Ho Chi Minh City, better known by its former name of Saigon, is an industrious and dense metropolis, the largest city in Vietnam and the business capital of the country. With a population of roughly seven million, it is crowded and noisy, yet also exciting, a historic city that encompasses the essence of the nation.
Today Ho Chi Minh City has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and having actively welcomed capitalism as its citizens are clearly business-minded. Although relatively modern, it has still managed to hold onto its historical character, and fine restaurants, chic hotels and bars line the sidewalks. The buzzing of motorbikes and scooters merges with the calls of street vendors and the urgent business of stall owners, selling a range of delectable street food and exotic delicacies. The sight of a family of four balanced precariously on a scooter, a squealing pig strapped onto the back of a bicycle, bowed heads topped by pointed lampshade-style hats and orange-clothed monks are just some of the vibrant images the city has to offer.
Although overshadowed by modern and Asiatic influences, a little of Ho Chi Minh City's French colonial charm still remains, evident in the graceful architecture, wide boulevards, and a sidewalk cafe society. It is not for the attractions that one visits Ho Chi Minh City, however, but for the vibrancy of its street life, and its proximity to the Mekong Delta.
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- Currency The currency used in Ho Chi Minh City is the Vietnamese Dong.
- Flying time from the UK The average flight time from London to Ho Chi Minh is 11h 55min.
- Primary Language The official language of Ho Chi Minh is Vietnamese.
- Passport & Visas Until the 30th June 2018, British Nationals do not require a visa for business or tourism stays, up to a maximum of 15 days. Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months by the date you travel.