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Ho Chi Minh City offers the ultimate blend of past and present, with colonial style buildings, street markets, and historic temples set aside boutique shopping malls, gourmet restaurants, and towering structures with roof-top bars. This Vietnamese city is vibrant, fast-paced, and thriving with colourful cultures and it’s also one of Asia’s most eye-opening destinations. Brightsun Travel offers cheap holidays to Ho Chi Minh City, taking you to the heart of this dynamic travel destination.
Ho Chi Minh City boasts some of Vietnam’s finest architectural masterpieces, and there are also plenty of bustling markets in the city, selling pretty much everything that you can buy and bargaining is a big part of the Vietnamese culture, so you’ll be able to barter for the best price! A short drive from the city is the Chu Chi tunnels; this ancient tunnel complex was built underground during the Vietnam War and it’s now a popular tourist attraction.
Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi
Ho Chi Minh City has a vast network of buses, taxis, and motorbike taxis (called a ‘xe om’, locally), which are widely available and affordable. Ride-hailing apps like Grab and GoViet are popular for navigating the city's busy streets. For short distances, cyclos (pedicabs) offer a more traditional mode of transport. Walking is also an option, though traffic can be overwhelming, so crossing streets requires caution.
To travel to Vietnam, British citizens need a valid passport - no visa is required for trips of up to 15 days. For up-to-date travel advice and health recommendations visit the government’s travel advice for Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe, but petty theft like pickpocketing and bag snatching can happen, especially in busy areas and tourist spots. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying valuables openly. Be cautious when crossing roads, as traffic can be chaotic. Always use trusted taxi services or ride-hailing apps and avoid riding unmarked or unofficial taxis.
The local culture in Ho Chi Minh City is warm and welcoming, with a deep-rooted sense of hospitality. Bargaining is common at markets, but always be respectful. Dress modestly when visiting temples or pagodas; covering shoulders and knees is advised. Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up bills or leaving small tips in restaurants and for services is appreciated. As in the rest of Vietnam, it's polite to greet people with a smile and address elders or those in authority with respect.
Explore the War Remnants Museum for insight into Vietnam’s turbulent history, or visit the Reunification Palace, a key site from the Vietnam War era. Don't miss the Cu Chi Tunnels, where you can learn about the underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers.
Admire the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Central Post Office, both prime examples of French colonial architecture in the heart of the city.
Dive into Ho Chi Minh City's dynamic street food scene. Try iconic dishes like pho, banh mi, and com tam at local markets such as Ben Thanh Market or in the Binh Tay area.
Ben Thanh Market is not only a food hub but also a shopping destination for souvenirs, handicrafts, and clothing. For high-end shopping, head to Dong Khoi Street or visit the luxurious Saigon Centre mall.
Plan your visit during Tet Festival (Lunar New Year) to experience Vietnam's biggest celebration. In April, witness the Reunification Day celebrations which mark the reunification of North and South Vietnam in 1975.
Ho Chi Minh City offers an energetic nightlife scene with rooftop bars like Saigon Skydeck or bustling streets like Bui Vien Street filled with lively bars, street food, and entertainment.
Take the family to Suoi Tien Theme Park or the Dam Sen Water Park for fun-filled days of entertainment. You can also enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Saigon River.
Take a trip to the Mekong Delta for a scenic boat ride through floating markets and lush rice paddies, or visit the Saigon Opera House for a traditional Vietnamese cultural performance.
Beyond the city, you can explore attractions such as the charming Mekong Delta, the tropical Can Gio Biosphere Reserve, or venture further to the historic Vung Tau.
Ho Chi Minh City experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season.
The dry season, which runs from December to April, is the best time to visit as temperatures are warm but manageable, ranging from 25°C to 35°C. These months also see very little rain, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The wet season occurs from May to November, with frequent afternoon downpours and high humidity levels. While temperatures remain high, with averages of 27°C to 34°C, the heavy rains can make travel and outdoor exploration more challenging. However, the lush greenery during the rainy season is a sight to behold, and this is typically the low season, meaning fewer tourists and lower prices.
The hottest months are March and April, while December and January are the coolest, with slightly lower temperatures and more comfortable humidity levels. If you're looking for a balance between warm weather and fewer crowds, February and March are ideal times to visit.
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