Saigon, officially known as Ho Chi Minh City, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis in southern Vietnam. Here’s some information to help you plan your travel to Saigon to explore the best places to go in Vietnam:

1. Attractions:

• Ben Thanh Market: Explore this bustling market known for its food stalls, local handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs.
• War Remnants Museum: Learn about the Vietnam War through exhibits, photographs, and artifacts.
• Reunification Palace: Visit the historic palace that played a significant role in Vietnam’s history, particularly during the Vietnam War.
• Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon: Admire the beautiful French colonial architecture of this iconic cathedral.
• Bitexco Financial Tower: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck of this modern skyscraper.
• Cu Chi Tunnels: Take a day trip to explore the network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.

In front of City Hall of Ho Chi Minh City (Source: AVT Travel)

2. Food and Street Food:

• Saigon is renowned for its delicious street food. Don’t miss trying local specialties such as banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), pho (noodle soup), com tam (broken rice), and fresh spring rolls.
• Visit local food markets like Ben Thanh Market or Binh Tay Market to savor a wide variety of Vietnamese dishes.

3. Cultural Experiences:

• Take a cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle taxi) ride through the bustling streets of Saigon, giving you a unique perspective of the city.
• Attend a traditional water puppet show, a unique form of Vietnamese folk art that combines puppetry, music, and storytelling.
• Explore Chinatown (Cho Lon) and visit the vibrant Binh Tay Market and Thien Hau Temple.

4. Day Trips:

• Mekong Delta: Embark on a boat tour to explore the picturesque waterways, lush rice paddies, and floating markets of the Mekong Delta region.
• Vung Tau: Enjoy a beach getaway in Vung Tau, a coastal town located just a few hours from Saigon. Relax on the sandy beaches or visit the White Palace and the Jesus Christ Statue.
• Cao Dai Temple and Cu Chi Tunnels: Combine a visit to the Cao Dai Temple, a unique religion in Vietnam, with a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels for a full day of historical and cultural exploration.

5. Transportation:

• Tan Son Nhat International Airport is the main gateway to Saigon, with numerous domestic and international flights.
• Getting around the city is relatively easy with options such as taxis, motorbike taxis (xe om), and ride-hailing services like Grab.
• Saigon also has an extensive bus network, and there is a metro system currently under construction.

6. Safety and Etiquette:

• Saigon is generally a safe city, but be cautious of your belongings and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and temples.
• It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or certain establishments.

Remember to check the latest travel advisories and make necessary arrangements for visas and accommodations before your trip. Saigon-one of the best places to go in Vietnam-offers a mix of history, culture, and culinary delights that are sure to make your visit memorable.