Saigon is the name some locals and tourists prefer to call Ho Chi Minh City, but whatever you call it, this world-famous city has made an  impact in modern history and culture. Located by the banks of the Saigon River, this former capital of Vietnam is the largest city in the country, as well as its financial center. This makes HCMC the most westernized city, and skyscrapers and modern amenities mix in with Indochinese sensibilities and French Colonial heritage sites to create a very unique experience.

One attraction to visit are the Chu Chi Tunnels, around 2 hours from HCMC. These tunnels, measuring an astounding 200 kilometers in collective length, served a vital function during the Vietnam War. It acted as a fire-free zone for the communist Vietcong forces, a hospital and resource center safe from the heavy bombardment by US forces. Visitors can examine these 1 meter-high tunnels at length, as well as try their hand with an actual AK-47 and other weaponry at the gunnery range. At USD 1 per bullet, reliving the life of a 70’s guerrilla fighter suddenly becomes possible with each burst of gunfire. A meal of tapioca, sugar, and peanuts are also served during the tour, allowing visitors to experience the draconian lifestyle of the Vietcong.

The Reunification Palace Museum was the former Presidential Palace of South Vietnam, and before that, the home of the French Governor-Generals during its colonial days. Its Vietnamese-style architecture contains over a hundred rooms, all of which are open to the public. Another beautiful heritage site is the Notre Dame Cathedral, one of the oldest and biggest cathedrals in Vietnam. Built between 1877 and 1880, the cathedral stands more than 58 meters in height, with two bell towers flanking its sides. The red bricks that adorn it were imported all the way from Europe, and its neo-Romanesque architecture make the cathedral a favorite spot for wedding ceremonies. There are 6 masses performed during Sundays, and they are spoken in English.

Care for a dip in the beach? Then pack your trunks and head for Vung Tau, once the premier beach destination of Vietnam. Although there are better beaches than Vung Tau in Vietnam, it is nevertheless a convenient destination for vacationing Saigon residents. For another water adventure, take a tour of the Mekong Delta, located south of the city. The delta is known as “Vietnam’s rice basket”, and contributes greatly to the country’s huge export of rice, the third largest in the world. The cruise will take you past all kinds of river boats, fishing boats, and huts lining the banks of the river, as well as visits to home factories of rice, pop corn, coco candies and other industries.

The Chinatowns of major Asian cities always present a enjoyable historical , and Saigon’s is no different. Called Cholon, this community is home to 500,000 people and is crammed with all sorts of goods for sale. The Benh Tranh Market, at the heart of the city, is the highlight of the district, a large public area that is filled with cafes, souvenir stands, cheap goods, and food stalls. The shop girls are known to touch or grab your arm as you pass by the narrow aisles, a startling way to call attention to their wares. You can even spot the yellow clock tower over the main entrance of the market, which is generally accepted as the symbol of Ho Chi Minh City. Take your time to try the delicious rice dishes and noodle soups as expertly prepared by the street vendors. And make sure to try the country’s beloved café sua da, which is iced milk coffee. This is a unique coffee recipe that mixes black coffee with a quarter of a cup of sweetened condensed milk and poured over ice.

Only 9 kilometers from Benh Tranh Market is Giac Lam Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in HCMC. The structures in this holy site contain influences of Khmer and Indian architecture through the sculptures of lotuses, lions, and naga snakes. A shrine in the pagoda contains 118 ancient statues, made of bronze and timber, while the front garden has a white statue of the Goddess of Mercy perched upon a lotus blossom.

The best time to visit HCMC is during the dry season from December to April, away from the torrential rains of the monsoon months. You can even time your visit during the Tet Festival, a very important holiday which the Vietnamese treat as New Year’s Day, Christmas Eve, Easter Sunday, and Thanksgiving, all in one day. The week-long festivities is celebrated by setting off firecrackers and visiting pagodas to the pray for the incoming year.

Posted in Things to do, Vietnam

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