While I had visited half of the continents of the globe, Asia wasn’t one of them. Vietnam had come many times into my roster as a crew member when I was flying. For some reason, plans kept being changed again and again and my proximity to it kept getting pushed back further and further. Until now, January 2025, when my husband gets a sudden change in his work schedule and low and behold, Vietnam is finally on my horizon. Without hesitation, I asked him to tag along for what was a month of remote work and play in a country that I had fully fallen in love with.

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

*Ben Thanh Market, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam*

Bike culture

If you’ve Googled anything about Asia in general, but specifically about Vietnam, you’ll quickly find out that bikes make up about 8 million dailies in traffic in Ho Chi Minh alone. Sounds crazy, right? Although it may sound daunting, it’s a must to experience yourself by hopping on a scooter tour or using it as public transportation instead of Uber.

The markets

One of the most sought-after things to do in Vietnam is shopping. I had friends travel there with empty bags and come back with a full new wardrobe. From custom-made pieces for a really great price or just exploring the many markets in town, you’ll find many options to choose from. From my personal experience, Saigon Square Market and Central Market are more organized and better-priced markets with air conditioning and many options to choose from.

The war

Its impact was significant and left many disturbing and to this day repercussions in the Vietnamese people. Around the city, you’ll find many marks and remnants of its impact. I personally advise everyone to visit the very important War and Remnants Museum. It will invite you to see a side of the Vietnam War you possibly did not know about.

Street food

A big part of Vietnamese food culture is about street food. While it can be daunting, there is nothing like taking a tour with some local experts to show you exactly where and what to eat! Another great find is the Street Food Market, which hosts many restaurants with various cuisines (Asian and International) to fit everyone’s needs.

Beauty treatments and massages

One of the things I was shocked to find out was how inexpensive and amazing any facial, massage and Korean head or hair massage treatments were. No matter the location or price point, I can say without a doubt all of them beat any service I’ve done in any other part of the world.

The multiple towns

Inside the city, you’ll find various towns. The most famous being Chinatown with its Pagodas and Chinese food. Did you know there’s also Japan Town with, you guessed it, the best Sushi and Ramen restaurants in town. As well as Korean town with many supermarkets and beauty supply stores.

The coffee culture

If there’s a country that cares and has a deep knowledge on how to make an incredible cup of coffee is Vietnam. There wasn’t one spot that I went to that gave me a bad cup of coffee, seriously! I recommend trying their typical Vietnamese Coffee and the Coconut Coffee (thank me later).

Places to eat & drink in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

*Steet Food Market, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam*

Pho Viêt Nam: This restaurant blew me away! Pho is one of the traditional dishes in Vietnam, so you know it’s on your must-try check list. The most incredible part is that this restaurant was featured on the Michelin Guide of 2024, and it definitely lived up to all the expectations.

Trung Nguyen Café Legend: If you’re looking for a high-end, delicate and luxurious café experience, this is your spot. The service is unmatched, the coffee is marvelous and it even comes with instructions. You know exactly how to prepare it to have the ultimate experience.
Pizza 4P’s: Now this one might throw you off, but hear me out! Good Italian food in Vietnam is hard to come by, and this place does not do it well. They blow it out of the park! Try the crab pasta and the four-cheese pizza, they are both to die for.
Katinat Saigon Kafe: We found this franchise just next to the Post Office in the city center while we were looking for something cold to drink and they really delivered. Here we ordered their bubble teas and although I am a bit of a tea snob, I have to say I loved every sip of my Peach Hibiscus Bubble Tea!
OM Authentic Vietnamese Grill: If you’re looking for the ultimate cool place to have an authentic Vietnamese barbecue experience, come here. Dinning al-fresco with a little fire pit next to you where the servers come and grill your meat right next to you just to ultimate perfection. All while enjoying a local beer is the pure definition of an authentic dining experience.
Ba Huynh: You can’t go to HCMC and not try another local delicacy called the Banh Mi. Think of a luxurious baguette with cold cuts, pate, butter and veggies. Yum! This place does it just right in my book with just the right filling and just the right crispy bun!

A Couples Guide to Exploring Ho Chi Minh