When we think of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) holidays, Southeast Asia, and especially Vietnam, doesn’t often come to mind. Most people associate BJJ with hotspots like Brazil, the USA, or even parts of Europe. However, after reading this article, you might reconsider your assumptions and start planning your next trip to this dynamic region.
To give you some context, let me share a bit of personal history about BJJ in Vietnam. Eight years ago, when I first arrived in Vietnam to teach BJJ at the UFC Gym in Saigon, the scene was in its infancy. There were only about five black belts teaching in a country of nearly 100 million people. Fast forward to today, and there are more than 25 black belts, both expatriates and homegrown talents, spread across the country. These practitioners operate in a range of facilities, from modest dojos to state-of-the-art gyms that rival the best in the world.
The Rise Of BJJ In Vietnam
The Growth of MMA
MMA is growing in Vietnam. Since the late legalization of the sport in Vietnam, public interest has been steadily increasing, with regional MMA shows like Lion FC and AFC offering outstanding production value and excellent prize money. Even one of the biggest promotions in the world, ONE Championship, has hosted an event in Vietnam. These shows are mostly broadcast on national TV, creating interest among young people searching for a new type of sport or transitioning from traditional martial arts to MMA.
Of course, this has led to more business opportunities for gyms, which quickly established dedicated MMA facilities across the country. With grappling being a major component of the sport, it also created a vacuum for grappling gyms and, consequently, BJJ.
Government Support For BJJ In Vietnam
The SEA (Southeast Asian) Games, often seen as the Asian Olympics, added BJJ as an official sport about four years ago. The Vietnamese government quickly recognized that BJJ, being a new sport, offered an opportunity to establish a strong presence in the Asian competitive scene. They supported the creation of a national team with sponsored athletes who were paid to train. This national team is supported by provincial teams, whose members receive salaries and bonuses for each medal won. This support has fostered a dynamic environment for BJJ to grow.
A Dynamic Community
Even though small BJJ clubs can be found almost anywhere in Vietnam, there are three main hubs: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. As the three biggest cities in Vietnam, each of them hosts several BJJ gyms, allowing for weekly open mats where practitioners from different lineages can train together and share their knowledge. Recently, more events centered around BJJ have emerged, with C88 leading the competition scene and organizing tournaments every quarter, both gi and no gi, across the country. Additionally, there are numerous localized events, such as submission-only competitions, seminars, and charity events like a 12-hour BJJ marathon where participants donate a toy to enter the mat and support a local orphanage.
This dynamic community has naturally attracted some renowned BJJ practitioners who have either visited or decided to call Vietnam home, such as Robert Degle, Dan Vinni, and Pablo Eduardo. Beyond that, Vietnam has so much more to offer than high-quality training.
Delicious and Healthy Food
Vietnamese cuisine is famous for its fresh, healthy ingredients and mouth-watering flavors. After an intense BJJ session, you’ll have plenty of nutritious meals to choose from. In Vietnam, it’s easy and cheap to eat well. You can enjoy a steaming bowl of pho, fresh spring rolls, and a variety of seafood dishes. You’ll enjoy meals that are not only delicious but also extremely healthy.
Affordable Living Costs
if you pay attention to your budget? Vietnam is perfect for you. The cost of living here is much lower than in the West. So, you can stay in great accommodation, eat tasty food without spending a fortune. From budget-friendly hostels to superb boutique hotels, you’ll find plenty of options that won’t break the bank.
Easy and Convenient Travel
Getting around Vietnam is a breeze. Buses, trains, and flights connect the country. It’s easy to travel between cities. Whether you’re gym-hopping or exploring Vietnam’s culture, travel is easy. Also, Vietnam’s central location in Southeast Asia makes it a great base for visiting nearby countries.
A Thriving Tourism Scene
Vietnam is not just about BJJ; it’s also a top destination for tourism. The country has it all: bustling cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, serene beaches in Da Nang, and stunning natural wonders like Ha Long Bay. Vietnam has something for everyone. History buffs, nature lovers, and those wanting to relax will all find it. Plus, if you’re from one of the 13 countries eligible for the 45-day free visa, you can stay longer and explore even more!
Warm and Welcoming People
One of the best things about Vietnam is its people. Known for their hospitality and friendliness, the Vietnamese will make you feel right at home. The BJJ community here is no exception. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a beginner, you’ll find that everyone is welcoming and supportive. This friendly atmosphere not only enhances your training experience but also allows you to build lasting connections with people from all over the world.
Why Vietnam Should Be Your Next BJJ Destination
So, next time you think of combining your holiday with BJJ or MMA training, consider Vietnam your destination. Here, you’ll find top-notch BJJ instruction available in multiple languages, from Brazilian Portuguese to English, French, Japanese, and, of course, Vietnamese. You’ll also enjoy fantastic, fresh, healthy food that costs a fraction of what you’d pay back home.
Beyond the mat, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a country rich in history and culture, offering everything from serene beaches and majestic mountains to ancient temples and vibrant cities. If you’re lucky, or plan well, you might even get the chance to participate in a local competition and experience the vibrancy and warmth of the BJJ community in Vietnam firsthand.
Vietnam is truly a hidden gem for martial arts enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of excellent training, cultural exploration, and unforgettable experiences. So why not make it your next BJJ destination?
