By aussiematesvietnam 
G’day, Fellow Wanderers!
Picture this: you’re sipping an ice-cold Saigon beer at a tiny plastic table on a bustling Hanoi street corner. Motorbikes zip past like frenzied ants, street vendors call out their wares, and the humid air carries the intoxicating scent of fresh herbs and sizzling pho. That’s Vietnam for ya – a sensory overload in the best possible way!
I remember my first solo trip to Vietnam at 52, a bit nervous but mostly excited. Now, after five visits to this magnificent country, I’m here to tell you it’s one of the best places for us mature Aussies to explore on our own. No need to wait for the kids or grandkids to free up their schedules – Vietnam welcomes solo travelers with open arms, especially those of us with a bit more life experience under our belts.
Whether you’re newly retired, the kids have finally flown the coop, or you’re simply wanting an adventure that’s all yours, Vietnam offers the perfect blend of exotic experiences and surprising comfort. So pack your lightweight clothes, slip on those comfy walking shoes, and let’s chat about how to make your solo Vietnamese adventure safe, enjoyable, and absolutely unforgettable.
Why Vietnam is Perfect for Mature Solo Travelers
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why Vietnam should be top of your travel bucket list, especially if you’re in our 40-60+ age bracket.
First up, value for money. Let’s be honest – our Aussie dollar goes a long way in Vietnam. Luxury accommodations at a fraction of what you’d pay in Europe, gourmet meals for under $10, and transportation that won’t eat into your retirement savings. If you’re watching your pennies (and who isn’t these days?), Vietnam delivers incredible experiences without the wallet-shock.
Second, Vietnamese people genuinely respect older travelers. Unlike some destinations where youth seems to be the only currency worth having, Vietnam’s Confucian-influenced culture places high value on age and wisdom. As a mature traveler, you’ll often receive preferential treatment, extra courtesy, and genuine interest in your stories and experiences.
Third, the country offers something for every energy level. Want to trek through terraced rice fields? Go for it. Prefer a gentle cruise around Halong Bay? No worries. Fancy just sitting in a café watching the world go by? Vietnam’s got you covered. You can tailor your trip to match your physical abilities without feeling like you’re missing out.
Safety First: Navigating Vietnam with Confidence
Now, I know what some of you might be thinking – “Is Vietnam safe for someone my age traveling alone?” The short answer is a resounding yes, but with the same common-sense precautions you’d take anywhere.
Vietnam has remarkably low rates of violent crime. In my five solo trips, I’ve never once felt physically threatened. The biggest safety concerns are petty theft (particularly in Ho Chi Minh City) and traffic accidents.
Here’s my no-nonsense safety checklist:
- Keep your valuables secure – a cross-body bag worn to the front works a treat
- Avoid flashing expensive jewelry or electronics
- Take registered taxis (Mai Linh or Vinasun are reliable) or use Grab (Southeast Asia’s Uber)
- Learn the art of crossing Vietnamese streets (steady pace, no sudden movements, make eye contact with drivers)
- Carry a card from your hotel with the address in Vietnamese
- Keep a photocopy of your passport separate from the original
- Stay hydrated and wear a hat – the heat can be a shocker for us Aussies, even though we’re used to warm weather
Health-wise, it’s worth noting that major cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City have excellent international hospitals. Travel insurance is non-negotiable, mates – make sure you’re covered for medical evacuation just in case. I use CoverMore, but shop around for the best deal that covers pre-existing conditions if you have any.
Accommodation: Where to Rest Your Head
After a full day of exploration, having a comfortable, quiet place to recharge is essential – especially for us in the over-50 crew who might not bounce back from a poor night’s sleep as quickly as we once did!
The good news? Vietnam offers incredible accommodation options at every price point. For roughly $50-80 AUD per night, you can stay in lovely boutique hotels with all the amenities you need. Many places offer lift access, which is worth checking if stairs are an issue for you.
I always recommend staying in the following areas for convenience and safety:
- Hanoi: The Old Quarter or around Hoan Kiem Lake
- Hoi An: Within or just outside the Ancient Town
- Ho Chi Minh City: District 1, preferably near Dong Khoi Street or Le Loi Boulevard
- Nha Trang: Along Tran Phu Beach
- Da Nang: My Khe Beach area
One of my best tips is to book directly with hotels after finding them on booking sites. Many will offer airport pickup services, which takes the stress out of arriving in a new city. Plus, developing a relationship with the hotel staff is invaluable – they’ll look out for you, offer personalized recommendations, and add that extra layer of security that’s so comforting when traveling solo.
Getting Around: Transportation Tips
Vietnam’s size is deceptive – it’s a long, narrow country that takes over 35 hours to drive from north to south. Fortunately, the transportation infrastructure has improved dramatically in recent years.
For long distances, domestic flights are affordable and time-efficient. Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways offer the most comfortable experiences, while budget carriers like VietJet can save you a few dollars (just be prepared for potential delays).
Trains are my personal favorite for medium distances. The Reunification Express between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is an experience in itself, though I recommend breaking up the journey with stops along the way. Opt for a soft sleeper cabin (4 berths) or, better yet, a VIP cabin on the more modern trains.
For day trips, private drivers are surprisingly affordable. For about $50-70 AUD, you can hire a car and driver for the entire day. It’s worth every cent for the personalized experience and comfort, especially when the mercury soars or during monsoon season.
Within cities, Grab is your best mate. The app works just like Uber, and prices are displayed upfront, eliminating any concerns about being overcharged. For short distances in Hoi An or Hanoi’s Old Quarter, walking is often your best bet – just remember to hydrate!
Making Connections: Solo Doesn’t Mean Lonely
One of the great joys of solo travel at our age is the freedom to choose when to socialize and when to enjoy your own company. Vietnam makes both remarkably easy.
For meeting others, consider:
- Small group day tours (cooking classes are brilliant for this)
- Staying at boutique hotels where communal breakfasts encourage conversation
- Walking tours specifically for mature travelers (check Intrepid or G Adventures)
- Cafés in expat areas like Hanoi’s Tay Ho or Ho Chi Minh City’s Thao Dien
Technology helps too – Facebook groups like “Seniors Traveling Solo” or “Over 50s Travel Vietnam” can connect you with like-minded travelers before you even arrive.
That said, some of my most meaningful connections have been with locals. Vietnamese people are genuinely curious about Australia and our lives. A smile goes a long way, as does learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases. “Xin chào” (hello), “cảm ơn” (thank you), and “ngon quá” (delicious) will earn you beaming smiles and often lead to fascinating conversations.
What to Pack: Essentials for Comfort
Packing light is always good advice, but even more so in Vietnam where you’ll likely be moving around and navigating various forms of transport. Here’s my tried-and-tested packing list:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (natural fibers are best)
- A light rain jacket or poncho (even outside rainy season, sudden showers happen)
- One smart-casual outfit for nicer restaurants or events
- Comfortable walking shoes plus one pair of sandals
- A wide-brimmed hat and good sunglasses
- Sunscreen (it’s expensive in Vietnam)
- Insect repellent with DEET
- Any prescription medications plus a small first aid kit
- A crossbody bag or money belt
- A travel water bottle with built-in filter
- A lightweight scarf (useful for sun protection, air-con chill, and visiting temples)
One thing I always pack is a photo album of my family on my phone – it’s a wonderful conversation starter with locals who often ask if you have children or grandchildren.
Digital Tips for Staying Connected
Staying connected is both a safety issue and a comfort when traveling solo. The good news is that Vietnam has excellent internet coverage and affordable data options.
Your best bet is to purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at the airport. Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone all offer tourist packages with ample data for around $10-15 AUD. Airport vendors will even set it up for you, though you might save a few dollars by waiting until you reach the city.
Download these essential apps before you go:
- Grab (for transportation)
- Google Maps (download offline maps of your destinations)
- Google Translate (with Vietnamese downloaded for offline use)
- XE Currency (for quick conversions)
- WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger (for staying in touch with home)
Consider setting up a VPN before you leave Australia, as some websites and services might be restricted. Express VPN has worked reliably for me throughout Vietnam.
Culinary Adventures: Eating Solo with Confidence
Food is one of Vietnam’s greatest treasures, and dining alone should never hold you back from culinary exploration.
Street food can seem intimidating when solo, but it’s actually perfect – most stalls have single-portion servings by default. Look for busy stalls where locals eat, and you can’t go wrong. If you’re nervous, start with banh mi sandwiches or pho, which are fairly familiar and safe bets.
In restaurants, lunch is often easier than dinner for solo dining. Many upscale places offer excellent set lunch menus at a fraction of dinner prices. Don’t hesitate to make reservations – staff will often give solo diners extra attention and recommendations.
Food tours are brilliant for sampling a variety of dishes with expert guidance. I highly recommend Hanoi Street Food Tour and Back of the Bike Tours in Ho Chi Minh City – both cater well to mature travelers and can accommodate any dietary restrictions or mobility concerns.
Creating Your Perfect Itinerary
Vietnam is too diverse to see everything in one trip, so focusing your itinerary is essential. For first-timers in our age group, I recommend this 14-day route:
- Hanoi (3 nights) – Ease into Vietnam’s pace
- Halong Bay