Q: Luke, thanks for your time. What excites you the most about your new food tours with Intrepid in Vietnam?
A: I’ve been travelling every year to Vietnam for the past two decades, researching, cooking and learning from street vendors and home cooks, constantly inspired by the flavours. It’s a place that shaped me, both personally and professionally.
I’ve been able to share my love for Vietnam’s food and stories on TV, through books and my restaurants, but there’s nothing like bringing people along to experience it all in real time.
And I’m just as excited to learn alongside them with our local Intrepid leader. Even after all these years, Vietnam always has something new to teach me.
Q: Why do you think Vietnam is such a popular destination for Aussie travellers?
A: Vietnam has always been a popular destination for Aussies because it offers incredible value. It has beautiful scenic landscapes and bustling cities, so there’s something for every type of traveller.
I think also the great Vietnamese food we have in Australia piqued people’s interest in trying the authentic, diverse food scene, making it another major drawcard!
Q: What kind of experience can guests expect on your food tours?
A: This is a nine-day culinary journey from Hanoi through to Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll dine your way from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City with me, a local guide and other food lovers. There’s also lots of sightseeing.
We’ll explore everything traditional markets and rice fields to Michelin-star dining. One night we might be sampling street food in a laneway, the next we’re sharing a home-cooked meal with a local family.
It’s the perfect taster (excuse the pun!) of Vietnam’s incredible culinary diversity.
Q: Are there any Vietnamese dishes or foods that are particular favourites of yours?
A: I always find myself drawn back to Vietnam’s street food. It’s vibrant, there’s lots happening and full of character.
I love a crispy bánh xèo, a golden rice pancake filled with prawns, pork and bean sprouts, wrapped in fresh herbs and dipped into nước mắm. It’s all about balance and texture.
Hu tiếu is another favourite, silky blanched noodles with char siu pork, crunchy bean sprouts, roasted peanuts and plenty of fresh herbs on the side.
And bánh tôm, those beautiful shrimp and sweet potato fritters, crisp on the outside, soft and sweet within.
These are the kinds of dishes that also tell stories of migration, history and the people. That’s what I love most.
Q: Why have food tours become so popular recently?
A: Food is one of the most powerful ways to understand a place. It opens doors and starts conversations.
They are growing in popularity because they offer an authentic, immersive way to connect intimately and authentically with a destination.
It’s a curated experience that gives you access to something new you’d be apprehensive to try or completely unaware of.
Q: Finally, what is it about the partnership with Intrepid that appeals to you so much?
A: It’s really important for me to be aligning with a partner that emphasises sustainable and respectful tourism.
They’re all about connecting curious likeminded travellers and offering authentic experience that go off the beaten path.
Their tours are also with smaller groups which allows for deeper, more personal connections with travellers.
Luke Nguyen Vietnam Food Adventure
Details:
Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
Start: Hanoi Finish: Ho Chi Minh City
Departure Dates:
- June 1 to June 9
- June 2 to June 10
- June 3 to June 11
Price: From $6,410 per person in a twin share room.
