Viator Rating : 5 (2 reviews)
Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnamese Culture: Local Food & Language Experience
210
Overview
Follow the Locals Real Viet Experience dives deep into the heart of Vietnamese culture, offering an authentic and engaging experience led by local students and young professionals. This is not a typical tour; it's an opportunity to connect with the Vietnamese people, learn about their culture, and even pick up some of the local language.
Participants will enjoy an intimate setting where they can learn Vietnamese, play board games, and share interesting conversations with locals. The experience culminates in a tasting of 2-3 iconic dishes, such as bánh xèo (crispy pancake) or cơm tấm (broken rice with grilled pork chops). This small-group experience ensures personalized interaction and a genuine cultural exchange.
This culinary and language adventure offers a unique window into Vietnamese life, moving beyond typical tourist attractions to create lasting memories and a deeper understanding of the local culture. 
Highlights
Connect with Locals: Engage in conversations with Vietnamese students and young professionals.
Taste Authentic Dishes: Enjoy an intimate tasting of iconic Vietnamese food.
Learn Basic Vietnamese: Pick up some phrases and learn about the Vietnamese language.
Small Group Setting: Enjoy a personalized experience with a small group of fellow travelers.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers enjoy the friendly and welcoming atmosphere created by the local hosts.
-
Many appreciate the chance to learn about Vietnamese culture and language.
-
The food tasting is a highlight, with delicious and authentic dishes.
-
The small group size allows for personal interaction and connection.
Some wish there was more time to learn the language.
-
A few reviewers mentioned difficulty finding the exact meeting spot.
Know Before You Go
This experience includes dinner and coffee or tea. It does not include any additional purchases. Please note the meeting location provided upon booking as there is no pickup or drop-off service available.
Hot Tip
Some travelers mentioned that the exact meeting spot can be tricky to find. It's recommended to arrive a bit early and double-check the address or contact the tour operator beforehand to avoid any confusion.
Review Summary
People usually say this experience is one of the most memorable parts of their Ho Chi Minh City trip, praising it as a fantastic way to connect with locals and see Saigon from an authentic local perspective. Travelers highlight the vibrant, English-speaking environment and supportive community atmosphere that makes it feel less like a traditional tour and more like spending time with new friends. Reviewers appreciate the educational value regarding Vietnamese culture and the personalized attention to showing visitors favorite local spots for food and dining. The experience comes highly recommended for those seeking genuine cultural immersion and authentic connections with locals rather than standard tourist attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Ho Chi Minh City
$55
Saigon Hidden Gems: Zero Tourist Food Tour by Moped
5.0
(275 reviews)
Duration: 240
minutes
Ho Chi Minh/Saigon Zero Tourist Food Tour takes travelers on a unique culinary adventure through the hidden corners of Saigon. Unlike typical touristy food tours, this experience focuses on authentic, local cuisine found in areas untouched by mainstream tourism.
Participants explore the city via mopeds, guided by English-speaking locals who act as personal concierges, sharing insights into Vietnamese culture and answering questions about the country. The tour ventures to the outer reaches of Saigon, revealing parts unknown to many, even those from other districts of Vietnam. It promises the tastiest authentic food, untouched by foreign tastes, and is a 4-hour experience.
The tour includes visits to a fruit wholesaler market, the Chinese District, the East-West Freeway, a provincial street, and the Labyrinth of Eight. The operator ensures that as the tour progresses, tourists become a rare sight, offering an exclusive glimpse into the real Saigon. This experience guarantees exposure to local spots not found on Google Maps.
Ho Chi Minh City
₫750000
Saigon's Spirited Sips: Crafting Vietnamese Cocktails!
5.0
(42 reviews)
Duration: 90
minutes
Uniquely Vietnamese Cocktails Workshop immerses you in Saigon's mixology scene. Explore Vietnamese coffee and local ingredients, crafting unique cocktails with provided equipment. Enjoy a flavorful journey into Vietnam's vibrant cocktail culture, creating unforgettable drinks and memories. No prior skills needed.
Ho Chi Minh City
$25
Vietnamese Coffee Art: Master the Egg Coffee & Traditional Brews in Ho Chi Minh City
5.0
(16 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Mastering Egg Coffee course teaches four traditional Vietnamese coffee types. Learn drip methods, technique, and presentation from a skilled barista, creating layered, visually appealing cups. Discover the balance of bitter and sweet notes, enjoying textures and flavors. A celebration of Vietnamese coffee culture with special gifts for participants.
Ho Chi Minh City
₫99000
Uncover Saigon's Secrets: A Local's Free Walking Tour
5.0
(15 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Saigon Local Sightseeing Free Walking Tour unveils Saigon's hidden gems beyond tourist hotspots. Explore bustling alleys, historical sites like the Burning Monk monument and weapon bunker, and local life in old apartments. Enjoy optional coffee and flower market visits. A tips-based tour for an authentic experience. Suitable for all fitness levels.
Ho Chi Minh City
$28
Saigon Street Food Tour: Motorbike Adventure & Hidden Gems
5.0
(9286 reviews)
Duration: 240
minutes
The Ho Chi Minh City Street Food Tour By Motorbike or Walking gives a true taste of Saigon! Ride through the city on a motorbike, just like the locals do, and try the best street food. This tour shows hidden parts of Saigon that most people don't see. Visit places like the Tasting Menu Experience, Ben Thanh Market, Thich Quang Duc Monument, Nguyen Thien Thuat Apartment Buildings, Flower Market, and District 5 (Cholon).
Get ready to try yummy foods like beef noodle soup, grilled oysters, and crispy pancakes. The tour includes all the food and drinks, so there are no extra costs. A friendly guide will show the best spots and tell about the food and the city. Choose the motorbike option for hotel pick-up and drop-off in Districts 1, 3, and 4. If guests choose the walking tour option, there is only pick up at the MEETING POINT.
What to Expect: Guests will enjoy a fun ride and discover Saigon's flavors and culture. The tour visits famous places like Ben Thanh Market, where people sell all sorts of things. See the Thich Quang Duc Monument, a symbol of courage. Explore the Nguyen Thien Thuat Apartment Buildings, a look into local life. The Flower Market is a burst of colors and smells. District 5 (Cholon) is Saigon's Chinatown, full of history and tasty food. The Ho Chi Minh City Street Food Tour by Motorbike is a safe and exciting way to see Saigon. Saigon Adventure is a licensed tour company, and the tour includes a guide and driver, a motorbike and helmet, and all the food and drinks.
Ho Chi Minh City
$37
Saigon Night Motorbike Tour: Food & City Views
5.0
(4042 reviews)
Duration: 240
minutes
Saigon By Night and Street Food By Motorbike with Ao Dai Riders gives visitors a taste of Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant after-dark culture and delicious cuisine. This tour is perfect for food lovers and adventure seekers who want to experience the city like a local. Experience the thrill of riding on the back of a motorbike, driven by a skilled and friendly guide, as they navigate the bustling streets. Discover hidden gems and popular spots that most tourists miss.
What to Expect: This tour takes visitors to the heart of Saigon's street food scene, including stops at the District 10 Flower Market, a vibrant hub of colors and scents, where they'll savor grilled oysters with black pepper sauce and special rice paper salad. Nguyen Trai Street offers a glimpse into the city's bustling commercial life, and the Nguyen Van Cu Bridge provides panoramic views of Saigon illuminated at night. Finally, District 4, known for its diverse population and lifestyle, is explored with a stop for Saigon's best bánh mì and dessert.
The tour includes accident insurance for peace of mind, along with all fees and taxes, dinner, a high-quality open-faced helmet, and a rain poncho if needed. Private transportation is provided, and vegetarian options are available. Personal items are not included. Ao Dai Riders are known for their excellent quality tours and low supplier cancellation rate.
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Ho Chi Minh
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Ho Chi Minh From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, , Bus Tours & in Ho Chi Minh. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Ho Chi-Minh Activities