The Contrasting Allures of Vietnam

Vietnam flourishes on contrasts, won’t you agree? One may find serenity in its ancient temples and majestic natural landscapes, while the charming French colonial architecture and ever-evolving concrete jungles magnify its vibrancy. Both thrive together, as if they were odes of the country’s rich past and promising future played simultaneously.

Such contrasting elements are also present in Ho Chi Minh City, the commercial engine of Vietnam and its largest metropolis. The skyline here stretches upwards, and yet, on the curbsides of its busy roads, humble carts offer some of the most heavenly street food on earth. And, unlike many other economic hubs, it still has plenty of public green spaces for those seeking much-needed seclusion.

Having that said, choosing a starting point for your exploration of Ho Chi Minh City can be challenging, especially if you were visiting it for the first time. The massive city is divided into 24 districts that are spread out. I recommend that you base yourself at District 1 – the city’s liveliest area – to get the most out of your trip. Then, proceed with a hop-on hop-off bus tour on the first day to take you to the popular attractions, including Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office, and Tan Dinh Church. This way, you not only get to save time navigating the city but also get to understand the city’s sense of place in an easier way.

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Speaking of a sense of place, why not get to know the city and the country better by visiting the History Museum of Ho Chi Minh City? After all, a country’s character is often shaped by the formative events in the past, and the same can be said about Vietnam’s. The museum introduces the country throughout the ages, starting from Stone Age and Chinese Domination to the French colonial era and Vietnamese Dynasties.

Moreover, those who are culturally-driven should watch water puppetry at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre. This unique Vietnamese folk art originated from the villages of the Red River Delta in North Vietnam with a history of over 4,000 years. The show combines an amusing retelling of Vietnamese legends and beautiful traditional music performed in a chest-deep pool of water. And in case you’re wondering, yes, the entire show is carried out in Vietnamese. But don’t let that scare you because the show is still remarkably entertaining!

In the evenings, go people-watching at Nguyen Hue Street which comes alive with street performances, light shows, food vendors, and Gen-Z skateboarders showing off their cool skills – trust me, the energy here is electrifying. The street is also lined up with trendy fashion boutiques on both sides, ideal for those looking for retail therapy. Walk a little further, and you’ll see the iconic Apartment 42 building, filled with plenty of artisanal cafes serving some of the best coffees for anywhere between VND5,000 to VND70,000.

Don’t forget to try Ca Phe Sua Da, which is Vietnamese iced coffee served with thick condensed milk – it’s a sweet combo and can be very addictive. But if you’re feeling more adventurous, get a cup of egg coffee instead!

Stay: Renaissance Riverside Hotel Saigon

Set in the thick of the action, this elegant hotel overlooking Saigon River gives guests easy access to some of the highly acclaimed restaurants and thriving shopping scenes in the city. The comfortable rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated, perfect for a city getaway!

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Halal Eats

• Pho Muslim – located near the Nancy Mosque, this unassuming restaurant is known to serve some of the best Halal phos in town.
• Halal@Saigon Restaurant – owned and run by a Malaysian Muslim, offering visiting Malaysians a taste of home as well as delicious Vietnamese classics.
• The Daun Restaurant – popular among Muslim travellers for its diverse menu, ranging from Vietnamese, Malaysian, to Singaporean and Western delicacies.
• Elisa Floating Restaurant – offers a romantic dinner experience on a traditional wooden ship. They serve halal fare but need to be pre-booked well in advance.

Alternatively, travellers can join a food tour done by local experts. Saigon Food Tour, for instance, introduces the adventurous to fun-filled culinary explorations that can be tailored according to travellers’ needs, including halal meals. Contact Mr. Nam at +84988591216 for bookings.

SLOW DOWN AT CAN GIO MANGROVE BIOSPHERE RESERVE

A day-tripper’s delight, Can Gio Mangrove is a UNESCO-recognised biosphere reserve located in Can Gio district, the largest and one of the least populated of Ho Chi Minh City’s districts. It is Vietnam’s first biosphere reserve and is regarded by experts as one of the world’s best-rehabilitated mangroves. Travellers should take advantage of this area’s fresh air by enjoying a slow boat ride along the streams, and while they’re at it, try to spot the animals that call this biosphere reserve home.

DIVE DEEP INTO THE TRANQUILITY OF NINH VAN BAY

Brace yourself for a pastoral idyll at L’Alya Ninh Van Bay, a nature resort oozing with discrete luxury set against the backdrop of a lush tropical forest reserve. All accommodation units are respectfully built around the natural surroundings and feature eco-friendly furnishing along with private pools of minimally treated water from the nearby hills.

For the most romantic moment, cruise into the sunset with a free flow of drinks (non-alcoholic included) and feast over scrumptious meals on the catamaran. Or go on a full pampering mode at the spa with a special Vietnamese massage incorporating a unique cupping technique. Those who prefer to be more active can take advantage of the early morning yoga session, jungle trekking activity, and kayaking. This is certainly the place where guests can be blissful by doing all, or nothing.

But like many stays in hotels or resorts, a memorable experience is defined by its hospitality. And for this, L’Alya delivers outstandingly. Thi, my personal butler, moves me with her sweet gestures and attentiveness, while Cong the naturalist, is amazing at telling stories. The pair, along with the rest of the team, truly represent the kindness and fun-loving spirit that the Vietnamese are known for.

Vietnam is Committed to Becoming a Top Destination of Choice in South East Asia

The writer’s trip to Vietnam is organised in conjunction with the 16th Ho Chi Minh City International Travel Expo 2022 (ITE HCMC 2022). Our sincerest gratitude to Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism, and Wanderlust Tips Magazine for making the writer’s experience in Vietnam smooth and memorable.