In 2013, Starbucks opened their first coffee shop in Vietnam, hoping to cash in on the population's DEEP love for coffee. However, despite powerful marketing backed by a global name brand, Starbucks has STRUGGLED to overtake the $1 billion Vietnamese coffee market.
In the decade they’ve been in Vietnam, Starbucks has only managed to open 92 stores in a country where the arrogant executives planned to teach the locals how to drink coffee. For context, there are 191 stores in New York City alone. Why the massive failure?
First, to understand why Starbucks failed, we need to understand the Vietnamese people's PROFOUND love affair with coffee that seeps far deeper than a corporate giant's marketing department can estimate.
Walk down a Vietnamese street at ANY hour during the day, even at 2:00am, and you can expect to see the local coffee shops patronized with groups of friends, poets, writers, musicians...who probably have been SLOWLY sipping on their coffee for HOURS....enjoying each other's company and sharing ideas.
They're not in a HURRY to gulp 'n go anywhere, like how Americans treat their coffee as simply a mean to a quick caffeine fix. In fact, if a Vietnamese person invites you to coffee, you should plan for at least 2-4 hours, and maybe bring a guitar along. There is no such thing as “grabbing a quick cup of coffee” for us.
In Vietnam, coffee is thoroughly INTERTWINED into the culture. Do you know how many of our songs, poems, and books romanticize the imagery of the protagonist melancholically sipping their coffee while reminiscing their tragedy? More than I can count.
There is a reason why the classic Vietnamese coffee brewing method, which uses an aluminum filter called "phin," takes 20 MINUTES from start to finish. Hot water leisurely soaks into the tightly packed coffee ground then drip through sand-sized holes at a snail's pace....and that's because while you're waiting for the coffee, you're SUPPOSED to have a chat with your friends, or read a book, or write a song. The end result is an INTENSELY aromatic cup of coffee that will be worth the wait. To Vietnamese, coffee is meant for LINGERING.
And the marketing executives at Starbucks just simply did not understand this part of our culture. And that is why Starbucks overestimated their ability to BULLDOZE over the local mom and pop coffee shops with their overpriced and over-roasted, coffee-flavored sugar water. 😉
‼️I will share the video instruction for brewing a classic cup of Vietnamese coffee below ⬇️ for those who are interested.
Wherever you're headed (unless it's to a galaxy far, far away), let our travel advisories be your guide. Visit travel.state.gov/destination. May the 4th be with you!
29/04/2024
🌿🐒 Discovering Monkey Mia in Western Australia, where the name "Mia" holds a deeper significance, was an exciting find while planning an for a client. In the indigenous Noongar language, "Mia" means "home" or "shelter." Experience the rich cultural heritage of this place as you immerse yourself in its stunning natural beauty and connect with the land that has been home to the Noongar people for generations. From playful dolphins to serene beaches, Monkey Mia welcomes you to experience the true essence of "home" in the heart of Western Australia. 🏠🌅
20/03/2024
Take a thrilling adventure to Crocosaurus Cove in the Northern Territory of Australia. Witness the captivating world of Australia's native inhabitants, including prehistoric crocodiles and majestic fish. Brace yourself for the "Cage of Death" experience, where you'll be submerged in a transparent cage with some of the largest saltwater crocodiles in existence. Our tailored trips are designed to make your journey seamless, stress-free, and unforgettable. Join us now to embrace travel's wild, wonderful, and wacky side and create unforgettable memories. 🌟🐊
21/01/2024
I'm not saving lives or sending people to space (yet 🤪), but meticulously planned travel is rejuvenating the spirits of my clients. I'm proud of that! Stress Free Travel Planning is a few clicks away.
Imagine replacing the rustling of wrapping paper with the whispers of history in ancient ruins, or swapping out tinsel for a sunset sail by the coastline.
This holiday season, talk to your family about embracing the joy of travel experiences in 2024 and beyond. There's an entire world to explore and countless memories to be made that no gift under the tree could ever match! 🌏✈️
18/11/2023
Big thanks to all the people who make our lives easier and help us understand local customs.
On National Recognition Day, we celebrate the contributions of those who are the backbone of every U.S. mission abroad. We join our community in recognizing our FSN and LES colleagues for their commitment and tireless efforts, often in stressful and demanding situations.
11/11/2023
As U.S. Expats, we honor our American veterans today. Your service and sacrifices are felt worldwide, bringing a piece of home to every corner of the globe. Thank you for your bravery and for keeping the spirit of America alive, no matter where we are.
09/11/2023
Greetings from !!
On November 5th, I set foot in Marrakech for the first time. It's an ancient city that has stood at the crossroads of history and culture for centuries.
I'm here with fellow travel professionals with whom I'll spend 11 days as we learn about and tour this fascinating country together to bring our clients off-the-beaten-path experiences supporting local women-owned businesses and cooperatives.
I'm excited to share some of my experiences with you over the next few days.
Do you have questions about Morocco? Post them in the comments or DM me!
14/10/2023
Stargazers, get ready!! Some lucky people in the Western Hemisphere will witness a "ring of fire" during Saturday's eclipse, many others will experience the phenomenon of crescent sunlight!
Check the path via NASAs website.
, , , , , and many western states in the US are in for a treat!
We're here to support you every step of the way as you prepare for your music festival trip. Our dedicated Guest Services team is available to answer any questions or concerns you may have about the event, our packages, travel options, and more. From planning your trip to enjoying your stay in Mexic...
29/09/2023
80% of my clients are government employees, and this shutdown is affecting our leisure travel, Bleisure and relocation travel planning.
Congress, work for us, not your personal beliefs. Please and thank you from a small business owner.
It won’t cancel your flight or cruise, but the longer it goes on there could be peripheral effects.
23/09/2023
News of the earthquake in Morocco was devastating! If you're living in or planning travel to an earthquake prone location, like me - I have a trip planned to Morocco in November - you might be wondering how to protect yourself. Maybe this technology can help.
Your phone can now warn you seconds before a destructive quake hits—but it depends on where in the world you live.
27/08/2023
Have you ever wondered what happens to unclaimed baggage?
This company collects, resets, and assesses the value of items then resells. Check it out!
Starting October 1st, 2023, you'll need a tourist visa to travel to !
Plan your travel at least three (3) months in advance, as visa application processing takes 15 to 30 business days. Approved visas will allow travelers to stay a maximum of 90 days.
* Get more info: bit.ly/etgbrazilvisa *
Citizens of , , & the
21/08/2023
If is on your wish list of places to travel, now's the time to visit. New eVisa laws now allow you to stay up to 90 days, instead of 30! Contact us - Let's plan that trip to explore the beautiful and diverse S-shaped country! Link in comments.
18/08/2023
Are you planning to travel to soon? If so, remember to complete this customs form before you get to !
I'd recommend you fill out this form before or after you check into your flight so you're not relying on your roaming plan or free wifi when you touchdown.
16/08/2023
Ready to Experience Istanbul's Wonders? 🌉
can now get to Istanbul in 10 hours!
Don't just dream it, live it! Let Expats Traveling Group, LLC craft your perfect Istanbul escapade. Dive into a journey curated just for you, and watch as Istanbul’s mysteries unfold. ✨
📞 Contact us NOW and set your sights on the journey of a lifetime! 🧳 https://www.expatstraveling.com/planning
21/07/2023
Have you heard of the new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) being implemented for all travelers in 2024?
ETIAS requires a quick online application, with approval delivered via email. Most applicants will be granted travel authorization within an hour, but if further checks are required, the process could take up to 96 hours.
I'm immensely grateful to all my clients who trust me with their travel plans and budgets. A big shout out to my worldwide partners who make each trip unique and memorable. My team makes it happen -- romance, wellness, multi-generational/family or group travel!
It's been a busy 2023 with travel planning to &
I can't wait to see where my clients will go in the next half of the year into #2024! You all inspire me! Thank you!
Let us know if you want to include conservation activities in your travel plans! We'd be honored put Mother Earth at the top of your travel goals.
Looking for travel inspiration? Visit the places where conservationists are making a difference.
17/04/2023
Japan has no shortage of historical sites, but if wellness is your focus, be sure to include the oldest hot spring hotel in the world! It has been operated by the same family for over 1,300 years, even catering to samurai.
Contact Us to help you include this incredible during your journey through .
Koshu Nishiyama Hot Spring,
14/04/2023
Wanderlust... 🤩
Kaaimans River, Western Cape, South Africa 🇿🇦
The water is clean, crystal clear and completely harmless.
The colour is due to precious minerals in the water seeping through the rock.
The river flows straight out into the Indian ocean but the red just stops abruptly and instantly changed to a greeny/blue at the ocean edge.
12/04/2023
📣 Qantas will launch its first-ever New York to Auckland service starting June 2023!
This new route to Auckland provides non-stop service to New Zealand from New York with better connectivity from the US East Coast and Eastern Canada. It also seamlessly connects to Christchurch, Wellington, Dunedin, Queenstown and destinations beyond New Zealand so you can more!
06/04/2023
Looking for Cherry Blossoms in Asia? Look beyond the lure of ! S. Korea is less crowded with so much culture and beauty to enjoy. Plus, Korea has suspended using Electronic Travel Authorization for the US making travel even easier!
📸 Cherry Blossoms of Gyeongpoho Lake, Gangneung
15/03/2023
🗣️ Guests of the , your hotel/resort cannot control the flow of .
Mother Nature doesn't operate on the itinerary we create, but you can. Let me design a tropical getaway in your destination of choice that gets you off the seaweed beach and on to exploration and excitement.
Since 2011, a fleet of seaweed patches double the size of the contiguous U.S. has cycled from West Africa to Florida, threatening beaches from Martinique to Miami. This year, it could grow bigger.
06/03/2023
Are you using your vacation days wisely? Planning ahead with a travel agent can help maximize your paid time off!
✈Send a destination wish list for the year.
🏝Share how many paid days off you have + how many extra days you're willing to take.
🤸Got kids? I'll use the school calendar to align travel dates.
☔️ Match you with an annual travel insurance policy covering your entire family for 365 days of travel.
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Click the link in the comments to uncover the magic of the Year of the Dragon! Lunar (Chinese) New Year 2024 is upon us, and it's all about tapping into that dynamic energy.
Think powerful waterfalls and ancient temples where dragons still whisper tales of old. As they say, to travel is to live; let's live vividly this new year!
DM us to shape your journey with the spirit of the dragon! 🔥🐲✈️
#DragonYear #TravelGoals #AdventureAwaits #LNY #ExpatsTraveling #expatlife
https://multimedia.scmp.com/infographics/culture/article/3250661/year-of-the-dragon/index.html
A Moment of Vulnerability: I was an absolute nervous wreck about going on an ocean cruise. It had been over 16 years ago since my first ocean cruise, and it was my last. Until recently...
Don't get me wrong; I love a boating adventure. Since then, I've been on and thoroughly enjoyed River Cruises while living in Europe and yachting off various beaches in Thailand, but after 14 years of marriage to a guy who loves ocean cruising, it was time to give it another try.
We returned from #RoyalCaribbean #SpectrumoftheSeas a few days ago! Despite my hesitation, I started with an open mind and left five days later with a more open heart to ocean cruising. I learned a lot about the ship and the RC standard of service. The kids want to go back -- for a more extended cruise, so that speaks volumes!
The travel gods worked in my favor, and my cruise-loving husband is grateful.
*What kind of travel could you try to get out of your comfort zone?*
#foreignservice #traveladvisor #summerbreak #travel #familytravel #internationaltravel #expatstraveling #travelagent #bookhuman #oceancruises #cruiselife #yolo #faceyourfears #summervacation #familyvacation #oceancruise #rivercrusie #getoutyourcomfortzone
When you find an open day in your vacation itinerary, would you rather spend it having fun at an amusement park 🎢 or relaxing at the spa 💆♀️?
Comment your choice down below. ⬇️ Can’t decide? Why not both!?
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#travelbetter #bookhuman #Travelagent #EFM #familytravel #familyvacation #summerbreak #internationaltravel #expatstraveling #adventuretravel #statedepartment #foreignservice #travel #travelagent #grouptravel #wellnesstravel #travelagency #traveladvisor
Happy Father's day from my family to yours!
This is an old picture, but it's one of my favorites from one of our best family vacations in Bali, Indonesia. Bali is such a beautiful and especially serene experience that I'll be recreating this trip for our family during the summer break. 🥰
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#fathersday #bali #internationaltravel #southeastasia #indonesia #MarriottBonvoy #familytravel #travelagent #traveladvisor #familyvacation #summerbreak #beachbum #ForeignService #statedepartment #expatstraveling
Happy Earth Day 2022!
Celebrate today by considering how you can care for Mother Earth! Need ideas:
1. Car pool or go car-free
2. Plant a tree or grow something
3. Participate in a neighborhood cleanup
4. Consider cloth diapers for your baby.
5. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
As you journey around the world: “Take only memories, leave only footprints.” - Chief Seattle of the Duwamish Tribe #EarthDay #SaveMotherEarth #travel #traveling #internationaltravel #expatstraveling #destinationweddding #adventuretravel
🌐 International borders are opening worldwide! 🙌🏾 Let's find your next beautiful body of water to enjoy. 😎
📧 Contact us to begin planning your sun and sand vacay today!
⛱️ https://www.expatstraveling.com/planning
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About Us
Expats Traveling Group is a full service international travel agency.
We provide air, land, and sea itineraries for independent, guided or fully escorted tours and/excursions.
Our agency was born out of consistent questions that military, diplomatic and expat employees and families have when posted overseas – where to go, when to go, and how to best get there within budget AND what can we learn as we journey. Expats Traveling Group answers those questions and takes away any hint of frustration by handling all the hours of research and negotiation that may be necessary for booking so you can enjoy your experiences.
Does Expats Traveling Group service the non-expat traveler?
Absolutely! The non-expat international traveler will benefit greatly from our local approach to building travel itineraries with white glove guided tours and/or excursions.
We are unique because we want you to journey like a local not a tourist.
Living abroad for so many years and having developed in-country partners on every continent, we’re able to curate itineraries that ensure you’re culturally immersed and carefully informed of all the must know complexities of your desired location. These details include, but are not limited to Tourist Visa requirements, safety of public transportation, fun and educational activities for kids, packing list recommendations and local customs related to tipping or dress code and more!
This is one of the classic travel quotes that everyone would be well-advised to remember. It’s heartbreaking to see historic areas filled with trash by careless travelers. We have a responsibility to preserve the magnificence of our Earth as we wander about. Booking through Expats Traveling Group can ensure your #travelgoals are also #sustainable travel choices.