Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling heart of Southern Vietnam. Formerly known as Saigon, this vibrant metropolis blends rich history with modern dynamism, offering travelers a captivating blend of cultural experiences and urban adventures. Whether you're here for its historical landmarks, delectable cuisine, or lively street scenes, Ho Chi Minh City promises an unforgettable journey into Vietnamese culture.
Population: Approximately 9.4 million in 2021.
Economy: Largest economy center of Vietnam, ranging from finance, trade, construction, and tourism.
Landmarks: Bitexco Financial Tower, Ben Thanh Market, and Cu Chi Tunnels.
Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City's history is deeply intertwined with its colonial past and vibrant cultural mosaic. Once a strategic trading port under French rule, remnants of colonial architecture still grace its boulevards. This influence is complemented by the city's diverse cultural heritage, shaped by Chinese, Khmer, and Cham communities over centuries. From the elegant Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica to the bustling Chinatown, every corner tells a story of resilience and adaptation in the face of history's winds.
One of the most enriching aspects of visiting Ho Chi Minh City is the opportunity to connect with its warm-hearted locals. Vietnamese hospitality is legendary no matter where they are from or what they do. Here, in the middle of the most developed city in southern Vietnam, the people are even more friendly and eager to share their traditions and stories with visitors. Whether chatting with a street vendor over a steaming bowl of pho or joining in a traditional Tet celebration, interacting with locals offers a genuine glimpse into the daily life and cultural pride of this bustling city.
Ho Chi Minh city from above - © Vietnam Tourism
Check out many other attractions in one of the most popular cities in Vietnam, Hoi An, here.
Landmark 81 in Ho Chi Minh City - © Vietnam Tourism
Exploring Ho Chi Minh City's culinary scene is a journey into the heart of Vietnamese flavors. These local delights offer a broader taste of Ho Chi Minh City's diverse culinary offerings, ranging from savory pancakes to flavorful noodle soups and seafood specialties.
Learn about the distinctive cuisine in Northern Vietnam here.
Vietnamese Iced Coffee - © frank mckenna
Street vendors during Tet Holiday in Ho Chi Minh City - © Zuyet Awarmatik
Explore many cultural attractions in Hanoi here.
Ho Chi Minh City with its diverse shopping options from bustling markets to modern shopping malls, providing visitors a wide range of opportunities to shop for souvenirs and Vietnam traditional crafts:
Ben Thanh Market - © Chu CHU
Ho Chi Minh City has a tropical savanna environment with distinct wet and dry seasons, which influences visitor trends throughout the year. Understanding these weather patterns helps travelers plan their visit to Ho Chi Minh City accordingly, whether to enjoy the dry season's outdoor activities or embrace the unique charm of the wet season's cultural events and quieter ambiance.
Ho Chi Minh city during wet season - © Minh Triet
Ho Chi Minh City, like the rest of Vietnam, has its own set of cultural norms and customs that visitors should respect. Understanding and respecting these cultural etiquettes not only shows appreciation for Vietnamese customs but also enhances your interactions with locals, fostering meaningful and positive experiences during your visit to Ho Chi Minh City.
Banh Mi vendor in Ho Chi Minh city - © Vietnam Tourism
Chi Minh City is easy to navigate due to a wide range of transit alternatives. Taxis are plentiful and budget-friendly for visitors to explore Ho Chi Minh streets. For navigating traffic swiftly, motorbike taxis are readily available, whether they are traditional or through booking apps. Additionally, the city boasts an extensive public bus network covering most areas, with routes and schedules easily accessible online or at bus stops.
Managing finances in Ho Chi Minh City is straightforward with accessible banking services catering to travelers' needs. The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the official currency of Vietnam and is the only accepted currency for any transaction in Vietnam. Hotels, restaurants, and bigger stores accept major credit cards, making purchases more convenient. For currency exchange, authorized banks and exchange counters provide competitive rates, or travelers can withdraw directly from ATMs.
Ho Chi Minh City, like many other places around Vietnam, provides a diverse array of accommodation options to cater to every budget and preference. Luxury hotels offer world-class hospitality with central locations and upscale amenities. For those seeking a more intimate experience, boutique stays provide personalized service and unique ambiance in charming settings. Budget-conscious travelers can opt for affordable hostels offering clean accommodations and opportunities to connect with fellow travelers.
Tucked away in Sri Lanka’s southeastern corner, Yala National Park is where wild nature meets deep tradition. Known worldwide for its leopard population, the park is also home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. Beyond wildlife, Yala opens doors to a cultural landscape dotted with ancient temples, Buddhist ruins, and coastal villages. For travelers seeking more than just a safari, Yala offers a chance to explore eco-tourism, local communities, and sacred heritage sites.
Population: The Yala National Park area doesn’t have a human population.
Economy: The economy around Yala National Park thrives on a blend of eco-tourism, agriculture, and local services. Safari tours, eco-lodges, and cultural experiences drive steady income for nearby towns like Tissamaharama and Kataragama, supporting thousands of families.
Landmarks: Famous for Block I of Yala and wildlife encounters, including elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and exotic bird species.
Nestled on Sri Lanka’s southern coastline, Galle is a vibrant city where history meets the sea. Its cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and serene beaches make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Galle captivates visitors with its Dutch Fort, bustling markets, and friendly locals. Whether you’re exploring the ramparts at sunset or savoring fresh seafood by the shore, Galle promises an unforgettable journey into Sri Lanka’s heritage.
Population: Approximately 113,000 in 2023.
Economy: Galle’s economy thrives on tourism, trade, and fisheries. The city’s historic fort, colonial architecture, and coastal charm draw thousands of international visitors each year, making tourism its main economic driver. Fishing remains vital for local livelihoods, supplying fresh seafood across the region.
Landmarks: Famous for the Galle Fort, Dutch Reformed Church & Maritime Museum, and Unawatuna Beach.
Nestled along Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, Bentota is a tropical paradise that blends golden beaches, vibrant culture, and thrilling adventures. Famous for its calm waters, luxury resorts, and scenic river estuary, Bentota has become a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and authentic experiences. From serene beach walks at sunrise to adrenaline-pumping water sports, this coastal town offers a perfect balance of leisure and exploration. With its proximity to Colombo and Galle, Bentota is easy to reach, making it an ideal stop for both short escapes and extended holidays.
Population: Approximately 37,000 in 2023.
Economy: Bentota’s economy thrives mainly on tourism, which drives local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and wellness retreats. The town also benefits from fishing, coconut cultivation, and handicrafts like wood carving and batik textiles. Many residents rely on the growing demand for water sports and Ayurvedic treatments, making tourism the backbone of both income and employment in the area.
Landmarks: Famous for Bentota Beach, Bentota River Safari, and Kande Vihara Temple.
Mirissa is a charming coastal town on Sri Lanka’s southern shoreline. Known for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, it has become a must-visit stop for travelers exploring the island. Many come for whale watching, surfing, and sunset views at Coconut Tree Hill, but Mirissa offers much more than postcard beauty. The fishing boats you see anchored by the bay carry generations of stories. Local traditions, delicious cuisine, and a laid-back rhythm of life shape every visitor’s experience.
Population: Approximately 4,700 in 2023.
Economy: Mirissa’s economy is largely shaped by its coastal location. Fishing has long been the backbone of local livelihoods, with generations relying on the Indian Ocean for income. In recent decades, tourism has become the main driver of growth, thanks to whale watching, surfing, and beachside hospitality.
Landmarks: Famous for Mirissa Beach, Coconut Tree Hill, and Parrot Rock Bridge.
Tucked away in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is often called “Little England”. With its rolling tea plantations, cool misty mornings, and colonial charm, this mountain town feels like a step into another world. Travelers come here to breathe fresh air, walk through flower gardens, sip the finest Ceylon Tea, and enjoy a pace of life far from the island’s busy cities. Whether you’re drawn by scenic landscapes, heritage architecture, or the warmth of its people, Nuwara Eliya is a destination that blends nature, culture, and history in perfect harmony.
Population: Approximately 781,000 in 2023.
Economy: Nuwara Eliya’s economy thrives mainly on tea production, as it sits in the heart of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, famous worldwide for Ceylon Tea. The city also benefits from a growing tourism industry, attracting visitors with its colonial charm, cool climate, and scenic landscapes.
Landmarks: Famous for Gregory Lake, Hakgala Botanical Garden, and Victoria Park.
Nestled on the banks of the Kinabatangan River in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, Sukau is a destination where wildlife, culture, and conservation come together. Known as one of Asia’s top spots for river safaris and eco-tourism, this quiet village offers a front-row seat to encounters with Bornean orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and exotic birdlife.
Population: Approximately 1,400 in 2019.
Economy: Sukau’s economy is shaped by its riverine location and natural resources. Traditionally, the Orang Sungai community relied on fishing, small-scale farming, and forest gathering for their livelihood. Today, the village has shifted toward eco-tourism, with river cruises, jungle trekking, and homestays providing income.
Landmarks: Famous for the Kinabatangan River cruises, Gomantong Caves, and Ox-bow lakes and wetlands.