Top Four Things to Do in Ho Chi Mihn City

The War Remnants Museum is a popular museum in the city which showcases the leftovers of the Vietnam War. Outside on display you will find a UH-1 "Huey" helicopter, an F-5A fighter, a BLU-82 "Daisy Cutter" bomb, M48 Patton tank, and an A-1 attack bomber. The museum gives a good perspective of how the Vietnamese perceived what happened with the war against the United States. There are some gruesome pictures of victims of napalm bombs and Agent Orange. One of the most interesting objects inside is the famous guillotine that was brought to Vietnam from the French. The guillotine was transported throughout the country during the war to decapitate Vietnamese patriots. Also interesting are the tiger cages that measure 2.7m x 1.5m x 3m where between 5 to 14 prisoners were kept in each cage. This is where the South Vietnamese government housed political prisoners during the war.

2. Ben Thanh Market

This market is the largest in Saigon and a great place for exploring and people watching. Anything you might need on your travels can be purchased here. It's a good place to pick up souvenirs or local food to test out. There are also many other items such as jewelry, clothing, kitchenware, and flowers. All of this can be found under one roof which has been housing the market since 1912. Make sure you bargain before making purchases because the prices are often inflated up to two or three times what is actually expected. The area is very busy with many customers crowding the narrow aisles. The market is a good place to get a meal because you can watch the food being cooked right in front of you and eat at a stool along with the locals.

3. Mekong Delta

Taking a tour of the Mekong Delta will allow you to see some rice paddies and locals at work. There is an amazing floating market on the river. You will probably even see some of the traditional conical hats! The delta is about a two hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. You will then need to board a boat to take a cruise along the river. I suggest you take at least a two day trip to fully explore this area. All the action takes place early in the morning so you will want to be around at that time. The locals here make their living from selling fish and other food and are eager to sell to tourists. The delta is a great side trip to get away from the city and see how the locals really live. Many day-long tours are available for about $10-$15USD and include food samples or even meals.

4. Cao Dai Temple

This temple was built between 1933 and 155 and sits near the town of Tay Ninh to the northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. The Cao Dai Temple is home to the Cao Dai religion which has about 3 million followers in southern Vietnam. Inside, you will find Buddha, Jesus Christ, and Hindu idols all living together since the religion combines religion from the east and the west. Prayer and ceremony are held around noon, so you will want to keep that in mind to be there at that time when visiting. The temple is very brightly colored with many decorations. It is mostly pink and light blue with dragons everywhere.