Hai Phong nightlife might not be as active as Hanoi – only a few hours away by car. But if you explore a bit, especially around the Minh Khai District, you’ll find all sorts of choices. Bars, nightclubs, discos and karaoke joints are to be found while the live music scene here has become more and more common and quite active lately. This comes as something of a surprise considering Hai Phong is not a big party town. Though it’s true that most businesses close their doors early, there are a few places that stay open after midnight. Visitors just need to ask around and the best source is at your hotel tour or receptionist desk. They should be able to lead you to the nearest cool place for a fun night out. Alternatively see the following list for some recommendations.

Markets are among the best places in Vietnam for travellers looking to experience the daily lives of its local population. Operating as early as 03:00, you’ll find throngs of marketgoers haggling for the freshest fruit, vegetables, seafood and meat. Vietnam markets are also great for sampling a wide range of local delicacies at affordable prices, as they are often fitted with a dedicated food court surrounded by food stalls.   While most markets in Vietnam have been in operation for hundreds of years, there are several (especially those located in the cities) that are now geared towards tourists, featuring stalls selling handicrafts, souvenirs and pre-packaged food items. While goods here are sold at relatively low prices, you can still exercise your bargaining skills to get better deals. Read on for our handy guide on Vietnam’s most popular local markets.