Ho Chi Minh City is a thriving modern city and the economic powerhouse of the country. Beyond the bright neon lights and manic buzzing of millions of motorbikes, you can still experience the Vietnam of old, down its twisting alleyways and in the kind demeanour of the locals. Here you’ll discover a hotchpotch of wide tree-lined boulevards, grand French colonial architecture, contemporary glass skyscrapers, pastel-coloured low rises and enchanting Chinese heritage buildings.
Stay & Play
After a busy day exploring the Reunification Palace – likened to a time capsule frozen in 1975, the Notre Dame Cathedral and the beautiful Central Post Office building, or taking a half-day trip out to the Chu Chi Tunnels, you’ll need somewhere to return where you can rest and rejuvenate. Opened in 1959, Caravelle Hotel is the leading 5-star hotel in Ho Chi Minh, combining French and Vietnamese architecture. One of the city’s most iconic hotels, Rex Hotel Saigon is a charming colonial style 4-star hotel located a 15-minute walk away from the moving War Remnants Museum. The Hotel Nikko Saigon is a 5-star luxury hotel that offers an oasis of calm in the busy city.
Eat & Drink
Vietnam is a foodie’s heaven! Blessed with restaurants serving a combination of Chinese, French and local Vietnamese cuisine, there are no shortage of fabulous dining options. Quan An Ngon in District 1 is popular with expats and locals alike and the perfect place to try local cuisine. Lemongrass is a fine dining restaurant serving delectable Vietnamese dishes presented with French Flair. La Cuisine is unashamedly classic French cuisine, serving many traditional dishes. Housing lively street bars and pubs, cheap eats, live music and a causal ambience, Pham Ngu Lao Street is a popular place to enjoy nightlife and local street food. Glow SkyBar Saigon is a trendy rooftop venue offering expansive views of the city.
Shop
Wander along the city’s historic Dong Khoi Street, home to many of the finest French colonial buildings and fashion boutiques. During the French occupation, it was centre of glamour and style. Buy local handicrafts, art and souvenirs at the bustling Ben Thanh Market. For an authentic experience of the sights, sounds and smells of a local market, visit the vibrant Binh Tay Market in Chinatown. The luxurious Vincom Center is Ho Chi Minh’s largest shopping mall with over 250 shops selling high street brands, homewares and clothing from international fashion houses. Saigon Square is a two-storey wholesale fashion mall that is perfect for bargain hunters. Despite price tags on most items, be prepared to haggle!
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