Exploring Saigon: A Travel Guide for First-Timers
Every year, I take a New Year's Eve trip, and this time, I kicked things off in Saigon, Vietnam. Let me tell you—this city is absolutely breathtaking. From the vibrant street life to the incredible food scene and the rich coffee culture, Saigon is an experience that engages all the senses. Plus, the people? Some of the kindest I’ve ever met.
Essential Tips for Vietnam
Pack Light: Vietnam is hot, and you don’t need to overpack. Plus, clothing here is super affordable, and trust me, you’ll probably end up buying more than you planned.
Mastering the Traffic: Saigon’s traffic is legendary. It looks chaotic, but there’s a rhythm to it. When crossing the street, walk confidently and at a steady pace—think Naomi Campbell on a runway. The motorbikes will weave around you
Grab is Your Best Friend: Vietnam’s version of Uber, Grab, is the easiest and most affordable way to get around. You can also use it to order food when you need a break from all the walking.
Venture Beyond District 1: While District 1 is the heart of the city, it comes with tourist prices. Exploring beyond Districts 1 and 2 lets you experience a more local side of Saigon and often at a fraction of the cost.
Free ATM Withdrawals. You can withdraw money for free at VP Bank and TP Bank, saving you unnecessary fees during your trip.
Must-Do Experiences in Saigon
War Remnants Museum – A sobering but important look into Vietnam’s history.
Cu Chi Tunnels – Crawl through the underground tunnels used during the war for a hands-on history lesson.
Mekong Delta – Escape the city and experience Vietnam’s lush countryside, floating markets, and local life.
The Apartment Café – A repurposed apartment building filled with unique cafes, boutiques, and co-working spaces.
Saigon’s Coffee Culture – Vietnam’s coffee scene is next level. Try an egg coffee, coconut coffee, or a traditional cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced coffee).
Ben Thanh Market – A lively market where you can find everything from street food to souvenirs.
Tân Định Church (The Pink Church) – A pastel-pink, Insta-worthy church. Note: You can’t go inside as it’s gated, but it’s still worth a visit.
Bùi Viện Street – Saigon’s nightlife hub, where the energy is unmatched, and the party goes all night.
Saigon is just the beginning—Vietnam offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you want to immerse yourself in the buzzing energy of its cities, relax on pristine beaches, or trek through misty mountains, Vietnam delivers it all at an incredibly affordable price. From savoring a $1 bowl of pho to staying in luxury hotels at a fraction of what you'd pay elsewhere, this country makes high-quality travel accessible to all.
Add Vietnam to your bucket list and experience one of the most dynamic, budget-friendly, and culturally rich destinations in the world!
