnamese cooking.

Bánh Mì: The Vietnamese sandwich, or banh mi, is a delicious blend of French and Vietnamese influences. Filled with a mix of meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, this is a perfect snack or light meal that you can enjoy while strolling. You can easily find the Banh Mi food stalls near your hotel because this food is most common in Vietnam. The price is about 15.000 to 30.000 VND (0.6 to 1.2 USD).

Banh Mi – top Vietnamese Street Food that you must try

Chè: For a sweet treat, try che, a Vietnamese dessert made from a variety of beans, fruits, and jellies in a sweet syrup. It’s both refreshing and satisfying, especially on a hot day. The price ranges from 10.000 to 20.000 VND (0.4 to 0.8 USD)

Chè – Sweet Soup

Fruit and Snacks: Don’t miss out on fresh tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, and lychees, often served with a dash of chili salt for an extra kick. Grab a fruit salad or a bag of roasted peanuts from a sidewalk vendor for a quick and tasty snack.

Variety of fruits in Vietnam that you must try

2. People-Watch and Observe Local Life

The sidewalks are an excellent vantage point for people-watching, offering a window into the daily lives of Vietnamese people. Take a seat at a café or a street-side stall and immerse yourself in the local scene.

Local Interactions: Observe the friendly interactions between vendors and customers. The banter, laughter, and bartering provide insight into the social fabric of Vietnamese society.

Motorbike Culture: Vietnam is known for its motorbike culture, with thousands of motorbikes zipping through the streets. Watching this organized chaos from a sidewalk can be both mesmerizing and enlightening.

Daily Routines: From the early morning exercise routines of locals to the afternoon rush of shoppers and the evening relaxation of families, the sidewalk is a stage where everyday life unfolds in fascinating ways.

3. Enjoy a Traditional Vietnamese Coffee

Vietnamese coffee culture is a must-experience part of the sidewalk scene. Known for its strong flavors and unique preparation methods, coffee in Vietnam is more than just a drink—it’s an experience.

Drip Coffee: Vietnamese drip coffee, made with a small metal drip filter, is strong and flavorful. Often served with sweetened condensed milk, it offers a rich, creamy taste that’s hard to resist.

Egg Coffee: For something truly unique, try egg coffee. This frothy beverage, made with egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, and strong coffee, has a creamy, dessert-like quality that’s both surprising and delightful.

Street Café: Find a sidewalk café with small plastic chairs and tables, and take your time enjoying your coffee. The slower pace allows you to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

Enjoy the morning café on the pavements

4. Take a rest for your feet

In Vietnam, people who work as mobile cobblers could approach you if you sit on the pavement. These shoe shiners typically ask if you would like your shoes shined by pointing to your feet while carrying a basket of tools. In just a few minutes, they’ll bring your boots back to their former splendor for a meager $1. Wearing a pair of plastic slippers while waiting for your shoes to be repaired is, in many ways, a quintessential urban Vietnamese moment.

5. Take a Scenic Stroll

Walking through Vietnam’s streets allows you to experience the city’s charm and character up close. Take your time exploring and let the sidewalks lead you to new discoveries. In Ho Chi Minh City, explore the sleek, modern areas such as District 1, where skyscrapers and stylish cafes mix with traditional street life. The Walking Street such as Nguyen Hue Street, Le Thanh Ton Street, and Le Lai Street, both of these are the most common walking street.

In addition, wander off the beaten path and explore lesser-known neighborhoods. You might find quiet parks, quirky shops, or hidden temples that offer a different perspective on the city.

6. Share a laugh over grilled foods and beer

Vietnamese people enjoy nothing more at the end of the day than smokey BBQ and cold beers. After dusk, friends, businesspeople, and trendy urbanites congregate around bia hơi establishments on the city sidewalks. There’s no shortage of time to converse, argue, and raise a toast when there’s an endless supply of drinks and delectable nibbles. Get a round of drinks, bring some traveling companions, and remember to practice your Vietnamese cheer, “Một, hai, ba, dô!”

Bac Hien Eatery – Popular drinking beer place in District 1

7. Engage with Local Artisans

Vietnam’s pavements are frequently lined with craftspeople showing off their creations. Talking with these regional artists can be a fulfilling experience that provides insightful perspectives on Vietnamese creativity.

–Handicrafts: Learn about age-old crafts like pottery, lacquerware, and silk weaving. You can buy handcrafted goods and observe the detailed processes of many artisans who operate on the pavement.

–Art and Jewelry: Peruse the stands offering jewelry and artwork made by regional artists. Every piece frequently conveys a narrative and showcases the local cultural legacy.

–Cultural Exchange: Don’t miss the chance to discuss craftsmen’s creations with them. You’ll have a greater understanding of the abilities and customs that go into their crafts because they frequently provide intriguing tales and insights about their trade.

You can explore Vietnamese handicrafts in the pavement