Ho Chi Minh City (sometimes called Hi Chi Minh City) is the largest city in Vietnam and was once called Saigon and before that Prey Nokor. Parts of the area are still referred to as Saigon but usually the area most popular with tourists. French and English is spoken to an extent and it will normally be possible to make yourself understood.
Facts
- This area has been called the Pearl of the Far East and the Paris of the Orient.
- There are two distinct seasons and the climate is classed as tropical.
- Traffic is chaotic and the only way to cross the road is to walk out and hold your nerve. Lights are normally adhered to but for Westerners it is still daunting.
- The only danger is in the form of a scam where apparently you are recognized. You will be invited to the house of a friendly family who will then either ask for money for a sick relative or have a business deal they would like to discuss.
History and Culture
There is a large French history as the city was taken over by the French in 1859. The Viet Minh took control in 1954 and Saigon was often referred to as South Vietnam. By 1975 and the end of the Vietnam war the Vietnamese People Party ruled until in 1976 when Saigon joined with other surrounding areas and became Ho Chi Minh City after the late Communist leader.
Things to See and Do
The Reunification Palace or Independence Palace is a place that is worthy of a visit. It was formerly the presidential palace. Among the things to see are propaganda films. Add in a selection of 60s electronic goods and a replica of the tank that crashed through the gates at the end of the war and it is a snapshot of the Saigon of the 1960s and 70s. There is a Museum of Vietnamese History plus The Ho Chi Minh Museum. During the day you can shop at the Thanh market and then at 6pm when that closes there is the Night Market. Visit the War Surplus Market with caution as many of the supposedly authentic items such as Zippo lighters are fake.
Nightlife
ZanZbar is popular with tourists and is well known for its selection of wines, while the 163 Cyclo Bar stays open until 2 am and its loud music can be heard down the street. The Catwalk offers food drinks and a massage. Add to that the casino and all you want for an evening’s entertainment is under one room. American Disco is known as one of the best bars in Saigon and is as popular with locals as with tourists.
Eating and Drinking
As the areas popularity grows so do the prices. The restaurants have seen price rises of up to 30% a year but there are still some nice places to go. The French influence is here as well with a number of restaurants and many places selling baguettes. Pancakes are popular and you can have the filling of your choice. This can be fruit, meat or vegetable. Fast food stores are becoming more popular with a few KFCs to be found but as yet no McDonalds. Pho Bo Vien Quoc Ky provides filling and tasty soups and Papaya by Chi Nghia is a 5 star restaurant that provides Northern Vietnamese food.
