Vietnam has rapidly become one of Asia’s most dynamic business hubs, attracting international conferences, startup ecosystems, and multinational investments while offering world-class relaxation just steps away from gleaming skyscrapers. Extend your work trip with rooftop sunsets, spa retreats, or weekend getaways — all without breaking the bank. Here’s how to master bleisure in Vietnam in the top cities.
1. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – The Business Powerhouse with Non-Stop Energy
Vietnam’s economic engine offers state-of-the-art convention centers like SECC and modern office districts in District 1 and 7. After meetings, transition effortlessly to leisure mode.
Business side: Excellent international flights, WeWork/Dreamplex coworking spaces, and networking events in startup hubs like Saigon Innovation Hub.
Leisure switch: Rooftop bars at Bitexco Tower or Chill Skybar for sunset cocktails, street food tours in District 3, or a quick spa session at Temple Leaf. Weekend escape: Day trip to Cu Chi Tunnels or Mekong Delta canals.
Top bleisure stays: Park Hyatt Saigon or The Reverie (central luxury with pools and spas, ~$250–500/night).
2. Hanoi – Cultural Capital with Sophisticated Workspaces
The political and cultural heart of Vietnam blends French colonial charm with cutting-edge business facilities. Government meetings, embassies, and creative industries thrive here.
Business side: Reliable high-speed internet, Toong and UP Coworking chains with heritage building vibes, and venues like National Convention Center for large events.
Leisure switch: Evening walks around Hoan Kiem Lake, egg coffee at hidden cafés in the Old Quarter, or water puppet shows. Unwind with a traditional herbal massage or craft beer on Ta Hien “Beer Street.”
Weekend escape: Overnight Ha Long Bay cruise (2.5-hour drive + shuttle).
Top bleisure stays: Sofitel Legend Metropole (historic elegance with modern amenities) or Apricot Hotel (art-inspired boutique).
3. Da Nang – Beachside Conferences and Ultimate Relaxation
Central Vietnam’s rising star hosts international events like APEC summits and boasts a modern international airport with direct Asian flights. It’s the perfect “work by day, beach by evening” city.
Business side: Ariyana Convention Centre for large-scale events, Enouvo and Dream Space coworking with sea views, and a growing tech scene.
Leisure switch: My Khe Beach for post-work swims, Dragon Bridge fire shows on weekends, or marble mountain hikes. Indulge in world-class spas at resorts along the coast.
Weekend escape: Quick trip to Hoi An’s lantern-lit ancient town (30 minutes) or Ba Na Hills fantasy park.
Top bleisure stays: InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula (cliffside luxury) or Furama Resort (beachfront with kids’ club if traveling with family).
Bonus Bleisure Extensions
- Hoi An (near Da Nang) → Tailor-made suits during lunch breaks, lantern releases at night.
- Ha Long Bay (from Hanoi) → Luxury overnight cruises with onboard meeting spaces.
Practical Bleisure Tips for Vietnam
- Visas & Entry: 90-day e-visa for most nationalities; business visas available for longer stays.
- Coworking & Connectivity: Viettel/Mobifone SIMs offer cheap unlimited data (~$10/month); most hotels and cafés have fiber-optic WiFi.
- Transport: Grab app for seamless rides; domestic flights (VietJet/Bamboo) under $50 between cities.
- Wellness & Recovery: Affordable spas (~$30–100 for full treatments); yoga classes and rooftop pools abound.
- Budget: Daily bleisure costs $100–300 (mid-range hotel, meals, transport) — far less than Singapore or Hong Kong.
- Best time: February–April or September–November for pleasant weather nationwide.
Bleisure in Vietnam isn’t just possible — it’s irresistible. Close your laptop, step outside, and find ancient temples next to skyscrapers, street phở after boardroom lunches, and beach sunsets following conference calls. Turn your next business trip into a rejuvenating adventure.
Which city will you blend work and play in first — Saigon’s buzz or Da Nang’s beaches? Share your bleisure plans in the comments — safe travels and productive meetings! 💼🏖️
