Ho Chi Minh

There are few cities in the world as exceptional as Ho Chi Minh, or Saigon as it was formerly known.
Vietnam's largest city, Ho Chi Minh is home to many relics from the past as well as modern monuments which exemplify this tiny Southeast Asian country's continuous development. So, why should you hop on a plane to Ho Chi Minh the next time you get a vacation? Read on to find out what awaits you if you do choose to spend your next holiday in Ho Chi Minh aside from an amazing culture and friendly locals.

The Vietnam War is one of the most brutal and horrific wars to have ever been fought. Exhibits depicting the terrifying events that transpired during this war are open to the public at the War Remnants Museum in District 3 of Ho Chi Minh city. Many of the weapons used by Americans during the war, such as a helicopter with rocket launchers, a tank, a fighter plane, a single-seater attack aircraft and a 6,800kg conventional bomb, are all on display at the museum. There are pictures of many of the atrocities committed during the war, as well as many of the guillotines and cages used to torture political prisoners during the French Colonial Era. The museum may not be suitable for children though they are allowed in. The Chu Chi Tunnels, located a 3hr drive northwest of the city, is another reminder of Vietnam's turbulent history. Work on the tunnels had begun in 1948 when the Viet Cong was fighting the French. The tunnels kept on being expanded and by the end of the Vietnam War, this labyrinth of tunnels was 120km long. The restored tunnels now serve as one of Ho Chi Minh's main tourist attractions. Tourists here are left fascinated by how this vast network of tunnels worked. The most iconic landmark in Vietnam is perhaps the Reunification Palace. A structure that has been in existence since the French Colonial Era, the Reunification Palace has become synonymous with freedom when in 1975, a tank crashed through its main gates, signaling the end of the Vietnam War. The tanks used that day are still present in front of the Palace. The 5-storied Palace was full of hidden rooms, antiques, bunkers and even a casino, all of which is open to the public. A must-see for all during their holidays to Vietnam to fully comprehend how far this country has come.

Ho Chi Minh is the home to many pagodas as well as other places of worship. Xa Loi Pagoda, built in 1956, contains fragments of the Buddha's bones. It was also the site where troops attacked monks in 1963. Jade Emperor Pagoda is one of the five most important shrines in Ho Chi Minh. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, Jade Emperor Pagoda, in District 3, represents the Mahayanist branch of Buddhism that is practiced widely in Vietnam. Locals believe that those that pass through the gates of the pagoda are granted access to heaven by the Jade Emperor; while those he dislikes are sentenced to 10 stages of Hell. What awaits in Hell is made gruesomely apparent by the carvings on the walls. Giac Lam Pagoda, built in 1744, is the oldest Buddhist temple in Ho Chi Minh City. Situated in District 3, this temple houses images and statues of Buddha in various incarnations, along with numerous Taoist deities, each of which has its own altar. The architecture of the temple is beautiful, topped off by a recently constructed 32feet tall Stupa. In District 1, you will the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral, the last of its kind in Vietnam. Another one-of-a-kind place of worship is the Mariamman Hindu Temple which is decorated with colorful deities. The Cao Dai Temple, finished in 1955, is a place of worship for the Caodaists. Caodaists believe that all religions in the world ultimately have the same goal, which is to promote peace and tolerance.  All important religious figures are honored at this temple and worshippers here must believe in the teachings of all the religions; along with the beliefs of Confucius and Buddha. Watching the worshippers pray is a sight to behold for tourists as the worshippers all wear colored flowing robes and pray in unison. The temple,in terms of design, is similar to a cathedral. The main focal point of the temple is a Divine Eye symbolizing God which has the Ying and Yang icon in its pupil. Getting to know about the various faiths in this peace loving nation can be a tremendous experience for those who go on a holiday to Ho Chi Minh.

Ho Chi Minh's post office is a living piece of history. Designed by the man behind the Eiffel Tower, this post office, with its unique French architecture, is a marvel to look at and reminder of when the world was not overly relied on the internet for communication. Cholon, Ho Chi Minh's Chinatown, is an interesting place to visit for those looking to enjoy an authentic Chinese experience. Dong Khoi Street in District 1, is perhaps the best example of how much Vietnam has changed. Buildings from the bygone era are surrounded by brand outlets and skyscrapers. The most impressive of these skyscrapers is the Bitexco Financial Tower. The 262m tall tower gives visitors a bird's eye view of this amazing city.

If you start to get bored of all the historical artifacts or even the Ho Chi Minh Zoo with all of its diverse animals, you can just concentrate on your stomach. Pho, a noodle dish considered to be the national dish of Vietnam, is available throughout the city. The street vendors sell a whole bunch of delicious food at ridiculously low prices. Fish and pork items are also a local hit. Many upscale restaurants provide international cuisines such as French, Italian, and Indian. Although Vietnam isn't known for having a crazy nightlife, there are plenty of bars all over the city. There is plenty to keep you entertained during your holidays in Ho Chi Minh.