r/longtermtravel

Just got back from 2 weeks in Vietnam. 26F, first time in sea. Here's everything.

Route: Hanoi (4 days) → Ninh Binh (2 days) → Hue (2 days) → Hoi An (3 days) → Ho Chi Minh City (3 days)

Budget breakdown:
- Flights (from LA, round trip): $680
- Accommodation (mix of hostels + 2 private rooms): $185
- Food: $140 (street food is insanely cheap and amazing)
- Transport (trains, Grab, buses): $95
- Activities/entrance fees: $65
- SIM card: $8
- Misc: $27

What I packed (carry-on only):
- 3 tops, 2 bottoms, 1 dress for temples
- Birkenstock Arizonas + one pair of sneakers
- Anker portable charger
- iPhone 17 Pro + smallrig square filter kit (because it fits over my Casetify case)
- Small first aid kit
- Packable rain jacket , YOU WILL NEED THIS

Biggest surprises:
- Ninh Binh was the highlight of the entire trip. The boat ride through Tam Coc was surreal. Way less touristy than Ha Long Bay.
- Hoi An tailors are legit. Got a custom blazer for $45.
- Grab is cheaper than breathing. Like $1.50 for a 20 min ride.
- Night trains are an experience. Book the 4-berth cabin, bring earplugs.

What I'd change:
- Skip HCMC or cut it to 1 day. Hanoi has way more character.
- Spend longer in Ninh Binh. 2 days wasn't enough.
- Bring a sarong. Doubles as beach towel, temple cover-up, and picnic blanket.

Happy to answer questions if anyone is planning Vietnam!

I’ll be solo traveling through Europe with my dog from mid‑June to the end of July (yes, digital nomad life—though I know that term gets a bad rap). For August, I’m hoping to find a good base, which can be a tricky month. For reference, I'm in my early 40s, no kids, not really a partier and will be working US hours (4-midnight).

Do you have recommendations for cities with a vibrant expat community and locals who don’t all disappear in August? Last year I went to Rome in August and met only one local—it felt like everyone else was an American on vacation. Since I’ll be solo, I’d love a city that stays lively, makes it easy to meet people, and has plenty going on.

Hi! We’re a family in SF (2 adults, 14mo toddler, dog) looking to spend ~4–5 weeks somewhere new, driving from CA (open to going east).

Looking for:

Mild/warm weather (65–75°F)

Pool access (big plus)

Beach or water nearby

Toddler-friendly (parks, libraries, classes)

Not too remote (groceries, healthcare)

Dog-friendly

We’ll likely stay in an Airbnb/extended stay with a kitchenette.

Goal is to “live” somewhere for a month, not just visit — settle into a routine and explore slowly.

Any city/town or neighborhood recs? Would love ideas, especially from folks who’ve done this with a toddler!

Hey everyone! 🇲🇦 I’m building a platform called Marocsphere to solve the guide‑trust crisis in Marrakech. We’ve all heard the stories of "fake guides" and forced shopping stops.

Would you book a guide in advance if you knew they were 100% government‑licensed and guaranteed NOT to take you to commission‑based shops?

I have 3 verified guides (English‑speaking) available for pilots in May/June. If you’re planning a trip and want a hassle‑free experience, DM me! I’m looking for 3 people to test this "trust‑first" model with a 50% deposit to secure your spot.

Hi! 😊

I’m a student from Copenhagen Business School and I’m currently conducting a survey for my bachelor project.

The survey is about travel preferences and takes less than 8 minutes to complete.

Your help would mean a lot! 🙏

👉 https://copenhagenbusiness.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV\_410eoYMVVLGlwSG

Thank you in advance!