PODCAST · society
What about Vietnam - Traveller Insights
by Kerry Newsome
Welcome to What About Vietnam - A Travel Podcast with Kerry Newsome. If you have ever thought about Vietnam as a holiday destination, but unsure, well, this may be just the eye-opener you need to help you decide you must go. A cross between "Trip advisor and a blog" minus the 300+ pages of reading, this podcast aims to give you insights into Vietnam from years of traveling to and from, and as a travel manager. My objective is to give you the information the guide books don't,.... in an easy to listen to, relatable format. Across this series, I will be your guide to "When and How" to travel throughout Vietnam. I will provide you with comprehensive information designed to make your trip fun, safe, and full of great adventures. You will hear from guest travellers about their experiences and the places they have visited. I interview locals, expats, travel experts and tour operators across the board. You never know who you are going to meet on the show, and that's what makes it interes
Episodes
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What you can't always know about Vietnam... until you get here - S6-E14 - What About Vietnam
Throughout this series, I've answered the questions travellers know to ask. But today, for the final episode of Series 6 – One Question at a Time, I want to answer the questions you probably won't even think to ask… because they're the little things you only discover once you're here in Vietnam....
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How far in advance should I book a trip to Vietnam? - S6- E13 - What About Vietnam
"Kerry, how far in advance should I book my trip to Vietnam?" If I had a penny for every time this question has come up in the last year. I just wish there was a one-size-fits-all answer—but there isn't. Who YOU are as a traveller,... and what type of experiences you want to have, will shape my...
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What About Medical Care in Vietnam - S6- E12 - What About Vietnam
So….What happens if you get sick in Vietnam? Or have an accident? This episode is particularly relevant for today's independent traveller—the person who has researched extensively, joined Facebook groups, watched countless YouTube videos, and perhaps even used AI to help plan their entire trip....
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What is the authentic experience of Vietnam? - What About Vietnam - S6-E11
Is there only one way to experience the authentic Vietnam? For years, travellers have been told that the "real" Vietnam exists somewhere beyond the tourist trail — hidden in remote villages, mountain passes and places untouched by mass tourism. But is that still true today? And perhaps more...
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Why is Vietnam becoming so popular? - What About Vietnam S6-E10
Why is Vietnam suddenly everywhere right now? Not just on your social feeds…but in real conversations between travellers looking for somewhere that still feels exciting, welcoming, affordable… and genuinely different. In this episode of the award-winning What About Vietnam podcast, I unpack why...
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What Vietnamese dishes should I try?- What About Vietnam S6-E09
What if I told you… the best meal you’ll have in Vietnam probably isn’t the one you planned? Today we get clear on the next question in this series - What Vietnamese dishes should I try? We begin our exploration through the streets of Hanoi for smoky, unforgettable bún chả…we go further afield to...
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Where should you go first in Vietnam - What About Vietnam S6-E8
Where do you even begin with a country like Vietnam? It’s one of the most common questions I’m asked… and one of the hardest to answer simply. Because Vietnam isn’t just one destination. It’s a country of contrasts — north to south — where each region offers a completely different experience. In...
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Is now a good time to travel to Vietnam in 2026?- What About Vietnam S6-E7
As the world feels increasingly uncertain, it’s a question many travellers are quietly asking… Is now a good time to travel to Vietnam in 2026? Is Vietnam the best place to feel safe and still enjoy a holiday? In this episode, I’m coming to you from Vietnam itself — sharing what I’m seeing on the...
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Is tipping expected in Vietnam? A practical guide for travellers- What About Vietnam S6-E6
Tipping. It’s one of those topics travellers rarely ask out loud — but almost everyone wonders about. · Do you tip in Vietnam? · Is it expected? · How much is appropriate? · And where does it actually apply? In this episode of One Question at a Time, I give context to the aspect of tipping many...
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How to Handle Money in Vietnam – Cash, Cards, ATM Fees & Travel Tips for 2026 - What About Vietnam S6-E5
Money is one of the biggest quiet stress points for travellers heading to Vietnam. Will your card work? Do you need to bring Vietnamese dong before you leave? How much cash should you carry? What are ATM fees and withdrawal limits in 2026? In this episode of One Question at a Time, I break down...
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When is the best time of year to visit Vietnam ? - What About Vietnam S6-E4
When Is the Best Time of year to Visit Vietnam? It sounds simple… but this might be the most misunderstood question I get. Vietnam isn’t one climate. It’s three distinct regions — North, Central and South — each with their own weather patterns, typhoon seasons, rice harvest colours, humidity…
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Do I need a Visa to enter Vietnam? - What About Vietnam S6-E3
Let’s start with one of the most important questions you need to answer before you get too far into booking or planning your trip to Vietnam. Why? Because this one question quietly underpins everything else. It sounds simple — but this is where so many people come unstuck. I can’t stress this...
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Is TET a good time to Visit Vietnam? - What About Vietnam S6-E2
Is TẾT a Good Time to Visit Vietnam? What travellers should know before deciding to visit Vietnam during the TET holiday. Tết, Vietnam’s Lunar New Year, is the most important cultural period of the year — but is it actually a good time to visit? Just to be clear from the outset - Tết dates relate...
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Is it safe to travel to Vietnam as a solo traveller? - What About Vietnam S6-E1
Welcome to What About Vietnam – One Question at a Time. This award-recognised podcast has spent five years listening closely to travellers, locals, and those who live and work on the ground in Vietnam. For Series 6, the format is sharper and more focused — one real question per episode, answered...
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What About Vietnam – S1-E11 – Last words for 2025
Xin chào and welcome to What About Vietnam. As 2025 draws to a close, I wanted to take a moment to pause — to thank you, to reflect on this journey that began back in 2020, and to share a few lasting lessons for travellers heading to Vietnam. What started during lockdown as a way to “travel…
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What About Vietnam – S1-E10 – No Visa or Evisa – Getting it right in 2025
Ever heard of travellers being stopped at check-in because their Vietnam visa didn’t match their flight? Sadly, it happens more often than you’d think. In this no-holds-barred episode of the What About Vietnam podcast, I take you step by step through the visa maze — from exemptions to e-visas —…
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What About Vietnam – S1-E9 – Vietnam Travel – First Impressions
Ever wondered what it’s like to set foot in Vietnam for the first time? Is the hype real? Or is it more like overload and no one is really talking about it. In this episode of What About Vietnam, I’m joined by Meghann – one half of the travel blogging duo behind The Grahlife – as she shares her…
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What About Vietnam – S1-8 – The big decision: Join a Packaged Group Tour or DIY? – Which Suits You Best?
Let’s get real about travel planning to Vietnam. If you're heading to Vietnam, there’s one big decision you’ll need to make early on: Should you join a packaged group tour… or plan your own trip? Do you map it out yourself—or get expert help? This isn’t a simple yes-or-no answer. It’s one of the...
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What About Vietnam – S5-E27 – Discovering Catholic Treasures of Vietnam: Church Hunting in Ninh Binh and Nam Dinh
Get ready to discover a side of Vietnam that remains largely unknown to most Western visitors Vietnam’s northern provinces hold secrets beyond the usual tourist trail—and in this episode, we go “church hunting” to uncover them. Joined by my returning guest, Ha (Hannah) from S5-E18 – Hanoi Below…
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What About Vietnam - S5-E26 - Wellness Tourism in Vietnam – A Fresh Take from Hoi An
If you've ever felt put off by wellness retreats that seem more like boot camps — all strict schedules, silent meals, and mandatory sunrise yoga — then this episode is for you. Join me as I broadcast from the tranquil grounds of Namia River Retreat in Hoi An, where wellness takes on a much more...
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What About Vietnam – S5-E25 – Hoi An in Focus: 10 Things to Love from a Local’s View and a Traveller’s Return
Hoi An continues to enchant—and in 2025, it feels overflowing, more layered, and more revealing than ever. That’s why I’ve chosen to revisit one of my most loved conversations on the show—this time with a fresh perspective, and a few heartfelt reflections from my recent trip. You’ll hear from the...
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What About Vietnam S5 – E24 - Ha Giang: Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Adventure
Join me as we uncover Ha Giang, Vietnam’s breathtaking last frontier, with Ying, a local Black H’mong guide, who shares insider tips and cultural insights for an unforgettable adventure! If you have ever considered venturing into this part of the country, then this episode is one NOT to miss. (...
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What About Vietnam – S5-E23 - Pushing Limits, Finding Magic – Caving and Trekking in Phong Nha’s Tu Lan Cave System
A Thrilling Underground Adventure – Exploring the Tu Lan Cave System with Oxalis If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to swim through ancient caves, trek through dense jungle terrain, and uncover one of Vietnam’s most pristine underground worlds, this episode is your backstage pass. In this...
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What About Vietnam - S5-E22 – 10 things travellers may not know about Vietnam
What About Vietnam – Kicking Off 2025 with Ian Paynton To start the year with a bang, I wanted to explore some essential insights for travelers to Vietnam—things that first-time visitors might not know but, if they did, could make their experience even richer. Joining me for this deep dive is Ian...
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What About Vietnam -S5-E21 – “Vietnam's Tet Holiday: Preparation and Tips for Tourists
With Tet just around the corner, this episode is your ultimate guide to preparing for Vietnam’s most vibrant and culturally rich celebration—don’t miss it! Tet, or Tet Nguyen Dan, is Vietnam’s most cherished holiday, marking the Lunar New Year with vibrant traditions, family gatherings, and a...
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What About Vietnam– S5- E20 – Saigon Unseen: The Sights You Didn’t Know You Were Missing
If you have the chance to spend a little extra time in Saigon (aka Ho Chi Minh City), you're in for far more than just the usual sightseeing—it’s a whole new adventure! Join me In this lively episode, as I chat with Matt Cowan, an expat of 15 years, travel aficionado, and fellow podcaster, as we...
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What About Vietnam - S5-E19 - Facelift and Dental Surgery Vietnam - A good news story
In this episode of What About Vietnam, we uncover a hidden gem: Vietnam’s rising reputation as a hotspot for affordable, high-quality dental and cosmetic procedures. My co-host Kelley shares her transformative facelift journey with a trusted hospital in Saigon, which combines expert dental and...
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What About Vietnam – S5_E18 – Hanoi Below the Surface
In this episode we delve into the vibrant yet often misunderstood city of Hanoi. While it is the capital, it often serves more as a transit point for travellers to visit other places like Halong Bay, Ninh Binh and Sapa. This is an opportunity to see Hanoi in a whole new light. I hope you enjoy…
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What About Vietnam – S5-E17 - Motorbike riding in Vietnam: Safety, local tips and Epic Adventures
Welcome to another thrilling episode of "What About Vietnam"! Today, we’re hitting the brakes for a moment to give you an insider’s glimpse into the exhilarating world of motorbiking around this stunning country. Join us as we explore essential safety tips and uncover unforgettable routes that…
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What About Vietnam – S5-E16 -Smart phone Apps and Tech Tips for travellers to Vietnam
No one travels these days without their phone. So, it makes sense to invest in some extra smartphone skills that can significantly enhance your travel experience if Vietnam. In this show we arm you with some of the best Tech Tips and Apps to enhance your experience of Vietnam, including : staying...
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What About Vietnam - S5-15 - Yen Bai - Discover luxury in the heart of nature
In this episode of the What About Vietnam podcast, I had the pleasure of uncovering Yen Bai and Tu Le—a region and destination resort I’d describe as a true “diamond in the rough” in Vietnam. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and minimal development, Yen Bai is perfect for those seeking...
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What About Vietnam - S5-E14 - Phong Nha: The family fun destination with something for everyone
Hey there, fellow adventurers! Today's episode comes straight from my recent Out & About escapade in Phong Nha, and let me tell you, it's a tale worth sharing – but we'll save that for another day. For now, I'm dedicating this special episode exclusively to families, because trust me, you're in…
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S5 - E13 - Out & About in Nha Trang – The city of 300 days of sunshine a year
Welcome back to What About Vietnam! Get your ears ready for another insightful episode in our mini-series, Out & About in Vietnam where I check out what Nha Trang has to offer, in a 3 day stay. Nha Trang is not just another beautiful beach destination; it's a cultural melting pot. From the moment...
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S5- E12 - Out & About in Mui Ne – Laying bare to the winds of change
Here I am, "Out & About in Mui Ne," determined to share with you my findings as experienced through my eyes. It's a down-to-earth exploration of Mui Ne's hidden treasures and unique vibe. This is as authentic as it gets! Drawing inspiration from a previous episode S3- E17 I did with Nikki…
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S5- E11 - Out & About in Hồ Tràm Vietnam
The “Out & About in Vietnam” series continues with Kelley McCarthy and I deciding to go in search of a beach escape from Saigon. Not many people know about this place, and with a new highway making it so much easier to access, it may just be the ticket! Today we're exploring a different kind of...
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What About Vietnam - S5-E10 - Out & About in Saigon (Uncut)
Welcome to the premiere of "What About Vietnam" – the Uncut Edition! This marks the second instalment of our Out & About mini-series, where I, Kerry Newsome, along with the ever-adventurous Kelly McCarthy, take you on a journey through the vibrant streets of Saigon. Get ready for a deeply…
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S5-9 - Out & About In Saigon - with What About Vietnam host Kerry Newsome
Hello, I'm Kerry Newsome, and welcome to my podcast, "What About Vietnam." In this episode, I'm thrilled to introduce you to a mini-series "Out & About in Vietnam" that will take you along on my holiday adventures in Vietnam. Over the next 60 days, I'll be sharing my experiences, destinations…
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What About Vietnam – S5-E8 – Empowering the Traveller: In the fight against Human Trafficking
Join us for an insightful journey into the pressing issue of human trafficking in Vietnam, and discover how, as a traveller, you have the ability to effect real change. In this episode, I'm joined by Kim Miller, who offers firsthand insights into the challenges and the remarkable efforts…
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What About Vietnam – S1 – E7 _ 8 Tips for Vietnam travellers during TET
Today's episode is particularly special as we delve into the vibrant celebration of Tet, the Vietnamese New Year and what that means for Vietnamese and you as a traveller during this time period. Drawing from my personal experiences in Vietnam, I've compiled 8 essential tips for travelers to help...
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What About Vietnam – S5-E7 - The Rise of Unique Dining Experiences in Vietnam
In our show today we get to explore the evolving food culture in Vietnam, with a focus on the growth of new culinary experiences and the expansion of dining options beyond just street food. Don’t get me wrong, Street Food is still something you must try, but don’t stop there! Stick around to find...
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What About Vietnam - S5-E6 –Explore the ‘Land of Lychees’ – Bac Giang with a return traveller to Vietnam
Bac Giang, is a picturesque place that often remains under the radar until the Lychee Festival, typically featured in social pages and news around June. This lively event commemorates Bac Giang's distinction as the "Land of Lychees." In today’s episode Bac Giang and the subject of lychees are…
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What About Vietnam - S5-5 - The famous Hai Van Pass experience: Insights from a seasoned traveller
If you're planning a holiday in Vietnam and have a penchant for motorbike rides and scenic routes, your quest will inevitably lead you to the iconic Hải Vân Pass (Đèo Hải Vân). The Hải Vân Pass is more than just a road; it's a legendary motorbike route nestled in the heart of central Vietnam. In...
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What About Vietnam – S5- E4 -Exploring the Case for Living and Working in Vietnam
Welcome to another exciting episode of The What About Vietnam Podcast. In today's episode, we're diving deep into the world of expat life in Vietnam, shedding light on the importance of doing your homework before taking the plunge into this vibrant Southeast Asian nation. Vietnam is a country...
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What About Vietnam – S5_E3 – Heritage and discovery in Saigon, The Mekong Delta and Dalat
In this podcast episode, I have the opportunity to introduce you to Vicki Thai, a Health Care Sales professional living in Utah, USA, with Vietnamese heritage. Vicki's family immigrated to the United States from Vietnam when she was four years old, and during her growing up, she had never given...
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What About Vietnam – S5- E2 – Choosing Hoi An as a Digital Nomad Destination
I’m thrilled to have such an engaging conversation with our guest today about the digital nomad lifestyle. Whether you're a seasoned nomad or just curious about this exciting way of life, this episode is a must-listen! I am fortunate to be joined with Florian Rucker who inspires nomads by…
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What About Vietnam - S5-01 - Vietnam Visa Updates and Land Travel Tips taking in Phan Thiet, Hue and Quy Nhon
In this episode of "What About Vietnam," Kerry Newsome shares some exciting news about the visa situation for entering Vietnam. As of August 15th, travelers will be able to extend their stays from 30 days to 90 days. Kerry recommends using the official immigration website here to apply for your...
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What About Vietnam - S4-25 - Drone photography in Vietnam: A fun Guide for travellers (Pt 3 Photography)
Are you a drone enthusiast planning to visit Vietnam? Or do you have a general interest in drone photography. Either way you won't want to miss this episode where my guest Anton, a local drone enthusiast, shares his tips and experiences on drone use in the country. Along with some humorous tales…
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What About Vietnam - S4-23 -How to capture Beautiful Photos - in Vietnam or anywhere! - Part 1
One of my favourite things to do in Vietnam is taking photographs. You can’t help wanting to just click away!!! It’s hard not to want to capture Vietnam’s magnificent scenery and colour popping landscapes, rivers, mountains and cities a buzz with people and rich culture. However, how can we…
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What About Vietnam - S4-24 -How to capture Beautiful Photos - Focus Vietnam locations - Part 2
In Part 2 we continue our journey in the pursuit of the best pics of Vietnam with Thomas Levine as my guest: - Are you taking notes? You don’t need to. Just go to the Transcript for the episode on the website on this page. Part 1 and Part 2. Meet once again our extraordinary photographer, and…
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What About Vietnam - S4-E22 - A wide lens view of trekking in Sapa
In this episode of "What About Vietnam," I talk with adventurer and cinematographer Jack Taylor about the region of Sapa in north western Vietnam. Sapa is a scenic area known for its mountainous terrain and rice terraced fields. Jack shares his experience trekking and filming for his Youtube...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to What About Vietnam - A Travel Podcast with Kerry Newsome. If you have ever thought about Vietnam as a holiday destination, but unsure, well, this may be just the eye-opener you need to help you decide you must go. A cross between "Trip advisor and a blog" minus the 300+ pages of reading, this podcast aims to give you insights into Vietnam from years of traveling to and from, and as a travel manager. My objective is to give you the information the guide books don't,.... in an easy to listen to, relatable format. Across this series, I will be your guide to "When and How" to travel throughout Vietnam. I will provide you with comprehensive information designed to make your trip fun, safe, and full of great adventures. You will hear from guest travellers about their experiences and the places they have visited. I interview locals, expats, travel experts and tour operators across the board. You never know who you are going to meet on the show, and that's what makes it interes
HOSTED BY
Kerry Newsome
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does What about Vietnam - Traveller Insights have?
What about Vietnam - Traveller Insights currently has 128 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is What about Vietnam - Traveller Insights about?
Welcome to What About Vietnam - A Travel Podcast with Kerry Newsome. If you have ever thought about Vietnam as a holiday destination, but unsure, well, this may be just the eye-opener you need to help you decide you must go. A cross between "Trip advisor and a blog" minus the 300+ pages of reading,...
How often does What about Vietnam - Traveller Insights release new episodes?
What about Vietnam - Traveller Insights publishes regularly with 128 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to What about Vietnam - Traveller Insights?
You can listen to What about Vietnam - Traveller Insights on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts What about Vietnam - Traveller Insights?
What about Vietnam - Traveller Insights is created and hosted by Kerry Newsome.
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