Gabriel Anthony
Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City has so much to offer the discerning tourist; from the buzzing bars to crowded streets full of zippy motorbikes the vast city offers a million memories and the best experiences
This is what was at one time the headquarters of the South Vietnamese administration; a building that stands preserved in time. If you are a history buff this place will definitely be of interest. Check out the gambling rooms inlaid with plush furniture, silk curtains and an old aura of how the communist would have planned and discussed war matters over drinks and cards. The maze of concealed rooms where war plans were established, still display vintage phones, maps and rather large radios as was used at the time.
If the rush of traffic and general hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh seems overwhelming especially on Friday night; get away from it all by relaxing at one of the popular rooftop bars. Enjoy the 360 degree bird's eye view of the beautiful city as you sip sunset cocktails. Choose from the plush confines of Chill Sky Bar to Eon Heli Bar sitting on the 52nd floor of the city's highest building. Fancy drinks mixed by award winning mixologists served around a chilled out ambiance are just the ticket for relaxing and enjoying pre-dinner drinks in Ho Chi Minh City.
Cuc Gach Quan restaurant is owned by architect Tran Binh; who cleverly has created a rustic country atmosphere within a cosmopolitan city. Every detail is carefully planned out from the vintage crockery to vinyl records and old bookshelves loaded with well-thumbed novels. The eatery is located within a charming colonial building offering a delectable range of fresh cuisine. All ingredients are sourced locally with emphasis on traditional Vietnamese favourites. Must try dishes include deep fried tofu accompanied with chilli and zesty lemongrass while the sea bass smothered in passion fruit sauce come highly recommended. The sister café of this restaurant is Cuc Gach Café well known for excellent smoothies. Ideal spots to keep in mind if you decide to stay at a Ho Chi Minh service apartment. Loved by the modern tourists for its convenience and at home atmosphere serviced apartments like Diamond Island Luxury Residences are well placed around the city centre.
Well after a full day and good dinner consider heading over to La Fenetre Soleil which turns into a stylish house party venue over the weekend. Enjoy the live bands and popular DJ music as you wind down and relax.
As day two of your weekend dawns look forward to joining the masses of motorbikes on the streets of Ho Chi Minh by taking a Vespa Tour. Vietnamese Vespa Adventures use vintage Vespa's lovingly restored to take you across the city. Ride pillion as an experienced guide navigates the crowded and less populated areas.
Walk around and discover the thrills of Vietnamese street food. Treat the foodie in you by heading over to places such as Ben Thanh Market where skewered pork kebabs and bun thit nuong – stir fried noodles are just the beginning of a marvellous adventure.
Practical and unique these souvenirs are the real deal. Consider heading over to Gingko Concept Store and pick up cotton and silk clothing by local designers as well as the beautifully packed Marou chocolate hand made from cacao beans.
Art is given prominence in the city and browsing the likes of Galerie Quynh, Craig Thomas Gallery and San Art will prove to be visually stunning. Each gallery specialises on one concept and will not disappoint.
