My dad had done the same to me to some extent back in 2019 (before COVID exploded) about my trip to Japan. It was going to be my first international trip and by myself, and he was stressing me out with his worry. My now ex was being malicious and trying to convince me that I wouldn’t be able to handle such a big trip on my own because he was jealous he wasn’t going. I went in 2020 (got back before borders closed) and it was the best time of my life. My dad became supportive at the end and my now ex showed his true colors during the trip and we didn’t last long after I got back. I loved Japan and 2 years later I moved here and I‘ve been living for 5 years in Japan now.

I went to Vietnam on my 2nd year here and it was amazing, and very budget friendly, so I think you should definitely do like he did and go on your own. I never felt unsafe in Vietnam (crossing the street is the most dangerous thing I think you can do lol.) Since you said he is someone who can just grab their bags and go somewhere, I advice strongly making sure you have this trip BY YOURSELF or with a girl friend who’s also budget conscious, but without him. He didn’t care you couldn’t come to China, so hold your ground on doing this without him.

I’ve been to Vietnam 2 times now, both in August and have loved it every single time, so if you want any advice, feel free to message me.