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I didn't picture this.

This is not my first time to Vietnam. I was actually here 15 years ago and was robbed my first day.

But that's a story for another time.

Coming back a decade and a half later everything looks so different.

And especially Phu Quoc, as I had no idea it existed.

An island off the coast of Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is an interesting spot as it's nothing like Vietnam:

• If you fly here directly you don't have the same 30 day visa restrictions
• You can gamble here, there are casinos
• The beaches are spectacular

Phu Quoc is often called the Maldives of Vietnam or I think the better comparison of the Bali of Vietnam, as Bali isn't as nice as the Maldives.

And it has amazing seafood. I eat snails in this video.

Coming here on off season was surprisingly affordable with a $10/night room at a local guesthouse just 5 minutes away from the beach.

Unlike last trip there was no suffering through cold showers or missing AC, Phu Quoc businesses know what travelers want (western toilets) and are happy to provide it.

I wanted to start here because I think many people have a perception of what Vietnam looks like, or are afraid to travel in a communist country.

But Phu Quoc blew me away and I think this series may inspire you to come here.

And don't worry if you're American, the Vietnamese moved on from the "American War" ages ago.

They think it's odd Westerners hold onto the past, but are willing to show you what it was like in Vietnam and their side of the story - with a sprinkle of propaganda of course.

But you will be welcomed with open arms.

The video above begins my Vietnam series on YouTube. You can subscribe here to watch the Phu Quoc videos and then onto Saigon - which I loved so much I didn't want to leave.

But the real reason for visiting Vietnam is an epic motorcycle trip from Saigon, along the coast, through the central highlands, into Hanoi and the northern area near China.

Taking a bus is great but on a motorbike you can stop in all the small villages and really have an adventure.

And eat all the food.

This series will be a couple months long with multiple "visa runs" where I cross the border to reset Vietnam's 30 day visa.

If you're interested in Vietnam or have any tips I'd love to hear them.

When you hit reply you are sent directly to my email inbox and I always reply.

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Keep life delicious,

Ayngelina

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P.S. If you're looking for Vietnam Travel Tips I'm working on a huge guide. Sign up to get notified when my Vietnam Guide is live here.

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