Ho Chi Minh City, VIETNAM
Airing Date: Jan 1st, 2002
But have you ever thought of Ho Chi Minh City as a possible tourist destination? If you haven't, it is worth considering for your next trip.Ho Chi Minh City has been through many changes and its appearance today successfully hides the blemishes of its past. Formerly known as Saigon, the city was torn apart less than 30 years ago by one of the 20th century's most bitter conflicts. Today it is a vibrant, bustling and hectic city full of surprises.When you get there, the first thing you will notice is the traffic. The seemingly chaotic road rules make crossing the road as a pedestrian a challenge. We've found that if you just put your head down and go for it, the cars will go around you!One of the obvious advantages of Ho Chi Minh City's commercial resurgence is the shopping; many big-name retailers have moved in and set up shop. The Aussie dollar stands up well against the Vietnamese dong so there are bargains to be found everywhere, especially in the city's markets.Ho Chi Minh City is packed with attractions and the French colonial architecture will definitely catch your eye. The modern motorbikes, dazzling skyscrapers and girls dressed in traditional white 'ao dais' all add to the city's unique atmosphere.To get a real feel for the city and its past, the War Remnants Museum, which is dedicated to the Vietnam War, is a must-see. The city also has an extremely active nightlife. But if you feel too old to be out painting the town red, there are fantastic restaurants around where you can while away your evening.
The facts
Thai Airways International fly to Ho Chi Minh City via Bangkok. Return airfares start from $1035 from Sydney and $1090 from Perth.
Travel Indochina has four-day, three-night packages to Ho Chi Minh City, which include accommodation at the Renaissance Riverside Hotel and a daily buffet breakfast. Prices for the package start from $267 per person twin share.
Travel Indochina
Tel: 1300 362 777
