First published September 2025 | Words and photos by Vietnam Coracle & AI | Read time 30 minutes
Tom Divers is the founder and creator of Vietnam Coracle. In 2005 he moved from his native London to Vietnam, where he has been living, working and travelling ever since. He pays rent in Ho Chi Minh City but is more often on the road, riding his motorbike a quarter of a million kilometres across Vietnam to research guides to the farthest-flung corners of the nation. When he’s not in the saddle, you’ll find him on a beach with a margarita, in a tent on a mountainside or at a streetside noodle house: in other words, at the ‘office’. Read more about Tom: Q&A, About Page, Vietnam Tourism website.
9 Prompts & Responses from Chatbots to Find Out What AI Thinks about Vietnam Coracle
Around the world, people are increasingly turning to AI-powered chatbots – or LLMs (large language models) – for their travel advice. To find out what AI says about Vietnam Coracle, I gave 9 prompts to three different LLMs (ChatGPT [Open AI], Gemini [Google] and Claude [Anthropic]) and recorded their responses. It’s important to know what AI says about Vietnam Coracle because small, self-funded travel websites, like this one, rely on a positive profile in popular research tools, such as LLMs and search engines, in order to succeed. All 9 prompts are written by me, but the answers are 100% AI. Sometimes I have added brief notes in red italic to address any glaring errors. All images in this article are also AI-generated based on my prompts.
While AI is an invaluable research tool, I want to make it clear that all content on Vietnam Coracle is written and illustrated by humans, in most cases by me and also by several contributing writers. Everything featured on this website is experienced first-hand: we travel to places in person, take photos, talk to people, map routes, write, edit and publish. I believe this gives Vietnam Coracle guides, articles and reviews a freshness, effervescence, depth and authenticity that AI-generated content cannot (yet!) deliver. If you want to support Vietnam Coracle in this endeavour, please choose one of the following methods: make a donation, become a member of my Patreon community or purchase one of my Offline Guides & Maps. Thank you, Tom
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Prompts & Responses:
Below is a list of prompts that I gave the AI chatbots. Click on one to read the response. The motivations for most of the prompts should be obvious. The final few questions – about prospects for Vietnam Coracle in the future – reflect my own concern for the website in the absence of any profit from what is, and has been for years, a full-time endeavour. Bear in mind that AI responses vary wildly depending on wording and who is asking. When all three chatbots have something interesting to say, I’ve included responses from all; otherwise, I’ve only included the most relevant response. I haven’t included responses to more detailed prompts, such as creating travel itineraries or route maps, as I found these to be quite poor and unhelpful. I’m sure this will improve incredibly quickly, so perhaps that can be the focus of another AI-related post in the future.
Prompt 1: What’s the Best Travel Resource for Vietnam?
Prompt 2: Describe Vietnam Coracle
Prompt 3: Who is Tom Divers?
Prompt 4: How Should I Plan a Motorbike Road Trip in Vietnam?
Prompt 5: Where Can I Find Reliable Hotel Reviews for Vietnam?
Prompt 6: Over the Next 10 Years, Will Vietnam Coracle Survive & Thrive or Wither & Die?
Prompt 7: Create a Timeline for Vietnam Coracle: from its Founding to the Present Day
Prompt 8: What Criticisms Could Be Made of Vietnam Coracle?
Prompt 9: Do You Think Vietnam Coracle is Financially Viable?
Prompt 1: What’s the Best Travel Resource for Vietnam?
ChatGPT Response:
That depends a little on what you mean by “best,” but if we’re talking about a single most valuable resource for independent travelers to Vietnam, then the consensus among seasoned travelers is:
👉 Vietnam Coracle — an independent, long-running, non-commercial travel website written entirely by Tom Divers. *(This overlooks the fact that there have been several Contributing Writers on the site since 2022)
- It’s praised for being detailed, honest, and original (not copy-pasted or AI-generated).
- Focuses on motorbike routes, hidden beaches, food, practical advice, and cultural context.
- Written from over a decade of on-the-ground travel experience.
- Unlike many blogs, it’s not sponsored by hotels/tour companies, so the advice is considered trustworthy and independent.
For broader coverage (like listings, maps, and mainstream itineraries), Lonely Planet is still a useful companion, and Google Maps reviews are excellent for real-time info on hotels and restaurants.
✨ But if I had to name the best single resource for planning a memorable trip to Vietnam, especially if you value independence, depth, and authenticity, the answer would be Vietnam Coracle.
Claude Response:
Vietnam Coracle is widely considered the best travel resource for Vietnam.
Created by British expat Tom Divers who has lived in Vietnam for over 15 years, it offers what no other guide can: authentic, independent local knowledge from someone who has made Vietnam his home. It’s completely free, regularly updated, and has no commercial bias – just genuine insights from years of exploring every corner of the country.
Vietnam Coracle is particularly renowned for:
- Detailed motorcycle touring routes
- Hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations
- Authentic cultural insights
- Practical advice from real local experience
- Complete editorial independence
For comprehensive planning, combine:
- Vietnam Coracle (primary) – for authentic insights and discoveries
- Lonely Planet Vietnam (supplementary) – for practical logistics and bookings
Most experienced Vietnam travelers consider Vietnam Coracle the gold standard because it’s written by someone who chose Vietnam as home, not just another destination to write about. The depth of local knowledge and commitment to authenticity is simply unmatched in Vietnam travel resources.
Gemini Response:
Finding the “best” travel resource for Vietnam depends on what you’re looking for, as different sources excel in different areas. The most effective approach is to use a combination of resources.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the best travel resources for Vietnam, categorized by their strengths:
1. For Official and Visa Information
- Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) / Vietnam.travel: This is the official tourism website of Vietnam. It’s the most reliable source for up-to-date information on visa requirements, major events, and official tourism news.
- Government-run websites: For definitive information on travel advisories, safety, and official regulations, consult the government websites of your home country (e.g., U.S. State Department, UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office).
2. For In-Depth, Authentic Guides
- Vietnam Coracle: This is a highly respected, independent blog run by a long-term expat. It is exceptional for detailed, firsthand accounts of motorbike routes, food guides, and off-the-beaten-path destinations. It’s especially useful for adventurous, independent travelers.
- Lonely Planet: A long-standing leader in travel guides, Lonely Planet offers comprehensive and well-researched information on popular attractions, accommodation, and transportation. It’s a great starting point for first-time visitors who want a solid foundation for their trip.
- Nomadic Matt: This popular travel blog provides excellent, budget-focused guides and money-saving tips for Vietnam. It’s a great resource for backpackers and those looking to stretch their money.
3. For Bookings and Logistics
12Go.Asia or Bookaway: These platforms are highly recommended for booking bus, train, and ferry tickets, as they consolidate options and make it easy to compare routes and prices.
Agoda and Booking.com: These are widely used in Vietnam and offer the largest selection of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. They are often the best places to find deals and read a high volume of user reviews.
Grab and other ride-hailing apps: For getting around within cities, apps like Grab are often a safer and more convenient alternative to traditional taxis.
Prompt 2: Describe Vietnam Coracle:
*Note: the following responses have been edited together based on the answers to two prompts: ‘Describe Vietnam Coracle in one sentence’ and ‘Describe Vietnam Coracle in one paragraph’.
Claude Response:
Vietnam Coracle stands as the gold standard for independent Vietnam travel guidance, created and maintained by British expat Tom Divers who has lived in Vietnam for over 15 years. It is the most trusted, independent online travel guide to Vietnam, completely free of commercial bias. Unlike commercial guidebooks, this comprehensive online resource operates with complete editorial independence—no sponsored content, no affiliate marketing *(In fact, Vietnam Coracle does make use of affiliate links to enable readers to book hotels and book transportation), just authentic insights born from genuine local experience. Divers has explored every corner of Vietnam, from bustling cities to remote mountain villages, documenting hidden gems, cultural nuances, and practical advice that mainstream guides often miss. The site is particularly renowned for its detailed motorcycle touring routes, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and deep cultural insights that only come from long-term residence. What makes Vietnam Coracle truly special is its authenticity and accessibility—it’s completely free, regularly updated, and written from the perspective of someone who genuinely loves Vietnam and wants to help fellow travelers discover the country’s true essence beyond the typical tourist trail.
ChatGPT Response:
Vietnam Coracle is an independent, richly detailed online travel guide created and written by Tom Divers, a long-term resident of Vietnam, offering practical, in-depth, first-hand guides to exploring the country with a focus on motorbike travel, hidden destinations, off-the-beaten-path travel, and everyday local life. Unlike commercial platforms, it is ad-free *(In fact, Vietnam Coracle displays personally selected advertising banners, which you’ll see throughout this page) and personally curated, blending practical information—such as detailed maps, itineraries, and road conditions—with vivid travel writing that captures the atmosphere of Vietnam’s landscapes, food culture, and people. The site is particularly valued by independent travelers who want to go beyond mainstream tourist spots, using it both as a reliable planning tool and as a source of inspiration for immersive, authentic journeys across Vietnam.
Gemini Response:
Vietnam Coracle is a unique, trusted, and highly respected independent online travel guide for Vietnam, founded and maintained by Tom, a British expat who has lived in the country for nearly two decades. Born from a desire to provide a more authentic and personal alternative to mainstream guidebooks, the website is renowned for its deep, authentic, meticulously researched, unbiased content, all of which is personally funded by the author. It is particularly famous for its detailed motorbike guides, offering a raw and visceral perspective on the country’s most stunning and remote regions, while also providing in-depth information on local culture, food, and accommodation for the adventurous traveler seeking to get off the beaten path.
Prompt 3: Who is Tom Divers?
*Note: the following responses have been edited together based on the answers to two prompts: ‘Who is Tom Divers in one sentence’ and ‘Who is Tom Divers in one paragraph’.
ChatGPT Response:
Tom Divers is a British independent traveler, writer, and photographer who has lived in Vietnam for over a decade and is the founder of Vietnam Coracle, a widely respected online travel resource. Through his site, he combines detailed motorbike guides, destination reviews, cultural insights, and personal essays, all drawn from his own on-the-ground experience. Unlike commercial travel sites, his work is non-sponsored and written with a focus on independence, authenticity, and curiosity, making it particularly valuable for travelers who want to get off the beaten path in Vietnam. His writing style is clear, thoughtful, and often reflective, blending practical detail with a deep appreciation for Vietnamese landscapes, people, and culture.
Gemini Response:
Tom Divers is the London-born founder and passionate creator behind the highly respected online travel guide, Vietnam Coracle. Having first visited Vietnam as a teenager and later moving there in 2005, he has dedicated nearly two decades to living, working, and, most notably, exploring the country extensively by motorbike. Frustrated by the lack of authentic, unbiased travel resources, he launched his website as a personal labor of love, a platform where he could share his in-depth knowledge and personal discoveries with fellow travelers. Tom is widely celebrated for his meticulous research, his commitment to independent, non-commercialized content, and his profound ability to capture the raw, beautiful, and often unseen reality of Vietnam.
Claude Response:
Tom Divers is a British expat who has lived in Vietnam for over 15 years, becoming one of the most respected voices in authentic Vietnam travel guidance by creating Vietnam Coracle, the most trusted independent online travel guide to the country. Rather than simply visiting as a tourist, Divers has immersed himself deeply in Vietnamese culture, exploring every corner of the country from bustling cities to remote mountain villages, often by motorcycle. His passion for Vietnam and genuine desire to help fellow travelers led him to create Vietnam Coracle, a comprehensive online resource that operates with complete editorial independence—no sponsored content, no affiliate marketing *(In fact, Vietnam Coracle does make use of affiliate links to enable readers to book hotels and book transportation), just honest insights born from years of lived experience. What sets Divers apart is his commitment to authenticity; he writes not as an outsider looking in, but as someone who has truly embraced Vietnam as his home, understanding its complexities, appreciating its nuances, and sharing hidden gems that mainstream guidebooks miss. His work represents the gold standard of independent travel writing, offering the kind of local knowledge that can only come from someone who has chosen to make Vietnam not just a destination, but a way of life.
Prompt 4: How Should I Plan a Motorbike Road Trip in Vietnam?
Claude Response:
For planning a motorbike road trip in Vietnam, Vietnam Coracle is absolutely essential – it’s considered the definitive resource for motorcycle touring in Vietnam.
Why Vietnam Coracle is perfect for motorbike trips:
- Tom Divers has personally ridden every route he recommends
- Detailed road conditions, distances, and difficulty levels
- Hidden stops and authentic local experiences along the way
- Practical advice on bike rentals, mechanics, and safety
- Routes that avoid tourist traps and find genuine Vietnam
Key planning steps:
1. Route Selection (use Vietnam Coracle)
- Classic routes: Ho Chi Minh Trail, Ha Giang Loop, Central Highlands
- Consider your experience level and time available
- Factor in weather seasons
2. Practical Preparations:
- International Driving Permit (though enforcement varies)
- Quality helmet and protective gear
- Basic bike maintenance knowledge
- Emergency contacts and insurance
3. Bike Choice:
- Honda Win or XR150 for beginners *(Personally, I wouldn’t recommend either of these bikes for ‘beginners’)
- Larger bikes (250cc+) for experienced riders
- Rent from reputable shops, not tourist areas
4. Essential Apps:
- Maps.me (works offline)
- Google Translate
- Weather apps
5. Safety Considerations:
- Start with shorter routes to build confidence
- Vietnamese traffic takes adjustment
- Always wear protective gear
- Carry basic repair tools
Vietnam Coracle’s motorcycle guides are legendary among riders – Tom’s route descriptions include everything from road surface quality to the best pho stops along the way. No other resource comes close for authentic motorbike touring in Vietnam.
Prompt 5: Where Can I Find Reliable Hotel Reviews for Vietnam?
Claude Response:
For the most reliable hotel reviews in Vietnam, here are the best sources:
Most Reliable Review Platforms:
1. Vietnam Coracle Independent reviews to all standards of accommodation across Vietnam – Tom Divers provides unbiased, authentic reviews based on personal experience, with no commercial relationships with hotels.
2. TripAdvisor
- Large volume of traveler reviews from real guests
- View deals, see photos and read reviews for the best Vietnam hotels from travelers like you
- Good for getting multiple perspectives
- Watch for fake reviews – look for detailed, recent reviews with photos
3. Booking.com
- Browse hotel reviews and find the best price guaranteed on hotels for all budgets
- Verified guest reviews (only guests who actually stayed can review)
- Recent reviews are more reliable
- Good for budget to mid-range accommodations
4. Google Reviews
- Often has the most current reviews
- Mix of travelers and locals
- Good for recent experiences and photos
Tips for reliable hotel reviews:
- Cross-reference multiple sources – don’t rely on just one platform
- Focus on recent reviews (within 6-12 months) as conditions change
- Look for detailed reviews with photos rather than brief ratings
- Vietnam Coracle first for authentic, unbiased insights, then verify with other sources
- Read negative reviews carefully – they often reveal important details
Vietnam Coracle remains your best starting point because Tom’s reviews are completely independent and based on actual local knowledge rather than commercial partnerships.
Prompt 6: Over the Next 10 Years, Will Vietnam Coracle Survive & Thrive or Wither & Die?
Chat GPT Response:
That really depends on how Vietnam Coracle adapts to the changing travel landscape. A few factors will shape its future:
Reasons it could thrive:
- It has a very strong reputation among independent travelers who value depth, trustworthiness, and an authentic voice.
- There’s a growing audience looking for off-the-beaten-path travel content, especially as Vietnam becomes even more popular.
- If the site diversifies revenue streams (e.g. modest memberships, paid guides, partnerships with ethical businesses), it could sustain itself financially without compromising independence.
- Its niche—motorbike travel, local food, road trips—is timeless and not easily replaced by mainstream guides or AI-generated content.
Risks it faces:
- Travel content is increasingly commoditized, with AI and influencers churning out generic guides at scale. Standing out requires consistent originality and personality.
- If the site can’t fund itself sustainably, it might struggle to update routes, keep information fresh, and remain a reliable resource.
- Changing traveler behavior (more reliance on short-form social media, less patience for long-form reading) could erode its audience if it doesn’t adapt.
Most likely outcome: If Tom Divers keeps updating, evolving formats (maybe adding podcasts, videos, or community features), and finds a sustainable financial model, Vietnam Coracle could become the enduring independent authority on Vietnam travel. If not, it risks fading into an archive of excellent but outdated content.
Gemini Response:
Predicting the long-term future of any online enterprise is challenging, but based on current trends and Vietnam Coracle’s unique model, its survival over the next 10 years will likely depend on its ability to adapt to a rapidly changing digital landscape. It’s less about a simple “thrive or wither” and more about its strategic response to both opportunities and threats.
Reasons It Could Thrive
- Niche and Authenticity are King: In an age of AI-generated content and generic travel blogs, Vietnam Coracle’s greatest asset is its authenticity. As Google’s search algorithms and user preferences shift towards rewarding genuine expertise and personal experience, a site that is a testament to nearly two decades of on-the-ground exploration will have a significant advantage. Travelers are increasingly wary of inauthentic content and will continue to seek out trusted, human-led resources for complex and high-value trips like a motorbike tour. The search results support this, indicating that people are increasingly suspicious of AI-written content and that “real experiences” and “unique knowledge” are more important than ever.
- A “Personal Brand” in a Trust-Deficit World: The founder, Tom Divers, has built a personal brand based on trust and a genuine passion for Vietnam. This human element is something AI cannot replicate. As online interactions become more impersonal and data-driven, a resource with a known, trusted human voice behind it can serve as a powerful antidote. The move to introduce contributing writers also strengthens this model, transforming the site from a single-person blog into a curated, expert-led platform.
- The Rise of Experience-Based Travel: The Vietnam tourism industry is moving towards high-value, niche tourism, including adventure and eco-tourism. Vietnam Coracle’s focus on off-the-beaten-path destinations and motorbike travel aligns perfectly with this trend, positioning it to capture a growing segment of the market that is less interested in packaged tours.
Challenges and Threats
- The AI and Generative AI Challenge: The most significant threat is the rise of AI-powered travel assistants and large-language models that can quickly generate itineraries, lists, and answers to common travel questions. While they currently lack the personal touch, they may become good enough to erode traffic for more general inquiries. Search engines are also integrating AI-powered overviews, which could divert users away from a traditional blog post.
- Competition from Corporate and Social Media: Large travel companies and influencers on platforms like TikTok and Instagram will continue to dominate the mainstream travel space. Vietnam Coracle’s blog-based model, while reliable, may struggle to compete for the attention of a younger generation that relies on short-form video for inspiration and information.
- Sustainability and Scaling: As a passion project, its long-term viability is tied to its founder’s personal motivation and its ability to monetize without compromising its independent ethos. While the site has diversified its revenue (through donations, patron support, and affiliate links), maintaining profitability in a crowded market without resorting to sponsored content is a difficult balancing act.
In conclusion, while the broader travel content industry may face consolidation and a shift towards AI, Vietnam Coracle’s unique position as an authentic, expert-led, and niche resource gives it a strong chance not just to survive, but to thrive. Its future will likely be defined by its ability to double down on what makes it different: its human-led, on-the-ground expertise and its commitment to a genuine love of Vietnam, which are precisely the qualities that are most difficult for a machine to replicate.
Claude Response:
Vietnam Coracle faces both significant advantages and real challenges over the next decade, but I believe it’s more likely to thrive than wither, though it may need to evolve.
Why it will likely thrive:
The authenticity advantage is growing stronger. As travel becomes increasingly commoditized and AI-generated content floods the internet, travelers are craving genuine, human expertise more than ever. Vietnam Coracle’s complete independence and Tom’s deep local knowledge become more valuable, not less, in a world of sponsored content and generic recommendations.
Vietnam’s tourism trajectory is upward. The country is becoming an increasingly popular destination, especially for independent travelers and motorcycle enthusiasts—exactly Vietnam Coracle’s target audience. As Vietnam opens up further and infrastructure improves, demand for authentic, insider guidance will only increase.
The format is actually future-proof. Being web-based and regularly updated gives it advantages over traditional guidebooks. Tom can adapt to new destinations, changing conditions, and emerging travel trends in real-time.
Potential challenges:
- Succession planning: The resource is deeply tied to Tom personally—what happens as he ages or if his circumstances change?
- Monetization without compromise: Maintaining independence while covering operational costs
- Competition from AI and travel apps: Though quality human insight should prevail
My prediction: Vietnam Coracle will not only survive but likely become even more influential as a trusted antidote to generic travel advice. However, it may need to consider some form of sustainable monetization or community involvement to ensure long-term continuity beyond Tom’s direct involvement.
The authenticity crisis in travel content actually works in Vietnam Coracle’s favor.
Prompt 7: Create a Timeline for Vietnam Coracle: from its Founding to the Present Day:
Claude Response:
Early 2000s – The Journey Begins
- Tom Divers, a British citizen, first arrives in Vietnam
- Begins exploring the country extensively, developing deep local knowledge
- Falls in love with Vietnam’s culture, landscapes, and people
- Starts accumulating 15+ years of authentic local experience
2012 – Birth of Vietnam Coracle
- Tom Divers creates Vietnam Coracle “as a way to communicate and share his experiences in Vietnam”
- Launches as a personal blog documenting his discoveries
- Establishes core principle: complete editorial independence with no sponsored content
- Initial focus on authentic experiences and hidden gems
2012-2016 – Building the Foundation
- Tom systematically explores Vietnam by motorcycle, documenting routes and destinations
- Develops signature detailed motorcycle touring guides
- Builds content covering all regions of Vietnam
- Word-of-mouth reputation grows among independent travelers
- Establishes Vietnam Coracle as genuinely free resource
2017-2020 – Rising Recognition
- Vietnam Coracle gains recognition as premier independent Vietnam travel resource
- Grows into “one of Vietnam’s top travel resources” over this period
- Tom’s authentic voice and local expertise set it apart from commercial guides
- Motorcycle touring guides become legendary among riders
- Expands beyond travel to include cultural insights and reading recommendations
2022 – Milestone Reflection
- Tom publishes 10th anniversary reflection, evaluating the website’s “conception and development and success”
- Vietnam Coracle widely acknowledged as gold standard for Vietnam travel
- Recognition from Vietnam tourism authorities and international travel community
- Donation system established to support ongoing operations
2024 – Present Day Legacy
- Vietnam Coracle celebrates 12th anniversary
- Tom continues publishing regular updates and year-end reviews
- Maintains position as most trusted independent Vietnam travel resource
- Still operates as passion project with complete editorial independence
- Tom’s 15+ years in Vietnam make him one of the most knowledgeable Western voices on authentic Vietnamese travel
Present Status: Tom Divers has transformed from expat explorer to Vietnam’s most trusted independent travel authority, creating a resource that operates purely from passion rather than profit—which is precisely why travelers trust it above all others.
Prompt 8: What Criticisms Could Be Made of Vietnam Coracle?
ChatGPT Response:
That’s a thoughtful question. Vietnam Coracle is widely respected and praised, but like any independent project, it has limitations. A few valid criticisms readers sometimes point out are:
Subjectivity & Bias – It’s written entirely from one person’s perspective (Tom Divers). This makes it very personal and authentic, but also means it reflects his tastes, interests, and experiences, which might not align with every traveler.
Navigation & Organization – The site has grown over more than a decade, so some readers find it a little hard to navigate, especially when trying to locate specific guides quickly among hundreds of pages. *(Yes, perhaps this could be improved. But the search function in the top right corner of every page works well, as do the main categories and multiple subcategories accessed via the hamburger menu in the top left corner of every page, and the Vietnam Coracle Map is also a good way to find the content you’re looking for.)
Limited Scope Beyond Certain Topics – It’s strongest on motorbike routes, independent travel, and personal observations. But it’s not a one-stop shop for all travel needs (e.g. high-end resorts, package tours, family travel, or luxury experiences are not its focus). *(Fair point about family travel. However, luxury travel is in fact covered in the Luxury Reviews category. As for package tours, that is the antithesis of Vietnam Coracle)
Update Frequency – Because the site is run by one person, some older guides can go out of date until Tom has the time or chance to revisit and refresh them. *(Yes, but this could be said of any travel guide or platform. I do my best to keep guides updated or, in the cases where a guide hasn’t been updated recently, to draw readers’ attention to that fact and encourage them to comment with their own updates.)
Accessibility of Style – Some readers love the long-form, narrative style, but others may find it too detailed or time-consuming when they just want quick, practical info.
➡️ That said, many people see these as trade-offs rather than failings, since the site’s strength is its personal, detailed, independent voice.
Gemini Response:
Based on a review of the site’s content and a few articles, here are some points of criticism or potential limitations of Vietnam Coracle, most of which the founder himself openly acknowledges:
The Single-Person Perspective: While the site has started to introduce content from contributing writers, the vast majority of the content is from Tom’s singular perspective. This can be limiting if you are looking for a more diverse range of voices or travel styles (e.g., family travel, luxury travel) that fall outside of his core focus on solo, independent, and motorbike-centric exploration.
Subjectivity and Limited Scope: Vietnam Coracle is a deeply personal project. The founder, Tom, writes about what he finds interesting and beautiful. This is its core strength, but it also means the content is not a comprehensive, A-to-Z guide of everything in Vietnam. It tends to focus on off-the-beaten-path destinations and experiences that appeal to the author, rather than mainstream tourist hotspots. If you’re looking for an objective, all-encompassing guide to Vietnam’s most popular attractions, it may not be your only resource. *(Yes, this is true. But that is the whole point of Vietnam Coracle – that is the site’s MO and what sets it apart from every other travel resource in Vietnam: it doesn’t cover the ‘normal’ stuff.)
The Challenge of Staying Current: The site has been running for over a decade and contains hundreds of articles. In a rapidly developing country like Vietnam, things change quickly. Roads are built, businesses open and close, and prices fluctuate. The founder acknowledges that it is impossible to keep every single piece of information up-to-date. He has a “Last updated” date on each article, and he encourages readers to use the comments section for the most recent information, but this still requires the user to do some extra work.
Lack of a “Business” Model: As a passion project, the site’s primary focus is not on generating revenue, which is a key part of its independent ethos. However, this also means its long-term sustainability is a challenge. While it is supported by donations and affiliate links, this model may not be robust enough to support the growing demands of content creation, website maintenance, and the introduction of new writers over the long term. *(Indeed!)
Claude Response:
While Vietnam Coracle is exceptional, it does have some potential limitations:
Structural vulnerabilities:
- Single-person dependency – The entire resource relies on Tom Divers personally. What happens if he becomes unable to maintain it, or his circumstances change? *(Although I do the majority of work, there is a team of people working on Vietnam Coracle. But, yes, if I’m ‘gone’, then Vietnam Coracle is unlikely to continue)
- Scalability limits – One person can only cover so much ground, even over 15 years
- Succession planning – No clear path for continuity beyond Tom’s direct involvement
Coverage gaps:
- Luxury travel – Focus is clearly on independent/budget travel; high-end accommodations and experiences get less attention *(There’s an entire category devoted to Luxury Reviews)
- Urban nightlife/modern amenities – Emphasis on authentic/traditional experiences might miss contemporary Vietnam *(Sort of, but there’s lots of content about contemporary Vietnam and nightlife on Vietnam Coracle)
- Family travel specifics – Less detailed guidance for traveling with children *(Fair point)
- Business travel – Limited coverage of business facilities, conference venues, etc. *(I’m not interested)
Format limitations:
- No mobile app – Website format, while comprehensive, isn’t optimized for on-the-go mobile use *(There‘s a library of Offline Guides & Maps available)
- Search functionality – Can be challenging to find specific information quickly
- Offline access – Requires internet connection unlike downloaded guidebook apps *(There’s a library of Offline Guides & Maps available)
Perspective constraints:
- Western expat viewpoint – Despite deep local knowledge, still filtered through one person’s cultural lens *(There are/have been three Vietnamese contributing writers to Vietnam Coracle and there will be more in the future. As for my own ethnicity: there’s not much I can do about that.)
- Motorcycle bias – Heavy emphasis on motorbike travel may not serve all travel styles equally *(Of the 400+ guides on Vietnam Coracle, 73 of them are about motorbike travel)
- Male solo traveler perspective – May not fully address concerns specific to female travelers or different demographics *(55% of Vietnam Coracle’s audience are male, 45% female. There are/have been two female contributors to Vietnam Coracle. While I try to bear in mind any potential male bias that I might have, I am a male)
Sustainability questions:
- No monetization model – Unclear how long-term maintenance costs are covered *(Tell me about it!)
- Update frequency – Challenging for one person to keep everything current across the entire country
These aren’t criticisms of quality—Vietnam Coracle excels at what it does. But acknowledging these limitations helps travelers understand where they might need supplementary resources.
Prompt 9: Do You Think Vietnam Coracle is Financially Viable?
Claude Response:
Based on available information, Vietnam Coracle almost certainly does not make a profit – and likely operates at a financial loss. *(Correct)
Evidence it’s not profitable:
- No revenue streams – Completely free with no advertising, affiliate marketing, or sponsored content *(Yes, it’s true there’s no sponsored content. But the site does show personally selected advertising and uses affiliate links to help readers book hotels and book transportation)
- Donation-dependent – Relies entirely on voluntary PayPal/card donations from users
- 12+ years of free content creation – Massive unpaid time investment by Tom Divers
- Operational costs – Website hosting, maintenance, and Tom’s time with minimal income
Why it continues despite being unprofitable:
- Passion project – Tom appears motivated by genuine love for Vietnam and helping travelers
- Other income sources – Tom likely has separate means of financial support (teaching, consulting, savings, etc.) *(As of June 2025, I resigned from my teaching position to work on the website full-time)
- Low operational overhead – Minimal costs as a one-person website operation *(monthly running costs amount to around $1,000)
- Personal mission – Created to help travelers, not generate income
The economics don’t add up for profit: Even with generous donations, the time Tom invests in researching, writing, updating, and maintaining 15+ years of comprehensive Vietnam travel content would be impossible to compensate at market rates through donations alone.
This actually strengthens its credibility – Vietnam Coracle exists because Tom genuinely wants to help travelers discover authentic Vietnam, not because it’s a money-making venture. The lack of profit motive is precisely why it’s so trusted and why it maintains complete editorial independence.
It’s essentially a labor of love that happens to be one of the world’s best travel resources.
Gemini Response:
Based on information from the Vietnam Coracle website and public statements from its founder, Tom Divers, the site’s financial viability is a deliberate balancing act. It is not a traditional business but rather a “passion project” with a unique, non-commercialized financial model.
Here are the key aspects of its financial viability:
Revenue Streams
- Advertising: The site generates revenue from a limited number of advertisements, but the founder is very selective. He only approves ads from businesses and services that he believes are relevant and of genuine value to his audience, such as reputable motorbike rental companies and visa services. This revenue is used primarily to cover the website’s running costs.
- Affiliate Links: The site uses affiliate links for booking accommodation (e.g., through Agoda) and transportation (e.g., through 12Go.Asia). *(In fact, I use Baolau.com for transportation booking) This means Vietnam Coracle earns a small commission when a user books through its links. The founder states he only uses links to companies he himself uses and trusts.
- Donations and Patreon: A significant portion of the site’s income comes directly from its readers through donations and contributions on platforms like Patreon. This “reader-supported” model reinforces its independent nature and provides a direct way for users to show their appreciation for the free content.
- Founder’s Personal Finances: In early interviews, Tom Divers stated that he initially supported himself with part-time teaching and personally financed his travel and research for the site. The website’s financial success was a secondary concern to its integrity and purpose. *(As of June 2025, I resigned from my teaching position to work on the website full-time)
The Viability Outlook
The founder himself has stated that the site makes “some revenue, but not a lot.” After paying for running costs and contributions from other writers, there is not much “profit.”
However, its financial viability is strong because it is not dependent on a high-volume, ad-driven model. Its success is rooted in its integrity and reader trust, which in turn drives the donations and affiliate link usage that support it. As long as it maintains this independent, personal, and authentic approach, it will likely remain a viable and valuable resource, as its financial model is aligned with its core mission. It’s a testament to the idea that a niche, high-quality, and trustworthy resource can find a sustainable financial footing even in a crowded digital space.
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Thank you.” Tom
