Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
The home of my culture. The first time I visited Vietnam was back in 2012, and to be honest- I HATED it. 6 years later I'm back and it has been a whirlwind experience. This trip was primarily to visit my Grandmother for her 80th birthday and for me to give Vietnam another chance. I was not immune to getting bit by mosquitoes but on the bright side, I was able to re-visit some of my favorite spots! From the street food to night markets, to the upscale experiences Vietnam had to offer, I had such a memorable time. Despite the many random monsoons, we still ventured out (even though I wish I had a chance to ride a moped again this time).
Here are some of my favorite spots that I definitely recommend from food, experiences, to hotels:
Places to eat:
- Nha Hang Ngon: a great place for food with many locations in Ho Chi Minh City! They have nearly every single Vietnamese dish you could possibly think of and it is oh so satisfying.
- Nam Giao: Bun Bo Hue, or spicy beef noodle soup; this is one of my FAVORITE dishes! I am super picky on which ones are good and not good and this has made it to #4 on my list of favorite bowls of bun bo hue! You also have to try their... I believe it was called dirt cups? I can't specifically remember but you have to try them!! They're not dirt I promise :)
If you're planning to use "Yelp", the app you'll want to use is "Foodie"! It’s essentially Vietnam's version of Yelp and is super helpful for finding food!
Things to do:
- Backpacking District: Located just behind the street across from the Pullman Hotel, you will find plenty of nightlife whether it be food, bars, or even some shopping! My favorite Bun Bo Hue spot is also located in the same area!
- Cho Ben Thanh: THE ULTIMATE MARKET! If you love bargaining, cool stuff for cheap, and just a crazy environment? You have to check this place out. During the day you'll find it in the giant marketplace and at night you'll find out outside on the street. The best part is, at night my favorite seafood restaurant is also located on the street (I highly recommend the fire coconut shrimp)
- Saigon Centre: More trade markets! This trading market is also insane but so fun, and across the street, you can find one of the newest malls built in Saigon to get your shopping on!
Places to stay:
- Pullman Vung Tau: the second Hawaii of Vietnam next to Nha Trang. This hotel was a pretty sweet spot, definitely worth considering!
- Pullman Saigon: if you're looking for something very modern and groovy, this is the spot for you. This is located right next to the backpacking district and is fairly central so there’s lots to do within walking distance!
- Sedona Suites: this was absolutely one of my favorite places to stay and I will be definitely returning. Not many places in Asia offer a suite for big families and usually require you to book multiple rooms but this sweet spot offers gorgeous luxury and breathtaking views. I loved this spot the most not because the hotel itself was beautiful, but because the location was also PERFECT! There were so many things to do close by whether you need a taxi or choose to walk!
These were all key moments within my travels and I highly suggest you go and experience it yourself as well! If you find any other sweet spots I should know about, let me know!
I'll be back for you Vietnam. Wearing lots of bug spray.