Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
From Wikiasiantravel
This city was formerly called Saigon and name is still widely used, although the new name gives credit to the former leader of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh. Still very much rich with history from its oppressors and a mixture of influences from its neighbors, the city is now striving to boom at its own feet and making known its identity.
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Sights to See
Shopping Spree
Ben Thanh Market - the city's main market which is located in the Roundabout of Le Loi and Tran Hung Dao. Various merchandise are sold from clothing, shoes, kitchenware, food items, vegetables, fruits, fresh flowers and live seafood. Although the goods are well organized among aisles, it may be hard to find something to buy with the varied choices that one has. Great place also for night shopping and outdoor eating on some stalls.
Saigon Square Shopping Center - the modern shopping center in Saigon located in 39 Le Duan. Varied commodities are on sale and has also lots of restaurants is you are hungry from shopping.
Citimart - a Supermarket chain in HCMC where you may buy your essential goods like bottled water, tissues, sodas, coconut candies and canned drinks at a cheaper cost than in touristy areas or hawkers. It is located in 39 Le Duan St., Ben Nghe Ward, District 1. You may check their website at # www.citimart.com.vn .
Diamond Department Store - a four floor building that is much like Western department stores with the style and commodities sold and the prices of the goods. May be a bit pricey for locals but the average for Westerners. Located at 34 Le Duan.
An Dong Market- An alternate market to Ben Than if you want less tourists but with just as much selection. It is located in An Duong Vuong St. Nearby is An Dong Plaza, an A/C shopping center. Prices there may be a bit more expensive than the markets, with less bargaining. However, it is still less compared to Western prices for such goods.
Accommodations
Five and Four Stars
Caravelle Hotel
New World Hotel Saigon
Park Hyatt Saigon
Renaissance Riverside Hotel
Three and Two Stars
Continental Hotel
The Orchid Hotel
Evergreen Hotel
Unrated and Backbackers
Bed and Breakfast Ho Van Hue
A Ngoc Vu Hotel
Dining Places
Asian nations are known mainly for street food stalls, the cheapest to be found in Vietnam. Caution should be observed though with hygiene and food preparation. A bad stomach can surely ruin a good vacation.
Kem Bach Dang The place for the most delightful ice cream experience in the city. Ice cream is usually served in young coconut shell from which you may enjoy the coconut meal as well. Location is at the Le Loi street, opposite the Russian Market.
Quan An Ngon - Where street Vietnamese food is served in an assuredly more hygienic and better ambiance. Prices is about average without the need to spend more than $10 for a full meal. Location is at 138 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, near the Presidential Palace. The place can get crowded sometimes specially for lunch or dinner so better be early.
Lemongrass - located at 4 Nguyen Thiep St. of District 1, this restaurant is known among locals and foreigners for their Vietnamese food and even made more famous by travel guide books. Prices may be a little expensive than average with the same food served on the streets but is better presented. For the dollar earners, it's relatively cheap still. Ambiance is also good with some French romantic styling coupled with local music on the background. You may contact (84-8) 822 0496 for more information.
Checkout some of the local dishes of Vietnam
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