Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and an important economic and cultural hub. Located in the southern part of the country, HCMC is home to more than 8 million people and is known for its bustling streets, vibrant nightlife, and rich history.
The city was named after Ho Chi Minh, the former leader of Vietnam and an important figure in the country's fight for independence. His legacy can be seen throughout the city, with numerous statues and landmarks dedicated to him.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in HCMC is the Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace. This iconic building was the former presidential palace of South Vietnam and played a significant role in the country's history. Visitors can take a tour of the palace and learn about its past through exhibitions and displays. Sadly we were not able to visit on this trip but this is a to do when visiting the city.
Another popular tourist destination is the Notre Dame Cathedral, a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the heart of the city. The cathedral, which was built in the late 1800s, is an important cultural and architectural landmark and is a must-see for anyone visiting HCMC. If you are visiting soon, keep in mind that the Cathedral is currently under construction. We were not able to see it in it’s glory.
One of the most touching and memorable stop on our visit was to The War Remnants Museum. The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), Vietnam is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the country's history and the Vietnam War. Located in the heart of the city, the museum is dedicated to preserving the memory of the war and honoring the sacrifices of those who fought and died.
The museum was originally established in 1975 and was called the "Exhibition House for US and Puppet Crimes." In the 1990s, it was renovated and renamed the War Remnants Museum. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in HCMC, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
The museum is divided into several sections, each of which covers a different aspect of the war. The main exhibition hall features a wide range of artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, and personal items belonging to soldiers on both sides of the conflict. There are also exhibits on the role of journalists and photographers in the war, as well as the impact of the conflict on civilians.
One of the most striking features of the museum is the outdoor exhibition area, which features a collection of military equipment and vehicles used during the war. Visitors can see tanks, planes, and other military hardware up close, giving them a sense of the scale of the conflict.
In addition to the main exhibition hall and outdoor exhibits, the museum also has a research center and library, which are open to the public. The research center contains a wealth of information about the war, including documents, photographs, and other historical materials.
Overall, the War Remnants Museum is an important and educational destination for anyone interested in Vietnam's history and the events that shaped the country's future. It is a sobering reminder of the cost of war and the sacrifices made by those who fought and died for their country.
Another must stop is the Saigon Post Office. The Saigon Central Post Office (known in Vietnamese as Bưu Điện Trung Tâm Sài Gòn) is a historic building located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), Vietnam. Built in the late 1800s, the post office is an important cultural and architectural landmark in the city and is a popular tourist destination.
The post office was designed by the French architect Gustave Eiffel, who is best known for designing the Eiffel Tower in Paris. The building is a fusion of French colonial and Vietnamese architectural styles, and its distinctive red roof and clock tower make it an iconic landmark in the city.
Inside the post office, visitors can see the original interior design, which includes high ceilings, marble floors, and antique furniture. The building is still in use as a post office, and visitors can purchase stamps and other postal services.
In addition to its role as a post office, the Saigon Central Post Office is also a popular tourist destination. Visitors can take a tour of the building and learn about its history, or just enjoy the beautiful architecture and atmosphere. The post office is also a popular spot for tourists to send postcards and letters to their loved ones back home.
Its rich history and beautiful architecture make it a unique and memorable experience.
In addition to its historical attractions, HCMC is also known for its vibrant street food scene. The city is home to a wide variety of local and international cuisine, and visitors can find everything from traditional Vietnamese dishes to Western fast food. The famous Ben Thanh Market is a great place to try some local delicacies, and the Pham Ngu Lao area is known for its lively street food stalls.
HCMC is also a great destination for shopping, with numerous markets and shopping centers throughout the city. The Saigon Square and Diamond Plaza are two popular shopping destinations, and visitors can find a wide range of products ranging from clothing and accessories to electronics and home goods.
Getting around the city. there are several ways to get around the city. Here are a few options:
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Taxis: Taxis are widely available in HCMC and are a convenient way to get around the city. You can flag a taxi down on the street or book one through a ride-hailing app like Grab or Be. Be sure to agree on a price with the driver before starting your journey, as not all taxis use meters. We used Grab mostly as it was inexpensive, we know the price before booking and we feel safe using it as we have in numerous countries before.
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Motorbikes: Motorbikes are a popular mode of transportation in HCMC, and you can hire one with a driver to take you around the city. This is a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to get around, but it can be a bit intimidating for those who are not used to riding on motorbikes.
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Buses: HCMC has an extensive bus network that covers most parts of the city. Buses are a cheap way to get around, but they can be crowded and may not be the most comfortable option for tourists.
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Cyclos: Cyclos are traditional Vietnamese pedicabs that are propelled by a cyclist. They are a fun and unique way to get around the city and are a great option for short distances.
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Walking: Many of the attractions in HCMC are within walking distance of each other, so you may want to consider exploring the city on foot. Just be prepared for the heat and humidity, and be careful when crossing the busy streets.
So how much does it cost? This will vary greatly depending on how you travel and what you are looking to get out of your vacation. You can visit on the low or you can ball out and go for gold. Here are some general estimates of the costs you can expect to pay in HCMC:
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Accommodation: Prices for accommodation in HCMC can vary widely depending on your budget and preferences. A budget hotel room can cost around $10-20 per night, while a mid-range hotel room can cost around $30-50 per night. Luxury hotel rooms can cost upwards of $100 per night. We stayed at an Airbnb at $40/night. 2b/1b, everything included.
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Food: Food in HCMC is generally very affordable, with local dishes costing around $1-5. Western food and imported ingredients may be slightly more expensive. Street food is also a popular and cheap option, with dishes costing around $1-2.
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Transportation: Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab and Be are widely available in HCMC and are generally inexpensive. A short taxi ride within the city center can cost around $3-5, while a longer journey may cost around $10-15. Buses and motorbikes are also cheap options for getting around the city.
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Attractions: Many of the attractions in HCMC are relatively inexpensive, with entrance fees ranging from $1-5 for museums and $5-10 for more popular tourist destinations like the Cu Chi Tunnels.
HCMC is generally considered to be a safe city for tourists. While it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings, violent crime against tourists is relatively rare in HCMC. Pickpocketing is on the rise as well as electronic snatch and grab. Not paying attention to your surrounding when using cell phone or camera equipment can lead to theft from bike riders in the blink of an eye.
As with any large city, there are some areas that are safer than others. It is a good idea to research the areas you plan to visit and avoid walking alone at night in areas that are known to be less safe.
There are also some common scams that tourists should be aware of in HCMC. These can include overcharging for goods or services, always check your receipt, ask prices before committing to buying, false accidents blaming you for the incident then wanting you to pay, and fake police officers asking for bribes. Be aware and always stay vigilant. Speak loudly and clearly if you feel unsafe to gain the attention of others around you.
Overall, HCMC is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone. From its rich history and cultural attractions to its delicious food and bustling shopping scene, there is always something to see and do in this vibrant city.
