Known as “Saigon” before being renamed Ho Chi Minh City in 1976, this largest and most vibrant Vietnamese city is the perfect destination to begin your Vietnam holiday. Serviced by Tan Son Nhat International Airport it is the perfect place into which to book your entry flight to Vietnam.
Traveler’s 50 years and older will all remember actor Robin Williams in the movie “Good Morning Vietnam” playing the infamous role of radio d.j., Adrian Cronauer—who was based in Saigon, during the early years of the American war with Vietnam.
Much has changed since then. Both young and old will have so much new to see and learn when visiting Saigon today. Traveler’s from all over the world are constantly amazed at how much this modern city of 7 million people and scooters has changed. The wide range of tourist activities which it has to offer is just amazing. Today Saigon is not only known for its tourism but also as the business and financial center of Vietnam who’s skyline is marked by dozens of spectacular towering new skyscrapers.
Bitexco Financial Tower in Ho Chi Minh city
District One is the favorite destination where most tourists choose to stay. Here there are dozens of beautiful hotels ranging from the five star Intercontinental Hotel located 50 floors up the amazing Bitexco building to the backpack friendly hostels and quest houses found in the Pham Ngu Lao or Bui Vien areas.
Popular for so many reasons, over 3 million tourists visited here in 2017, District One awaits you with open arms. So exciting and romantic—the adventure and the mystery of Saigon is yours just for the taking.
Jade Emperor Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam
Saigon is a tourist favorite in part because of its history, fascinating culture, classic French architecture and its many ornate temples and pagodas. Wide elegant boulevards lined with French colonial buildings crisscross the city well known for it’s vibrant energy and exciting nightlife. The many modern skyscrapers are topped off with a wide range of view friendly popular bars and appetite pleasing restaurants offering a fantastic choice of French, Continental, Chinese and of course local Vietnamese cuisine.
Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon
As most of us know there was a long terrible war fought in South Vietnam between approximately 1962 and 1975. Therefore it is not surprising to find reminders of this war as you walk around Saigon. Things like tanks and fighter planes can be seen and are a poignant reminders of this war. The classic French architecture is also a reminder of the cities past come to life with so many historically famous places scattered throughout the city—including a French built replica of Cathedral Notre Dame and the famous Saigon central post office also built by the French and opened in 1891.
Visit Ho Chi Minh War Museum
The War Remnants Museum found in District 3 is just such an example. (Young children are not recommended here). Visitors will see examples of a variety of weaponry including tanks, artillery guns, and helicopters from both the South Vietnamese and American armies. However, the most talked about exhibits are the “tiger cages” which the South Vietnamese government used to confine political prisoners—squeezing in up to 14 prisoners at a time per cage.
Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh city
Retail shoppers love to visit the classic and historic Ben Than Market which has been in operation since 1914—built by the French in the late 1800’s it is one of Saigon’s most famous and historic landmarks. Now catering to shoppers of a wide variety of souvenirs, local handicrafts, and textiles. In addition you will find an amazing selection of tantalizing street food which is available every night after 7pm for the hungry customers in the attached night market.
Reunification Palace in Ho Chi Minh city
Visiting the Reunification Palace is another must for history buffs. This was the home of the president of South Vietnam during the American War and was the site of the official surrender following the fall of Saigon in 1975. Much of the palace has been preserved just as it was on that infamous historic day. Visitors are welcome for a small fee during the week.
Cu Chi Tunnel
A must see attraction from the American War are the Cu Chi tunnels located 45km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. These infamous tunnels were made famous by the Viet Cong guerrillas who actually lived in and fought from them during the war. This complex tunnel system was an important part of the North Vietnamese strategy of fighting and winning the war in the south. Seventy five miles of the tunnel complex have been preserved by the government and turned into a war memorial park. Some tunnels have been reconstructed and made larger in order to accommodate tourists—an experience you will not soon forget.
Mekong Delta Vietnam
For a fun filled yet educational full day a tour to the Mekong Delta is the perfect choice. Your day begins with a scenic two hour ride to the Mekong River harbor. Then you’ll take a small boat to a local island where you will have a chance to see how the inhabitants of a small rural village actually live and work. You will also see a local bee farm and a coconut factory making coconut cookies and candies. Next you’ll have an opportunity to hear local Vietnamese music before enjoying a delicious Vietnamese lunch. This day is guaranteed to leave you feeling a new sense of appreciation and understanding for the real Vietnam.
So there it is—so much to do, so much to see. The amazing Saigon, just waiting for you to experience and to enjoy—the first stop of your Vietnam adventure.
Are you ready to begin one of the world’s great holiday trips?
Just go online and book your flight to Saigon or if you prefer call your travel agent today!
Once you’ve booked your flight the final step is to visit “Evisa-vietnam.com” on line and order your Vietnamese “on-arrival visa“. It’s as easy as one-two-three and your good to go.
See you in Saigon!!!
Vietnam landing visa in Tan Son Nhat Airport, Ho Chi Minh city
