Joanna James
As one of Asia's most popular vacation hotspots, Vietnam is a dynamic nation with a wide variety of attractions and activity bases. The country's nightlife scene is equally impressive with beach holiday hubs and populace cities with a plethora of ways to enjoy a great night out.
One of the most exciting and enjoyable experiences visitors can enjoy on a night out in Vietnam is catching a performance at the Saigon Opera House. Ideal for those based in Ho Chi Minh City the Saigon Opera House is not only one of the most stunning landmarks in the city but also a cultural institution which hosts a wide variety of performances throughout the calendar year. From musical showcases to fine art items such as ballet recitals and theatre, visitors can also witness traditional Vietnamese dance performances at the venue.
Often regarded among the more romantic activity options available for those in search of engaging night-time distractions, a dinner cruise along the Saigon River is also one of the best ways to discover the city's main landmarks. With a plethora of private tour operators offering dinner cruise packages, visitors need only select the one which suits their budget to enjoy a scrumptious meal of both continental and Vietnamese cuisine as well as the spectacular views available from aboard the vessel. Some dinner cruises even include onboard entertainment in for form of live bands and jazz ensembles or a traditional Vietnamese dance recital.
Revellers based in the Ho Chi Minh can also make a night out of bar hopping from one drinking hole to another. Home to its fair share of plush rooftop bars including the iconic Saigon Saigon, tourists can lose themselves in the captivating views available from the Chill Skybar and similar venues around town. Those who prefer to enjoy a nightcap with music and food can head to Mui Ne's Dragon Beach Bar or the Line Up Bar & Grill which is easily accessible from Anantara Mui Ne Resort or any of the many similar hotel hubs with their own Mui Ne restaurants. The latter is not only a bar and grill but also a nightclub in its own right from which an eclectic mix of music exudes onto the beach capital until the wee hours of the morning.
Travellers looking for a dance floor or disco to dance the night away during their vacation in Vietnam should not miss the Lush Nightclub in Ho Chi Minh City. Not only is the venue frequented by the youthful revellers in the city but the club itself is an exclusive nightspot with an industrial setting and decor. Hip hop and party music reign supreme in the dance halls of Lush while Apocalypse Now is an iconic nightclub occupying the city's District 1. Known as a popular haunt for expats, budget travellers, backpackers the locale is also perfect for enjoying a game of pool. Open till 4 am, Apocalypse Now is spread out over two floors and a not-to-miss highlight for disco enthusiasts.
The ideal night time distraction for shopaholics and tourists in search of a memorable dining experience, the Ben Thanh Night Market is a one of kind local market in Ho Chi Minh City. Located near Phan Boi Chau Street, the Ben Thanh Night Market is not only home to countless fashion stalls and vendors selling souvenirs but also seafood meals and dishes as well. Don't forget to practice your haggling skills with the vendors as bargaining the price down is not only a custom but expected when shopping in this colourful thoroughfare.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
