The "What to know", "How to go", and Tips before going
I was just randomly browsing for flights on a Tuesday morning back in 2017 when I came across a cheap flight that was headed for Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. I booked the ticket thinking that it would be a good mini trip that me and my lola (grandmother) can have since she was going home from Canada for a vacation. I never really thought that from that moment on, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam would end up being one of my favorite cities in Asia and that it would also end up having a special place in my heart.
Being one of the crown jewels of Southeast Asia, Vietnam's old capital is known by its 2 names: Saigon and Ho Chi Minh City. Saigon was used until the end of the Vietnam war against America back in 1976, and Ho Chi Minh is the official and usually what this city is referred to as now. But there might still be some people who call this place with both names, like this one time, on our boarding pass it said "MNL > SGN (Saigon)" so my mom kinda freaked out a bit because she thought we were going some place else LOL. So don't get confused because they're just referring to the same city!
How to go?
As you can now probably tell if you've read my previous post about my Taiwan DIY itinerary, I'm pretty much obsessed with using Skyscanner in looking for cheap fares and booking my flights. If you haven't read my previous post and don't know much about Skyscanner, let me give you a bit of background on it. So this site just basically allows you to compare thousands of airlines as you search for the cheapest flight to get you to your destination.
Here's a sample flight to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam that I searched up through skyscanner:
TIP: If you're able to find a flight that costs around Php 5,000 and below. Book immediately! that's already a good deal.
After arriving at Tan Son Nhat international airport, you can get to the city proper either by bus or TAXI. I've actually never tried taking the bus because for the previous times I've been here, I always traveled with my family so taking the TAXI was the best option at that time. But I did some research about this route and they actually seem quite convenient and very affordable if you're on a budget. If you want to take the bus, there are actually 3 different buses that run between the airport and the city center, namely Yellow Bus 109, Yellow Bus 49, and Green Bus 152. Their fare ranges from VND 5,000- 40,000 (Php 12-100) per person and they operate from 5:30 AM - 1:00 AM, with a bus that comes every 20-30 mins. The whole ride going to the city center takes about 45 mins. If you want to know more about this route, you can check it here.
If your flight arrives in the wee hours and taking the bus isn't an option anymore, then you can book an UBER or take the TAXI. If you choose to take the latter, here are some of the trusted and safe TAXI companies that you can ride: VINASUN and MAI LINH. Our fares usually range from VND 200,000-250,000 (Php 450-550) from the airport going to the city center and vice versa, depending on the traffic.
Where to stay?
With Ho Chi Minh being the biggest and busiest city in Vietnam, it can be quite overwhelming and confusing in choosing where to stay. This city is actually divided into 24 districts, with each area offering different things to see and do. For my 2 previous trips here, I stayed in District 1 which is the downtown area of the city. Here you'll be able to find most of the tourist attractions, historical landmarks, busy nightlife scene, shopping areas, and a wide range of restaurants.
To give you a better idea in deciding your accommodation for your trip, what each area offers, and which suits you best as a traveler, you can check a breakdown of the districts here.
The first place I tried here was The Like Hostel & Cafe. This hostel is located in District 1 but still allows you to have a good night's sleep as its nested along a small street and away from the very busy area of this district. Their rate per night ranges from Php 390-470 per person, and only offers dormitory type of rooms. Along with this price is a buffet breakfast at their rooftop which they offer from 7 AM-10 AM.
TIP: This is a good place to stay if you're travelling alone because you can make friends, grab a drink with them and get ideas of where else to go because you'll most likely meet other solo travelers staying here as well!
For our second time here, we chose to stay at Zoolut Stay 271 which was a little bit more within the district's center, closer to Ben Thanh Market to be exact, because my mom's crazy about that place LOL. This hostel is located along Le Thanh Ton street which is a busy street surrounded by a lot of cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Their rate ranges from Php 1500-2000 per night. A lot pricier than the previous hostel because they only have solo rooms, no dorm type rooms. With the price you pay, you'll get a free breakfast and drink of your choice every day.
Here's a sample of the food they offer for breakfast:
TIP: This is a good place to stay if you want a bit more privacy and if you'd like to be closer to the busy city center
How much to bring?
This aspect will differ from person to person. If you're staying for 3-5 days, you might want to prepare around Php 10,000 to cover for your food, shopping and transportation. Vietnam is a relatively cheap place, you can already buy a lot and eat a lot with this amount.
TIP: Php 1.00 is to VND (Vietnamese Dong) 442.72 as of April 1, 2019. I haven't figured out a shortcut in converting Vietnamese dong to pesos so always keep your conversion app ready!
How to get around?
Unlike other neighbouring Asian countries, Vietnam doesn't currently have a metro system that you can take to get around the city. But I did some research and their government already has a plan called the Rapid Transit Network that will operate in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam that will start in the year 2020.
For the meantime, since most of the tourist attractions and historical landmarks are within the city, you can actually just walk from one place to another, or you can also take the TAXI if you're travelling with a group as its much cheaper. If you plan on taking this route, just note that most or almost all of the TAXI drivers don't know how to converse in english so if you want to go somewhere, get a picture and address of the place on your phone ready and just show them.
Another tip, Vietnam is known for its motorcycles, you'll see more of these than actual cars filling their streets. Some of the drivers are reckless, sometimes even a bit lawless so always be careful in crossing and walking the streets, and always be wary of your surroundings.
TIP: If you want to have wifi everywhere you go, you can buy a sim card at the airport. They have booths located just before you go to the immigration area, and more before going out of the airport itself.
If you'd like to go on a night sightseeing and food tour, you can buy your tickets in advance here.
DAY 1
1. Notre Dame Church
In the 19th century, France was heavily involved in Vietnam which later on formed the French Indochina, which was the grouping of French colonial territories in Southeast Asia in 1887. Vietnam was ruled by France until its defeat in the first Indochina war and the proclamation of Vietnam's independence in 1954.
Even after many years of independence, the French influence can still be felt in many parts of Vietnam. First of many is the Notre Dame Cathedral located in Paris Square that was built in the late 1880s. Vietnam being a generally Buddhist country, this Cathedral remains one of the few remaining Catholic figures in the city.
TIP: This is open from 9AM-11PM and there's no entrance fee
2. Central Post Office
Just across from the Cathedral, you'll spot another beautifully preserved French colonial building, the Central Post Office. The building was designed by Alfred Foulhoux, though some say it was Gustave Eiffel which also engineered the Eiffel Tower, and was constructed in 1886 to 1891.
Once you step inside, this place feels like you're being brought back to another era. You'll see wooden telephone booths on each side, variety of post cards and stamps, which really gives you an idea of how communication was back then before cellphones and wifi existed. You'll really appreciate the interior of this post office, from the ceiling's looping arches and hand-painted wall maps, down to the intricately placed marble floors. No wonder its being called as the grandest post office in all of Southeast Asia.
TIP: Try sending a postcard to yourself or to someone as a souvenir. If you don't feel like sending anything, they also have souvenir shops on each side that you can buy from! (Open from 7 AM - 7 PM, no entrance fee)
3. People's Committee Building Saigon
Built in 1898 by French architect Gardes, this building is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and is also often called as Ho Chi Minh City Hall. This is actually just a 5-minute walk from Notre Dame Cathedral, so you can definitely visit these landmarks in 1 day.
TIP: Vincom mall is just a 3 minute walk away from the city hall, you might want to check it out and cool down a bit from Vietnam's heat.
4. Saigon Opera House
Very close to the city hall is another French colonial building that was built in 1897 located at the intersection of Le Loi and Dong Khoi street in district 1, the Saigon Opera House. This building still operates, hosting different types of shows, from ballet, musical concerts and Vietnamese traditional dances and plays.
5. Ben Thanh Night Market
The Ben Thanh Market is one of the most famous markets in Vietnam. It is located in the heart of District 1 and is a good place to shop since they sell almost everything in here. From handicraft souvenirs, bags, textiles, accessories, and lots of food!
The market's building itself is only open from 7AM - 7PM, but once night falls, they build their own stalls outside on each side of the road, which creates a vibrant night market that you can enjoy until the wee hours.
TIP: Try to save your appetite for this place. They sell all kinds of street food and some even have restaurant styled stalls where you can sit down and eat fresh seafood that can be served however you want!
Day 2
6. Reunification Palace
The Reunification Palace got its name and became part of history in 1975 when a North Vietnamese Army tank crashed through its main gate, which ended the Vietnam war. This used to be the base of the late Vietnamese General Ngo Dinh Diem, the first president of the Republic of Vietnam, until his death in 1963. This building still operates and is used to host important occasions in the city, including APEC summits.
TIP: Open daily from 8:00 AM- 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM- 4:00 PM; Entrance fee VND 40,000 (Php 100) and can be bought on the east side of the main gate before entering
7. War Remnants Museum Saigon
The War Remnants Museum was once known as the "Museum of American War Crimes" and was first opened to the public in 1975. In here you'll find military equipment like helicopters, tanks, fighter planes, and even bombs that was used by the American troops against the Viet Congs (Vietnamese soldiers) during the Vietnam war.
Once you get inside, you'll find different exhibits, and each hall of this museum will walk you through how long and tragic the war really was. Some may find this place disturbing, but if you'd like to learn more about this historical event, it's a good place to go and be educated.
TIP: Open daily from 7:30 AM-12:00 NN and 1:30 PM- 5:00 PM; Entrance fee VND 40,000 (Php 100) per person
8. Giac Lam Pagoda
A big percentage of Vietnam's population believes in Buddhism as their religion. With that being said, you'll find many temples in this city, among those, I suggest going to the Giac Lam Pagoda situated in the Binh Tan District. This temple was built in 1744, and is known as the oldest Buddhist temple in Ho Chi Minh City and was listed by the Vietnamese Department of Culture as a historical site in 1988.
9. Bitexco Financial Tower
This 68- storey building is currently ranking as the 124th tallest building in the world, 262 meters high to be exact. Despite its name, this building is not only for business and offices, you can also find shops, restaurants and even a helipad here. Even though six floors of this building are dedicated to shopping, that's not the main reason why people flock to this place, their main attractions is really the Sky Deck on the 49th floor.
From the Sky Deck on the 49th floor, you'll be able to see Ho Chi Minh City from above with 360 degree views. If you want to do more than just sightseeing, you can head up to their cafe and restaurant on the 51st floor. The EON51 Cafe is the highest cafe, restaurant and lounge bar in Ho Chi Minh City. The prices here though can be a bit pricier than the ones you can buy outside, but just think that you're paying for your food, the view, and the whole experience.
TIP: If you want to check out the Sky Deck, buy your tickets through Klook here for a hassle free visit! (The Sky Deck is open daily from 9:30 AM- 9:30 PM)
DAY 3
10. Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels played a big role during the Vietnamese war. The network of connecting tunnels in the Cu Chi District of Saigon, Vietnam were used as base for Vietnamese soldiers as well as hiding spots during combat or when they were being bombed. These tunnels were also used as food and weapon supply routes, hospitals, and living quarters that greatly helped in the resistance to the growing American military forces.
Years after the war was over, the Cu Chi tunnels were still preserved and is now one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Vietnam. You'll get to see how vast the tunnels really were and if you're not claustrophobic, you can even try going inside and follow the path until you find the next exit. If you're not a fan of going in narrow and small spaces, you can try their shooting range. Most tours do not include this in their itineraries, so you will have to pay extra for this.
How to go: You can avail a half day tour of the Cu Chi tunnels through Klook here! If you're not satisfied with this offer, you'll also find a lot of tour guide offices near Ben Thanh Market.
TIP: Open daily from 7:00 AM- 5:00 PM
11. Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta, meaning "Nine Dragon river delta", is the region in southwestern Vietnam where the Mekong river branches out into nine separate paths, passing low landscapes first, before finally making its way to the sea. You'll really feel the difference of this place compared to the bustling city center, but that doesn't mean you won't enjoy it here. There's a lot of things you can try in the Mekong. You can visit the floating markets and ancient houses. Ride small boats and follow the paths created by nature itself. And try their delicacies and fresh fruits while being serenaded by live traditional Vietnamese performers.
How to go: You can avail a full day excursion to Mekong Delta through Klook here!
12. Saigon Square Shopping Mall
The excursions above will most likely occupy your whole day, so to end the trip, you might want to head to Saigon Square and do some last minute shopping. This shopping mall has two levels, both filled with stalls selling almost anything: shoes, bags, clothing, accessories, etc. If you're on a budget and still want to get those designer brands, this is the place to be. Not all of them though are legit, so a word of advice, if the price is too good to be true, then it probably isn't authentic.
TIP: Don't be afraid to bargain! (Open from 8:00 AM- 11:00 PM)
DAY 4
13. Museum of Vietnamese History
Before The Museum of Vietnamese History got its name in 1979, it was formerly called as the "Musee Blanchard de la Brosse" built by the talented French architect Auguste Delaval in 1926. Like any other museum, in here you'll find different exhibits showing the different phases, eras and dynasties that Vietnam went through before it became what it is now. This museum is also home to about 30,000 artifacts from the early Vietnamese kingdom.
TIP: You might want to drop by the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens as its located in the same place (Open from 8:00 AM- 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM- 4:30 PM; Closed every first Monday of the month; Entrance fee is VND 15,000 or Php 35)
14. An Dong Market
If you still haven't satisfied your shopping itch, try visiting the An Dong Market in District 5. This market has 4 levels with the top floor selling all quality handicrafts and souvenirs made by locals. Fashion wholesalers, shoes, bags and accessories filling up the next two floors. And on the ground and first floor you'll find food that they sell by bulk that you can either eat there or bring back home.
TIP: Open daily from 8:00 AM- 2:00 PM (some sites say that it closes at 10:00 PM, I suggest just going early)
15. Bui Vien Street
If you still have time before your flight going back home, head on to Bui Vien Street in Ho Chi Minh City. Bui Vien Street is also known as the famous "Backpackers street" having four streets in total, interconnecting in some alleys, with this being its main one. Here you'll find cheap but good restaurants, bars, souvenir shops and even hotels or hostels. You can have lunch or dinner and choose from a wide variety of cuisine if you've already had your fill of Vietnamese food. Or just simply grab a beer, sit down on a plastic stool along the street like a local and enjoy the few hours you have left being in the city.
FIN
Thanks for reading through this post! Stay tuned for my next one which will be about Vietnamese Street Food and Cuisine!
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