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katelyn-scstudyabroad · 1 year

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Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

If you’ve been following along, my mom came to Asia to visit and travel with me after classes finished. After she went home I returned to Ha Noi and my dad came to visit, as he also wanted to see Vietnam but my parents are on different schedules.

We spent a few days in Hanoi; I showed my dad to some of my favorite places and we even went to some new places that I had not yet been to. Like my mom, my dad also experienced quite a bit of culture shock, but he still really liked the city.

My dad wanted to see more of Vietnam, so I planned a trip to central Vietnam, my favorite region of the country. I had already been to Da Nang and Hoi An, but I wanted to return to the area to see more.

I have taken many forms of transportation over the past few months, but I had not yet taken a train in Vietnam so I booked tickets to take an overnight train from Hanoi to Hue. Vietnam is pretty well-connected by railway, there are train lines spanning the entire length of the country from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh. Trains have a mix of regular seats and sleeper cabins. Sleeper cabins can have either 4 or 6 beds. Since I booked last minute and there was a holiday I could only get us tickets together in a 6, which was not a good choice. Below I have a picture from the internet with the dimensions, which kind of gives a feel for how small the space was. I am a smaller person so I fit okay, but my 6 ft tall dad was very uncomfortable. Even the 4-person cabins were very small so I don’t think they would have been much better. As a general note, the average Vietnamese person is very small so any taller/larger person planning a visit should take that into account, as many things are designed for smaller people.

After a very rough night on the train, we were very relieved to reach our destination: the city of Hue.

Hue is located slightly north of Da Nang. It was the capital of Vietnam of during the Nguyen Dynasty. During the war Hue suffered greatly, with much of the city destroyed and thousands of people killed. In the past few decades, however, they have been able to rebuild and are becoming a growing tourism center. I did not have time to visit Hue previously, but I knew I had to go there before I left Vietnam.

Our first day my dad and I walked around the city center and took a trip down the Perfume River that snakes through the city on a dragon boat, one of the things Hue is famous for.

Hue is also famous for its cuisine, so we went on a food tour. This was the first food tour I had ever been on, and it was very worth it. Our guide, Linh, was a very enthusiastic and cool guy, and he had great food choices. We got to try many Hue specialties and they were all so delicious. My favorite was Hue’s most famous dish: Bun Bo Hue. This is a beef noodle dish that I had had before in Hanoi, but it was so much better in Hue. To finish the tour we also had some of Hue’s local beer: Huda. Linh also took us around the city and told us some about its history. Because of the holiday we also walked through a street festival and walked along the river to see all the dragon boats lit up in the water.

Besides food, Hue is also known for its historic Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to palaces, gardens, temples, and other structures from the Nguyen Dynasty. Due to heavy destruction of the site during the war it is still undergoing reconstruction, like many other historic sites around Vietnam. My dad and I spent a good portion of a day there exploring all of the different structures.

From Hue our next destination was Da Nang. We took the train again but had a much more pleasant experience, as this ride was less than three hours and we sat in regular seats that were more spacious than the sleeper cabin. We also had some very scenic views. While I would not recommend an overnight train, I would recommend a train for shorter distances for scenic views and affordability (our tickets for this ride were only about $5 each!).

Since I had already visited Da Nang, I was able to show my dad some highlights, like the best beach and the nearby pagoda. One new thing we did that I did not have time for before was visit Ba Na Hills.

Ba Na Hills originated over a hundred years ago when French imperialists built a mountain resort. In more modern times it has been turned into Sun World, which is basically an amusement park on top of the mountain. To get to the park there are several cable car lines up the mountain. The park is most famous for its Golden Bridge, which has become a landmark and symbol of Vietnam. The main part of the park is a village modeled after Europe with restaurants, gardens, games, rides, and live performances. There were so many performers at the park, we got to see several dance troupes, singers, acrobats, jugglers, accordionists, saxophone players, and characters. While most of the park was Europe-themed, there were also Vietnamese traditional buildings and a Buddhist temple there, making for a very interesting mix of culture. I originally planned a park visit specifically for the famous Golden Bridge, but I really enjoyed the rest of it.

We next spent a night in Hoi An (see my previous post for more details on this city) so that my dad could see the famous lanterns before taking a flight back to Hanoi. We were originally going to take another overnight train back, but after our experience we decided that airplane travel suited us much better.

Anyway, shout-out to my dad for going on this adventure with me.

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rashmi-rattan · 13 days

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Exploring the Heart of Imperial Vietnam: A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Hue, Vietnam

Nestled along the banks of the serene Perfume River, Hue stands as a testament to Vietnam’s rich history and cultural heritage. As a former imperial capital, Hue offers an enticing blend of majestic architecture, verdant landscapes, and a unique cultural charm that captivates every traveler. Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or someone seeking tranquility, Hue has something to offer. This travel guide to Hue, Vietnam, aims to take you through the must-see attractions, hidden gems, things to do in Hue, and practical tips to ensure you make the most of your visit.

Historical Significance and Cultural Heritage

Hue’s historical significance is immense, having been the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945. This era left a lasting legacy that can still be explored today. The Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a sprawling complex of palaces, temples, walls, and gates, reminiscent of the grandeur of imperial times. The Forbidden Purple City, once the private residence of the emperor, is a highlight within the Citadel, though much of it was damaged during the Vietnam War.

Another historical treasure is the Tombs of the Emperors. These grand mausoleums, located on the outskirts of the city, reflect the grandeur and artistic flair of the Nguyen Dynasty. The tombs of Emperor Minh Mang, Emperor Khai Dinh, and Emperor Tu Duc are particularly noteworthy for their architectural styles, each offering a glimpse into the past and a serene environment to reflect on Vietnam’s history.

Top Things to Do in Hue

Visit the Imperial Citadel: The heart of Hue's historical legacy, the Imperial Citadel, should be the first stop on your list. Wander through the vast courtyards, admire the intricate details of the structures, and imagine the days when emperors and mandarins walked these grounds.

Explore the Perfume River: A boat trip on the Perfume River is a quintessential Hue experience. The river offers a peaceful journey through the city, allowing you to see sights such as the Thien Mu Pagoda and the Dong Ba Market from a unique perspective. Sunset cruises are particularly popular for their picturesque views.

Discover the Royal Tombs: Each royal tomb in Hue offers a unique glimpse into the past. The tomb of Khai Dinh is renowned for its blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles, while the tomb of Minh Mang is surrounded by tranquil gardens and lakes.

Marvel at Thien Mu Pagoda: As one of the oldest and most significant pagodas in Vietnam, Thien Mu Pagoda offers stunning views over the Perfume River and a serene atmosphere. Its seven-story tower is an iconic symbol of Hue.

Stroll Through Dong Ba Market: For a taste of local life, head to Dong Ba Market. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional Vietnamese clothing and handicrafts. It's a vibrant place to explore and pick up souvenirs.

Sample Local Cuisine: Hue is famous for its unique culinary heritage. Don’t miss out on dishes like Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup), Banh Beo (steamed rice cakes), and Com Hen (clam rice). The local street food is both delicious and affordable.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

Thanh Toan Bridge: Located a short drive from the city center, this charming Japanese-style bridge offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Hue. It's a great spot for photography and a peaceful stroll.

Bach Ma National Park: Nature enthusiasts will appreciate a day trip to Bach Ma National Park, located about 40 kilometers from Hue. The park boasts lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Vong Canh Hill: For stunning panoramic views of the Perfume River and the royal tombs, head to Vong Canh Hill. It's a perfect spot for a picnic or simply to enjoy a quiet moment surrounded by nature.

Practical Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Hue is from March to August when the weather is warm and dry. Avoid the rainy season from September to December, as the city can experience heavy rainfall and occasional flooding.

Getting Around: Hue is a relatively compact city, and many attractions are within walking distance. For further destinations, consider renting a bicycle or motorbike, or hire a taxi for convenience.

Accommodation: Hue offers a range of accommodations from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Staying near the Perfume River provides easy access to major attractions and picturesque views.

Language and Currency: Vietnamese is the primary language, but many people in tourist areas speak basic English. The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), and it's advisable to carry cash as not all places accept credit cards.

Conclusion

Hue is a city that seamlessly blends historical grandeur with natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. From the majestic Imperial Citadel to the tranquil Perfume River, there is no shortage of fascinating things to do in Hue. This travel guide to Hue, Vietnam, aims to provide you with a comprehensive overview to make your visit memorable. So, pack your bags, immerse yourself in the history and culture, and get ready to explore one of Vietnam’s most enchanting cities.

Hue awaits with open arms, ready to share its stories, sights, and flavors with you.

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vaidhainshijindal · 1 month

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Exploring Vietnam’s Rich Tapestry: Phong Nha-Ke Bang, Hue, and Mui Ne

Vietnam is a land of contrasts, where natural wonders, historical treasures, and vibrant coastal towns offer travelers a rich tapestry of experiences. From the ancient imperial city of Hue to the adventure-laden landscapes of Phong Nha-Ke Bang and the sun-soaked beaches of Mui Ne, each destination promises a unique journey. This guide delves into the highlights of these three remarkable locations, providing travelers with insights to make the most of their Vietnamese adventure.

Exploring Phong Nha-Ke Bang

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its stunning karst landscapes, extensive cave systems, and rich biodiversity.

Cave Exploration: The park is home to some of the world's most spectacular caves, including Son Doong, the largest cave in the world, and Phong Nha Cave, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Paradise Cave, with its awe-inspiring chambers, offers a more accessible but equally stunning experience.

Adventure Activities: Beyond caving, Phong Nha-Ke Bang offers various outdoor activities such as trekking, kayaking, and zip-lining. The Chay River and Toi Cave (Dark Cave) provide opportunities for zip-lining, swimming, and mud bathing, adding an adventurous twist to the natural exploration.

Local Culture: Visiting nearby villages allows travelers to experience local life and culture. The Phong Nha Botanic Garden and the Eight Ladies Cave, a war memorial site, offer deeper insights into the region's history and natural environment.

Hue, Vietnam Travel Guide

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is steeped in history and culture, offering a window into the country’s regal past. Lets explore Hue Travel Guide.

Imperial Citadel: The centerpiece of Hue is the Imperial Citadel, a vast complex of palaces, temples, walls, and gates. This UNESCO World Heritage site reflects the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty and provides a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial history.

Royal Tombs: Scattered along the Perfume River are the elaborate tombs of Nguyen emperors, such as the Tomb of Minh Mang, the Tomb of Khai Dinh, and the Tomb of Tu Duc. Each tomb features unique architecture and beautiful landscapes.

Thien Mu Pagoda: Overlooking the Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda is one of Hue's oldest and most iconic religious sites. Its seven-story tower and serene gardens make it a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Local Cuisine: Hue is famous for its culinary heritage, offering dishes like Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and Banh Beo (steamed rice cakes). A food tour through the city’s markets and street vendors is a must for any visitor.

Guide to Mui Ne, Vietnam

Mui Ne, a coastal town in southern Vietnam, is known for its stunning beaches, towering sand dunes, and laid-back vibe.

Beaches and Water Sports: Mui Ne's beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports like kite surfing and windsurfing, thanks to the area's strong sea breezes.

Sand Dunes: The Red Sand Dunes and the White Sand Dunes are iconic landmarks. The White Sand Dunes, in particular, offer a surreal desert-like landscape where visitors can enjoy activities like sand sledding, quad biking, and watching the sunrise.

Fairy Stream: This shallow, red-colored stream winds through a canyon of striking rock formations. Walking along the stream is a unique way to experience Mui Ne's natural beauty.

Fishing Village: Mui Ne’s fishing village offers a glimpse into the daily life of local fishermen. Visiting early in the morning, you can see the vibrant fish market and the colorful boats returning with their catch.

Conclusion

From the historical depth of Hue to the adventurous allure of Phong Nha-Ke Bang and the coastal charm of Mui Ne, Vietnam’s diverse destinations offer something for every traveler. Whether you’re exploring ancient citadels, trekking through caves, or basking on sunlit beaches, Vietnam promises a journey filled with discovery, adventure, and unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and embark on an exploration of this enchanting Southeast Asian gem.

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saolatoursvietnam · 5 months

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Vietnamese Wonders Unveiled: A Journey with Sao La Vietnam Tours

Embark on an unforgettable Vietnamese tour with Sao La Vietnam Tours, delving into the country's enchanting landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. From the historical allure of Hanoi to the natural wonders of Halong Bay, the ethereal landscapes of Sapa, and the ancient town bliss of Hoi An, each destination unfolds a unique story, adding layers to the vibrant narrative of this captivating Vietnamese tour.

Initiate your adventure in Hanoi, where history comes alive in the vibrant streets of the Old Quarter. Explore the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and delve into the cultural tapestry at the iconic Temple of Literature and the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake. Hanoi sets the cornerstone for your immersive Vietnamese tour.

Embark on a cruise through Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and witness the breathtaking landscapes of towering limestone karsts. Halong Bay, a natural wonder, invites you to explore concealed caves and experience mesmerizing sunsets, creating an awe-inspiring chapter in your Vietnamese tour.

Uncover the picturesque landscapes of Sapa, nestled in northern mountains, as you trek through terraced rice fields and engage with ethnic minority communities. The ethereal scenery of Sapa offers an authentic and immersive experience, making it a focal point of your Vietnamese tour.

Step back in time in Hoi An, an ancient town adorned with well-preserved architecture and vibrant lantern-lit nights. Meander through charming streets, indulge in delectable local cuisine, and let Hoi An's cultural haven leave an indelible mark on your Vietnamese tour.

Immerse yourself in the imperial grandeur of Hue, a city steeped in history. Explore the ancient citadel, pay respects at royal tombs, and cruise along the Perfume River. Hue's regal charm and historical significance make it an essential destination for history enthusiasts on their Vietnamese tour.

Discover the dynamic city of Da Nang, where traditional charm seamlessly blends with modern developments. Explore the Marble Mountains, visit the nearby ancient town of Hoi An, and unwind on pristine beaches. Da Nang provides a perfect balance of cultural exploration and leisure, enhancing the versatility of your Vietnamese tour.

Conclude your journey in the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon. Explore the War Remnants Museum, stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street, and savor local street food. Ho Chi Minh City pulsates with the progress and resilience of Vietnam, offering a vibrant reflection to complete your Vietnamese tour.

In summary, let the diverse landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality of Vietnam weave an extraordinary tapestry of experiences during your Vietnamese tour with Sao La Vietnam Tours. Each destination contributes a unique chapter, enriching the essence of this captivating country. Reach out directly or send a quick note, and together, we'll craft enduring memories in the heart of Vietnam. Vietnamese Tour awaits you!

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gamerabroad · 1 year

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Nguyen Hue (Nguyễn Huệ) walking street on a Sunday night is crowded. The vendors might not be in full force but the people, the skaters and the little doggies are all out enjoying the cool night air. I take a walk with my girlfriend and blather on. JJoin our huge community on discord and be a part of the conversation: https://gamerabroad.com/discord Please Support me on Patreon for exclusive content: https://gamerabroad.com/patreon If you want to buy me a coffee I can't stop you: https://gamerabroad.com/coffee By popular request, a PayPal Tip Jar: https://gamerabroad.com/paypal Please follow me on Facebook https://www.gamerabroad.com/facebook Please follow me on Instagram: https://gamerabroad.com/instagram Please follow me on Twitter: https://gamerabroad.com/twitter Thank you very much everyone for all the love you send my way. I assure you, the feeling is mutual. I am an American Expat in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. (I dislike the word Expat). I have lived in Vietnam for 3 years, I am almost considered an expert at living abroad. As I live, work and explore, I want to take you around with me to show you what I saw in Vietnam and talk with you about my experiences living in Saigon and take you with me as I travel vlog around Vietnam in 2022. This is my Vietnam life, my Saigon life, my expat life. I always thought living abroad would be scary, but it's interesting and fulfilling. The food is amazing, the culture is fascinating and the people are friendly and welcoming. If you ever wanted to take the leap to travel and live abroad, Tourism in Vietnam is buzzing right now since Vietnam. I am often asked: are Vietnam borders open? Yes indeed, tourism reopened in 2022. Want to know what I saw in Vietnam and my life in Saigon. What I think about Vietnam and traveling abroad? What to do in Vietnam? What to do in Saigon? How to work, or work as a teacher in Asia? How to get a visa or what a digital nomads life could be like in Asia or Vietnam? What is it like to be an Expat in Vietnam and Asia? Or even how to be a travel vlogger (albeit a not yet successful one, here's hoping)? I am an expat, a Saigon Vlogger, a HCMC vlogger, a moto vlogger, a lifestyle vlogger, a digital nomad resource, a Saigon nightlife vlogger. I hope you will feel encouraged by my channel. I am not a Vietnam digital nomad in HCMC. But I know a few. Some keywords I like to include are: walking street nguyen hue walking street expats expat living

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myonlinenote228 · 1 year

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Roam Around

Selected date: Wednesday, March 8th, 2023

Build Itinerary

Ok, I've made you an amazing itinerary for Vietnam

Day 1: After arriving in Hanoi, take the afternoon to explore the Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets filled with shops and street vendors. In the evening, attend a water puppet show, a traditional Vietnamese art form. For dinner, head to Cha Ca La Vong, a restaurant famous for its grilled fish with turmeric and dill.

Day 2: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Presidential Palace in the morning. In the afternoon, take a cyclo (cycle rickshaw) tour around the French Quarter and visit the Hoa Lo Prison Museum. In the evening, enjoy a meal at Quan An Ngon, a restaurant that serves a variety of Vietnamese dishes.

Day 3: Take a day trip to the Perfume Pagoda, a complex of Buddhist temples set in a scenic landscape. You will take a boat ride along the Yen River and then hike to the temples. For lunch, try the local specialty, bun cha, at Bun Cha Dac Kim. Return to Hanoi in the evening.

Day 4: Fly to Da Nang and transfer to Hoi An. Spend the morning walking around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An Ancient Town, admiring the well-preserved architecture and visiting the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Chinese Assembly Hall. In the afternoon, take a cooking class at the Morning Glory Cooking School. For dinner, head to Bale Well, a restaurant famous for its banh mi sandwiches.

Day 5: Take a bike ride to the countryside and visit a local farm where you can learn about rice cultivation and try your hand at fishing with a bamboo rod. In the afternoon, relax at An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach. For dinner, try the seafood at Morning Glory Restaurant.

Day 6: Drive to Hue and visit the Imperial City, a complex of palaces and temples that was the residence of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors. In the afternoon, take a boat trip along the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and the tombs of the emperors. For dinner, try the bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) at Hanh Restaurant.

Day 7: Take a day trip to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), a historic site that marks the boundary between North and South Vietnam during the war. Visit the Vinh Moc Tunnels, the Hien Luong Bridge, and the Museum of the 17th Parallel. Return to Hue in the evening and enjoy a relaxing meal at Les Jardins de La Carambole.

Day 8: Fly back to Hanoi and spend the morning visiting the Temple of Literature, the first university in Vietnam. In the afternoon, take a street food tour and sample some of Hanoi's famous dishes, such as pho and banh mi. For your final evening, have a farewell dinner at Home Hanoi Restaurant.

To get this itinerary emailed to you, click here

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amazingvietnamtrips · 2 years

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Top 3 Best Places For An Enjoyable Nightlife In Vietnam

The indicator of nightlife in Vietnam is most evident in its “cities that never sleep”, which have long been an important part of any country's tourism.

Traveling to Vietnam, if you want to have the best Vietnamese nightlife experiences, it’s suggested to visit the urban areas, particularly Hanoi, Da Nang City and Ho Chi Minh City.

1 - Hanoi - the best place to “immerse” in nightlife in Vietnam in the South

Hanoi is usually calm and quiet, but it changes when the night comes, packed with street food shops and interesting activities, especially at walking streets around Hoan Kiem Lake and Hanoi Old Quarter. Visiting these places, you will have the opportunity to try cheap but delicious street food like mixed rice papers, ice-cream … or the famous sidewalk fresh beer at Bia Hoi intersection.

2 - Ho Chi Minh City - the best place for nightlife in Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is glamorous no matter day or night, sparkling and full of exciting activities and attractions, from the luxurious bars and clubs, to the cheap and casual street shops. You can easily buy bingsu, smoothies, or sweet soups, almost anything you want, on the streets. Besides Nguyen Hue Walking street, Bui Vien Backpacker Street is also a place you should visit if you plan to try out the craft beer while chatting with friends.

3 - Visit Danang City for a coastal nightlife in Vietnam

Going from North to South, Central Vietnam also has outstanding nightlife, including Da Nang. Famous for its sparkling beaches and bridges (Dragon Bridge, Thuan Phuoc Bridge, etc.), this city also has various night markets with cheap food, and especially the Asia Park with the giant Sun Wheel.

We hope you can use the above information to have the best nightlife in Vietnam and would like to suggest that you should keep an eye on your assets, stay away from using drugs and alcohol for brilliant experiences.

#vietnamese_nightlife #nightlife_in_vietnam #vietnam_travel_guide

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strongfiercestworld · 4 years

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#City Hall (People's Committee Building), Saigon/HoChiMinh City

The Ho Chi Minh City Hall is the present name of the former Hotel de Ville or City Hall of Saigon. The ornate yellow French style building is located on the Le Thanh Ton Street at the end of the Nguyen Hue Boulevard.

The building was designed by the French architect P. Gardes and built between 1898 and 1908. It was called the Hotel de Ville until 1954. Between 1954 and 1975, it was called the City Hall of Saigon under the then South Vietnam Government. After the reunification of the country in 1975, it was given its present name, the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Head Office.

Visitors to the building are greeted by a statue of Ho Chi Minh teaching a child. It is a popular spot where locals and tourists get their photographs taken. The City Hall has a renaissance style that was inspired by the design of town halls in France. It has a main hall and rectangular wings. A notable feature of the building is the bell tower that stands on a pyramid-shaped pedestal. The City Hall is spectacular when lighted up at night. It consists of working government offices and is not open to visitors.

Why You Should Visit:

Easy to walk around; plenty to see at your own pace; night time is great as well; great garden and food around the place.

#travelinspiration#travelphotography

#travelphotography📷 #indian #traveldiaries #adventures #tour #travelindia #tourism #followforfollowback

#travaldiaries #travelgram #travellerlife

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anypu-blog · 4 years

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Fusio Purr lGorgeous Hideout Chilling in Downtown Our place name Fusio means “FUSION” – The noun come from the Latin word “ Fundere” meaning melt, so “ Fusion” is the act of melting things together. Called “PURRING” because we love cats. When a cat purrs, you might think it is as simple as a human smiling. “ Purring”is a sign of a happy cat.

All the meaning of the name only hope to bring you the feeling of being at home, leave all daily worries behind, enjoy&discover lifestyle of SaiGon.

At Fusio, we believe every little thing matters.

The space Spend some time enjoying the unique space at our place and the convenience that just few minuets to access travel spot, we believe this place will give you the most comfort while staying.

- Located in a quite alley in a heart of downtown. (1min to access main street) - Fully equipped with queen bed, private bathroom. - Roftop also space where you can have a bit of fresh air & relax after long day.

What will interest you: *Free* cleaning room once per week ( stay over a week) *Free* washing clothes once per week (stay over a week) Fast wifi

We know you have many choices, tks choosing “ FUSION PURRING HOME”.

Guest access Just a few minute to everywhere: *3 mins to The Dragon Wharf *5 mins to Bui Vien street *7 mins to Nguyen Hue Walking Street *8 mins to Ben Thanh Market

Specially, it just takes you some steps into Vinh Khanh Road which is now an official food street. This lively street is teeming with no-frills sidewalk restaurants. It’s not the place to enjoy a quiet meal, but it is incredible fun.

Other things to note * Check-in time after 2PM and check-out time is 12PM (noon). Early check-in and late check-out are subject to our room availability, extra fee might be incurred for late check-out or early check-in requests. *Please check out our house rules as it is crucial to us You can check in at any time after 2pm

Our place doesn't have place for parking, you could park the bike outside the house in the morning. However, near our there is a parking place in H1 apartment which take only few steps to get the the house.

Parking fee not included.

Free to get in/out the apartment anytime you would like to during the guest stay I hope the above information is useful for you. If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me. Your satisfaction is our pleasure! Xem giá thuê tại link : https://www.anypu.vn/fusio-purr-lgorgeous-hideout-chilling-…#

#corona

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graylinevietnam-blog · 5 years

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A guide to your Saigon food tour

It is not overrated to consider Vietnam the world’s kitchen because you will always find your favorite food anywhere you go, especially in Ho Chi Minh City.

Centre Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is famous for its unique cuisine, which is a strength in tourism aside from the beauty of nature and diversified culture. However, most tourists only hear of some mainstream dishes such as bun cha, pho and banh my. You have a big affection for food? It would be a shortcoming in your Saigon food tour if you miss these below ones that are popular among locals and food adventurers. This post will guide you what and where to eat in Ho Chi Minh City.

1. Summer rolls

Address: 359/1/9A Le Van Sy, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City.

Price: $0.5/ roll

Summer roll is loved by many because it is frugal but nutrient. A roll often consists of various kind of vegetables, picked tubers, spicy leaves, meaty ingredients like pork, prawns and sausages.

People like to have summer rolls in hot weather to soothe the heat that they believe to be stuck inside. The slight sour from picked ingredients neutralizes the greasy meat but remain its natural sweet and make you cannot stop pick one more then one more.

Summer rolls cannot be integral if there is not sauce, the soul of the dish. If meat serves as the main ingredients, each kind of it go with a specific kind of sauce. For example, there is a famous stall located at 359/1/9A Le Van Sy, District 3, HCM City that serves summer rolls with 3 main ingredients: prawn and pork roll, sauté pork skin roll, pork ear roll. And 3 types of sauce to match with each of them are peanut sauce, anchovy paste and fish sauce in turn.

The address above is drawing much attention from locals as well as travelers because they sell good food at a low price. Often, reasonable price for one roll is $0.5 down.

2. Huyen’s noodles

Address: 183/3 Tran Ke Xuong, Ward 7, Phu Nhuan Districts, Ho Chi Minh City.

Price: $4.8

Recently, many are curious about the special set of instant noodles sold at 183/3 Tran Ke Xuong, Ward 7, Phu Nhuan Districts, Ho Chi Minh City.

To find out about it, I have visited the address in Mrs. Huyen’s store and got made amazed by the instant noodles sold at unbelievably high price.

But after the first try, I was totally convinced by its quality. Though it costs about $4.8, much higher than a bowl of ordinary one, the noodle deserves the expense. The dish is served with many side dishes such as scalded beef full bowl with green onion, egg, and Vietnamese sausage.

3. Crab Soup

Address: No.345 Nguyen Thuonng Hien Street, Ward 11, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City – Ms. Bụi restaurant.

Price: $17

Crab soup is not something new but at Ms. Bui, they have special huge size servings. The soup has well made texture and natural taste with mushrooms and a huge meaty nipper.

The sauce is also made by a unique recipe that go well with crab meat.

Besides, this restaurant serves squish sticky rice as well and it is the exclusive dish of the restaurant all over Saigon.

4. Grilled beef and snakehead fish in lolot leaf

Address: 321 Vo Van Tan Alley, Ho Chi Minh City

Many locals has recommnded grilled beef and globefish in lolot leaf at Ms. Lieng’s food store located at 321 Vo Van Tan Alley, Ho Chi Minh City.

Beef is rolled into lolot leaves while sneakhead fish is cut into pieces then grilled over charcoal. The dishes are served with fresh vegetables, rice noodles and unripen mango. When eating, all ingredients are wrapped inside lettuce and rice paper, then dipped into spicy fish sauce, which made all in concord to create a composition of flavors.

5. Eel porridge

Address: No. 95, D2 Street, Ward 25, Binh Thanh (Lươn đông xứ Nghệ o Lài)

Eel meat is carefully torn into long strip and put on top of the bowl with some kinds of herb. How comfortable to have a bowl of eel porridge after a long day walking and seeing the grandiose city.

Below are some more addresses to recommend to you on you food tours in Ho Chi Minh City:

Chopped beef grilled with lemongrass at Le Hong Phong Market.

Snail and mussel noodles at Ms. Lan, No. 2/4 Ngo Van So, Ward 13, District 4.

Steamed rice vermicelli with fermented paste soup at 144 Khanh Hoi, District 4.

Hue Mussel rice at 17A Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1.

#vietnam #toursm #travel #saigon #ho chi minh #saigon food #vietnamese cuisine #vietnam food #photography #foodphotography #foodblogger #foodpics

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vietnamtour-blog · 5 years

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Best Vintage café and Coffee shops in Hanoi

No surprise, Hanoi is a capital of coffee shops and cafés.

Classic ceramic floor or the golden hue of old houses or garden villas has been the signature of the old Hanoi. And these are probably best seen in vintage coffee shops, where they artistically blend nostalgic spaces of old mansions to modern design of cafés. If you want to experience the beauty of time or idyllic beauty of garden villas, these coffee shops are something you can’t miss. To help you with that, below are our picks for the most charming Hanoian cafes and coffee shops of retro style.

Home Hanoi Restaurant

Address: No. 34, Chau Long Str, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

Home was opened quite recently, yet it exudes a sense of antiquity and quaintness. This perfectly suits the taste of the ever-nostalgic customers. The owner, Entrepreneur Minh Do, is a connoisseur with exquisite taste and attention to detail. He has blown to the spacious Home a sense of traditional Vietnam beauty. Come here and you will definitely want to come back to this tranquil place.

Menu: Vietnamese food specialties

Recommended space in the café: The yard

Nha 9NKC

Address: No. 9 Nguyen Khac Can Str.

The beautiful “Home” on Nguyen Khac Can Str exude a sense of typical “old quarter” from its interior, exterior to its surrounding. From the outside, countless street food vendors and a traditional market offer numerous choices for grabbing a quick snack. Inside out, the decor and setting is the perfect combination between the classical French and contemporary style. The elegant change from corner to corner might be a bonus of this cafe as it can suit numerous situation, from friends get-together to business meeting. Better, Home is situated on shady Nguyen Khac Can street that cross the large boulevards such as Ly Thuong Kiet, Hai Ba Trung and only minutes of walking from the Sword Lake or Opera House.

Menu: Mainly Western food, Vietnamese food lunch set

Recommended space in the café: The opening roofs in the middle of the villa

CCCP Hanoi 67

Address: No. 67A Nguyen Thai Hoc Str.

Hanoi 67 has a spacious, airy garden space that other old villas rarely have. This tranquil place is heaven for those who would like to work at Hanoi cafes. Many customers have commented “I found Hanoi right in the heart of Hanoi” about Hanoi 67. Here, you can easily find an image of the old Hanoi in the stillness of space. Decoration is simple but not monotonous. Just as gentle as Hanoi people. Especially, the price of drinks here is quite reasonable considering the common price.

Recommended space in the café: The yard

Green Tangerine Hanoi

Address: No. 48 Hang Be Str.

Hanoi cafe restaurant is a must-go for those who love French cuisine in particular and love l’Hexagone country in general. Inspired by the ancient villages of Southern France, the decoration of Green Tangerine brings gentleness, romance and antique. French-style interior in French architectural mansion located right in the centre of the Old Quarter. What is more of a place worth experiencing for French lovers?

Menu: French specialties and Vietnamese food

Recommended space in the café: The garden

Xofa cafe

Address: No. 14 Tong Duy Tan Str.

Xofa is located in the late-night street of Hanoi, Tong Duy Tan, right next to the best sporting bar of Puku Cafe. Like Puku, the 24/7 Xofa has attracted a large number of customers since its opening. In this cafe, from interior decoration to menu design or even the cups variety and staff uniform, all tune into a harmonious concept. Xofa’s meticulous owner has been very successful in creating such a cosy, peaceful atmosphere that still retains nature elements.

Menu: Specialized in drinks and cakes

Recommended space in the café: every corner

The Hanoi Social club

Address: No. 6 Hoi Vu Str.

The Hanoi Social club has long been a favorite cafe destination for those who love vintage cafés. Its time-worn decor, Asian layout and atmospheric rooftop garden have drawn many nostalgia-seeking visitors. If you happen to visit at an opportune time, you can best enjoy the quirkiness of this place. Check their Facebook page in advance, and come back on a night with live music.

Menu: Should try dishes in Healthy Food menu

Recommended space in the café: Terrace on the 3rd floor

Tranquil Books & Coffee

Address: No. 5 Nguyen Quang Bich St; 8 Nguyen Bieu St.

In the midst of busy Hanoi, Tranquil is a real hidden gem. The inside of this cafe is like a library, book shelves stretch to the ceiling. second floor with couches and floor seating. Great soundtrack of old music, peaceful just like its name, this is the perfect quiet space to escape the heat and noise of Hanoi. People can spend hours sipping coffee, relaxing, talking with friends or doing work in this shop.

Menu: Vietnamese coffee and Bourbon chocolate.

Recommended space in the café: Every corner, as the cafe is not too large in Nguyen Quang Bich St. The upstair greenhouse in 8 Nguyen Bieu shop.

Loading T

Address: 2nd floor, 8 Chan Cam Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

Occupying the second floor of an ancient house on Chan Cam Street in Hoan Kiem District, Loading T is another stop for egg coffee. As CNN said in a new documentary: “In Hanoi, it’s all about egg coffee.” Still, it probably tastes different in this atmosphere. The shop is also loved for its teas, smoothies and cakes. “People in Hanoi, they love coffee. So you can really explore Hanoi through coffee shops,” said the presenter of the CNN film.

Beto Bistro

Address: No 1B Hai Ba Trung St., Hanoi

Compared to the above retro coffee shops, Beto seem younger and more vibrant. That liveliness also lies in the concept of the owner. Golden yellow wall is an extremely eye-catching highlight of the entire space of Beto. You will have a good time with close friends.

10 Must-try cafés in Saigon

Alternative things to do in Hanoi

Source: http://blog.evivatour.com/best-vintage-cafe-and-coffee-shops-in-hanoi/

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ezvietnamesecuisine · 5 years

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HCMC People’s Committee Building City Hall (Ủy Ban Nhân Dân TP HCM)

New Post has been published on https://ezvietnamesecuisine.com/all-about-vietnam/where-to-go/hcmc-peoples-committee-building-city-hall-uy-ban-nhan-dan-tp-hcm/

HCMC People’s Committee Building City Hall (Ủy Ban Nhân Dân TP HCM)

Firstly, I will tell to you guys about the location and history of The People’s committee building of Ho Chi Minh City (Ủy Ban Nhân Dân Thành Phố HCM). It is located at one end of Nguyen Hue Street. It is one of the most Vietnam Popular Destinations in this metropolis. It is also called as The Parisian-style home of the Vietnamese government.

The building was built and put into use in 1990 as a hotel whose original name was Hotel de ville. It is situated at the North-western end of Nguyen Hue Street, facing a river. The former hotel is notable for its garden, ornate façade and elegant interior lit with crystal chandeliers. It was designed by Grades, a famous French architecture. This building is thus one of oldest, biggest and most beautiful French style buildings in Ho Chi Minh City, functioning as a city institution and as the city’s most prominent landmark today.

A majestic ancient beauty:

At first glance, it is seen as a simple and beautiful old monument with 3 main buildings. The middle is the highest among the three, creating a balanced structure. There are also 3 statues that were embossed on the building. In the middle, it is woman and children who were taming the furious animals. On the left and right side of the building, there were 2 women holding swords who are already to fight. Adding to the majestic ancient beauty of the building were the delicate bass-relieves on the walls, popular feature of French colonial style.

In front of this building – one of Vietnam Popular Destinations, lying a small yard with many trees, flowers and especially the statue name “Uncle Ho and children” made by artist Nguyen Minh Chau. The statue was made to show the love and respect of Vietnamese people to the greatest leader Ho Chi Minh as well as to remind us of his loving children personality. Especially at night, the whole construction is spectacularly illuminated and looks beautiful like a castle in the dark. Often referred to as “Gingerbread House” due to the yellow tinge and ornate features of the exterior, the hall is at its most striking after dark, when the entire building is floodlit.

How to get there:

The People’s committee building of Ho Chi Minh City locates at Nguyen Hue Street, one of the most beautiful and popular in Ho Chi Minh City. Therefore, if you stay in hotels in District 1, it does not take you much time to walk there. You can follow Le Loi Street and then turn left. You see this building which is one of Vietnam Popular Destinations right in front of you.

Because of the convenient location, everyone has a chance to visit and admire the beautiful and unique design of the building. Unfortunately, because the building is for government workplace, it is not open for tourists to visit inside to view complete the beauty of the architecture. Only state officials are allowed in this working government building. However, if you love to discover many Vietnam Popular Destinations including this place, you can take many photos there. Hope you like this article.

From Vietnamese Food Team.

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canbrake8-blog · 5 years

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Vietnam, Part 2

Hitting the road again, or the skies I should say (although we did one bus ride during our trip – more about that later…), we touched down in Da Nang, specifically to visit The Museum of Cham Sculpture, a museum that is not to be missed if you’re in Vietnam.

I forgot all my deities since I stopped doing yoga (such as Ganesha and Shiva, and how one guy got that elephant head, and why Shiva is wearing that snake around their neck – and smiling about it), so it’s good to do a little reading about them before you go to help you understand more about the artifacts in this museum. We took an 8am flight out of Ho Chi Minh airport, landing about an hour later, and taking a taxi right from the airport to the museum, which is only 3km away (I’ve given some tips at the end of the post about using taxis in Vietnam, that are worth noting), so it was easy to get there and spend the morning looking at the remarkable sculptures and friezes, many dating back to the 4th century.

I have the lowest museum attention span in the world, and two hours in this museum was just the right about of time to take it all in. Then I grabbed a Grab to take us to Hoi An, where we spent the next two nights. The old town of Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its traditional architecture is well-preserved, although not overly so. It still has a bit of funk, in spite of quite a few tourists (including us) roaming the streets.

Someone told me Hoi An is the most touristed town in Vietnam and it’d be hard to disagree. At night, the historic old town is jumping with people strolling by, and shops selling stuff, as well as locals offering everything from boat rides and fruit, to silk scarves (the town is known for its silk) and leather sandals. People also come to Hoi An to have suits and clothing made for them, and you’ll find several streets lined with custom tailor shops. Someone told me that if you bring a picture of what you like; a suit, a dress, or a shirt, they’ll make it for you, and have it ready in a day or two. I grew up wearing ties and jackets to school every day, so it takes a pretty compelling reason (or event) to get me into a suit, so I passed, but could have used a few more linen shirts since the ones I brought were splattered with Pho and dragon fruit stains.

Outside of the old town, we found more interesting things than in the old town, like the jumble of housewares being sold on a sidewalk, below, and spa treatments at White Rose Spa. We learned back in Ho Chi Minh City that massages and facials are very inexpensive in Vietnam, and mostly very good, so we’d indulged with our friends there, and now, here. (Note that it’s customary to tip if you had a good treatment.)

In Hoi An, we had a very good meal at Vy’s Market (the lime leaf chicken skewers were particularly good, as was the tofu skin salad), which someone online wrote was “sanitized” street food. It may have been, but we liked it all the same. Very fresh ingredients, nice servers, and tasty. Cao Lau Bale Well (45/3 Train Hung Dao) was recommended by several people (not locals) and while we found the place interesting, the Cao Lau noodles weren’t all that compelling. It was, however, charming, located off a side street in what was probably part of their home. They were also really nice, which made it…fine.

Another meal was at Nu. A sweet little place where the steamed pork buns were good, as was the chili ice cream we had for dessert. You won’t be the only English-speaking people dining there, but we liked it. There’s also a night market with an indoor eating area for street food, which I’d check out if I went back. If you want a taste of Egg Coffee, I had one at Passion Fruit coffee that even my skeptical partner liked. (I tried to compare it to sabayon, but he wasn’t having any of that.)

We stayed at the Vinh Hung Riverside hotel located on the river, not far from the old town, but far enough away so you were a decent distance from the fray. The staff was unfailingly polite and helpful and we had a nice room on the river, although I’d recommend perhaps staying in a room that’s not on the ground floor. I didn’t want to sleep with the door open so we shut everything and turned on the AC. The button on the machine was so bright that it was like a spotlight over us, in the room, which made it a bit difficult to sleep. It wasn’t really hot enough to warrant the AC, but we used it instead of keeping the door open. (Unfortunately, the unit was high on the wall and there wasn’t anything to block the light with, but I just discovered these, and am thinking of traveling with them because so many hotels have appliances and switches with really bright lights. Can people really sleep with all those lights flickering and glowing in the dark?) But we liked the hotel, which had a nice pool, and the breakfast offered a variety of Vietnamese foods and fruits. I gorged on rambutans, mangoes, and passion fruits.

We then took the 2-hour bus to Hue, which ended up taking a little more than 4 1/2 hours. The bus had funny, sort-of lie back seats, which looked appealing when I first saw them, but anyone taller than 5 feet (or who has never done yoga) might feel a bit squished after a while. (Another spoiler: You couldn’t sit upright in the seat, even if you wanted to.) While the bus had pillows, which Romain and some others grabbed for propping themselves up, the driver bellowed at anyone who took one, so they sheepishly put them back. I was okay lying halfway down for an afternoon, although some people were going all the way to Hanoi, and I’m sure they will need a few massage treatments to uncoil them once they arrive.

I hate to post the obligatory “I’m in paradise” shot, especially when so many of you (or us, which now includes me) are back in the cold. But this was a pretty beautiful spot in Hue.

It was our hotel, the Pilgrimage Village. It was located a little out-of-town, but the hotel had a shuttle and cabs were inexpensive (about $3 -4) to take you anywhere you wanted to go. So it wasn’t a problem going back and forth.

I was especially interested in going to the Dong Ba market in Hue. There was a lot to see there, and when our taxi driver dropped us off, he took Romain’s shoulder bag off his shoulder, and wrapped the handles around his neck, letting him know the keep his eyes on his things.

The market is pretty much an all-out assault of foods, spices, people, stuff, cookware, raw meat, kids, hats, seafood, fabric, jewelry, eyeglasses, bins of rice, tropical fruits, and more. Once you’re inside, you’ve pretty much go to go all-in. Even though the electricity seemed to be off in the market, we surged forward with everyone. If you stand still, within seconds, someone will slide past, through the narrow aisles with tables heaped with stuff on either side of you, and while it wasn’t at all dangerous, it’d be pretty easy to lose a billfold if you weren’t mindful of it.

Some people have said that the sellers were very aggressive here, although we didn’t find that to be too much of the case. Like other markets in Vietnam (except for the ones we went to in Ho Chi Minh City, if you stopped to look at anything, or even glance at it, the vendor will do their best to engage you and negotiate a price, even if you don’t really want it. It’s not my preferred way to shop, but that’s the way it’s done. Which was probably better for me anyway, as I didn’t have as so much to lug home. Although those colorful jars of pickled vegetables were certainly tempting!

We did track down the well-known Bun bo Hue (beef soup) stand, which is in the “street food” section of the market. (There’s a story about how to find it here.) We were a little underwhelmed, as the people next to us seemed to be. Maybe it was an off day, but if you look at the Bun bo Hue we had later that evening, two pics down, I’ll let you decide which soup looks better to you.

If you do go to the market in Hue, I would hire a guide, or take a tour of the market with someone who knows it well. It’s pretty overwhelming and there’s a lot of see, and taste, which isn’t so easy to do on your own. It’s definitely one of the great markets I’ve been to in the world, and worth exploring. But there was so much I wanted to know more about, it would have been nice to have someone navigate for us, and explain what things were, like these orange fruits (or vegetables?)

We ate well that night at Tai Phu where the Bun bo Hue (below) was more to my liking.

We also had some good Banh cuon (rice paper rolls) at Tai Phu, and Romain liked his Bun thit (vermicelli noodles with chicken) but the dish of the house seemed to be the pork skewers (nem lui), which came in a plentiful portion with green mango slices, noodles, and herbs, to roll in rice paper.

[A reader who lives in Hue was kind enough to chime in with some local spots for Bun bo Hue – thanks smallhue! – suggesting Bún Cam at 45 Le Loi and Bún Mụ Roi at 14 Nguyen Che Dieu, that she advised getting to before 8am for the best selection of “options,” as she called them. Our hotel had breakfast on a dock under a thatched roof, with unlimited Vietnamese coffees, so I wasn’t leaving there.]

If you eat at Tai Phu, be sure to arrive in the area early and walk around the streets, where an open-air market takes place. It’s pretty laid back, and like all the markets in Vietnam, you want to cry at how beautiful all the fruits and vegetables are, stacked, lined, and piled up. I think it’s called the Ben Ngu market.

The most beautiful meal we had in Vietnam was at a place whose name I forgot (I know…right?) It had a little open-air area within the restaurant, and from the outside, you’d never know such a charming place existed. When I remember the name, I’ll update the post.

However beautiful the meal was, it was a challenge to eat. Absolutely no offense to the restaurant, but the flavors were very, very strong, and hard to describe. I think, like Vegemite, natto, and blue cheese, some things don’t translate outside their culture. I can’t describe it but I felt bad leaving most of it behind. I also wasn’t feeling so great that day, so it was hard to power through a meal of distinctive flavors. But I will say, the others in the restaurant were eating everything and enjoying it, so it was definitely our tastes, and didn’t reflect on the quality (and the beauty) of the food.

We liked eating at HANH, in Hue, the night we arrived, which was recommended by a woman at our hotel. We started with tiny bowls holding steamed rice cakes with fresh shrimp and bits of crunchy pork rinds, which you pry from the bowls with a spoon and eat with fish sauce. I ordered a bottle of what was called “local rice wine” in English on the menu, and out came a 500ml (2 cup) bottle of “Men vodka.”

When I posted a picture on Instagram, one reader noted it was “just awful stuff” and another said, “terrible…unpleasant.” I asked the server if I could exchange it for shochu, which was so strong, I think I lost a few layers of enamel on my teeth trying to, and a couple of layers of my stomach lining, as I didn’t want to be impolite and leave a lot behind. I drank what I could, then chalked it up to a “lesson learned”! Perhaps the kitchen staff enjoyed the rest after their shift.

After returning to Ho Chi Minh City, we didn’t get to go back to Spice, which we really like the first night of our arrival, because it was Tet (New Year’s), which most of the city shuts down, including restaurants.

But we did eat at Quan Bui Garden (in District 2), where you can also buy beautiful contemporary Vietnamese pottery (I brought six plates back), and Restaurant 13, where we liked the beef and onions cooked in vinegar, which you wrap in rice paper rolls at the table, as well as the little crisp rice cakes, with shrimp and scallions, known as Banh Khot (above), which you wrap in leaves and eat.

At Com Nieu Sai Gon there were several families there celebrating Tet, and having a good time. We had jellied pork, crispy fish on rice (above), Caramelized clay Pot pork, and grilled prawns. (The menu had “fake dog meat” on it, which we didn’t order.) We kept hearing plates shatter, while people cheered, and weren’t sure what was happening. But the restaurant bakes rice until a crisp coating forms on the bottoms in small earthenware bowls. The rice is “presented” by smashing the bowl. It’s called Com Dap, and here’s a video of it:

I also met up with pals Marge Perry and David Bonom, who just happened to also be traveling through Vietnam at the same time, for Banh Mi sandwiches from Banh Mie Huynh Hoa, eating them at a local beer garden, whose men’s room was definitely rated R (or maybe X, depending on your sensibilities). I did take photos but worried that they would violate Instagram’s guidelines (and trust me, even after a few decades of living in San Francisco, I thought nothing would shock me), so didn’t publish them anywhere. But David and I are still recovering from it, and even Marge, who I insisted go into the men’s room for a look.

But I don’t want to leave you on that note, as Vietnam was wonderful. Some readers asked me how it was to travel through the country and I thought it was pretty great. On the whole, it was fairly easy to travel there and people were friendly and helpful. The food was very good, it’s not expensive, and the country is small enough so that you can visit several places if you’re there for ten days or so. It’s a country that’s in transition (they’ve gone through a lot), and has some challenges, but it was one of the most exciting places I’ve ever visited and next year, we’re planning to go back.

Here are some tips and suggestions for traveling in Vietnam:

1. Change money when you can. It’s not as easy to change money in Vietnam as it is elsewhere. While there are banks, locals don’t use them, instead preferring to change money elsewhere, if they can. Citibank and HSBC have ATMs which work with western credit cards; some local bank machines don’t work with U.S.-based cards. Citibank and HSBC ATMs are not everywhere, though, so use them when you find them.

Many places take credit cards in Vietnam, but some places don’t. Taxis have credit card machines but over half the time, the driver told me they weren’t functioning. (One held up a broken wire, to show me.) So have cash available. Also be sure to call your bank before you go, to let them know you’ll be traveling in Vietnam.

2. Carry tissues or napkins. Some restaurants supply them, others have very small squares of wispy-thin paper to use, and others give you a pre-moistened towelette. The food can be saucy (and restrooms don’t always have towels or tissues) so I was glad I have little tissue packets on hand. You should also carry toilet tissue as restrooms don’t always have it.

3. Drink a lot of (bottled) water. The tap water should not be consumed and it’s easy to get dehydrated due to the heat. I was felled for a day with a mild fever, which maybe was attributed to not getting enough water. (Or perhaps something I ate.) While there are drugstores in Vietnam, they are more like counters with a pharmacist and pills are sold individually. Although we didn’t need them, some travelers find they need Immodium or a similar product, which traveling, so I recommend bringing a box along rather than trying to find a box when you’re desperate.

Similarly, you can get sunscreen in Vietnam, but it’s not as widely available as it may be at home. I recommend bringing a bottle or two, especially if you’re planning any beach time.

4. When eating out, especially at the markets or street food stalls, go to places that are crowded with locals. They won’t return to places that don’t have good hygiene. Use common sense when eating at stalls; look at how clean the surrounding area is, how the food is kept, how the food is prepared, and even the condition of the tables, chairs, and dining area. As someone who’s worked in a number of restaurant kitchens, a messy, disorganized place is not the sign of a diligent cook or owner.

At Pho places on the street, I buried the herbs in the hot soup if I thought they may have been washed with non-filtered water. If you’re unsure about the chopsticks, leave them in the boiling-hot soup a short while before using them. The Vietnamese enjoy cold drinks with ice and I drank plenty of drinks with ice, and didn’t have any issues. Most ice is purchased and made with filtered water. But if you have any doubts, skip the ice.

5. If taking a cab, always take a cab with a meter. Our friends who live there said that Vinasun and Mailinh (the green cabs) are two that have meters in them, and I always looked for one of those cabs. In our experience, it’s better to let them use the meter than agree on a fixed fare in advance. (The one time I did that, the ride was 30% more than the metered fare.) Taxis are very inexpensive and the fare from Ho Chi Minh City to or from the airport was around 150,000 VND ($7).

At places like airports, you’ll find nicely dressed guys with badges who will “guide” you from the cab line to a taxi, then tell you what the fare is. Those guys work for specific cab companies and I found it better to ignore them (in spite of their repeated, and sometimes relentless, pleadings…) and just get in a cab that has a meter.

6. Grab is an Uber-like service that works the same way, via an app, which you can download before you go, but you’ll have to enter your credit card information while you’re in Vietnam. The service works like Uber. Note that you can order a car, or ride on the back of a scooter. (They provide a helmet for you if you choose the scooter option.) I used them a couple of times, including when we were swarmed by very aggressive cab drivers going into a museum (one even followed me around the museum), so I had a Grab driver meet me on the way out, and took his phone number down for future rides.

7. The currency conversion is a little complicated, at least to my non-mathematical brain. At the time of this writing, $1 = 23,000 Vietnamese Dong. There are no coins in Vietnam (yay!), but it’s easy to get confused. (And note that prices on menus and in shops will often be listed as just “230” when the price is 230,000.) I used AppBox Pro for currency conversions.

8. While it’s nice to learn the local language, Vietnamese is a challenge. I’m going to take some basic lessons next time I go, but Google translate was very helpful when I wanted specific information and couldn’t communicate. Some people do speak English, but most cab drivers (etc) don’t, so take a screenshot of an address or write it down (or have someone write it down for you), which helps, especially directions to the hotel. (Note that hotels that have names in English often have a different name in Vietnamese. Ask your hotel in advance to send you that information and print it out to bring with you, for the driver.) I often shared a screenshot with a cab driver of my destination on Google Maps, which they easily understood, too. Restaurants often have menus with pictures, which helps when ordering.

9. People in Vietnam were quite friendly. I only got scolded once for taking a pic and most people were fine with it. When in doubt, ask first, but most people were surprised that I even asked, a few even posing.

10. SIM cards are super cheap – and my internet was at least four times faster than it is in Paris. (I wanted to bring it back with me!) If you have an unlocked phone, you can pick up a SIM card for a pittance and have internet access while you’re traveling. I got a SIM card at Mobifone and I think I paid the equivalent of $10 for an enormous amount of data. I went to one of their offices and the clerk was super-helpful and she took care of everything, making sure it worked on my phone before I left. Be sure to have a copy of your passport when purchasing a SIM card. (If you go to a currency conversion place, they’ll want to see it, too.)

11. If you travel within the country you’ll likely take VietJet. (The other option are long-distance buses.) Airfares are reasonable but note that they have a very, very restrictive carry-on allowance of only 7kg and if you go over, the supplement is $100. You can buy tickets that have more generous luggage allowance, but our friends who bought our tickets bought the least-expensive, which are how most Vietnamese people seem to fly (carry on only). Every flight we took that left in the afternoon or early evening was delayed for a couple of hours, so don’t schedule things too tight. We also weren’t able to check in online for any of our flights, but the process at the airport isn’t too difficult and the staff at the airports were pretty efficient.

12. As for what to wear, I recommend dark-colored clothes as the food is a bit messy to eat, especially the soups. I ended up wearing the one dark, short sleeve linen shirt I’d brought most of the time, which was perfect, and I was miffed at myself for bringing light-colored items. It’s normal to wear sandals in Vietnam so bring a pair or two that are already broken in. Many people wear simple, non-fancy rubber sandals, which you can purchase inexpensively in Vietnam. I wasn’t anywhere where I needed to wear shoes, and once I took mine off, I didn’t put them back on until we headed to the airport for the plane home.

Depending on where you’re going, and when, you might want to pack a light sweater and a rain jacket. We only needed summer-weight clothes, but other places get chillier, depending on the latitude and season. Check the local forecast and pack accordingly. Unless you’re going to a formal event, you shouldn’t need any dressy clothes. If you plan to visit religious sites, such as temples and pagodas, men are expected to wear long pants and no tank tops; women should have something to cover bare shoulders, and you may not be admitted to certain places if wearing a short skirt or wear something with a low neckline.

13. If you want to ride a scooter, technically you are supposed to have a Vietnamese driver’s license. Some say that you can use an international driver’s license, but my friends who live there (who have Vietnamese ones) said that wasn’t the case. I rode on the back of my friend’s scooter for two weeks and it was a great way to get around. Some hotel rent bikes and scooters and I would use them, as they’re more familiar with the rules.

14. If you’re interested in cooking Vietnamese food, Andrea Nguyen’s cookbooks are great sources of recipes for Vietnamese dishes. This write-up of 25 Must-Eat Dishes in Saigon is helpful for identifying certain dishes, and where to find them in Ho Chi Minh City and these articles on best Hoi An restaurants and street food have some enticing addresses, too.

15. Lastly, to go to Vietnam, if you are traveling with an American passport, you’ll need a visa. If you search online, you’ll find a lot of websites which are fake visa processing centers. We used Vietnam Visa Center, which was recommended by Lonely Planet, and it worked well. (A friend who goes to Vietnam regularly uses this company.) We paid the extra small fee to have “fast track” service, and have someone meet us upon our arrival at the airport, and take us through. (Update: Several readers noted that Vietnam does have its own website for processing visas electronically. You can also obtain one from a Vietnamese embassy, too.)

For more on my trip to Vietnam, check out my Instagram Stories from Vietnam archived Here and Here, with videos and geo-tagged addresses.

Source: https://www.davidlebovitz.com/vietnam-part-2-hue-da-nang-hoi-an-phu-quoc-travel/

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krystangreen-blog · 5 years

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Looking for original things to do in Saigon? After several months exploring this city, we have some unique ideas to round out your itinerary.

Some suggestions are hidden gems, known only to locals and expats. Others involve popular attractions but in novel and entertaining ways. Maybe you’re on a package tour and seeking to fill a “free day” in Saigon.

Maybe you’re an independent traveler and seeking the offbeat. Either way, we hope these tips help you have a better, richer, more individualized experience in Saigon.

What About the Classic Things to Do in Saigon?

You can read our list of standard highlights in another post.

This is a supplementary list of lesser-known things to do in Saigon.

Have a better, richer, more individualized experience in Saigon.Click To Tweet

1. Adventure Eating

Vietnamese food is absolutely delicious 99.9% of the time, but it can also be extreme and exotic. If you want to push your culinary limits, try adventure eating at Bo Cap Lua Restaurant.

They serve tarantulas, scorpions, lizards, live worms, fried worms, and other “unspeakable” items. You can see more of the disgusting things we ate at Bo Cap Lua.

Bo Cap Lua 17B 11th Street Go Vap District Ho Chi Minh City

2. Jade Emperor Pagoda “Secret” Canal Walk

The Jade Emperor Pagoda is one of the popular things to do in Saigon. But few know about the lovely canal, only a few hundred feet away.

After you visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, take a stroll along the canal. It can turn this common attraction into an uncommon experience.

You’ll glimpse an unseen side of Saigon. Quiet streets, quaint neighborhoods, and several other temples line the canal.

You can simply enjoy the peaceful beauty of the canal or use it to structure a “temple crawl.” There are many temples on the canal to explore, but we recommend visiting Vinh Nghiem Pagoda (Mahayana Buddhism) and Wat Chantaransay (Theravada Buddhism).

Combined with the Jade Emperor Pagoda, which is Taoist, you’ll see 3 radically different styles of spirituality (that exist in the same small community). AND you’ll enjoy a scenic walk, away from the chaotic streets of Saigon.

You can see more photos and read the full details of this canal walk here. It includes directions to the canal and info on why this canal is the biggest environmental accomplishment in Saigon.

3. Suoi Tien Buddhist Amusement Park

Suoi Tien is the craziest amusement park in Vietnam (maybe all of Asia). It’s actually a combination culture park/amusement park.

Suoi Tien has a sprawling waterpark, the longest roller coaster in Vietnam, and all the fun stuff you’d expect. But the massive Buddhist monuments and active temples (next to the rides!) make Suoi Tien a unique travel experience.

It’s a surreal mash-up of deep Buddhist culture AND superficial amusements. Even if you’re not interested in the rides, the gargantuan sculptures and monuments are worth the price of admission (which is only $5USD).

Suoi Tien offers some of the most spectacular sights and is one of the most unusual things to do in Saigon.

Check out more photos of the amazing park here.

Hours: 8am – 530pm

Address: 120 Hanoi Highway Tan Phu Ward District 9, HCMC

4. The Amazing Viet Show

The Amazing Viet Show is a fun way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Saigon has many entertaining shows, but this is the wackiest. It features “extraordinary people” with “unusual talents.” Or you could call it a Vietnamese freak show – with a difference.

The headline acts are contortionists, sword swallowers, and the like, but between those acts are song and dance performances featuring Vietnamese music and costumes.

Vanessa had her first cyclo ride at the Amazing Viet Show. A man put these contraptions in his eyes and pulled a cyclo full of people across the stage! You can read more about that crazy story here.

Tickets start at 640,000VND ($28US). The best place to buy tickets is at the theater because they often offer in person discounts.

The Amazing Viet Show is performed at the V Show Theater. 147 Cach Mạng Thang Tam Street District 3, HCMC

5. Binh Quoi Tourist Village

Binh Quoi Tourist Village is a rural oasis in the heart of the city. It looks like a Traditional Village on the Mekong Delta. It’s a staged reproduction, but it’s beautiful, peaceful, and entrance is free.

Binh Quoi Village feels like entering a different world and different era. You can relax in bamboo huts that line the many waterways. You can paddle a boat on the lake. You can scramble across monkey bridges. And more.

There are even restaurants and a hotel if you desire. The best time for a peaceful visit is on weekday mornings. There’s a large, traditional buffet on weekend evenings, but it’s more crowded (and you can’t see the scenery in the dark).

Find out more about Binh Quoi Tourist Village in this post.

Binh Quoi Tourist Village 147 Binh Quoi Street Binh Thanh District, HCMC

6. AO Show at the Saigon Opera House

The Saigon Opera House is one of the most historic landmarks of the city. Every Saigon visitor comes to the Opera House for sightseeing, but few actually watch a performance.

Take your Opera House experience to the next level by catching the AO Show. Often called “Bamboo Cirque,” it’s like a Cirque du Soleil show about contemporary Vietnamese culture. The AO Show combines acrobatics, dance, and dazzling choreography.

It’s not only a great show that’s fun and amazing. It’s also a great travel experience that meaningful and gives insight into the culture. The central theme is how rapid modernization and urbanization is changing Vietnam (for better and worse).

Tickets start at 630,000VND ($27US). It’s best to buy tickets at the Opera House. Check for package deals that include dinner at a local restaurant too. These are often a bargain.

Saigon Opera House 7 Lam Son Square District 1, HCMC

7. Live it Up in Phu My Hung

Speaking of rapid modernization and urbanization, visit Phu My Hung to see a different (wealthier) side of Saigon. Located just 15 minutes from downtown, Phu My Hung is an upscale neighborhood that offers high-end dining, shopping, and entertainment.

An evening here can be both fun and enlightening. You’ll have a high-end experience, and you’ll see how Vietnam’s growing middle-class lives.

There are many easy options here. We recommend visiting the Crescent Mall, but not really for the shopping. There’s a pretty lake behind the mall and a picturesque walkway around the lake. Several fine restaurants line the walkway. And at the end, there’s the Starlight Bridge.

At night, this bridge doubles as a water fountain and puts on a lovely light show. For dinner, we recommend Cham Charm Restaurant. It’s a rather expensive seafood buffet, but the décor is beautiful. The theme is the ancient Cham civilization of Vietnam.

Much of Saigon (and Vietnam) is rather poor, but that’s not the whole story. The temptation is to make the poor rural farmer the symbol of Vietnam. That’s still partially true, but a complete picture must also include Vietnam’s growing middle class.

You can glimpse their changing lifestyle and values in Phu My Hung.

Crescent Mall 101 Ton Dat Tien Street District 7, HCMC

8. Mix with Locals at Tao Dan Park

Tao Dan Park is a big, beautiful park in Saigon. It’s one of the few green spaces in Saigon, and it’s a great place to mix with locals. Early morning is the best time to visit. The whole community comes out to enjoy the cool morning air. Locals of all ages and from all walks of life meet here to socialize and exercise.

The whole community comes out to enjoy the cool morning air. Locals of all ages and from all walks of life meet here to socialize and exercise.

You’ll see people practice a wide variety of martial arts, including Tai Chi. Dancing is another popular activity at Tao Dan. You’ll see everything from Asian Fan Dancing to Waltzing to group Line Dancing.

Most of these are open and communal. So it’s your chance to conquer the language barrier through physical activity and play. Know a little Tai Chi or a bit of line dancing, join in. Why not?

It may be one of your most memorable moments in Saigon. Read more about Tao Dan Park here.

Tao Dan Park lies along Truong Dinh Street, between Nguyen Du Street and Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street.

9. Traditional Culture Show at the Golden Lotus Theater

If you want to taste classic Vietnamese culture, check out the Golden Lotus Theater. It’s the most enjoyable “traditional” dance and music show in Saigon.

This is a fun show with all the elaborate costumes, vibrant dances, and soulful music you’d expect and few things you wouldn’t. Like a 1000-year-old water puppet show that ends with fireworks.

We stress enjoyable and fun because authentic performances of ancient culture can drag on. Let’s be honest, as interesting as they may be culturally and historically, they tend to get boring for the average visitor.

At the Golden Lotus Theatre, the show maintains a quick, entertaining pace. You can read more about this show here.

The Golden Lotus Theatre is inside the Rex Hotel. 141 Nguyen Hue Street District 1, HCMC

10. La Fênetre Soleil– For a Quirky and Cross-Cultural Evening

By day, it’s a mild-mannered café. By night, La Fênetre Soleil is quirky hub for cross-cultural encounters. This Vietnamese club has a French name, serves Indonesian food, specializes in live Jazz music, but has weekly Salsa dancing on Wednesdays and weekly Swing dancing on Sundays. And that’s not all.

They also host a variety of special events too. One of our favorites was a presentation by the “Saigon Storytellers” group – where some locals and expats told true but well-crafted stories from their lives (kinda like The Moth podcast).

So if you’re looking for a different kind of nightclub in Saigon, try La Fênetre Soleil. Contact the club for what’s happening during your visit.

Phone: 08 3824 5994

Address: 44 Ly Tu Trọng District 1, HCMC

There are many other unique things to do in Saigon. Of course, the best will be the ones you create. Hopefully, this list helps with both specific tips and ideas to spark your own imaginative itinerary.

Enjoy Saigon!

Which things to do in Saigon interest you? If you’ve been to Saigon, we’d love to hear your unique tips?

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