The Magic of Vietnamese Coffee: A Sip Beyond Time

A London-based traveler's tale of his recent trip to Vietnam has gone viral, with his vivid description of the country's strong coffee culture taking center stage. His account of the caffeine-fueled adventure has captivated readers, offering a unique insight into one of Vietnam's most beloved beverages.

Administrator

10 March, 2025

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“I still remember my first Vietnamese iced coffee,” Ben Maguire reminisced on Threads, recounting the moment with a fond smile.

“That initial sip was a delightful surprise, a burst of flavors that danced on my palate. But it was the second sip that truly took me on a journey. My soul seemed to leave my body, and I felt as though I could see through the fabric of time itself. I was vibrating at a frequency that only dogs could hear, and my mind raced with ideas—from starting a business to running for office, and even learning Vietnamese in a mere 10 minutes. It was exhilarating and overwhelming all at once.”

Maguire’s experience with Vietnamese coffee, known for its robust flavor and high caffeine content, is not unique. The post quickly gained traction, resonating with thousands of people who shared their own tales of caffeine-induced adventures in the comments section.

One commenter poetically described Vietnamese iced coffee as “a spiritual awakening, not just a beverage.” They went on to say, “By the third sip, you find yourself reevaluating life choices and communing with your ancestors. It’s an experience that commands respect.”

Another individual shared their own humorous anecdote, stating, “I once had three Vietnamese coffees in six hours, three years ago, and I haven’t slept since. It was an eventful day, to say the least!”

Ben Maguire’s viral post about his eye-opening experience with Vietnamese coffee.

Maguire, intrigued by the vibrant culture and mouthwatering cuisine, found himself drawn to Vietnam. It was a combination of wanderlust, a curiosity piqued by Instagram’s relentless suggestions of bánh mì, and the allure of a culinary scene that promised to be legendary. He couldn’t resist, and so he embarked on a journey that would forever change his perspective.

During this trip, Ho Chi Minh City was his primary destination, with plans for a grand tour of Vietnam tentatively set for the summer. The city left an indelible mark on him, from the hearty bowls of bún bò Huế that warmed his soul to the chaotic yet captivating rhythm of the streets.

“I fell in love with everything about Vietnam,” Maguire confessed. “The people are incredibly warm and welcoming, always eager to lend a helping hand. The culture is a beautiful blend of ancient traditions and modern influences, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere.”

He continued, “From the vibrant street life that never sleeps to the harmonious motorbike symphony, it’s a place where life happens outside. Whether it’s sharing a meal with friends or simply enjoying a conversation over a cup of coffee, Vietnam has a way of making every moment special.”

Maguire also reflected on the intriguing duality of the city, noting how it seamlessly blends the ancient and the modern. “One moment, you find yourself sipping cà phê sữa đá in a century-old alleyway, and the next, you’re taking in the vibrant nightlife from a rooftop bar, with a DJ spinning tunes beneath the sparkling city lights,” he said, capturing the essence of Vietnam’s enchanting contrast.

A cup of coffee at Cheo Leo café, one of the oldest establishments in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Dong Nguyen / Tuoi Tre News

Vietnam, through its people and culture, welcomed Maguire with open arms, making him feel like he belonged. The country’s infectious energy and warm hospitality left an indelible mark on his soul, and he knew that this would not be his last visit.

“Vietnam doesn’t just grow on you,” he concluded. “It grabs you by the hand, pulls you in, and takes you on an unforgettable adventure. It’s a place that truly comes alive, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have experienced even a fraction of what it has to offer.”