things to do in hcm city

Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), also known as Saigon, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis in southern Vietnam. Here are some things to do in HCMC:

Historical Landmarks

1. War Remnants Museum: A museum showcasing the history of the Vietnam War and its impact on the country.
2. Cu Chi Tunnels: A network of underground tunnels used during the war, now a popular tourist attraction.
3. Notre Dame Cathedral: A beautiful Catholic cathedral built in the 19th century.
4. Central Post Office: A stunning example of French colonial architecture.
5. Reunification Palace: The former presidential palace of South Vietnam, now a museum.

Markets and Shopping

1. Ben Thanh Market: A bustling marketplace selling everything from souvenirs to fresh produce.
2. Binh Tay Market: A wholesale market in Chinatown selling a wide range of goods.
3. Dong Khoi Street: A popular shopping street lined with boutiques and souvenir shops.
4. Vincom Center: A large shopping mall with a variety of international brands.

Food and Drink

1. Try street food: HCMC is famous for its street food, including popular dishes like banh mi, pho, and goi cuon.
2. Visit a traditional coffee shop: HCMC has a thriving coffee culture, with many traditional coffee shops serving strong and rich coffee.
3. Take a cooking class: Learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes like spring rolls and pho.
4. Sample the nightlife: HCMC has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs to choose from.

Other Attractions

1. Museum of Vietnamese History: A museum showcasing the history of Vietnam from ancient times to the present day.
2. Temple of the Jade Emperor: A beautiful Taoist temple in the heart of the city.
3. Bitexco Financial Tower: A skyscraper with panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
4. Dam Sen Water Park: A popular water park with slides, pools, and a wave machine.
5. Saigon Zoo: A zoo with a wide range of animals, including elephants, tigers, and monkeys.

Day Trips

1. Mekong Delta: A region known for its floating markets, traditional villages, and stunning natural scenery.
2. Can Gio Island: A peaceful island with a monkey sanctuary and a beautiful beach.
3. Vung Tau: A seaside resort town with a range of beaches and water sports.

Tips

1. Be mindful of traffic: HCMC is known for its chaotic traffic, so be careful when crossing the road.
2. Bargain at markets: Prices at markets are often negotiable, so don’t be afraid to bargain.
3. Try to learn some Vietnamese phrases: While many locals speak English, learning some basic Vietnamese phrases can go a long way.
4. Be respectful of local customs: HCMC is a conservative city, so dress modestly and respect local customs.

I hope this helps you plan your trip to HCMC!