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This episode was such a joy to record because it felt like rediscovering Saigon all over again. Walking through the markets, tasting the local food, and getting lost in the buzz of Saigon with Kim, Adrie, and Lewis made me realize just how much this city has to offer.

There’s a vibrant energy here, a mix of tradition and modernity that’s unique to Saigon. I love how you can go from a centuries-old market like Ben Thanh to a hidden Gen Z hotspot above the girly bars, or step from a crowded, chaotic street corner into a peaceful spot along the river.

This city has quirks and charms that you wouldn’t expect until you see them yourself.

Saigon’s layers go deep—whether it’s the story behind the Opera House or the thrill of a $1 noodle soup at a street stall. Even after all these years, I’m constantly discovering new places, foods, and people.

My hope is that this episode gives listeners a taste of that excitement and inspires them to step off the beaten path when they visit. Because the best parts of Saigon aren’t always on the map—they’re in the little moments, the street life, the contrasts that make this city such a one-of-a-kind experience.
- Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways:

• Ben Thanh Market: Discover local flavors and artisan goods at Saigon’s iconic market.
• Navigating Vietnamese Street Food: Essential dishes to try and how to enjoy them like a local.
• The Contrast of Shopping Options: From luxury malls to budget-friendly markets.
• Exploring Nguyen Hue Walking Street: A local hangout with a unique cultural atmosphere.
• Saigon’s Historic Sites: Insights into the city’s colonial architecture and cultural landmarks.

Chapters and Timestamps:

01:00 – Ben Thanh Market: A Glimpse into Saigon’s Local Scene
05:30 – Vietnamese Street Food: Dishes You Must Try
14:00 – Shopping in Saigon: From Markets to Malls
20:00 – Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Saigon’s Vibrant Heart
31:00 – Saigon’s Architectural Wonders: Post Office and Opera House
40:00 – Reflecting on Saigon’s Blend of Past and Present

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In this exciting episode of the Seven Million Bikes podcast, Adrie and I share our first-ever ride on the long-awaited Saigon Metro, a significant infrastructure development in Vietnam.

We then dive into the electrifying atmosphere of watching the final football match between Vietnam and Thailand in the ASEAN Football Cup.

As Vietnam secures a dramatic win, the episode captures the ensuing Đi bão celebration, illustrating the incredible national pride and festive chaos that envelops the city.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:10 Riding the Saigon Metro for the First Time
02:14 Vietnam's Football Fever
03:49 Exploring the City and Finding a Place to Watch the Game
11:09 The Thrilling Football Match
21:29 Celebrating Vietnam's Victory
21:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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"Efficiency, quality, and guest satisfaction—those should always come before flair." – Tyler

Saigon’s cocktail scene truly opened my eyes to see how dynamic and underrated it is. It’s fascinating to see how the city has evolved from humble street-side setups with plastic stools to becoming a budding hotspot for world-class mixology.

Saigon’s charm lies in this juxtaposition of old and new—where you can enjoy a mojito for under 100k VND on a bustling street one moment and sip a perfectly crafted Negroni in a chic rooftop bar the next. It’s a testament to the city’s unique ability to blend tradition and innovation seamlessly.

Talking with Misha and Tyler gave me a deeper appreciation for the passion, creativity, and resilience that drive this industry. From the effort local bars put into earning spots on Asia’s prestigious cocktail lists to the hurdles of oversaturation and staying authentic, it’s clear that Saigon’s bartenders and owners are crafting more than just drinks—they’re shaping a culture.

This episode was an eye-opener and a reminder that Saigon’s cocktail bars aren’t just places to grab a drink; they’re experiences that encapsulate the city’s essence.

Key Takeaways:

Saigon’s Cocktail Scene Evolution - From street cocktails on plastic stools to high-end mixology.

International Recognition - How Saigon bars are pushing to make Asia’s Top 50 list.

Quality Over Flair - The debate over efficiency and substance versus showmanship.

Diversity of Experiences - The charm of pairing rooftop cocktails with street-side mojitos.

Cost Perception - Why cocktail prices in Vietnam reflect more than just cheap living costs.

Chapters:

02:00 – The History of Saigon Cocktails
05:30 – Pushing for International Recognition
09:00 – Quality vs. Flair
12:30 – Rooftops, Street Bars, and Everything in Between
18:00 – Cost and Value in Saigon’s Bars
20:00 – Final Verdict: Underrated

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This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.

If you would like to work with them too check out their website!

"Send me a message!"

7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!

Support the show

This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.

If you would like to work with them too check out their website!

I embark on a challenge to find a satisfying, delicious lunch in Saigon for just $1—or 25,000 Vietnamese Dong.

This episode is more than just a food hunt; it’s a snapshot of life in Vietnam, from the quirks of local health and safety practices to the enduring charm of friendly vendors. Along the way, I reflect on cultural differences and why Vietnam’s food scene is unbeatable—even when working with a tight budget.

– Niall Mackay

5 Key Takeaways
1.The $1 Lunch Hunt – Finding affordable meals in Saigon isn’t as easy as it seems. Inflation and rising costs are challenges even in the land of cheap eats. (00:01:00)
2.Local Favorites and Hidden Gems – Exploring options like bánh mì, cơm tấm, and other iconic dishes reveals what makes Vietnamese street food so special. (00:04:00)
3.A Lesson in Safety Culture – Witnessing tree-cutting practices and construction techniques in Vietnam highlights unique cultural approaches to risk. (00:07:00)
4.Bánh Mì Breakdown – A deep dive into the ingredients and the magic behind one of Vietnam’s most beloved dishes, the shredded chicken bánh mì. (00:12:00)
5.Cultural Connections Through Food – Reflecting on how Vietnamese people’s friendliness and passion for food make every dining experience unforgettable. (00:14:00)

Episode Chapters

00:00 – Introduction: The $1 Challenge and the Mission Behind It
02:00 – Exploring the Neighborhood for Cheap Eats
04:00 – Struggles and Success: The Unexpected Cost of Cheap Meals
07:00 – Cultural Insights: Observing Vietnam’s Health and Safety Practices
12:00 – Victory! The Perfect Bánh Mì and Its Delicious Story
14:00 – Reflections: Inflation, Food, and Vietnam’s Evolving Economy

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7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!

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This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.

If you would like to work with them too check out their website!

“Vietnam isn’t becoming Western; it’s becoming modern—on its own terms.”

Cedric’s journey is one of the most unique and inspiring stories I’ve ever had on the podcast. This episode completely blew me away.

From being adopted by a French family and growing up across continents to returning to Vietnam and building his own business, Cedric embodies what it means to embrace every part of your identity while carving out your own path. His perspective on Vietnam’s rapid development, cultural pride, and the future of this incredible country left me reflecting deeply.

It’s conversations like this that remind me why I started this podcast—to share stories that challenge perspectives and inspire listeners.

• Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways:

Cedric’s Adoption Story – Growing up as a Vietnamese adoptee in a French family shaped Cedric’s perspective on culture, identity, and belonging.
Vietnam’s Rapid Development – From motorbikes to malls, Cedric details how infrastructure and societal shifts have transformed Vietnam since 2016.
The Cultural Pride of Vietnam – Despite modernization, Cedric highlights how Vietnam retains its cultural roots and blends them with global influences.
The Work Ethic in Vietnam – Cedric and Niall discuss how Vietnamese people balance their hard work with a love for life and learning.
Vietnam’s Future Identity – Cedric shares his thoughts on Vietnam’s need to define its global role, whether as a tech hub, manufacturing center, or tourist destination.

Chapters & Timestamps:

01:00 - Adoption and Early Life – Cedric shares his adoption story, growing up with a French family, and living in Africa and Europe.
09:00 - Cultural Identity as a Third-Culture Kid – Cedric reflects on being a third-culture kid and navigating identity across cultures.
18:00 - Work Ethic and Culture – [00:18:00]
Niall and Cedric explore the hard-working yet fun-loving spirit of Vietnamese people.
22:00 - Returning to Vietnam – Why Cedric moved back to Vietnam in 2016 and his experience working in his family’s business.
28:00 - Vietnam’s Transformation – From infrastructure to lifestyle, Cedric discusses Vietnam’s rapid development over the past eight years.
34:00 - Vietnam’s Future on the Global Stage – Cedric shares his thoughts on Vietnam’s need to define its identity in manufacturing, technology, and tourism.

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This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.

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“Dating in Vietnam? Be prepared—sometimes you show up for a date, and she brings five friends. And yes, you’re expected to pay the bill.”

I’m joined by Rochelle Nguyen at 86 Proof to uncover an unwritten rule every expat in Vietnam should know. From navigating the quirks of dating apps to the cultural nuances of Vietnamese family gatherings and countryside weddings, this episode is packed with funny anecdotes and practical advice.

Plus, we dive into the art of making the perfect whiskey sour (spoiler: it’s all about the ice) and share stories of what makes expat life in Vietnam so uniquely unpredictable and rewarding.

– Niall Mackay

5 Key Takeaways (With Timestamps)
1.Unwritten Rule #1: Always Expect the Unexpected on Dates – Sometimes, a date might include her friends—and the bill. (00:01:00)
2.Tết Visits and Cultural Commitments – Why visiting a girlfriend’s hometown during Tết could lead to unintentional engagement rumors. (00:07:00)
3.Countryside Weddings and Rice Wine – Why being a Westerner makes you the life (and drinking buddy) of the party. (00:15:00)
4.Navigating Tinder and Dating Dynamics – How dating apps in Vietnam differ for expats and locals. (00:08:00)
5.The Legendary Whiskey Sour – What makes the 86 Proof Whiskey Sour a true Saigon icon. (00:05:00)

Episode Chapters

00:00 – Welcome to 86 Proof: Setting the Scene
01:00 – Dating in Vietnam: Expect the Unexpected
07:00 – Tết Traditions and Unintentional Engagements
10:00 – Cultural Curiosities: Family Questions and Wedding Shots
15:00 – Whiskey Sour Masterclass

Reflect with Me

From dating surprises to countryside weddings, this episode offers a humorous and insightful glimpse into the unspoken norms of expat life in Vietnam. Whether you’re new to the country or a seasoned resident, there’s something relatable—and laugh-worthy—for everyone.

What’s an unwritten rule you’ve encountered? Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and stay tuned for more episodes of Saigon Sunday Sessions.

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7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!

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This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.

If you would like to work with them too check out their website!

"I wasn’t Vietnamese enough for the locals and not white enough for the expats. It took time to find my place in Saigon."

It was an absolute joy to record this episode. Rochelle's journey is the epitome of courage, adaptability, and humor. Her ability to share deeply personal stories—like her parents meeting on a refugee boat—alongside lighthearted anecdotes about perfecting cocktails and navigating Saigon’s chaos, is remarkable.

She’s one of those rare guests who can make you laugh, think, and feel inspired all at once.

This conversation wasn’t just about her life; it was about resilience, community, and finding a place in a world that often feels divided. I’m truly grateful she finally said yes to joining me on the podcast, and I think her story will resonate with anyone chasing their dreams or building something meaningful in unexpected places.

- Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways
* Vietnam's Duality - Saigon's chaotic vibrancy offers a mix of traditional street life and Western comforts, making it a unique city for locals and expats alike.
* Rochelle’s Bold Career Move - Opening 86 Proof was inspired by her entrepreneurial spirit and the guidance of her mentor.
* The Whiskey Sour Experiment - It took 34 iterations of whiskey sours to perfect the recipe that became a local favorite.
* Navigating Dual Identity - Rochelle discusses the challenges of being too "Vietnamese" for expats and too "Western" for locals, a struggle familiar to many third-culture kids.
* A Refugee Romance - Rochelle’s parents met on the same boat while fleeing Vietnam, a story straight out of a movie.

Chapters & Timestamps
08:00 - Rochelle’s Background: Refugee Parents and Canadian Childhood
24:00 - Journey to Vietnam and Opening 86 Proof
40:00 - The Art of the Whiskey Sour
34:00 - Challenges of Living Between Cultures
42:00 - Saigon’s Vibrancy and Community Spirit

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7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!

Support the show

This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.

If you would like to work with them too check out their website!