The dynamic Southern hub of Ho Chi Minh City, is bursting with innovative and exciting things to do. For visitors this lively city can feel overwhelming at times, that is why we have crafted this list of the 15 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.
To taste all the flavors of Vietnam without having to travel the length of the country, James Pham, our favourite Lonely Planet contributor headed to Spice Viet Hoi An.
Measuring just 19 km (12 mi), the Hai Van Pass is still considered one of the world’s most beautiful coastal drives as it winds its way through the Truong Son mountain range of Central Vietnam with lush jungle on one side and the beautiful blue East Sea on the other.
Vietnam’s de facto national dish has gained a huge following all around the world, with variations on the theme including a pho burger and even pho-inspired cocktails!
When the Ho Thuy Tien Water Park opened in Hue in 2004 to the reported tune of USD 3 million dollars, the locals were ecstatic. “We finally had somewhere to hang out,” remembers Lan, a Hue local. “Our whole class would go camping there on holidays.”
Tet, as the Vietnamese call Lunar New Year, is the country’s largest and most important celebration. It’s held on the first day of the first month of the lunar year.
Vietnam is a country of incredible food, fascinating culture and diverse landscapes. But for many, it’s the people of Vietnam who really make the trip memorable with their friendliness, hospitality and openness, despite having little in a material way.
To the casual visitor, Saigon may feel like a city of concrete and steel, dense with inhabitants and motorcycles fighting for a space amidst the chaos. However, just 20 minutes from the city center lies an oasis of green rice fields and quiet lanes that few visitors ever discover. Welcome to Thanh Da.