INTHEBLACK September/October 2025 - Magazine - Page 56
HO CHI MINH CITY
Vietnam’s leading financial centre has an
intoxicating mix of French colonial charm,
modern touches and vibrant street life.
As a budget-friendly city with lots to offer,
it is on the must-visit list.
GETTING AROUND
The new Metro Line does not yet extend to the
international airport. Vinasun and Mai Linh are
reputable taxi companies — hail a ride or book via
the app. GrabTaxi is an Uber equivalent, offering
affordable cars and motorbike taxis. Buses are
inexpensive, and Vietnam’s famous three-wheeled
cyclo is great for short trips.
Travel from the airport to the city centre by
taxi for VND200,000, by hotel pick-up service for
VND500,000 or by bus for VND20,000.
F E AT U R E
LOCAL TASTES
The combination of French, Chinese, Japanese
and Vietnamese cuisines make Ho Chi Minh City
the envy of many.
PIZZA 4P’S: This Japanese-owned and operated
pizza and pasta restaurant is an institution for
the city’s expats. Serving stone-baked pizzas
with creative toppings, it is busy on weekends,
so bookings are recommended.
ĂNĂN SAIGON: Find locals tucking into modern
Vietnamese cuisine at this acclaimed eatery in Chợ Cũ,
where the tasting menu is popular.
LA VILLA: This refined French dining experience
in Ho Chi Minh City offers exquisite cuisine in
a romantic colonial-style villa nestled in the
quiet Thảo Ðiền neighbourhood.
WHERE TO STAY
Ho Chi Minh City is known for wonderful
hotels at more affordable rates than many
of its Asian counterparts.
LIBERTY CENTRAL, SAIGON
CITYPOINT: Stylish but affordable,
and the only hotel in the city
with an in-house cinema,
Liberty Central features a gym,
spa and function room.
56 INTHEBLACK Sep/Oct 2025 SPECIAL EDITION
THE REVERIE, SAIGON: Get five-star luxury
with opulent interiors and first-class service
at this self-proclaimed “most spectacularly
extravagant hotel in Vietnam”. The grand
lobby sets the tone with its Italian design.
JW MARRIOTT HOTEL & SUITES, SAIGON:
This exquisite hotel is in District 1 and is a
relatively short walk to landmarks such as the
Independence Palace and the War Remnants
Museum. The Sunday brunch buffet has been
known to include a tuna-carving show.
WHERE TO PLAY
History, food and culture top the list for travellers
to Ho Chi Minh City.
WAR REMNANTS MUSEUM: Confronting
and educational, this museum houses exhibits
showing the significant impact of the Vietnam War.
Set aside a couple of hours for the visit.
NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL: Located in
Paris Square, this stunning neo-Romanesque
church was built in the late 1800s by French
colonists. Many flock to the site.
BẾN THÀNH MARKET: Pick up souvenirs,
devour street food or soak up the local culture
among the 1500 booths at the city’s most
famous market. Great for handicrafts such
as lacquerware and silk scarves.
Ho Chi Minh City Hall,
Vietnam
INSIDER TIP
When visiting temples
and pagodas, avoid scant
or tight-fitting clothing
so as not to offend
worshippers.
