Ho Chi Minh City

The sights, smells, sounds, and flavours of Vietnam’s mile-a-minute Ho Chi Minh city are exhilirating at best and overwhelming at worst. You’ll get swept up in the swirl of activity that is this city that was once known as Saigon. A juxtaposition of old and new, rich and poor, there’s remnants of the ancient culture, evidence of the effects of war, and up-and-coming culture and emergence into the future.

Start with a visit to the Jade Emperor Pagoda, not only for the beautiful temple, but to understand and appreciate the religion which influences Vietnamese culture and daily life. Xa Loi and Phuoc An Hoi Quan pagados also shouldn’t be missed.

The History Museum and HCMC Museum are an excellent way to understand Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh’s past and how it has shaped the present.

Binh Tay Market, with its clock tower, gardens, and central courtyard is the best place to witness the hustle and bustle and colour and noise of Ho Chi Minh City in the best possible way. Enjoy some tasty food from friendly street vendors here. You won’t be disappointed and it’ll cost you next to nothing. Which is the best way to describe Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam as a whole!