Venturing into vibrant Vietnam, a prominent tourist destination in Southeast Asia, led me to the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City. Despite my inability to witness ancient ruins, stunning beaches, and captivating landscapes, this city teems with attractions. From traces of French colonial influence to locals who still speak French, the blend of history and modernity is fascinating.
Navigating the city’s lively streets, whether by motorbike, car, or foot, introduced me to its welcoming spirit. Amidst the traffic hustle, the former Saigon resonated with warmth. Friendly faces greeted me, eager for conversation despite language barriers. English not being prevalent posed a challenge, yet the positive energy prevailed. And let’s not forget the sunny weather, a delightful bonus.
Although my stay was brief, Ho Chi Minh City left me content. Its unique charm, combined with the warm interactions, ensured a memorable experience. With the intention of returning, I departed, enriched by the moments shared in this remarkable urban expanse.
Museum visit
With a deep-rooted curiosity about the history of every land I explore, my journey led me to the doors of the Ho Chi Minh Museum in Ho Chi Minh City. Nestled within an old edifice, this museum serves as a repository of the past, particularly the echoes of colonial dominion, notably the era of French colonial rule.
As I wandered through its halls, each section unveiled a tale of the country’s colonialist past. Ancient artifacts bearing French inscriptions stood juxtaposed with Vietnamese descriptions, a testament to the bygone era’s intricate fusion. The museum, established in 1987, resides within a venerable structure that once belonged to a wealthy Chinese man, Hua Bon Hoa, acclaimed as Saigon’s wealthiest citizen in the early 20th century.
What truly caught my eye were the well-preserved vintage aircraft on display, harking back to a time long past. Their meticulous maintenance and vibrant paintwork added to the museum’s immersive atmosphere. The enchanting courtyard, adorned with fragrant herbs, blossoming flowers, and lush trees, provided a serene juxtaposition to the historical narrative being recounted.
Situated along 97A Pho Duc Chinh in District 1, this museum holds a treasure trove of approximately 21,000 artifacts. A haven for enthusiasts of art and history alike, it promises an immersive experience for individuals of all ages. The museum presents a miniature glimpse into the past, inviting both adults and children to traverse through time.
For those sharing my inquisitiveness about the history of former Saigon, I wholeheartedly advocate for a visit to this museum. It stands as a captivating window into an era bygone, beckoning the curious-minded to uncover the rich tapestry of the city’s past.
Ho Chi Minh Arts
Navigating the bustling market, my eyes danced over a myriad of decorative trinkets, each vying for my attention. The vibrant hues and intricate designs held me captive, as I pondered over the perfect souvenir to capture the essence of my visit.
Friendly Vietnamese vendors, a mix of helpful and persuasive, guided my shopping journey. Some locked eyes with curiosity, leaving me immersed in choices. After a mental tussle, I settled on a wallet. Its exquisite design and thread stitches caught my eye, and the foam interior made it both light and fluffy. A picture of a hardworking Vietnamese farmer adorned it, speaking volumes to me. While I tried on the traditional hat, I knew it was a memory to cherish, not an everyday accessory.
The market echoed with a symphony of creativity, boasting shoes, clothes, jewelry, and more. The allure of Vietnamese culture beckoned, with prices more inviting than those in South Korea. The temptation to embrace Vietnamese artistry was irresistible. Did I succumb? One can guess the answer.
Artistry wasn’t confined to the market; it flourished throughout the city. Quaint decorations adorned restaurants, each piece a burst of color and brightness. Mesmerized, I felt compelled to touch and understand their intricate craftsmanship, discovering that some were ingeniously crafted from recycled materials.
Among the city’s charms, the concept of dining under trees enchanted me. A natural respite from the sun’s warmth, it was a delightful way to savor a meal. Ho Chi Minh City had so much more to offer, leaving me yearning to explore further. My wish to uncover its hidden gems lingered, a testament to the captivating allure of this vibrant destination.
Eat delicious Vietnamese food
Due to my selective tastes, I encountered a culinary challenge in embracing Vietnamese cuisine. While not particularly spicy, the noodle soups didn’t resonate with me. Amidst the array of traditional dishes at restaurants, I sampled a few, like Phở Cuốn and Bột Chiên. However, my preference leaned toward simpler options like beef and rice. Cautious of the unfamiliar, I refrained from dishes I couldn’t identify, even though I observed the presence of raw vegetables and herbs in some Vietnamese meals.
A surprising culinary delight awaited me during dinner at a restaurant – a plain fish soup and rice. This unexpected gem was served to me at the university cafeteria, where I had the honor of attending a law conference at the University of Economics and Law.
Curiosity piqued my interest in comparing legal systems, prompting engaging conversations with Vietnamese law graduate students. Their warm reception and inquisitive nature led to a barrage of questions exchanged in our short but insightful interactions. While time constraints limited the depth of our chats, the campus tour provided a glimpse into Vietnam’s educational landscape.
Though my time was fleeting, I left with a sense of anticipation to explore Hanoi in the future. I invite you to share your experiences in either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. For the adventure-minded, the journey is a perpetual voyage of discovery.
There are 10 Best Museums In Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, that you could visit.
Click here to find out what you can do in Cambodia, Thailand, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Cameroon, Malaysia, and Ghana.
