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Paris of Asia—Saigon
—Robert Sullivan, author of “The Small Business Start-Up Guide”
Ben Thanh Market
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Vietnam is probably best known for its war with America, but the country
has far more than war memorials or the remnants of the battlefields to
offer. Now that the current government is opening the country to tourism
with great enthusiasm, there is an opportunity to discover the myriad
facets of this diverse country.
Ho Chi Minh City, once called Saigon, is the southern Vietnam's business
capital and also the heart and soul of Vietnam. It is the largest city
on the country, the economic capital and the cultural trendsetter. It
is known as an important trade center for Chinese, Japanese and Western
merchants. It have also been praised as the “Paris of Asia” for its wide
boulevards lined with the stately trees and magnificent French villas.
Nowadays, Ho Chi Minh City has a total area of 900 square miles, which
encompasses 24 districts and five outer-counties. The city, a total population
of over seven millions, is the largest city in Vietnam, a major hub for
commercial, tourist, cultural and scientific activities.
Notre Dame Cathedral
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Notre Dame Cathedral
The cathedral was built in the 18th century and decorated with stain glass
windows. Perhaps the best day to visit is on Sunday when the church service
is held.
People’s Committee Building
One of the city's most photogenic buildings, it was formerly known as
Hotel de Ville. The building has a well groomed garden and elegant interior.
Unfortunately, it is not open to the public and can be photographed from
the outside only.
Ben Thanh Market
People’s Committee Building |
Even though there are numerous shops scattering the city, the most
popular shopping area is around Ben Thanh Market. The market is obviously
not a modern shopping complex but it has virtually everything to satisfy
shoppers.
Vietnamese Cuisine
One of the must-do activities during your visit in Vietnam is to try
its Vietnamese cuisine - a nice combination of ingredients that feature
a variety of local vegetable a nd lean meat. It’s nearly impossible
to spot an overweight Vietnamese walking on the street.
 Transportation
Ho Chi Minh is a city filled with charm and this includes its various
modes and culture of transportation. Enter the street and you will
see buses, trucks, vans, mini-trucks, SUVs, cars and taxis, motorcycles,
mopeds, bicycles, motorized or pedaled tri-carts. The vast majority
of the vehicles people there utilize are two-wheeled, which allows
for great mobility and flexibility.
Planning a trip to Asia? Always
check with the local travel agencies who specialized in Asia
travel first as they usually can give you a better deal than
internet purchase. |
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