Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Asian energy & International influences

Whether you call it Saigon or Ho Chi Minh City, this charming port by any other name would still be as sweet. There’s an infectious energy on the streets at all hours of the day and in nightclubs with names like Apocalypse Now that don’t really start hopping until well after midnight. Vietnam’s largest city, HCMC—as the locals refer to it—is filled with French colonial architecture and Asian influences, creating a truly unique destination.

Many of the traditional French-style homes have been converted into trendy restaurants serving Vietnamese cuisine. Be sure to try the Bahn Mi—this ubiquitous sandwich is served on French-style baguette with Vietnamese ingredients like lemon grass chicken and pickled daikon and is the ultimate form of fusion cuisine.

Follow the fragrant scent of incense to the spectacular Jade Emperor Pagoda for a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of city streets. Then, explore the Ben Thanh market which is crammed with everything under the sun including fresh fruit and veggies, housewares, clothing, jewelry, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs.