Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide
Still known locally as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is an exciting and clamorous metropolis that embodies the essence of modern Vietnam. As the country's largest city and business hub, it pulses with energy as history, culture and rapid development collide in the most captivating way. With nearly nine million people packed into its crowded streets, this noisy, chaotic destination is endlessly fascinating and a must for the world's adventurers.
The city lies on the Saigon River at the edge of the Mekong Delta, and has a rich history, having been the heart of South Vietnam during the war and serving as the American headquarters. Today, Ho Chi Minh City is a cosmopolitan fusion of old and new, where French colonial buildings stand alongside sleek skyscrapers, and traditional markets coexist with upscale shopping centers. It's a city that has embraced capitalism and is on the rise, yet it still holds onto its authentic charm.
Visitors are drawn to the dynamic street life: the constant hum of motorbikes weaving through traffic, the vibrant food stalls offering everything from pho to fresh fruit, and the colourful images of street vendors and orange-robed monks. Here, a family of four might zoom past on a scooter, and a pig might be strapped to the back of a bike, all of which are part of the city's unique ambience.
While modern influences shape much of the skyline, traces of Ho Chi Minh City's French colonial past remain in its wide boulevards, charming cafes and elegant architecture. However, it's the lively atmosphere, rich street culture and proximity to the lush Mekong Delta that make this city so very appealing. Whether visitors are savouring a bowl of pho at a bustling market or exploring the busy backstreets, Ho Chi Minh City offers a journey unlike any other.