HO CHI MINH CITY (SAIGON) of VIETNAM
- WHAT TO SEE
HCMC has many sights that should not be missed. A city tour of the Opera House, Le Loi Street, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral and War Remnants Museum on a classic Citroen or Vespa scooter are nostalgic ways to be introduced to this former colonial city. Ben Thanh Market, a massive old-style market in the central district, is a place to rummage for knock-offs and interesting souvenirs. However, do not forget to bargain hard (but in a polite manner) for your purchases.
For more ‘posh’ buys, head to art galleries and fashion shops that line Dong Khoi. If you are keen to own a piece of propaganda art, Dogma stocks a unique range. History buffs should reminisce at Rex Hotel, where media briefings known as ‘five o’clock follies’ to international correspondents were held during the Vietnam War. For a night out, hit the city’s chic bars and restaurants that are crowded by the rich and trendy.
If you have a bit of time to spare, make a day trip outside of Ho Chi Minh City to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This network of over 200 kilometers of tunnels was used by the Vietcong during the American War and offer a fascinating look into the lives of the inhabitants during the war-time era. This can easily be combined with a stop at the Wildlife at Risk (WAR) rescue centre, a non-profit organization to stop illegal wildlife trade, and Tay Ninh Temple, home to the intriguing Cao Dai religion.
- WHERE TO STAY
Definitely more impressive than its name, Ordinary B&B presents an appealing combination of striking décor, an in-house designer store and affordable pricing in HCMC’s most posh district. Recently opened, Lavender Hotel is a stylish boutique property that charms with its well furnished interiors, friendly staff and downtown location. Park Hyatt Saigon is the city’s most luxurious hotel that packs world-class restaurants and spa services in a classic French colonial building. One of the finest in its class, the Caravelle Hotel offers commanding views of the city and overlooks Lam Son Square and the Opera House. Recently refurnished, Palace Hotel Saigon retains its original French architecture and is favored for its convenient location in the city’s heart. Another landmark building from the colonial era, Hotel Majestic exudes old world charm combined with excellent service and rooms come with either pool or river views. Close to the city’s thriving Chinatown, Hotel Equatorial is the premier business hotel with great meeting and banqueting facilities.
- WHAT TO EAT
Street eats can be found in almost every corner of this bustling city. To be inducted into Southern Vietnamese cuisine, opt for Lau (hotpot with cook your own ingredients served on the side), Com Nieu (broken rice served out of a claypot) and Banh Xeo (pancakes cooked over a flame). To enjoy the clatter of an authentic Vietnamese eatery, Com Nieu will surely leave an impression; waiters fling claypots across the restaurant. Dong Pho is the best place to enjoy a meal of traditional Hue dishes in Ho Chi Minh City.
If you are looking for authentic Vietnamese cuisine in an old world setting, Anh Vien receives the thumbs-up – it offers superb food and tasteful décor in an old French villa. Tucked in a former opium refinery (hence the name) in a small alley, the Refinery is a French bistro that serves a wide range of light eats in classy décor. Just next door, Hoa Tuc serves a tantalizing selection of Vietnamese dishes in an elegant setting of green and purple hues. Xu is our favorite when it comes to fusion Vietnamese fare. If you are in the mood for a lavish dinner, acclaimed French chef Didier Corlou’s On The Six Restaurant is the most chic establishment on the city’s trendiest street. For a different dining experience, take the Bonsai to enjoy a memorable dinner cruise amid the vibrant city lights while sailing along the Saigon River.
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