Da Nang

Da Nang splits the difference between a laid-back beach town and a rapidly growing modern city. One side of the Han River is all city bustle, while the other is pure coastal relaxation, and thankfully, the traffic is manageable enough that you can enjoy both sides easily. The vibe here is energetic yet relaxed—a place of wide-open beaches, incredible food, and the constant buzz of a city on the rise.

Da Nang is a good spot for a base in Southeast Asia for the right type of traveler. First, the location is great; it's nestled between stunning mountains and a long, sandy coastline, with UNESCO sites like Hoi An and the My Son Sanctuary just a short drive away. Second, the food is famous and ridiculously affordable. You have to try Mì Quảng, the local turmeric noodle dish, and Banh Xeo, a crispy pancake that you wrap and dip. Finally, it's a city of spectacular bridges, especially the Dragon Bridge, which literally breathes fire and water on weekend nights—a sight you won't forget. It strikes a great balance, offering modern comforts and authentic Vietnamese charm without the overwhelming chaos of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

The people in Da Nang can be friendly, though perhaps a bit more reserved than in other parts of Southeast Asia. There's a definite sense of local pride in how clean and organized their city is becoming. While Vietnamese is the official language, you'll find that English is spoken in most tourist-heavy areas, especially by younger people and staff at hotels and restaurants. Don't be shy to use a translation app for street food orders; a little effort goes a long way and is always appreciated. The city has a growing community of expats and digital nomads, which adds a bit of an international flavor to the mix.

You absolutely have to try Mì Quảng—it's the city's signature noodle dish with a turmeric-infused broth, pork, shrimp, and peanuts. Another must-have is Bánh Xèo, a crispy, savory pancake filled with bean sprouts and shrimp that you wrap in rice paper with fresh herbs and dip in a special sauce. For a true local experience, head to a seafood restaurant along the beach, pick your fresh catch from the live tanks, and have it grilled right there. A great meal at a local spot can cost as little as $2-5.

Da Nang is one of Vietnam's most modern cities, and the infrastructure reflects that. The internet is generally fast and reliable, especially in cafes and hotels, making it a solid spot for remote work. Power outages are rare in the main tourist areas. You'll find modern amenities like air conditioning are standard everywhere. The roads are in much better condition and feel safer than in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. The city's airport is also incredibly convenient, located just a few kilometers from the city center. It's a city that's clearly investing in its future, and it shows.

You'll be flying into Da Nang International Airport (DAD), which is conveniently located right in the city. Seriously, it's only about a 10-15 minute drive to either the beach or the city center. The easiest and most reliable method is using the Grab app, Southeast Asia's version of Uber. It's cheap, reliable, and you'll know the price upfront. A car from the airport to My Khe Beach will probably cost around 80,000-100,000 VND ($3-4 USD). Taxis are also readily available just outside the arrivals hall.

The best way to get around Da Nang is by using the Grab app on your phone. You can order either a car or a motorbike taxi (much cheaper and more fun for solo travelers on short hops). Renting a motorbike is also a popular option if you're an experienced rider and want total freedom to explore places like the Hai Van Pass. The main city center and the beach promenade are quite walkable, but the city itself is spread out, so you'll definitely need transport to get between neighborhoods. Public buses exist, but they're not particularly convenient for tourists.

Da Nang is generally a very safe city, and it often feels more comfortable than many other parts of Vietnam. The crime rate is impressively low. The biggest thing to be aware of isn't crime, but traffic. When crossing the street, walk slowly and predictably; the motorbikes are used to flowing around pedestrians. The other thing is to be mindful of common tourist scams. Always use a metered taxi or agree on a price before you get in—or better yet, just use Grab to avoid the issue altogether. Reports of bag snatching on the beach do occur, so avoid leaving valuables unattended when you go for a swim. Be especially wary of aggressive unofficial taxi or Grab touts at the airport; they may try to grab your phone to cancel your legitimate Grab ride and pressure you into their service.