Where to Stay, What to Eat & Top Attractions
Finally setting foot in Vietnam felt like a dream come true! It’s a destination I had imagined for years—drawn in by its rich history, vibrant street life, and incredible food culture. Experiencing it in person was even more powerful than I had hoped. From the moment we arrived, everything felt so alive and full of energy, a place where tradition and modern life blend seamlessly. Walking through Bangkok and Saigon, I was genuinely struck by how advanced and seamlessly integrated technology feels there—more efficient, modern, and forward-thinking than what I was used to in Los Angeles and Italy ! This trip wasn’t just about visiting a new country; it was about fulfilling a long-held travel dream and beginning a journey that would leave a lasting mark on my heart.
Our first stop in Vietnam was Ho Chi Minh City, and the very first thing that caught our attention was the traffic! It moves in a wild, constant flow—a symphony of motorbikes, horns, and fearless crossings that somehow works beautifully. Watching locals navigate it with such ease was mesmerizing, and crossing the street quickly became an adventure in itself. I learned that the “flow ” means DO NOT STOP. I’d panic , stop and get my foot grazed by a bike followed by shouting in Vietnamese and the loudest honk ! Find your rhythm and just walk (or run) to the other side … From Bangkok , Thailand we flew VietJet Airlines to arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), the main gateway to Ho Chi Minh City. We were headed to District 1 which is about 6-8 Km from the airport. Not a long drive BUT a trafficky , chaotic one with a lot of honking from our driver ! Be prepared …
We stayed at The Myst Dong Khoi, This hotel blends modern luxury with traditional Vietnamese design, creating a space that feels both stylish and comforting . I loved how much greenery there is all over the hotel. Upon check-in we were given cold ,fresh towels and a trio of fresh juices which were much needed in the August heat and humidity ! The service was impeccable. We booked a room with a private balcony and it had a jacuzzi tub ! The room was was thoughtfully designed, full of amenities (seriously leave your toiletries at home they provide everything) and the rooftop pool and bar offered stunning views over the city skyline. Despite being in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, it felt like a peaceful oasis. The rooftop pool is the ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring the vibrant streets below and have a business meeting like my husband did !
Exploring District 1: Where we stayed – Things to Do
Staying in District 1 put us right in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s energy, culture, and creativity. This central neighborhood is packed with incredible food options. From street stalls serving bánh mì and phở to stylish restaurants offering modern Vietnamese cuisine. Coffee culture here is on another level, with cozy cafés and sleek espresso bars on almost every corner. You’re going to need that coffee for all the walking you’ll be doing !
No trip to Ho Chi Minh City feels complete without a visit to Ben Thanh Market, the city’s most iconic and energetic shopping hub. Located in the heart of District 1, this market is a sensory overload in the best way—packed with rows of stalls selling everything from handmade souvenirs and textiles to Vietnamese coffee, spices, and street food. By day, it’s a go-to spot for picking up gifts and experiencing local commerce, while in the evening, the surrounding streets transform into a lively night market filled with sizzling food stalls and vibrant energy. For a more local, less touristy experience, head to Binh Tay Market in Cholon, where you’ll find a sprawling wholesale market offering a glimpse into everyday life in the city. Walkable, vibrant, and endlessly interesting, (prepare to barter) it’s the perfect base for first-time visitors who want to experience the best of the city all at once. We almost left with a clock , 6 foot tall dragon vase, 100 hair bows and enough potted bamboo to build a fortress around our home LOL You will find everything at this market , delicious snacks too!
After shopping we visited Thien Hau Temple in Chinatown – District 5 . The central incense burner, the open-air courtyard, and those richly decorated rooflines with ceramic figures are all signature features of this temple. It’s dedicated to Thien Hau, the sea goddess, and is one of the most atmospheric spots in Saigon—especially with the constant haze of incense drifting through the space. It was cool , calm and a nice reprieve from intensity of the city outside .
Eating In Saigon
Dinner the first night was close to our hotel at Vietnam House Restarurant The food was delicious and comforting . A beautiful place with a great vide.
The second night we opted for a Vespa tour with dinner , drinks and a local club to round out the evening . This was the BEST was to see Saigon ,eat some really good food , and hang out in some cool local spots. Our guide Tran was so friendly and our drivers were very safe and kind. We opted for the night – dinner tour . Seeing Saigon at night so bright , alive and electric ,while weaving in and out of alley ways and streets to find these delicious food spots among the locals was super fun! If you’re a solo traveler this tour is the perfect way to join a fun group and explore Saigon. Come hungry!! You will eat at two different spots and have a pre dinner drink and drinks at the nightclub or lounge at the end of the tour . You’ll get to try a variety of DELICIOUS local food so save your appetite !
Vespa Adventures
Our third night in Saigon we went to Anan Tucked into a narrow alley near Ben Thanh Market, the bright yellow neon signs stand out . We were led up to the rooftop bar where we met (probably ) the best mixologist – bar-woman I’ve ever had cocktails from.
We moved through a tasting-style menu of elevated classics, and each dish told a story . Your dinner plans in Saigon MUST include ANAN …
One of the country’s most iconic street foods, Bánh mì hits every craving at once. It starts with a light, crispy baguette—thanks to French influence—but inside, it’s all Vietnam: layers of savory grilled pork, chicken (or pâté), or shrimp (not traditional but delicious! ) creamy mayonnaise, pickled carrots and daikon, fresh cucumber, cilantro, and a punch of chili for heat. The magic is in the balance—crunchy, soft, tangy, spicy, and rich all in one bite. It’s fast, affordable, and packed with flavor, which is exactly why it’s become one of the country’s most iconic street foods. We had ours at Bep Me In
Breakfast Places We Tried in Saigon
Was a nice bakery to grab a good strong Vietnamese coffee and their baked goods were to die for. On the sweet side for sure (hence the name ) but their chocolate croissant and cafe mocha were my go to every morning . I managed to walk it all off around Saigon!!
Little Hanoi Hands down the best breakfast spot in Saigon . Their Egg coffee and salt coffee (my personal favorite ) are DELICIOUS ! Their portions are generous and the service is very warm and inviting .
Our Final night and thoughts on Saigon
We spent our fourth and final night in Saigon doing a river cruise on the Saigon river . We took the last ride at 11: 30 pm and it was so romantic and peaceful. The Saigon River offers a completely different perspective of Ho Chi Minh City, swapping the chaotic streets for a slower, more relaxed rhythm on the water. As we glided past the skyline, you’ll see a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic buildings lit up against the evening sky, especially beautiful at sunset. Many cruises include dinner or drinks, (ours had ice cream ) making it an easy way to unwind while still soaking in the city’s energy from a more peaceful vantage point.
Ho Chi Minh City was the perfect introduction to Vietnam—vibrant, chaotic, and completely unforgettable. From our late-night street food runs to the rooftop views from our hotel over the Saigon River, it set the tone for everything – But this was only the beginning. Next, we’re heading north to Hanoi, where centuries-old streets and a slower rhythm await, (or so we thought !) before taking on the legendary Ha Giang Loop—a journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. It’s all part of our one-month adventure through Vietnam, and trust me, it only gets better from here!
If you want to follow the journey in real time, see the full experiences, and get even more tips along the way, make sure to check out my YouTube channel for all the behind-the-scenes moments—and don’t forget to explore the rest of the blog for more guides from this trip.
Have you been to Vietnam ? Leave me a comment below or share some of your itinerary and tips ! XO Tera
