Discover the Chill Side of Ho Chi Minh: Hidden Gems and Relaxing Spots 🇻🇳

The final leg of my May Day holiday was Ho Chi Minh City, a destination that came to be purely by chance after spotting some incredibly affordable tickets from Ho Chi Minh to Shanghai. This serendipitous find shaped the entire vacation plan. My last visit to Vietnam was six years ago, and this time around, I was truly struck by the country’s progress.

Compared to the bustling chaos of Bangkok, I found myself preferring the more laid-back vibe of Ho Chi Minh City. The city’s attractions are quite concentrated, making it easy to navigate, though they can feel a bit predictable, mostly offering surface-level experiences. As a result, the itinerary wasn’t as packed or intense as it was in Bangkok or Angkor Wat.

1. My favorite attraction was the War Remnants Museum, where you can delve into Vietnam’s history from its resistance against aggression to unification. It’s a powerful reminder of the struggles faced and the value of living in a peaceful era.
2. The most relaxing spot was the Blank Lounage café on the 75th floor of the Landmark.

For just ￥60, you can savor a cup of coffee, feel the gentle breeze, and watch the city lights come to life—it’s the perfect way to unwind.
3. The most thrilling experience was taking a Grab motorcycle taxi. If you’re visiting Vietnam, this is an absolute must-try. The adrenaline rush and the unique perspective of the city streets are unforgettable.

4. The most disappointing part was the night tour on the double-decker bus, which lasted only 45 minutes. Perhaps my expectations were too high, but with fewer tall buildings in Saigon, the night view didn’t quite live up to the hype.
5. The most recommended food is the stone pot beef pho at Pho Viet Nam, which truly lives up to its Michelin title.

Another standout is Bep Me In Vietnamese restaurant, where the grilled meat with rice noodles and beef mushroom pancake are simply divine.

With this trip, I’ve now completed my puzzle of major Asian countries. The next adventure: will it be to explore Western culture in Australia or Europe?