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Itour Vietnam » Go Locals

  • General Information

    Passport and visa
    Passports should be valid for six months from the date of entry into Vietnam. We recommend you make a photocopy of your passport and keep it somewhere separate, or scan it and keep it in an accessible email account. Visitors must have a visa before entering Vietnam. Itour Vietnam can arrange this for you. A visa on arrival can only be obtained with a letter of approval.

    Money
    The official currency in Vietnam is the Dong (VND) which is a non-convertible currency. American dollars are widely accepted in larger stores and supermarkets. Visa and MasterCard are becoming more accepted in hotels, restaurants and large stores, especially in the bigger cities. ATM’s are widely available throughout the country, and there are a number of international banks in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The rate of exchange is approximately 21,000 VND to one U.S. Dollar.

    Post and telecommunications
    The Vietnamese postal services reliable and there are also courier services widely available. Do not put postcards into letter boxes; give them to your hotel to post or go to a post office.

    Telephone connections to the rest of the world are widely available, however they aren’t cheap. A Vietnamese SIM card is a less expensive way of calling other countries, however your phone will need to be unlocked in order for it to work. For example, 200,000VND worth of Viettel credit ($10) can last for up to 45 minutes to the UK.

    Internet access is available in all major tourist places and you will find WiFi in most cafes in built up areas.

    Transportation
    The traffic in Vietnam is busy, but slow. It may look like chaos but don’t be frightened to cross the road. Simply make your way shaking your whole hand at waist height. You’ll soon see other people doing the same.

    Taxis are a popular way of getting around Hanoi but make sure you use a reputable company such as Mai Linh or Capital Taxis. A typical 10 minute journey should cost around 50,000 VND but prices tend to increase at night.

    If you are in a built up area, a cyclo is a fun form of transport and should cost no more than 100,000 VND per journey.

    Motorbike taxis: Travel by motorbike is not safe and under no circumstances is this sanctioned or recommended by Itour Vietnam.  Please note that this form of transport is not usually covered by insurance. Please check the fine print of your travel insurance policy to be sure of your cover.

  • Health and Safety

    Climate:

    Vietnam has a diverse climate that varies significantly from region to region:

    The North (Hanoi to Sapa)

    • April to October: temperatures between 30-35°C with occasional bursts of heavy rain.
    • December to March: temperatures between 10-15°C. February and March can be damp with drizzle and overcast skies.

    The Centre (Hue to Nha Trang)

    • Nha Trang: sunshine all year round apart from November and December when the area has heavy rain.
    • Dalat: cooler than the coastal area, particularly from November to March.
    • Da Nang and Hue: typhoons from mid October to mid December

    The South (Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet)

    • May to October: hot and wet
    • November to April: hot and humid

    Please noteThe weather can be very unpredictable so it may be a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat with you. You can purchase these from supermarkets and general stores. 

    Health and wellbeing

    Please be aware that your health can be at risk in Vietnam due to poor sanitation and lack of effective medical facilities. Rural areas may not have pharmacies and hospitals so make sure you travel with a full supply of any prescribed medicine you take. If you need medical assistance, we suggest The Family Medical Practice in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Every traveller is responsible for his or her own health. First and foremost, make sure that you have travel insurance for your trip. You should also consult your doctor or local travel clinic for the latest information and advice on travelling to Vietnam before departure.

    If you have a medical condition or allergy which requires particular attention, carry a doctor’s letter with you that describes the nature of the condition and treatment needed. We also recommend you pack a medical kit, including paracetamol and a diarrhoea remedy.

    Vaccinations
    Before travelling, please ensure you have adequate protection against disease.  Contact your doctor for the latest medical advice on the vaccinations you need, no less than two months before your departure.  Be aware that there is a malaria risk in rural parts of Vietnam.

    Travel insurance (compulsory) 
    Itour Vietnam does everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. However, travel inevitably involves some risk and this should be recognised by holiday-makers. Travel insurance is a cost effective way of protecting yourself and your equipment should any problems occur such as cancelled trips, delays, medical emergencies, baggage loss or damage. It also gives you peace of mind. Please also make sure your travel insurance covers all activities planned on your trip.

  • Culture & Customs

    Etiquette and cultural differences

    Experiencing different cultures is one of the joys of travelling, and it is important that these differences are respected. Knowing a few important customs of the Vietnamese people will help make your visit more enjoyable:

    • Try not to get angry. Showing any frustrations or annoyances by shouting or becoming abusive is extremely impolite and unlikely to achieve a positive outcome.
    • Pointing your finger is seen as offensive. Try to gesture using your whole hand instead.
    • Refrain from public displays of affection, they are considered offensive. It is extremely rare to see couples holding hands.
    • Wear shorts to the knees and cover your shoulders, particularly at religious sites.
    • Always remove your shoes when entering a temple or somebody’s home.
    • Nude sunbathing is considered completely inappropriate, even on beaches.
    • Remove your hat when entering a religious site, addressing the elderly or encountering esteemed people such as monks.
    • It is improper to pat children on the head.
    • When using a toothpick, it is polite to cover your open mouth.
    • Don’t leave chopsticks sitting vertically in a rice bowl as it looks very similar to incense sticks that are burned for the dead.
    • When passing something to another person, use both your hands together or just your right hand. Never use just your left hand.

    Food and drink

    Vietnamese food is fragrant, exciting and healthy. Around the country, you will find a delicious variety on offer, influenced from France, Thailand and even India.

    The most popular dish is called Pho and is often referred to as the "soul of the nation". It's quite simply a noodle soup dish eaten every day, predominantly for breakfast. It is served in most Vietnamese restaurants and street food vendors. Don’t be afraid to try the street food, there are plenty of options, including:

    • Nem Ran or Cha Gio (fried spring roll)
    • Banh Chung (sticky rice cake)
    • GioLua (lean pork pie)
    • BanhCuon (rice flour steamed rolls)
    • Banh My (pate and egg rolls)
    • Mivoithitbo/ga (noodles with beef/chicken)

    It is not advisable to drink tap water in Vietnam. Bottled water is cheap and widely available.

    Public holidays

    • TET (Vietnamese New Year): generally takes place at the end of January or early February and lasts for three days.
    • Liberation of Saigon: 30 April
    • International Worker’s Day: 1 May
    • Hung King’s memorial day: 10 March (lunar calendar)
    • Vietnamese National Day: 2 September

    TET Travel Recommendation: Itour Vietnam discourages travel over the TET period. Transport is often booked or expensive. Lots of places are closed including restaurants, shops and key tourist sites.

  • Pre-departure checklist

    • Travel insurance
    • Passport with at least six months validity from date of entry
    • Photocopy of passport
    • Visa
    • Vaccinations
    • Foreign currency (US$) and/or ATM card
    • All relevant tickets
    • Reconfirmed flights
    • Light weight clothing (summer months and the south)
    • Warm clothing (mountainous regions and Hanoi in winter)
    • Appropriate shoes for trekking, cycling or walking
    • Insect repellent
    • Medication
    • First aid kit
    • Adaptor – 220V, 50Hz; 2 pin plugs
    • Small daypack (for day and overnight trips)
    • Water bottle and helmet (for cycling trips)

    Please noteDomestic airlines do impose restrictions on baggage at approx 20kg maximum, so travel lightly where possible. Train cabins around the country, and boat cabins in Halong Bay have limited space so consider this when packing.  

Socialist Republic of Vietnam

Population: 90.5 million

Capital City: Hanoi (6.5 million)

People: 53 ethnic minorities

Language: Vietnamese

Currency: Vietnam Dong (VND)

Time Zone: GMT +7 Hours

International Dialing Code: +84

Vietnam is a small majestic country, offering travellers an exciting mix of adventure and culture. The country’s captivating natural wonders span from the mountainous north and the fertile plains of the Mekong Delta, to the spectacular coastline of central Vietnam and the imperious Halong Bay. With an intriguing history spanning back over 4,000 years, including occupations from both the Chinese and French, strong cultural influences can be found in the architecture and cuisine.

  • General Information

    Passport and visa

    Passports should be valid for six months from the date of entry into Laos. We recommend you make a photocopy of your passport and keep it somewhere separate, or scan it and keep it in an accessible email account.

    Visas valid for 30 days can be easily obtained on arrival. Cost depends on nationality (from US$30 to US$42). One passport-sized photograph is required.

    Money

    The official currency in Laos is the Lao Kip, which is non-convertible so you will need to bring US dollars to exchange. US dollars are also widely used in bigger cities, particularly in restaurants. Please note that torn and old bank notes are not generally accepted. In areas located near the Thai border, the Thai currency, Baht, is commonly used.  Visa and MasterCard are becoming more accepted in many of the bigger hotels and restaurants, especially in the larger cities. ATM’s are available in larger cities and tourist spots.

    Post and telecommunications

    Postal service sare available in Laos. The best way to receive any mail is to get it sent to a post office and collect it yourself. 

    Telephone connections to the rest of the world are widely available, however they aren’t cheap.

    Internet access is available in most major tourist places such as hotels, restaurants and cafes.

    Transportation

    The transport network in Laos is slow, but comprehensive. Getting around takes time, sometimes longer than you may think, but this is all part of the fun of travelling in this laid-back country.

    Taxis and tuk-tuks

    This is by far the easiest way to get around towns and cities, and negotiating the price is the norm.

    Motorbike taxis and rental: Travel by motorbike in Laos is not safe and under no circumstances is this sanctioned or recommended by Buffalo Tours.  Please note that travel by motorbike is not usually covered by travel insurance. Please check the fine print of your travel insurance policy to be sure of your cover.

  • Health and Safety

    Climate:

    Laos has a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons: May to October is the rainy season and November to April is the dry season. 
    It is hottest in March and April when temperatures can reach as high as 38C/100F. The lowest temperatures, usually in December, are around 15C/59F. The average temperature is between 25C/77F and 30C/84F.

    Please note: The weather can be unpredictable so it may be a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat with you. You can purchase these from most supermarkets and general stores.

    Health and wellbeing

    Please be aware that your health can be at risk in Laos due to poor sanitation and lack of effective medical facilities. Rural areas may not have pharmacies and hospitals so make sure you travel with a full supply of any prescribed medicine you take. Every traveller is responsible for his or her own health. First and foremost, make sure that you have travel insurance for your trip. You should also consult your doctor or local travel clinic for the latest information and advice on travelling to Laos before departure.

    If you have a medical condition or allergy which requires particular attention, please carry a doctor’s letter with you that describes the nature of the condition and treatment needed. We also recommend you pack a medical kit, including paracetamol and a diarrhoea remedy.

    Vaccinations

    There are many vaccinations needed when travelling to this part of the world. It is important you ensure you have adequate protection against disease.  Book an appointment with your doctor or travel clinic, no less than two months before your departure.

    Travel insurance (compulsory)

    Itour Vietnam does everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. However, travel inevitably involves some risk and this should be recognised by holiday-makers. Travel insurance is a cost effective way of protecting yourself and your equipment should any problems occur such as cancelled trips, delays, medical emergencies, baggage loss or damage. It also gives you peace of mind. Please also ensure your travel insurance covers all activities planned on your trip.

  • Culture & Customs

    Etiquette and cultural differences

    Experiencing different cultures is one of the joys of travelling, and it is important that these differences are respected. Knowing a few important customs of the Laotian people will help make your visit more enjoyable:

    • Try notto get angry.  Showing any frustrations or annoyances by shouting or becoming abusive is extremely impolite and unlikely to achieve a positive outcome.
    • Pointingyour finger is seen as offensive. Try to gesture using your whole hand instead.
    • Refrain from public displays of affection, they are considered offensive. It is extremely rare to see couples holding hands.
    • It is offensive to touch another person’s head as it is considered the most sacred part of the body.
    • It is polite to remove your shoes before entering a house – look for shoes at the front door as a clue.
    • In Laos, people greet each other with a slight bow and a prayer-like gesture, known as the ‘nop’. For foreigners and business, handshakes are becoming more acceptable.

    Temple visit etiquette

    Foreigners are always welcome in temples. However, it is important that a few simple rules of etiquette are followed:

    • Dress appropriately and act with the utmost respect when visiting temples and other religious sites.
    • Do not wear shorts or tank tops and make sure your shoulders and knees are covered.
    • Remove your shoes and hat.
    • If you sit down in front of the dais (the platform on which the Buddha’s are placed), sit with your feet to the side rather than in the lotus position.
    • Never point your finger or the soles of your feet towards a person or a figure of the Buddha.
    • A woman may accept something from a monk but should never touch a monk.
    • Show Respect and turn off mobile phones, remove headphones, lower your voice and avoid inappropriate conversation.

    Food and drink

    Traditional Laotian cooking involves a lot of game, wild boar and river fish. The freshness of ingredients is very important to Lao people who like to prepare everything from scratch. Herbs such as galangal and lemongrass are favourites and padaek (Lao fish sauce) is found on every table.

    A national dish is called Lap, which is a spicy mixture of marinated meat and/or fish that is sometimes served raw. Like its neighbour countries, rice is a staple food in Laos. However, sticky rice is preferred, which is crushed into a ball with fingers and used to soak up sauces.

    Useful food terms

    KhaoNie (sticky rice)

    Tamarkhong (papaya salad)

    Markphet (chili)

    Western food is available in most main cities and tourist spots.
    It is not advisable to drink tap water. Bottled water is recommended but do check the expiry date before opening. Ice is widely used and is produced with treated water.

    Public holidays

    Laos New Year is the main public holiday, which is celebrated on the 14th, 15th and 16th April. Not unlike Songkran, the Laos Pee Mai celebration mixes religious tradition with water. Here, water is used more for bathing Buddha images in temples than for dousing foreign tourists. However, water fights are catching on, so be aware when travelling during this period.

  • Travel tips

    Donations and gift giving

    Although there is poverty in certain areas of Laos, please read the following points about donations and gift giving.

    • Do not give money to people begging, especially children. This reinforces the belief that begging is an acceptable way to make a living.   If children make money from begging, their parents are less likely to send them to school. Children working on the streets are also vulnerable to abuse.
    • However in many places, it is considered acceptable to give to money to the elderly or disabled people.
    • Giving money and goods to beggars can accentuate an unequal relationship between locals and visitors, with tourists being seen as purely money givers.
    • Do not give sweets to children in villages that we visit.
    • Do not feel that you necessarily have to give material things. Sometimes, giving your friendship, time and interest to locals can be the best gift of all.
    • For more information go to www.thinkchildsafe.org

    Tipping

    Tipping is a personal matter and travellers are encouraged to tip any amount they feel is appropriate. For your convenience, we have included a suggested tipping guide below:

    Bellboy: $1

    Chambermaid: $1 per day

    Guides: $5-$10 per day for guides (depending on group size and performance)

    Drivers: $3-$5 per day, per person

    Restaurants: In smart establishments, you may find that the tip is already included in the bill. In local restaurants, tips are not expected but you may wish to leave loose change on the table.

    Price guide

    Laos is generally an inexpensive country to travel around, however, some goods are more expensive than neighbouring countries if they have to be imported.

    Street food:

    • Noodle soup: 15,000KIP
    • Noodle with pork/chicken/vegetable: 15,000KIP
    • Baguette: 15,000 KIP

    Restaurants:

    • Western food: from 45,000 KIP
    • Lao set menu: 60,000 KIP

    Drinks:

    • Soft drinks: 7,000 KIP
    • Beer Lao/bottle: 12,000 KIP

    Other:

    • Souvenirs (bags/t-shirts): between 30,000-150,000 KIP
    • Mobile Phone: 200,000 – 250,000 KIP
    • SIM card: between 10,000- 30,000 KIP
    • Oversea call: 2,000 KIP/minutes
    • Bicycle rental: city bikes 20,000KIP, Trek bikes 15USD
    • DVD: 5,000 KIP

    Useful words

    Hello: Sabaidee

    Thank You: Khob Jai

    Thank You Very Much: Khob Jai lai Lai

    How are you? Sabaideebor?

    Go: Pai

    Yes: Chao

    No: Bor

    Not Spicy: BorPhet

    Excuse me: Khorthod

    Bye: La gone

    My name is …: Suerkhongkhoi man…..,

    Nice to meet you: Yin deethidaihorjuckjao

    Useful websites:

    The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade travel information:http://www.dfat.gov.au/geo/laos/index.html

    The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel information:http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/travel-advice-by-country/asia-oceania/laos

    The official tourism website:http://www.tourismlaos.org/web/index.php

  • Pre-departure checklist

    • Travel insurance
    • Passport with at least six months validity from date of entry
    • Photocopy of passport
    • Passport-sized photo and $USD for visa on arrival
    • Vaccinations
    • Foreign currency (US$) and/or ATM card
    • All relevant tickets
    • Reconfirmed flights
    • Light weight clothing
    • Long sleeved shirts and trousers (November-February evenings)
    • Depending on the season, your activities and the region you will be visiting (e.g. mountainous areas) it may be advisable for you to bring a jacket with you.
    • Electrical adaptor: 220V, 50Hz; 2 pin plugs
    • A small bag/backpack for day and overnight trips
    • Appropriate shoes for trekking, cycling and walking
    • Insect repellent
    • Sunscreen
    • Medication/first aid kit

    Please noteDomestic airlines do impose restrictions on baggage at approx 20kg maximum, so travel lightly where possible.

    Our very best wishes for your journey.

Laos People’s Democratic Republic (PDR)

Population: 6.5 million

Capital City: Vientiane (Pop: 750,000)

People: Over 60 ethnic groups

Language: Lao

Currency: Kip (KN)

Time Zone: GMT +7 Hours

International Dialing Code: +856

Laos is a laid-back landlocked country of spectacular natural beauty and strong spiritual traditions. With roughly six million people, it is one of the least populated countries in the world. It is also the least developed and most enigmatic of the three former French Indochinese states. Dominated by majestic mountains, verdant valleys and broad snaking rivers, the country is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking adventure. Vientiane is probably the most relaxed capital city in the world, where travellers get a real insight into tranquil riverside life.

  • Siem Reap

    Siem Reap Siem Reap Siem Reap Siem Reap Siem Reap Siem Reap Siem Reap Siem Reap 

Ho Chi Minh City or Saigon, situated in the southern of Vietnam, is still called Saigon by most of the natives. The modern city used to be considered as the Pearl of the Orient by the French. It is a brazen, industrious and dense metropolis, the largest city in Vietnam and the business capital of the country. The city center is situated on the banks of the Saigon River, 60 km from the South China Sea and 1,760 km south of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam.  It borders Tay Ninh and Binh Duong provinces to the north, Dong Nai and Ba Ria – Vung Tau provinces to the east, Long An Province to the west and the South China Sea to the south with a coast 15 km long. 

Ho-Chi-Minh-City-Map-Vietnam-Administration-Units
HO CHI MINH CITY
Also Known As    Saigon
Renamed    1976
Coordinates:  10°46′10″N 106°40′55″E

Region             Southeast
Area                 2,095.6 km2
    
Population (2011)
  • Total            7,521,100
  • Density       3,589/km2

Demographics    
  • Ethnicities  Kinh, Chinese
                          Cham, Khmer
    
Calling code   08
Website           www.hochiminhcity.gov.vn
Topography
Ho Chi Minh City is located at 10°10'- 10°38'N, 106°22'- 106°54'E in the southeastern region of Vietnam. The average elevation is 19 meters (62 ft) above sea level. In general, the topography of Ho Chi Minh City is not complicated but fairly diverse it, therefore, owns good conditions for developing.

Climate
The city has a tropical climate, specifically a tropical wet and dry climate, with an average humidity of 75%. The year is divided into two distinct seasons: the rainy season, from May to November, and the dry season, from December to April. The average temperature is 28 °C, the highest temperature sometimes reaches 39 °C around noon in late April, while the lowest may fall below 16 °C in the early mornings of late December into early January.

Tourism
Over the last 10 years, Ho Chi Minh City has experienced a spectacular change in its cityscape. And today, this city has a cosmopolitan and energetic atmosphere. The once low-rise landscape of the city's central area, District 1, is now marked with shining skyscrapers including high-rise apartments, international hotels, luxurious restaurants and bars and companies. This bustling, vibrant, industrial hub of the nation is the biggest city of Vietnam as well. Saigon is also the cultural center and economic capital of the country. 

Despite its quite recent past, Ho Chi Minh City nevertheless possesses various beautiful buildings, displaying a characteristic combination of Vietnamese, Chinese and European cultures. These include War Remnants museum and former Presidential Palace, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Old Post Office, Saigon’s China Town, Ben Thanh Market, as well as many pagodas and churches (Vinh Nghiem, Giac Vien, Giac Lam, Phung Son pagodas...). After more than 300 years of development, Ho Chi Minh City presents many ancient architectural constructions, famous vestiges and renowned sights. It is remarkable for its harmonious blending of traditional national values with northern and western cultural features.

Some festivals in Ho Chi Minh City: Nghia An Hoi Quan Festival (15th day of the 1st lunar month and 24th day of the 6th lunar month), Anniversary of the Death of the Hung Kings (10th of the 3rd lunar month), Le Van Duyet Festival (1st day of the 8th lunar month), Death Anniversary of Tran Hung Dao (20th day of the 8th lunar month).

Transportation
Ho Chi Minh City is the main junction for trains, roads, water, and air transportation systems for domestic trips and for foreign destination. Ho Chi Minh City is 1,720km from Hanoi, 99km from Tay Ninh, 70km from My Tho, 125km from Vung Tau, 168km from Can Tho and 308km from Dalat. The City has National Highway 13 which connects Vietnam with the rest of Indochina.

Besides, Thong Nhat express train connects Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, via many provinces in Vietnam.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport is the biggest airport with many domestic and international routes. There are flights from Hanoi and Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City and between the city to many regions as well a lot of countries on over the world.

Ho Chi Minh City or Saigon, situated in the southern of Vietnam, is still called Saigon by most of the natives. The modern city used to be considered as the Pearl of the Orient by the French. It is a brazen, industrious and dense metropolis, the largest city in Vietnam and the business capital of the country. The city center is situated on the banks of the Saigon River, 60 km from the South China Sea and 1,760 km south of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam.  It borders Tay Ninh and Binh Duong provinces to the north, Dong Nai and Ba Ria – Vung Tau provinces to the east, Long An Province to the west and the South China Sea to the south with a coast 15 km long. 

Ho-Chi-Minh-City-Map-Vietnam-Administration-Units
HO CHI MINH CITY
Also Known As    Saigon
Renamed    1976
Coordinates:  10°46′10″N 106°40′55″E

Region             Southeast
Area                 2,095.6 km2
    
Population (2011)
  • Total            7,521,100
  • Density       3,589/km2

Demographics    
  • Ethnicities  Kinh, Chinese
                          Cham, Khmer
    
Calling code   08
Website           www.hochiminhcity.gov.vn
Topography
Ho Chi Minh City is located at 10°10'- 10°38'N, 106°22'- 106°54'E in the southeastern region of Vietnam. The average elevation is 19 meters (62 ft) above sea level. In general, the topography of Ho Chi Minh City is not complicated but fairly diverse it, therefore, owns good conditions for developing.

Climate
The city has a tropical climate, specifically a tropical wet and dry climate, with an average humidity of 75%. The year is divided into two distinct seasons: the rainy season, from May to November, and the dry season, from December to April. The average temperature is 28 °C, the highest temperature sometimes reaches 39 °C around noon in late April, while the lowest may fall below 16 °C in the early mornings of late December into early January.

Tourism
Over the last 10 years, Ho Chi Minh City has experienced a spectacular change in its cityscape. And today, this city has a cosmopolitan and energetic atmosphere. The once low-rise landscape of the city's central area, District 1, is now marked with shining skyscrapers including high-rise apartments, international hotels, luxurious restaurants and bars and companies. This bustling, vibrant, industrial hub of the nation is the biggest city of Vietnam as well. Saigon is also the cultural center and economic capital of the country. 

Despite its quite recent past, Ho Chi Minh City nevertheless possesses various beautiful buildings, displaying a characteristic combination of Vietnamese, Chinese and European cultures. These include War Remnants museum and former Presidential Palace, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Old Post Office, Saigon’s China Town, Ben Thanh Market, as well as many pagodas and churches (Vinh Nghiem, Giac Vien, Giac Lam, Phung Son pagodas...). After more than 300 years of development, Ho Chi Minh City presents many ancient architectural constructions, famous vestiges and renowned sights. It is remarkable for its harmonious blending of traditional national values with northern and western cultural features.

Some festivals in Ho Chi Minh City: Nghia An Hoi Quan Festival (15th day of the 1st lunar month and 24th day of the 6th lunar month), Anniversary of the Death of the Hung Kings (10th of the 3rd lunar month), Le Van Duyet Festival (1st day of the 8th lunar month), Death Anniversary of Tran Hung Dao (20th day of the 8th lunar month).

Transportation
Ho Chi Minh City is the main junction for trains, roads, water, and air transportation systems for domestic trips and for foreign destination. Ho Chi Minh City is 1,720km from Hanoi, 99km from Tay Ninh, 70km from My Tho, 125km from Vung Tau, 168km from Can Tho and 308km from Dalat. The City has National Highway 13 which connects Vietnam with the rest of Indochina.

Besides, Thong Nhat express train connects Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, via many provinces in Vietnam.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport is the biggest airport with many domestic and international routes. There are flights from Hanoi and Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City and between the city to many regions as well a lot of countries on over the world.

Ho Chi Minh City or Saigon, situated in the southern of Vietnam, is still called Saigon by most of the natives. The modern city used to be considered as the Pearl of the Orient by the French. It is a brazen, industrious and dense metropolis, the largest city in Vietnam and the business capital of the country. The city center is situated on the banks of the Saigon River, 60 km from the South China Sea and 1,760 km south of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam.  It borders Tay Ninh and Binh Duong provinces to the north, Dong Nai and Ba Ria – Vung Tau provinces to the east, Long An Province to the west and the South China Sea to the south with a coast 15 km long. 

Ho-Chi-Minh-City-Map-Vietnam-Administration-Units
HO CHI MINH CITY
Also Known As    Saigon
Renamed    1976
Coordinates:  10°46′10″N 106°40′55″E

Region             Southeast
Area                 2,095.6 km2
    
Population (2011)
  • Total            7,521,100
  • Density       3,589/km2

Demographics    
  • Ethnicities  Kinh, Chinese
                          Cham, Khmer
    
Calling code   08
Website           www.hochiminhcity.gov.vn
Topography
Ho Chi Minh City is located at 10°10'- 10°38'N, 106°22'- 106°54'E in the southeastern region of Vietnam. The average elevation is 19 meters (62 ft) above sea level. In general, the topography of Ho Chi Minh City is not complicated but fairly diverse it, therefore, owns good conditions for developing.

Climate
The city has a tropical climate, specifically a tropical wet and dry climate, with an average humidity of 75%. The year is divided into two distinct seasons: the rainy season, from May to November, and the dry season, from December to April. The average temperature is 28 °C, the highest temperature sometimes reaches 39 °C around noon in late April, while the lowest may fall below 16 °C in the early mornings of late December into early January.

Tourism
Over the last 10 years, Ho Chi Minh City has experienced a spectacular change in its cityscape. And today, this city has a cosmopolitan and energetic atmosphere. The once low-rise landscape of the city's central area, District 1, is now marked with shining skyscrapers including high-rise apartments, international hotels, luxurious restaurants and bars and companies. This bustling, vibrant, industrial hub of the nation is the biggest city of Vietnam as well. Saigon is also the cultural center and economic capital of the country. 

Despite its quite recent past, Ho Chi Minh City nevertheless possesses various beautiful buildings, displaying a characteristic combination of Vietnamese, Chinese and European cultures. These include War Remnants museum and former Presidential Palace, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Old Post Office, Saigon’s China Town, Ben Thanh Market, as well as many pagodas and churches (Vinh Nghiem, Giac Vien, Giac Lam, Phung Son pagodas...). After more than 300 years of development, Ho Chi Minh City presents many ancient architectural constructions, famous vestiges and renowned sights. It is remarkable for its harmonious blending of traditional national values with northern and western cultural features.

Some festivals in Ho Chi Minh City: Nghia An Hoi Quan Festival (15th day of the 1st lunar month and 24th day of the 6th lunar month), Anniversary of the Death of the Hung Kings (10th of the 3rd lunar month), Le Van Duyet Festival (1st day of the 8th lunar month), Death Anniversary of Tran Hung Dao (20th day of the 8th lunar month).

Transportation
Ho Chi Minh City is the main junction for trains, roads, water, and air transportation systems for domestic trips and for foreign destination. Ho Chi Minh City is 1,720km from Hanoi, 99km from Tay Ninh, 70km from My Tho, 125km from Vung Tau, 168km from Can Tho and 308km from Dalat. The City has National Highway 13 which connects Vietnam with the rest of Indochina.

Besides, Thong Nhat express train connects Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, via many provinces in Vietnam.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport is the biggest airport with many domestic and international routes. There are flights from Hanoi and Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City and between the city to many regions as well a lot of countries on over the world.