Delicous foods in street hanoi

 In those tiny spaces, every kind of dish is offered, ranging from the country’s most famous export, pho (noodle soup) to crispy nem chua ran (fried crumb-coated pork mince) dipped in home-made chilli paste. Let this article outline some must-try street treats for you, food explorers.
Visitors come to Hanoi, Vietnam to experience the hasty lifestyle, which blends modern and traditional traits, in the capital of a developing country, historical sites and artless landscapes. Surely, they will not want to miss the crucial part in the culture of a city – thecuisine. But incredible food in the capital isn’t found in luxurious restaurants or airless opulent dining rooms, it’s about vernacular specialties served fresh and quickly, often on the street or in some improvised living room eateries.
Banh cuon (stuffed pancake)

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To taste the best banh cuon in Hanoi, drop by 14 Hang Ga Street. The street kitchen is noted for serving silky-soft pancakes, made from steamed rice liquid. Pork, field mushrooms and wood ear are minced and stuffed inside those smooth pancakes, which are topped with crunchy fried shallots. Sugar, a squeeze of lime, garlic, chilli are in some fine fish sauce. Chopstick some fragrant herbs with a piece of stuffed pancake and dip them into that washy fish sauce. You are having the Vietnamese concept of flavor and texture balance – herbal, soft and crisp, savoury and sour – in your mouth.
Xoi Yen (sticky rice)



Xoi is a dish as old as the country, made from steamed glutionous rice sometimes with corn, green, black bean or peanut . Xoi Yen, the best sticky rice restaurant in Hanoi, is at 35B Nguyen Huu Huan. The restaurant mainly serves white, yellow (color of saffron) and corn sticky rice with a wide selection of toppings – roasted, caramelised pork, sausage, pate, salted shredded pork,… Crunchy fried shallots will come in every bowl except you say no. That’s just perfect to line your stomach before a round of bia hoi.
Banh gio (pyramidal rice dumpling)



This can be found on countless food stalls on Hanoi streets. Most of them are procured from some main manufacturing premises so you can expect equal quality. Banh gio has soft and rich crust thanks to gravy blended in the primary ingredient of the crust, rice powder. The center of banh gio is somehow typical, can be found in many types of cake in Vietnam cuisine – mixture of minced pork, wood ear, and sometimes, field mushrooms. Served with gio, cha, sliced pickled cucumber, the dish is a perfect fit for breakfast or afternoon snacks.
Com Tam (Broken rice)



This is the queen of street food in Hanoi. The traditional Com Tam is served with pork skin or steam egg, grilled rib pork. Nowadays, a variety of toppings going with Com Tam such as shrimp, grilled chicken and fried fish…

>> The food in old quarter is excellent quality and is beautifully presented. The prices are very reasonable.
Pho



You mention street food and expect Americans to think of portable, on-the-move kind of food. Pho is street food and you are supposed to appreciate it taste often of the side walk, by choice or inside the restaurant. Pho is flat rice noodle, immersed into rich beef or chicken bone broth. Secrets lies in the broth, which is about textures and layered flavors. A bowl of pho will be garnished with bean sprouts and other kinds of fragrant herbs. Some addresses for you to explore the taste of Pho: Pho Suong – No.1 Alley 26, Nguyen Hong Str.; Pho Bat Dan – 49 Bat Dan; Pho Vui – 25 Hang Giay.
Nem Chua Ran (Crumb-coated grinded pork)



Extremely popular among young people in Hanoi, yet nem chua ran is a new dish that has been around for almost 10 years. For 45,000vnd (about $2) you have a plate of 10 pieces that can be enjoyed by two.This goes perfectly with beer and offers you a good start for a hangout night.
Street side BBQ



Do Nuong Lau 61 Quan Su is the destination. Owned by Ms Bich Lien, Vietnam’s first TV chef, the barbeque shop is well-known for its secret dipping sauce – nuoc sot me – a combination of tamarind sauce and fish sauce. The barbeque supplies are diversified comprising pork, ribs, octopus, pig organs, chicken, fish, sweet potato, okra,…Those come in fresh ans raw form on plates straight to your table and wait to be grilled on the Bep Than (cooking coal) in front of you.
Bun Cha



We are talking about the quintessential Vietnamese dish, Bun (vermicelli noodle) Cha (fatty grilled pork). The dish is served with a warm bowl of sweet and sour washy fish sauce, containing Cha and a plate of white and cool noodle. The rich of fatty meat are never too much once paired with the freshness of fragrant herbs. A big American may need two portions to fully satisfy his stomach since the amazing smell of that BBQ meat is so irresistible. The address to try is 1 Hang Manh Str. Make sure to come early to avoid lunchtime rush.
Bun Ca (fish noodle soup)



Bun ca has the tomato base which is mildly sour. Depending on the shop you go in that a slice of pineapple can be found on top of a bowl of bun ca. the sour of the tomato broth and the sweet from the fruit create an ideal base for the star of the show – crispy fried fish. Chopped into bite-sized piece, fish are fried until its exterior are totally crunchy. After a sip on the soup, you’ll be hooked! Places to come and get you bun ca: 243 Xa Dan – bun ca Huong Quynh.
Bun Rieu ( Crap paste noodle soup)



Hanoi offers a wide selection of noodle soup. Bun Rieu has its own unique flavor. The crab in the soup comes in the form of a paste on top of the bowl. Other remarkable toppings are yellow fried tofu, cha la lot (fried leaf-wrapped pork mince), beef. You may have no idea about the dish the first time you come to a Bun Rieu shop but you might just be a real fan when you leave. Place to try Bun Rieu: 7B Ly Quoc Su Str.

>> Give tourists a comprehensive view of Ho Chi Minh city and the unique tips when visiting HCM. We will suggest you: what to do in ho chi minh.

You can find high-end restaurants in modern cities all over the world. But here on the street, you are experience real soul of Hanoi. It’s fun and of much help if you are kind of on a budget.

Kinds of Vietnam wines

 There are three main kinds of Vietnam wines: fermented rice-based alcoholic, plants and animals-based alcoholic, and pharmaceutical beverage.
Each country has something to be proud of, while Scotland is proud of whisky, France is famous for cognac, South Korea is well-known for Sochu, then Vietnam is also proud of various kinds of traditional wine such as: party wine (ruou can), ruou nep, ruou thuoc, ruou ran,…
Wines play a crucial part in the spiritual and cultural life of Vietnamese people.
>> The food in old quarter is excellent quality and is beautifully presented. The prices are very reasonable.
Glutinous rice wine (Ruou nep)

Ruou nep is the traditional beverage of people in the Mekong Delta. Making glutinous rice wine is a really exhausting process. Glutinous rice after being cooked and cooled will be fermented with yeast and put into a jar sealed by a banana leaf for 3 to 5 months until harvesting. Ruou nep is divided into two types based on its consistency including the thicker version and the less viscous one. The thicker one is used with the spoon and the second one may be used as a beverage. This wine has brown-red color, attractive smell, and sherry-like favor.

A bowl of glutinous rice wine
Ruou can (Stem wine)

People in Tay Nguyen drink stem wine in festival

Ruou can is one of the most popular wines of Central Highlands of Vietnam. This wine is made of rice or cassava mixed with different kinds of herbs then fermented without distillation. Ruou can is regularly put in a large jug and served with a long cane tube.
Ruou can is drunk in special occasions of people in the mountainous area such as festivals and weddings,…when people gather around the jug and enjoy this wine.

>> Vietnam's bustling largest city sets the cultural and economic pace for the country. The War Remnants Museum shows the Vietnam War through Vietnamese eyes. >> vietnam best time to visit
Ruou ran (snake wine)

Snake wine

Snake wine is another kind of Vietnam wines that is worth mentioning. Snake wine is made of a whole snake infused in rice wine. There is no need to worry about the poison of snake since snake’s venom will dissolve under the effect of ethanol.
Ruou thuoc (Pharmaceutical liquor)

Pharmaceutical wines made from various kinds of animals

This kind of liquor is made by distilling the mixture of rice alcohol, herbs, and medical animals or plants. Many rare species such as bear, dear, scorpion, etc are the ingredients of this kind of wine.

>> Don't miss the impressive Jade Emperor Pagoda. >> things to do in danang

Vietnam - heaven of tropical fruits - what drinks

 In addition to that, the way that local people combine those ingredients into a glass is also a work of art. So, don’t forget to have at least a drink of fresh dragon fruit, jackfruit, or custard apple, perfectly mixed with ice and yogurt or condensed milk...

Vietnam is the heaven of tropical fruits. Vary from regions to regions, we can find countless types of different fruits over the country that are no other things but great ingredients of superb smoothies.

Vietnamese cuisine has long been famous over the world for its unique and great features. Visiting Vietnam, no one can miss enjoying tasty street foods, but it will be a big mistake if you throw away the chance of trying delicious and diverse beverages right there.
>> The food in old quarter is excellent quality and is beautifully presented. The prices are very reasonable.
Now, it’s the time for us to take a very quick look at the list of 3 must-try Vietnamese drinks right below here:
Smoothies

Dragon fruit smoothie

Vietnam is the heaven of tropical fruits. Vary from regions to regions, we can find countless types of different fruits over the country that are no other things but great ingredients of superb smoothies. In addition to that, the way that local people combine those ingredients into a glass is also a work of art. So, don’t forget to have at least a drink of fresh dragon fruit, jackfruit, or custard apple, perfectly mixed with ice and yogurt or condensed milk.

>> Give tourists a comprehensive view of Ho Chi Minh city and the unique tips when visiting HCM. We will suggest you: what to do in ho chi minh.
Sugar cane juice

Vietnamese sugar cane juice

That’s not as sickly sweet at all as you’d thought. Due to the perfect combination of freshly-squeezed sugar cane juice, ice, and a bit calamansi juice, this kind of drink has a crisp grassy flavor and so pleasant smell that’s really refreshing on a dog day. Usually, sugar cane juice is cheaply sold by street vendors that you can find very easily at every corner of the country.
Artichoke Tea

Vietnamese Artichoke tea
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Artichokes are commonly grown in Dalat due to its cool climate, but packets of artichoke tea can be easily found in the supermarkets across the country. However, the taste of these instant ones is never as good as artichoke glasses’ sold by street vendors as they know the way to create an unmistakable for their drinks. There are 2 main versions of Vietnamese artichoke tea. The first and most common one is made from the artichoke flower, served with sugar and ice, creating a sweetened yellowish version. The other one is refined from the artichoke stems, making an intensely bitter black type. According to many pieces of research, artichoke tea has detoxifying and liver-cleansing properties that’s very good for people’s health.

Foods in old quarter - Culinary paradise

Hoa quả dầm (Seasonal mixed fruits) in To Tich street

Just take a walk in To Tich Street, you will see a dozen of mixed fresh fruits shops. This kind of dish tastes really good with the combinations of small pieces of fresh fruits, condensed milk, ice, and coconut milk. There are various kinds of fruits such as strawberries, watermelon, mango, plum, dragon fruit, pineapple, avocado, etc.

The colorful and tasty mixed fruits with condensed milk
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The fresh flavor of fruits harmonizing with sweetness taste of milk and ice creates a delicious glass of hoa qua dam.

Price: A glass of hoa qua dam costs 20,000 VND

When you think of Hanoi, Vietnam, the first thing that comes to your mind would be the 36 meandering streets of the Old Quarter. Hanoi Old Quarter is considered the culinary paradise where you can easily get the extremely tasty dishes 24 hours a day. Here are some of finest foods in Hanoi Old quarter that you should try out.
Phở (Rice noodle soup)



This tasty dish can be eaten at anytime of a day and costs about 40,000 – 60,000 VND. A bowl ofpho bo (beef noodle soup) or pho ga (chicken noodle soup) will give you a feeling of remedy that warms your soul. Pho in Hanoi Old Quarter has an extraordinary taste coming from the delicious broth and smooth and fresh rice noodles. This dish requires skilful culinary technique of combining rice, meat, bones, vegetables, herbs, etc. Pho may be served with fresh chili, chili sauce, lime, vinegar or quay (fried donut sticks).
>> Vietnam's bustling largest city sets the cultural and economic pace for the country. The War Remnants Museum shows the Vietnam War through Vietnamese eyes. >> vietnam best time to visit
Recommended address: 49 Bat Dan, 2 Ly Quoc Su, 25 Hang Giay, 23 Hang Muoi, 32 Le Van Huu.
Bún chả

Bún chả

Bun cha is regarded as the BBQ of Vietnamese people. It is made of slices of pork and pork patties grilled over hot coals then put in a tasty and sweet bowl of soup and served with bun (rice vermicelli) and herbs. You may add lime, fresh chili, and vinegar to increase the taste of soup for this dish.

Try it at: 43 Hang Buom, 1 Hang Manh, 34 Hang Than,67 Duong Thanh

Price: 30,000 – 40,000 VND

Nộm bò khô (Dried beef salad)

Nom bo kho is a popular snack of street foods in Vietnam. A mixture of thin slices of dried beef, julienned strips of green papaya, carrot, and flavor of herbs will be soaked with sugar, oil, garlic, vinegar, salt, and chili for one hour then dried off. A bowl of nom bo kho gives you an unforgettable experience of wonderful aroma and taste.



Where to eat: 25-27 Ho Hoan Kiem Street.

Price: 30,000 VND
Grilled birds at 05 Ta Hien Street

This shop on Ta Hien Street has been opening for ten years and become a stop of not only teenagers in Hanoi but also foreign visitors. In the center of Ta Hien street, the smell of grilled birds permeates the air.

Bird after being marinated salt and sweetness will be roasted on charcoal. This dish is really tasty since its meat is tender, aromatic, and sweet.



Open time: from 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm

Price: 35,000 VND/4birds

This shop has modest area and tables, hence, if you see a seat, take it immediately!
Nem chua rán (Fried fermented pork) in Tam Thuong alley

The mixture of beef, pork skin, and roasted then crushed rice will be fermented for about 2 – 3 days then fried. This dish has really attractive fragrant. It will be crispy outside after being fried in a hot pan. Fried fermented pork can be served with different fruits such as cucumber, mango.

Recommended address: Tam Thuong alley, Ta Hien street.

Price: from 50,000 – 70,000 VND/10 pieces.

>> Go to the frenetic Ben Thanh Market for food, flowers or frogs. Tour through the Mekong Delta, past rice paddies and houseboats. >> what to do in ho chi minh
Chè thập cẩm (Mixed sweet soup)

Ingredients making “che thap cam”

This soup is an amazing mixture of many sweet flavors. It is a combination of many ingredients such as beans, milk, cooked fruits, glutinous rice, and sugar, etc.

Recommended address: 95 Hang Bo, 31 Dao Duy Tu

Price: 15,000 – 30,000 VND


Caramel Pudding

The delicious caramel pudding

There is nowhere in the world that you can find delicious caramel puddings like those in Hang Than. The fat in chicken egg and milk blending with bitter and aromatic coffee make a perfect caramel pudding. It’s going to be smooth, fresh, pure and tasty. This dish is so delicious that you just want to eat more!

Recommended address: 29 Hang Than, 33 Nguyen Khac Nhu
Price: 7,000 VND/sole caramel – 15,000 VND/mixed caramel

Banh Mi Restaurent in Hanoi

Banh-mee – Fancy banh mi in Ha Noi

The banh mee menu

Probably the first “fancy” Banh mi restaurant in Ha Noi that really dedicated to the design of the place, instead of treating the food as merely takeaways like other banh mi vendors. Small as it might be, the place looks amazing.

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What they serve in Banh Mee

The menu includes tradition banh mi of Vietnam but served in a modern and classy manner. Prices range from 25,000 to 38,000VND. Banh-mee can be found at 12 Dang Tien Dong or 18 Au Trieu. In Dang Tien Dong, the customers are mainly students while those in Au Trieu are foreigners.

Banh mi is a Vietnamese traditional dish. The word banh mi alone just means a piece of bread, but as the Vietnamese sandwich gets more and more popularity among visitors from all around the world, the word Banh mi just becomes a common name on its own that needs no translation. Everybody in Ha Noi loves a good banh mi, and finding a tasty banh mi in Ha Noi is a priority of the masses. We are taking a look at a few places with the best banh mi in Ha Noi.
Top things to do in HaNoi VietNam

>> SaPa travel guide with the best attractions, reviews, photos, map, hotels and budget tips and things to do in sapa vietnam
Banh mi Pho Hue

Banh Mi Pho Hue

It can be stated that this place has made its mark on the hearts of the Ha Noi people. This traditional banh mi vendor sells banh mi with pate, ruoc, butter and cha.

Every ingredient is relatively simple, nothing too complicated, the crispy crust, the ruoc to moisturize and the pate for flavor.

Banh mi Pho Hue can be taken away to anywhere in the city and still the retains the flavor and the crisp. This makes Banh mi Pho Hue the number one and only choice for many people throughout the years. For them, it still tastes like it did decades ago.

You can try this sandwich at 118A Hue Street for 25,000VND.
Banh mi Master Chef

People lining up for Banh mi from the Master Chef himself.

Although recently opened, this shack quickly catches the attention of the masses thanks to its originator, Minh Nhat – The first winner of Vietnam Master Chef.

The banh mi shop is personally run by the Master Chef himself, as he is the one who hands out the sandwiches to customers. Because of that, ever since the opening day, the banh mi shop has made the street busier than it should be. Employees, students, and locals all gather to the shop. No one is afraid of lining up just to see the celebrity and savor his creation.

>> The food in old quarter is excellent quality and is beautifully presented. The prices are very reasonable.

Banh mi by Minh Nhat

Apart from the decoration, Minh Nhat banh mi shop also has a wide variety of sandwiches to choose from, along with different combos for savings. A banh mi can go for 32,000VND, but choosing combos might get you more value for your Dong.

Banh mi Master Chef can be located at 27 Nguyen Du or 13 Hang Khay.
Banh mi BBQ Ba Nga

The best BBQ sandwich in town can be found in 31 Quang Trung in the vendor of Ba Nga. The meat is beautifully seasoned, perfect for savor with or without a banh mi.

The place is packed every day when students end classes. And for passing by pedestrians, just the scent of the meat just makes it irresistible.
Banh mi BBQ Chua Lang

Little do people know that the vendor is run by male students from Foreign Trade University.

The banh mi shop is 69B Chua Lang attracts a large amount of young people in Ha Noi. The meat is flavorful, nicely seasoned and the sauce is rich. You can smell the deliciousness from miles away.

The shop is set to serve the students from Foreign Trade University and Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam. So expect the low cost and the simplicity in the atmosphere. A normal sandwich can go for 17,000VND, very tempting.

Where to eat Bun Cha in Hanoi

As always, the Grilled Pork Vermicelli Soup or Bun Cha Hanoi is served with a plate of rice vermicelli or called as “Bun” in Vietnamese, the sizzling grilled pork, steamy broth and a lot of herbs as well. The perfect combination of exotic scent and flavor of “Cha” (the sizzling grilled pork), a unique type of sweet and salty broth, and special local herbs might really surprise you right from the first bite. In addition to the sizzling grilled pork, this food’s broth is also a central importance. Ideally, it needs to reach a perfect balance of 4 main flavors, consisting of saltiness from fish sauce, sweetness of sugar, spiciness of chili, and sourness from vinegar, combining with slices of carrot and green papaya. The herbs and veggies not only make your dish much tastier but they are also good for the digestion.
>> Give tourists a comprehensive view of Ho Chi Minh city and the unique tips when visiting HCM. We will suggest you: what to do in ho chi minh.
Best places to have Bun Cha

Hanh Manh Street – Street of Bun Cha Hanoi

Bun Cha can be found at every corner of Hanoi, but most famous places should be 29 Cau Go, 67 Duong Thanh, 34 Hang Than, or Hang Manh Street, etc. All of these places are located in the Old Quarter, which are so convenient for you as hanging around the heart area of Hanoi.
Price

Traveling around such an awesome place of countless tasty street foods and famous specialties like Hanoi is a great chance for you to try out so many kinds of mouthwatering dishes that can be found nowhere else on the earth.

A set of Grilled pork vermicelli soup – Bun cha Hanoi
>> The food in old quarter is excellent quality and is beautifully presented. The prices are very reasonable.
Among so many famous food choices like Pho, Cha ca, Bun dau, etc, what should you try first? Honestly, I recommend you having Bun Cha or Vietnamese Grilled Pork Vermicelli Soup, which has been considered a distinguishing characteristic of Hanoi cuisine. But what makes it a must-try one while traveling around the 1000-year-old capital?
How is Bun Cha’s flavor?

The sizzling grilled pork and broth – Central parts of Bun Cha Hanoi

>> Useful information for tourists who want to travel to vietnam including attractions, tour packages, hotels, transportations >> things to do in danang
As a street food, Bun Cha is very affordable and considered one of very familiar foods to the local people. Commonly, a set of Bun Cha often comes with prices of VND30,000 – VND50,000 (about $1.5 – $2.5).

Car rental in Vietnam - cost renting a car

Cost for Renting a Car in Vietnam

In Vietnam, compared to other modes of transportation, renting car is quite expensive. This is largely due to the affordable and available public transportation system that runs within and between provinces.

The fee for renting a car ranges from VND 500,000 to 10,000,000 per day (about $25-500), depending on the type of car you choose and how luxurious it is. There are many types of cars for you to choose from, but the most common one is 4-seats and 7-seats cars. Customers are responsible for fuel cost, which is rather high compared with Vietnamese living standard (as of June 2011, it is $1 per litre).
>> see more : old quarter
Payment for car rental is usually made in cash directly to the agency. Some agencies might ask you for advance payment or a small deposit.

Car rental is a great alternative when you want to visit any place that you like or is inaccessible to public vehicles. This is also a pleasing choice when exploring destinations with various attractions, which are distant from each other such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Dalat. The major advantages of renting a car include independence, convenience and flexibility as you can create your own schedule. On the other hand, there are also some disadvantages, mostly because of the notorious traffic system in Vietnam and high cost of renting. Below are some instructions and tips for you while using rental car.
>> more guides: hanoi ho chi minh mausoleum

Get a car to rent in VN

These licenses will be copied and kept by the agencies for reference. After signing the rental contract, the agencies might require you to pay some money as deposit. This could be 50 to 100% of the total cost of the contract or an exact pre-determined amount in cash.Normally, car rental agencies in Vietnam will ask you for international driving licenses if you do not have a Vietnamese driving one, and they might accept your native driving licenses in common languages such as English, French.
It is quite easy in Vietnam to rent a car. All required papers are your passport and driving license.
>> get here: hanoi ho chi minh mausoleum

Most of Vietnamese car rental agencies are located in big cities such as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City where the demand for car rental car is quite significant. Below are some credible rental car agencies that you should know:

Thanh Hung Group

Address: 104-106 Nguyen Van Cu, Hanoi

Phone: (043) 8-213-213


Truong An Company

Address: 57 De To Hoang, Hanoi

Phone: (04) 7300-5791

>> get here: hanoi ho chi minh mausoleum

Tuan Linh Company

Address: 73 Dong Da Lane, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City

Phone: (083) - 862-2600

Tips travel - rent a car

Therefore, checking the car conditions before renting it is essential for you to avoid accidents or unexpected dramas. Also, spending time to come to showroom of the agencies to find your best match is highly recommended.
The first thing that you have to be aware of is the quality of the car that you rent. Rental cars were used many times by many unprofessional drivers with the thought that “That is not my properties so I don’t have to take care of it carefully”.
>> read more: hanoi ho chi minh mausoleum
One more thing you have to be aware of is the traffic in Vietnam. The fact is that the traffic system in Vietnam is very complicated which can intimidates even the most skillful and careful drivers. Therefore, driving a car in Vietnam can be extremely challenging.
>> readmore: old quarter
To make the matter worse, the buzz of motorbikes, and other cars, with an intense level of honking can make the experience more stressful than it should. If you don’t feel confident in your driving skills, hiring a chauffeur from the agencies is a wise option since many agencies offer drivers with their rental cars. Additionally, the local drivers are familiar and experienced with the locations, so you will reach your desired destinations faster and safer.

>> further reading: vietnam best time to visit

Bus in Ho chi minh city

That makes this type of public transportation not the best choice to explore the city. Also, Ho Chi Minh City Bus are often named by the beginning and end points, so check your bus number carefully before getting on it.Buses in Ho Chi Minh city might not be as crowded as those in Hanoi, but the problem is the quality of the cars and degrading services. Moreover, the distances between the bus stops and tourist destinations are pretty far, aggravated by the long time it takes to wait for a bus.

The bus system in Ho Chi Minh City covers most tourism destinations within and nearby the city with 152 routes. Buses in Ho Chi Minh City can be realized by the white cover with a light green strip. The price for bus ticket fluctuates between 3,000 and 10,000 VND, depending on the distances and the type of buses.

>> more guides: vietnam best time to visit


photo by charles haynes from Flickr under Creative Commons terms.
>> read more: old quarter
Most buses in Ho Chi Minh City have their terminal at some major depots like Ben Thanh Station, Cho Lon Station and Mien Dong station. There are a number of buses that run past tourist attractions inside the city such as:

#147 (Cho Lon Bus Station – Tan Son Nhat) and #152 (Trung Son Resident – Tan Son Nhat): These two route have stops at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, and with these buses, you can easily get to the center of the city. Bus#147 will head to Cho Lon area while bus #152 will go to the Ben Thanh Market, a short walk from Pham Ngu Lao backpacker area.

#11 (Ben Thanh – Dam Sen Park): buses on route 11 start from Ben Thanh Station and head to Dam Sen Cultural Park, one of the most interesting playgrounds in Ho Chi Minh City. It takes about 40 minutes for the whole trip with the price of 3,000 VND

#30 (Tan Huong Market – Suoi Tien Resort): this route runs a long distance from Tan Binh county, cross the center of the city and head to the north east of the city. Along the route there are many tourism destinations such as Suoi Tien Resorts or Hung Temple. You can catch this bus in many stops in downtown area like Vo Thi Sau or Pham Ngoc Thach.

#19 (Saigon – Trung Linh – National University): This route begins from Ben Thanh Market, head to the center of the city and cross the Saigon Opera House. Then it comes to Highway 1A before heading to the National University.

>> further reading: what to do in ho chi minh

Bus - hanoi vietnam

Ticket will be handed out by a collector and you have to pay him in cash. If you plan to travel by bus, make sure you carry smaller bills.Each bus has a number in red, centered in a white circle and made visible in the front sign of the bus.The price of a bus ticket in Hanoi is from 5,000 to 10,000 VND depending on the distances between the departure and the end point.Travel by public bus has become popular in Hanoi now due to the cheap price and availability. Buses in Hanoi can be recognized by the typical cover with 3 main colors: white, red and yellow (see the picture below).

>> read more here: what to do in ho chi minh



Hanoi public buses drop passengers in the stationary points on the streets, and fortunately many of them are located near or even in front of the famous and attractive tourism destinations in Hanoi such as Hoan Kiem Lake, The Old Quarter, Hanoi Train station (Ga Hanoi), Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and The Literature Temple.

Here are some important bus routes in Hanoi:

#07 and #17: These two are the public buses that stop at Noi Bai International Airport, the most important gateway in the North of Vietnam. The #7 bus will cross the Thang Long Bridge and head to Cau Giay, while #17 buses go to the Old Quarter via Chuong Duong Bridge.

#33 or #02: These buses will bring you to the area near Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and from those areas, you can wander along the tree-filled boulevards like Dien Bien Phu or Le Hong Phong, before heading to Ho Chi Minh Complex.
>> more info: old quarter
#09: This bus will drop you at Hoan Kiem Lake and from that point, you can explore the lake’s areas and the Old Quarter on the downtown. These buses also stop at some checkpoint in Le Hong Phong and Dien Bien Phu Str., so that you can visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the areas nearby.

However, the problem you might encounter while get on a bus is that it is very crowded at peak hours. You should always keep one hand to cover your purses or place your backpack at the front, since crowded bus in Vietnam is an ideal place for pickpockets.

Also, as the bus approaches your intended destination, try your best to make the way to the back door, take a deep breath and prepare for a fast move because bus drivers in Hanoi are notorious for stopping at a stop for a very short time. You will need to be prepared to get out of the bus as fast as you can if you don’t want to miss the point. If you are unsure when to get off, ask either the driver, the ticket collector or the fellow passengers. As intimidating as it sounds, travelling by bus in Hanoi is a truly local experience.

>> More guides: vietnam best time to visit

Taking bus from Hanoi to other destination

One of the most exciting ways to get acquainted and understand more about the locals’ life is to join them in their ride between provinces. If you want professional services and precise schedule, pay an extra amount of money to book ticket for an open tour at your travel agent. However, if you do not mind keeping an eye on your belonging full time, sitting among strangers who hardly understand what you are talking about, just head for the terminals!

You can even hire a motorbike if you are confident enough of your riding skill. However, if you have already been tired of waiting for check-in at the airport or train station and wanted to save a few bucks, bus can prove to be a smart alternative.
Hanoi is well-connected with other provinces throughout the country. There is a wide range of choices when it comes to transportation if one departs from the capital city: plane, train, and bus.
>> read more: old quarter
BUS TERMINALS IN HANOI

There are six main bus terminals in Hanoi which located at essential gateways of the city:

Giap Bat terminal (Ben xe Giap Bat): No.6, Giai Phong Str., Hanoi.

This bus terminal mainly focuses on the routes to provinces in Southern Vietnam like Danang, Buon Ma Thuot or Ho Chi Minh City. However, from here you can still have bus going to other provinces in Northern Vietnam like Nam Dinh, Thai Binh, Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa.

My Dinh terminal (Ben xe My Đinh): No.20, Pham Hung Str., My Dinh, Tu Liem, Hanoi.

Bus departing from this terminal will go to Northern provinces like Yen Bai, Tuyen Quang, Phu Tho, Lao Cai, Ha Giang, Lang Son, Hung Yen, Thai Binh, Hoa Binh, Ninh Binh.

Gia Lam terminal (Ben xe Gia Lam): No.9, Ngo Gia Kham Str., Long Bien, Hanoi
>> see more: what to do in ho chi minh
This bus terminal mainly focuses on the routes to Northern provinces like Yen Bai, Tuyen Quang, Phu Tho, Lao Cai, Ha Giang, Lang Son, Hung Yen, Thai Binh, Hoa Binh, Ninh Binh.

Luong Yen terminal (Ben xe Luong Yen): No.3, Nguyen Khoai Str., Hanoi. Bus going to Hai Phong can be found here.

Nuoc Ngam terminal (Ben xe Nuoc Ngam): No.8, Giai Phong Str., Hanoi.

This bus terminal focuses on the routes to provinces in the Central like Nghe An, Ha Tinh.

Yen Nghia terminal ( Ben xe Yen Nghia): Thanh Xuan, Ha Noi.

This is the newest and modernist terminal in Hanoi, opened since 2009. You can take bus going to Hoa Binh, Son La, Thai Nguyen from here.

>> further reading: vietnam best time to visit

Bus vietnam - traveling by bus

The price depends on the distance of the route and type of seats chosen. Tourists can ask their travel agencies to purchase ticket in advance, or even book ticket via phone or Internet by themselves. Notice that Internet booking bus ticket is not very popular, only applicable to a few large bus companies like Hoang Long. If you depart from minor provinces and there is no direct route to your intend destinations, it is advisable to catch a bus to major cities (Hanoi for northern provinces, Hue or Da Nang for central area, and Ho Chi Minh City for southern provinces) and then change the bus there.
If you are stuck on the very first steps such as how to find a bus or which route to go, stay calm and read the following guide.

In Vietnam, bus is the cheapest and most convenient means of transportation for foreign travellers, since the bus system has been well-developed and covered almost every part of the country.

Interprovincial buses

>> more: what to do in ho chi minh

Local buses

In Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and some major tourism destinations, there is public bus service for people both local and foreigners. Those buses also departure from major terminals before heading to other streets. In other provinces, we also have buses run by private companies. Passengers can catch bus at bus stops scattering around the province and buy ticket directly from the conductor. Although the ticket is very cheap (under VND 10000), the service is not very high (you may have to stand if the bus is too crowded, the bus may not have air conditioner, or the conductor cannot speak English). However, local bus is one interesting way to understand more or make friends with local people.

Bus travel tips

• Only buy bus tickets from registered booths of large companies inside the terminals. Some prestigious names to mention are Hoang Long, Viet Thanh, Sinh café, Hanh Café and Mai Linh. Avoid waiving bus along the way for your own safety reasons (those buses may run around the cities until it collects enough passengers, which may take hours)

>> hanoi ho chi minh mausoleum

• Ask the price before hopping on or you may be overcharged. Normally, ticket price is the same to everyone.

• Bring along with you a piece of paper and a pen to write down your destination or questions, as language barrier can cause difficulties.

• Keep strict eye on your luggage and wallet, especially if using public and local bus.

• Do not hesitate to ask the conductor, the driver or even your fellow passengers if there is anything making you confused. Vietnamese are very friendly; they will be more than willing to help you.

>> further reading: things to do in danang

Savico Megamall (Hanoi)

Officially opening at the end of 2011, Savico Mega Mall is the largest commercial center in Vietnam with the total area of about 60,000m2. As the most modern shopping center in Long Bien District, Hanoi, Savico Mall provides capital citizens one more choice for shopping and entertainment besides the already over-capacity run like Vincom, or The Garden.
Savico shopping center features a big blog consisting of three floors and one semi-basement which is dedicated for shopping, dining and entertainment, a smaller one for car display, together with a spacious area for parking, event organizing, interlacing with green trees and elevated water tank.
>> what to do in ho chi minh
Shopping
Famous fashion and cosmetic brand names like Adidas, Converse, Vera, Etude House…can be found on the first floor of the building, while qualified electronic, high-tech products like 3D TV, HD cameras, and prestigious domestic computer center Tran Anh are available on the second floor.
The supermarket Big C, sitting at the basement of the buildingand drawing ten thousands of customers every day, offers numerous choices for daily household products and abundant groceries.
Dining
Savico offers customers a wide range of fast food restaurants including KFC, Lotteria, Pizza Hut, Hot wok and so on. For seafood lovers, elegant Seafood One on the third floor is really a good choice. The spacious restaurant with huge glass wall offers great view over the town: it is a wise choice for wedding reception or business party also.
Entertainment
>> vietnam best time to visit
Mega Fun center with exiting games promises to give children and their family enjoyable experiences. In special occasions like Christmas, Tet or International Women’s Day, vibrant live music shows and exhibitions are held at spacious area in front of the major block. As planned, Savico Mall will soon include a modern cinema which will be an added bonus to the shopping center.
Location & Getting there
Located in the less populated area of Hanoi (at 7-9 Nguyen Van Linh), Savico is easier to access to than other major malls like Vincom, which is also an advantage when it comes to parking and relaxing shopping experience. At the same time, the close proximity to the city center (only 5km far from Sword Lake) makes Savico an ideal get-away for families and shoppers on weekend.
Treat yourself to some fine dining and luxury shopping at Savico!
>> things to do in danang

Dame Cathedral - Saigon Notre - HCM city

The reminiscent of an ancient charming Saigon
In front of the cathedral stands a Virgin Mary statue, which is said to have shed tears in 2005, causing thousands of people to stop around the Basilica. Amidst an active and continuously moving Saigon today, the French-influenced design of Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral still acts as a stop for people who seek for old beauties and calmness. Not only followers keep praying under candle lights in front of Virgin Mary statue everyday but tourists and local people also come there to discover the true soul of the city. The cathedral looks most beautiful in daylight, together with the smiles of couples coming to take photograph and record movies, especially for wedding.
How to get there
Of course, there should be no worry about how to get there as the route is easy and almost everyone can give tourists guidance. Entrance is free and visitors can attend masses easily at weekend.
>> old quarter
Location and History
Ask any local people about the location of the city’s center or its symbol, the answer would definitely be Ben Thanh Market or Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral (officially Basilica of Our Lady of The Immaculate Conception). While the market stands at a modern and crowded corner of the business district, the ancient cathedral is located in a very peaceful picturesque corner in the downtown of Ho Chi Minh City.
Constructed between 1863 and 1880 by the French colonists, following their conquest of the city, the building reaches a height of up to 60m. Bishop Lefevre put the first stone for construction of the church on 28 March 1863. Initially, it was called Saigon Church. The name Notre-Dame Cathedral was given after Bishop Pham Van Thien held a ceremony to install the statue of Peaceful Notre Dame, made with granite from Rome, in 1959. In 1962, Vatican anointed it as Saigon Chief Cathedral conferred it basilique. Since this time, this cathedral is called Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica.
>> things to do in hanoi vietnam
Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral is located in the downtown of Ho Chi Minh City. It was constructed between 1863 and 1880 by the French, and reaches a height of up to 60 meters.

The cathedral’s address is No. 1 Cong truong Cong xa Paris St., right at the intersection of Pham Ngoc Thach St, Le Duan St and Cong xa Paris St.
French colonial beauty
Its design, apart from the intention to create a religious look, aims at showing the influence of French civilization and Christianity over Saigon. At the time it was built, the Basilica was the most beautiful cathedral of this kind amongst all French colonies. All the materials were directly imported from France like red bricks of the outside walls, which retain their bright and lively red color until today. To people’s amazement, the two bell towers, each with the height of 60.5m and 6 bronze bells have just been added in 1895.
>> what to do in ho chi minh

Travel guide to visit Ho Chi Minh city

If you are tired of talking about the past and want to learn more about the present, District 1 may be the best way to experience a dynamic and booming economy. Streets and boulevards are lined with tall evergreen trees and you can easily walk around with a map. Here and there you will see men walking and dressed up like those in the Wall Street, amid women wearing conical hat and selling street drinks.  A few notable sights you will spot on the way are the city post-office, Notre Dame church and Ben Thanh market.
It might be a relief for some to know that Ho Chi Minh City is also considered the best place in Vietnam for entertainment . The three main amusement parks: Dam Sen, Suoi Tien and Dai Nam are the three complexes with zoos, sceneries, water and non water games - well-fitted for a family trip. There is no Disneyland in Vietnam but these complexes do their job: they replace the fairy tales of Andersen stories with the folk tales in Vietnamese. You play and have fun, while learning about a different culture and tradition.
If Ho Chi Minh has things to win the rivalry against Hanoi, it is the colourful night-life. Bars are open late and vary in style. Adding to that, Ho Chi Minh has many tea-houses which hosts live music performance of both Vietnamese and international artists. For a change, you can also go local for one night or two, hop into one of the street food stalls, order some drink and roasted peanuts and chat until midnight (more ideas to spend your night in Ho Chi Minh City).

Overview

Ho Chi Minh City’s architecture and lifestyle is the reconciliation between American and Chinese influence, with many dots of modernity yet without losing Vietnamese traits and as much historical as it is modern.
Reunification Palace is definitely the place to visit, for its significance and archival of Vietnam War. If this building still does not impress you enough, rest assured that museums are abound and the admission fees are generally low. Among the most recommended ones are: Ho Chi Minh Museum, Revolutionary Museum and Vietnam History Museum.

Once dearly called Diamond of the Far-east with the luxury level overriding that of Hongkong or Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City is now the most populated city in Vietnam. Modern office skyscrapers, amidst Oriental style pagodas and food stalls along the street, create a dynamic urban area in very special sense. It is not oddly tidy like in Singapore, nor is urban slumps omnipresent like in India.

>> vietnam best time to visit


Ho Chi Minh city by night
--- More -- written and submitted by our visitor, Douglas Thompson
With her back turned on a broad plain that stretches west across Cambodia, and with the rich Mekong Delta at her feet, Ho Chi Minh City sits regally on a giant bend in the Sài Gon River.

Bulging with a population of nearly seven million, Ho Chi Minh City, is Vietnam’s largest and most exciting city. While Hanoi is the center of government, Ho Chi Minh City is the nation’s economic heart, and money is on the minds of everyone here (see Our Blog on Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City). Taxi drivers can recite the latest joint venture regulations, and even shirt makers stay in touch with their foreign customers by e-mail. Time is precious, and people are in a hurry, although conversation often takes a small town tone as bakers and bankers compare their ‘‘inside’’ information at sidewalk cafés.
Long before traffic choked the center of the city, Saigon had already been christened the ‘‘Paris of Asia’’ for its wide boulevards lined with stately trees and magnificent French villas. For a moment you may be fooled by the smells of coffee and baking bread, and by old Renaults sounding their horns at roundabouts.

The best way of all to see Ho Chi Minh City is on foot. Most major tourist venues are in District 1, which is fairly compact and easy to maneuver. Taxis are all metered and very inexpensive. You can get across town for about $2 or $3. Xe om (motorbike taxis, pronounced ‘‘see ohm’’) are even cheaper. Cyclos (pedicabs, pronounced ‘‘see-klos’’) carry only one passenger at a time. They are slow and somewhat uncomfortable, yet more charming and intimate way to experience the pace of modern Ho Chi Minh City. Unfortunately, they are being slowly squeezed out central Saigon by traffic.
Visas
Most nationalities need visa to visit Ho Chi Minh city, read the visa section for more information. An increasingly popular alternative is to arrange a visa on arrival, which is convenient to those who live far away from an embassy or do not have time to send their passport by post.
Dining

Saigon is not a place where you will easily go hungry, regardless of your budget.

A glut of foreign business people with expense accounts has created plenty of elegant, albeit overpriced restaurants. You will find everything from enchiladas to dim sum here, although I can not imagine why anyone but terminally bored expatriates would even bother. Many of these places are pretentious and offer only passable food.

Most of the Vietnamese restaurants which cater to the business community are quite Westernized. If you insist on a crisp, white table cloth, the best of these is Blue Ginger, housed in a former journalists’ club at 37 Nam Ky Khai Nghia. Viet Nam House upstairs at 4 Nguyen Thiep Street is under the same ownership. Both are magnificently decorated. You can expect fabulous service and live music.

Lemon Grass, at 93-95 Dong Khai Street, is a bit more modest and relaxed, but still fairly good. On most nights, a string quartet entertains diners.

hanoi ho chi minh mausoleum

But for those who want to enjoy real Vietnamese food and contemporary Saigon living, forget about all the tourist restaurants with their white linens and bloated prices, and instead dine where the Vietnamese do. . Thanks to cheap food and local whisky everyone makes merry in Saigon every night.

Don't leave Ho Chi Minh City without trying one of the banh xeo (pancake) places on Dinh Cong Trang Street, one of the most unusual eating experiences in the city. About one block down this little alley you will find hundreds of people eating outdoors around an open-air kitchen. While you may receive a menu which includes a variety of banh xeo and other specialties, it's just as easy to look at what other people are having and point. Except for some seafood dishes, the food is very cheap. Just keep ordering one dish at a time until you have had enough.

The small and sumptuously decorated Phu Xuan offers the traditional culinary specialties of Hue, Vietnamese cooking’s equivalent of Imperial court cuisine. Unlike most Saigon, flavors are rich and subtle, and dishes are beautifully presented. Although a bit more spendy than street food, Phu Xuan is a wonderful and relaxing place for a romantic supper or a small party. In District 3 at 128 Dinh Tien Hoang.

A final culinary curiosity is the Binh Soup Shop at 7 Ly Chinh Thang, in District 3. Before North Vietnamese tanks rolled down the streets in 1975, Viet Kong infiltrators used this little dive as their secret headquarters. While serving up helpings of noodle soup to thousands of unsuspecting Vietnamese and Americans, cooks and waiters here plotted sabotage, and ultimately, the fall of Saigon.
Saigon's Top Sights

You may be surprised to know how many tourists put the former American Embassy at the top of their list of things to see in Ho Chi Minh City. If you are one of them, resist temptation and head first for the History Museum near the entrance to the zoo. This unassuming, musty place, with its grimy glass cases, houses a formidable collection of artifacts from Vietnam’s two thousand years of recorded history. Even a very brief visit will help put many of the other things you will see as you tour Saigon in some kind of historical perspective. The museum also has a water puppet theater and one of the best stocked and most reasonably priced gift shops in the city.

From the museum, head down Le Duan Boulevard towards Reunification Palace, the former Presidential Palace occupied for nine years by Nguyen Van Thieu. Tourists stop at the front gate to snap photos by the thousands, but few venture inside. You might find yourself practically alone and wander from floor to floor as though you owned the place. Maps still hanging in the underground military operations rooms remind visitors how close the ‘‘enemy’’ was. On the top floor you will find yourself in a party room with a stage and a huge lanai. Below, lavish reception halls and office, a gambling room, and a private movie theater are all self-indulgent and tasteless reminders of why our side lost.

Only a few blocks away the new U.S. Consulate sits on the site of the former U.S. Embassy. Before it was torn down you could you stand at the gate it is easy to imagine the helicopter removing a fortunate few from the roof, while thousands fought and screamed outside the fence. The building became a scar and was thankfully torn down.

Ben Thanh Market should be your next stop. Here, you will find practically every staple commodity imaginable except automobiles and real estate. If consumerism offers intimate glimpses of how people live, wandering among the tiny, packed stalls here will give you some unique insights into modern Vietnamese life. The food court here has delicious and very tasty local specialties. Produce, flowers, and meats are sold on the sidewalks surrounding the building.

A visit to Cho Lon, Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown, can take an afternoon, if not an entire day. Like Chinese districts in San Francisco, London, New York and Bangkok, Cho Lon is one of the oldest and most mysterious parts of Saigon. Cho Lon means ‘‘big market,’’ and the best place to begin your visit is at the overwhelming Binh Tay Market. Although it is likely to be hot and crowded, take your time here. The variety of goods here is positively astounding and will give you uncanny glimpses into modern Vietnamese life. Friendly bargaining should save you from 20% to 40%.

Although there are many beautiful pagodas in Ho Chi Minh City, one of the most interesting is the Nghia An Hoi Quan Pagoda on Nguyen Trai. It is certainly one of the most lavishly decorated. Enormous coils of incense hang from the ceiling, looking like great skeletons of Christmas trees. Stand quietly along the shady wall inside for a few minutes to observe visitors dropping in for a quick prayer.

If you have an afternoon or two to escape the frenetic pace of Ho Chi MInh City, several nearby places make interesting day trips. Within sight of Saigon Gòn, the Cu Chi Tunnels are part of an extensive network of underground passages which extend as far as Cambodia. Built by the Viet Cong, the tunnels played a strategic role in the Communists’ victory. Since the vast network included hospitals, kitchens, dormatories, weapons factories and even classrooms, thousands of guerillas could move themselves and their weapons undetected for great distances. A section of the tunnels is open to visitors. If you are small enough, you can try to wiggle through some of the narrow passageways. Another tunnel system at Ben Duoc was constructed just for tourists to crawl around in. If that’s not enough wartime nostalgia, you can even fire a variety of automatic weapons.

Another fascinating day trip is to Tay Ninh, the center of the Cao Dai religion, which has perhaps two million followers in Vietnam. Cao Dai is a 1920’s invention which took the best of Catholocism and Asia’s great religions, plus a dab of Hollywood. (The sect has bestowed sainthood on Victor Hugo and Winston Churchill, among others.) Visiting the ostentatious but breathtaking cathedral is the highlight of the trip to Tay Ninh. The noon worship service is open to visitors has been compared to a scene from Disney’s Fantasia.

Travel agencies around town offer a somewhat-hurried combination Cu Chi and Cao Dai Temple tour for about ten dollars.

Shopping

As corny as it sounds, Saigon is a paradise for shoppers. Beautiful handicrafts and deliciously tacky tourist junk are in endless supply. If you love to shop and have at least elementary bargaining skills and a good eye, your money will go a long way and you can enjoy virtually endless retail entertainment. Your bargaining skills will come in handy everywhere except major tourist shops. Generally speaking, anything not marked with a price sticker can be had for about two thirds the price first quoted.

While there are fine shops throughout District 1, there are several streets which are especially good for shopping, particularly Dong Khai, and Le Thanh Ton behind the Rex Hotel. Many shops here sell jewelry, amber, ceramics, antiques, furniture, silk and apparel. The stalls along Le Loi Street between Ben Thanh Market and the New World Hotel sell all kinds of war surplus and hardware items.

Lacquerware made here is practically the best in the world and is still a real bargain. Scores of shops around District 1 sell boxes, trays, desk accessories, vases and other lacquerware items. Rosewood boxes and bowls are especially lovely. These make wonderful gifts.

If your friends at home love tacky tourist crap, you are in luck! You will find an astounding array of toy helicopters made from Coca Cola cans, fake Zippos and cigarette lighters made from hollow M-16 ammunition, and Good Morning Vietnam T-shirts.

>> old quarter

HCMC's tailors are reminiscent of Hong Kong's before the seventies. Custom made shirts usually take three to four days and cost seven to ten dollars, not including the fabric.

If you are a Coffee lover, buy enough to fill those empty corner of your luggage. Vietnamese coffees are among the best in the world, and very inexpensive. Because Saigonites drink so much of it, the beans on display in scores of shops around District 1 are always quite fresh. Whole beans sealed in a plastic bag will last quite well until you return, and provide a lingering souvenir of your visit to Ho Chi Minh City.

Noi Bai airport vs Ho Chi Minh City Airport

Many passengers comment that the staff and officers at this airport are nice, intimate and courteous which is much better than at its counterpart Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi. From immigration officers, security guardians to other staff, all of them keep friendly and helpful manner to each passenger they meet. Especially with international passengers, they are nicer and more courteous to show the hospitality of Vietnamese to foreigners.


Goods:

- Spacious and airy hall for passengers to rest and wait for their flights, therefore guests do not feel too noisy and uproarious staying at this airport. There are also numerous comfortable couches and chairs for passengers to take a shot nap or sleep before the flights.

>> old quarter

- Although being the largest airport of Vietnam, Tan Son Nhat Airport still has space for improvement. Still, numerous passengers who have visited this airport all appraised that this could be the best airport in term of services and infrastructures in Indochina peninsula.

- Custom and flight procedure here are extremely rapid so passengers do not waste a lot of time stand at security court and check from head to toes. No fingerprints checking, fast immigration checking and stamping, and passengers can pass security gates fast.

- Common comment of passengers after being at Tan Son Nhat Airport is that the place is always clean. The housekeepers do a great job in keeping all halls, terminals and other areas in quality hygiene standard.

>> vietnam best time to visit

Bads

- One negative point of Tan Son Nhat Airport is the taxi service at the main entrance of the airport. There are many taxi companies operating at this area, but many of them are low in quality but charge customers higher than other, and even higher to foreigners. Passengers should only choose to travel by reputable suppliers like Saigon Air Taxi, Vinasun Taxi or Mai Linh Taxi.

- Another issue at this airport is there are plenty of petty thieves who take advantage of negligence of passengers to steal valuable items from them. The security team at the airport cannot cover all area, so each passenger should be a guardian themselves to keep an eye on their luggage.

- Also there are various shops and kiosks with famous brands are at this airport, kinds and diversity of products here are pretty low. There are only some model of products for each type of goods, and furnishing of shops here is totally nor as attractive as other shops outside

Read more:
>> what to do in ho chi minh

Reviews about meals in Air china

Hot meals are only available to passengers on flights lasting more than one and a half hour and coinciding with meal time. In-flight meals of Air China are of acceptable level rather than upper class with Western style of pastries and fruits, while passenger may have better and wider options for lunch and dinner cooked by professional chiefs.

Each in-flight meal served during trips of Air China is a combination of Chinese and Western culinary style, which is carefully selected based on seasonal variation and healthy standard. Besides, the airline tries to renew its menu every month in order to present the diversity of Chinese foods and refresh the appetite of passengers.

>>  vietnam best time to visit

Additionally, meals are also differentiated between classes that higher ones may receive higher quality dishes and drink. For passengers having special order, please remember to announce the airline in advance to book for your option.

In-flight meals of Air China are often commented as very filling; some passengers even complain that it’s overloading for them with 2 meals during 12 hours flights. However, this may be good news for someone with large appetitie.

Tan Son Nhat International airport - Ho Chi Minh City

Location

The airport is located in Tan Binh district, about 8km North of the city center. It takes about 15-20 minutes to get to the center of the city from the airport.

Domestic and International terminal

The domestic terminal used to be the old International terminal with 62 check-in booths. It is easy to navigate your way around, especially with only 3 domestic airlines being active.

The new international terminal was officially put to use in 2007, welcoming tourists and business travellers from all over the world. International terminals also have many modern facilities such as restaurants, convenient stores and currency exchange booths.

It takes approximately 10 minutes to get from one terminal to another so if you have a transit in Ho Chi Minh City, you will not be in any hassle.

>> what to do in ho chi minh

After a major renovation in early 2000s, Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is currently the largest in terms of area and capacity airport in Vietnam. Along with Lien Khuong Airport (Dalat), Con Dao Airport (Con Dao), Phu Quoc Airport and several other local airports, Ho Chi Minh City Airport is under the management of Southern Airports Corporation (SAC), a state owned corporation.

Tan Son Nhat Airport

Tan Son Nhat International Terminal

>> old quarter


Flights to Ho Chi Minh City Airport


It is estimated that 3 domestic and 34 international airlines serve flights to Ho Chi Minh City.

There are direct flights from major cities in Asia (Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong, etc.), Europe (Helsinki, Frankfurt, Moscow, Paris, etc.), Australia (Melbourne and Sydney). Those from North America or other countries in Western Europe can easily book a connecting flight via Hong Kong, Bangkok, Tokyo or Seoul.

From Ho Chi Minh City Airport to city center

Taxis line up, with proper police regulation outside of the airport. A metered taxi ride to the city cost about US$5-7 or you can asked for a fixed rate ($4-6). Airport Taxi and Saigon Taxi are among the most popular and reliable companies. It is better that you line up to get the regulated taxi than waving one off the road to avoid scams. Check with your hotel in advance to see if pick-up can be arranged.

Local bus runs every half hour between the airport and Ben Thanh market (which is a 15 minute walk from the downtown area). Buses run between 6 a.m. and 6p.m. and ticket price is 30 cents. Though inexpensive and convenient, bus is not the best option when you have a lot of luggage.

Read more:
>> hanoi ho chi minh mausoleum

About Baggage Allowance - Air China

Checked Luggage
Air China measures the checked baggage by two methods. The first one is a weight concept which is used for all location excluding USA, Canada and Brazil. Applying this method means that the passengers are allowed to check an exact weight of baggage without additional payment. This free weight limitation for luggage is 20kg for Economy class, 30kg for Business class and 40kg for the First class.

>> vietnam best time to visit

The second method to calculate checked baggage is piece concept, which is used for departure and arrival flights in North America or Brazil.  Applying this policy means that the passengers in all classes can only carry two pieces of free checked luggage with the sum of dimensions less than 158cm each piece. However, the maximum weights for each piece for Economy class are 23 kg, and these numbers for other classes are 32 kg. If you possess a membership card with Air China, you might carry more extra baggage in addition to the baggage allowance above.

Hand Baggage
Passengers on Economy class can carry one piece of baggage that has the weight less than 5kg. On the Business and First class, the passengers are permitted to carry 2 pieces of luggage with the maximum total weight of 8kg. The size limitation for the piece of luggage on all class is 55cm in length, 20cm in height and 40cm in width (equal to 21 inches,7 inches and 15 inches respectively). There are some additional items that can be carried on Economy class including laptop/notebook, handbag, umbrella/hat, entertainment devices such as MP3 players and mobile phone.

Read more useful infomation:
>> what to do in ho chi minh

Vietnam North-South Express Train

The North – South Express Railway is the interprovincial train route under the management of Vietnam Railways Corporation. It begins in Hanoi and end in Ho Chi Minh City. As the purpose of this railway is to connect the North and the South of Vietnam, in particular Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, it is also called Reunification Express.
hanoi ho chi minh mausoleum
Train routes

This railway is one of the longest train routes in Vietnam with the total length of 1,729 km. Moreover, it passes by most provinces that lie between the two ends of the country, including Ha Nam, Nam Dinh, Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, Ha Tinh, Quang Binh, Quang Tri, Thua Thien-Hue, Da Nang, Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, Binh Dinh, Phu Yen, Khanh Hoa, Ninh Thuan, Binh Thuan, Dong Nai and Binh Dương. A trip from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City on this railway will allow you to enjoy many breathtaking landscapes of Vietnam such as  Hai Van Pass, Van Phong Bay and especially the Truong Son Mountain ranges.

Generally, most of Express trains in Vietnam are sleeper trains with many napping carriages, however, some trains on the North – South Express Railway also have sitting carriage. For shorter distance trip, such Hanoi - Ninh Binh or Nha Trang - Ho Chi Minh City, a sitting carriage choice will be more economical than the sleeper one.

vietnam best time to visit

Train codes

There are two types of trains: SE and TN. The SE trains are more suitable for tourists thanks to its modern carriages and facilities and faster speed. Moreover, it provides both hard and soft sleepers to passengers with air conditioners on each cabin. The ticket fare is from 600,000 to 2,000,000 VND for the whole trip from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City and vice versa and the trip takes about 30 hours. There are 4 daily trains departing from Hanoi and 4 from Ho Chi Minh City to the other end of the couuntry.

Train SE1 and SE3 depart from Hanoi at 19:00 and 23:00 and make fewer stops along the way than train SE5 and SE7. Train SE2 and SE4 depart at the same time from Ho Chi Minh City and stop at way fewer points than SE6 and SE8 (see Hanoi - HCMC Train Timetable).

Another kind is TN train. It has older carriages and hard sleepers, and not all cabins have air conditioners. These trains also stop in all stations that it passes by, which makes the trip 10 hours longer compared with SE trains. In exchange, the ticket cost for this train is much lower, approximately from 500, 000 to 1,200,000 VND a trip.

Sleeper carriage

In addition, each sleeper carriage of the Reunification Train has about 5 to 7 cabins, and one toilet with shower room at the end of the carriage. There are mainly two types of cabins: 4-berths and 6 berths (Train berths and seats image). Both of these types have similar equipments including pillow and blankets, TV, fans or air conditioner yet with 4-bed cabin option, you have more space and privacy. With both cabin types, luggage can be stored under the bottom bunks of the cabin.



With SE trains, there is a service carriage that serves light meals to customers and provides some other convenient products such as canned foods, cigarettes, beverage, shampoo/soap, tooth paste and brush.
things to do in danang
One note on the train quality: since all trains in Vietnam are Russian old types that have been there for years, do not expect exceptional quality, especially in comparison with the Europe line or subway trains. The trade off is that you will get an authentic experience of travelling in a Southeast Asian countries. However, if you have problems with sleeping or not used to this type of travel, take other alternative such as coach or plane into consideration.

Vietnam Railway map system

The Railway System in Vietnam was established over a hundred years ago by the French colonist in the past century, and then recovered and further developed by the Vietnamese Government after the Reunification in 1975. The Vietnamese railway system now has the total length of about 2.600km, connecting most cities and provinces all over Vietnam, including many cultural, societal and tourism destinations from the North to the South of Vietnam. The domestic railway system is also linked with the Chinese railway that allows the train to come across the borderline and reach stations in Yunnan and Guangxi.

old quarter

If you want an inexpensive yet exciting trip to travel along Vietnam from the North to the South, train could be a perfect choice. Many parts of the railways system in Vietnam go along or even through mountains, forests, valleys, plain and sea, so you would certainly have chance to contemplate the incredibly magnificent and fascinating scenery. Also, the speed of the train is not too high, just enough for you to enjoy breathtaking views outside the windows, taking some pictures or videos and having memorable moments in your trips. But one thing that you should keep in mind is to watch out all of your properties and luggage because there might be some robbers on the train who wait for the carelessness of the passengers to steal their belongings (read Safety guide for Vietnam).

vietnam best time to visit

5 Ideas For A Trip to HCM city

Vietnam Travel Guide

1. Ice-skating at the Youth Cultural House:

Newly established in September 2010, “ice-skating” at the Youth Cultural House, 04 Pham Ngoc Thach Street, District 1, HCMC. has been not only an interesting place for people to hang out with their friends but also a great time for couples who want to add romance into their date. From the Notre Dame Cathedral, walk straightly on Pham Ngoc Thach Street .

The Youth Cultural House is at the corner of Nguyen Thi Minh Khai – Pham Ngoc Thach street. Once you reach the Youth Cultural House, use the main staircase to get on the 3rd floor for ice-skating. The entrance ticket is very affordable, about $2.5/person. Put on the skating shoes provided, you are all set for challenging yourself on the skating-rink. The rink, made of special materials and covered with a kind of lubrication oil on top, enables the players to experience the sport in a tropical country like Vietnam.

In the cool atmosphere (17o C ~ 62.6 o F), you can hold each other’s hands and move back and forth on the rink. You can add more excitement or gain admiration by performing some dances also. If you want a new flavor for a date out with exhilaration at a reasonable price, ice-skating at the Youth Cultural House should be added to your to-do list!

2. Water Puppets Show

Water Puppetry is a unique art of Vietnamese culture. Water Puppet was developed based on Vietnam’s background as an agricultural country whose rice paddy fields are so popular. The art of controlling the puppets and use them to perform human activities underneath water attracts lots of foreigners when they visit Vietnam. The Water Puppets Show is often conducted in the evening at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater, inside the Labour Culture Palace HCMC.(55B Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City) It costs about $4/adult for a ticket.

The show lasts for 45 minutes or an hour. In the show, you can have a thorough view on Vietnamese people’s daily life in the past such as: paddling and fishing, farming or even dancing. Language might be a barrier to your understanding. Don’t worry about it. The puppets’ movements by skilful puppeteers can deliver non-verbal communication and fade the language gap. If you are curious about how puppets show their love affections, you should not miss a Water Puppet Show at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater.

>> What to do in ho chi minh

3. A Dinner Buffet at Binh Quoi Tourist Resort:

Binh Quoi Tourist Resort is a recommended place for a buffet with a countryside background. Binh Quoi, 8 kilometers from the city center, has attracted foreigners for both greenery and the shades from rows of water coconut trees along the riverside and authentic Vietnamese food. A dinner buffet at Binh Quoi Resort brings you a chance to taste most of the Vietnamese famous dishes throughout Vietnam from the North to the South.



The crispy spring rolls, the fresh rolls with peanut butter sauce, the shells and oysters as well as hundreds of che (sweet soups – dessert dishes) may fool your stomach. Besides, you may not resist taking photos of beautiful landscape: the artificial paddy fields, the hay dung, etc… A peaceful atmosphere is suitable for couples to share the simple and plain but delicious Vietnamese food. The dinner buffet often starts serving at 5 p.m. and ends at 9 p.m. It costs each adult $7-$8. It is advised you come to the buffet as soon as it starts to make sure there are still plenty of food left.

4. Dinner at Shri:

Shri (72-74 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, District 3, HCMC.) is no more than an up-scale restaurant located in Centec Tower, right opposite from the Youth Cultural House. On the 23rd floor of Centec Tower, it offers a rooftop dinner place where people can both have dinner and look down HCMC. from a high position. The restaurant is decorated mostly with candlelight. The VIP room (the room outside the lounge in an open atmosphere) is available only for dine-in guests with booking in advance.

Because of its high quality service and wonderful opportunities to look down the sparkling city night life, the price is much higher than other restaurants. Depending upon your orders, price starts averagely at $25-$50/person . Shri is also famous for its fresh Sushi and Western style food. They also offer set menus to make it easier for customers to choose a good combination for their dinner. Shri is so charming and unique that it is an ideal place for either an anniversary , a proposal or even a first date.

5. A romantic coffee shop:

Vietnam is also famous for its coffee. While Starbucks is somehow the same in different places, any Vietnamese coffee shop always has unique characteristic. It would be hard to find two coffee shops have the same designs. You can either go to a coffee shop in the morning or in the evening. However, in the evening, live music shows are available at some coffee shop such as: Yen Café (7 Ngo Thoi Nhiem, District 3), Vung Oi MO Ra Cafe (17 Ngo Thoi Nhiem, District 3),… In the sparkling candlelight, couples can talk quietly and relaxing with lots of romantic love songs performed live by singers. Not only Vietnamese songs but French and English songs are also performed. Don’t be surprised at the different prices in the same coffee shop in the morning and at night. A drink costs you averagely $2-$3 in the morning but costs $2-$3 extra at night because of the live music show.

A show often starts at 9 p.m. and lasts for 1.5 hours. Some offering longer shows and famous singers charge higher price (up to $15, drinks included). If you are out of ideas where to go for a romantic night, there is no need to think much! The various coffee shops in HCMC. with its unique beauty each gives you a totally different coffee shop per night. No matter how long you will stay here, there will be no coffee shop repeated till you leave!

>> What to do in vietnam

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, Bac Giang Province

Vinh Nghiem is one of the biggest pagodas in Ho Chi Minh city which locates at 339, Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 3


Location and history

Situated at 339 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 3 (just near Cong Ly Bridge), this biggest Mahāyāna Buddhist pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City, is rather a young pagoda. In 1964, when monks Thich Tam Giac and Thich Thanh Kiem from the North came there to spread Buddhism, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda was started constructing following the design of the architect Nguyen Ba Lang, based on the model and namesake of the 11th century Vinh Nghiem Pagoda in Bac Giang Province. It was completed in 1971. A Devotee Relic four-storey Tower (Bao thap Xa loi Cong dong) with 25m high was erected behind the pagoda in 1982.

Modern style, traditional structure

Thanks to being a quite recent monument, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda inherits both a modern touch of Japanese architectural style and inspiration from traditional Vietnamese structure, which makes its beauty strong, stable and also majestic. It was the first pagoda in Vietnam with Vietnamese traditional architectural style but built with concrete. As a result, the pagoda is the symbol for the peaceful combination of modern and ancient elements.

It’s home to a vast sanctuary where followers pay their respects, make offerings and pray for blessings every month and a seven-floor, 40m high tower called Kwan-Yin, which was built with the assistance of the Japan-Vietnam Friendship Association. This structure is the biggest one among Vietnam Buddhist Association, where people come to pay homage to Siddhartha Gautama, Buddha himself, and Samantabhadra, the Lord of Truth and Manjusri.

When to visit

Special occasions like Lunar New Year or 15th of each month are when the pagoda most crowded with people visiting to pray for luck, happiness and safe to themselves and their families. Also, tourists coming at these times may observe traditional activities of Buddhist such as giving away lucky-money as good buds for the start of a new year. However, for visitors who want to enjoy inner peace of a Buddhist pagoda, try to stay away from these occasions, normal days are better and more peaceful. Those who are fond of vegetarian foods can spot at a vegetarian restaurant named “Viet Chay”, which is tucked within the pagoda’s area.

How to get there

Getting here is quite easy and convenient as this attraction is so famous amongst local people. Taxi or motorbike is recommended.

Cho Lon, District 5, Ho Chi Minh city

In Ho Chi Minh city, there is a small area that many Chinese people have lived for a long time.


Location and history

Back in the old days, the place where Cho Lon now sits was regarded as the city’s center of commerce, in comparison with District 1 – the center of administration.

Today, visitors still get much of what the town has remained for years in District 5 and a part of District 6, with the core center surrounded Cho Lon Post Office, Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street and fishbone-shaped streets such as Trieu Quang Phuc, Luong Nhu Hoc, Mac Cuu, etc.

A lively atmosphere, Oriental lifestyle

It’s the traditional and distinctive lifestyle of ethnic community here that makes Cho Lon famous and attractive to people everywhere it exists.

Chinese ethnic people have lived and supported their lives by many different activities such as opening food stall serving traditional food, selling clothes or household items. Not only can tourists enjoy the delicious dishes in like noodle, rice and wontons, they are also appealed by the colorful decoration, housing styles and at most a vibrant life in District 5 of Ho Chi Minh City.

One noticeable characteristic of this area is the structure of shophouse which were constructed at the beginning of 18th century. A typical shophouse is only 3-4m in width but 4-5 times more in length, with an inside yard. Trading activities often take place in the front part of the house while daily activities occur inside.

What to see there

There are streets which concentrate on selling unicornhead and royal costumes like Luong Nhu Hoc Street, gems like Ham Tu – An Binh Street, rice in Tran Chanh Chieu Street, etc. Especially on Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street, there are many stores selling Chinese medicines, where people get the chance to see how traditional medicine is made and used.

Tourist attractions in the area are also indispensable, such as Thien Hau Pagoda on Nguyen Trai Street (the oldest Chinese-built pagoda in the city), the old buildings built based on Chinese structure on Trieu Quang Phuc Street, Minh Huong Temple, Quan De Temple on Nguyen Trai Street or Leizhou guildhouse on Tran Hung Dao B Street . Binh Tay Market on Thap Muoi Street is always an attractive destination for foreigners, thanks to its special structure, long-standing history and a well-preserved exciting and lively atmosphere.

Best time to visit

Cho Lon is crowded and busy all the times thus tourists don’t have to worry about the suitable time to travel there. Even at night, there are still food stalls serving till midnight.

On special occasions like Lunar New Year, the town is spectacularly hectic and adorned with Oriental features. Specifically, on Mid-Autumn Festival, Luong Nhu Hoc Street becomes “Lantern Street” with shops selling this product and attracts thousands of people coming to enjoy the atmospheric scene of colorful lanterns at night. If visitors happen to be in Ho Chi Minh City at these times, don’t hesitate to join the crowd of people.

How to get there

Since District 5 is close to District 1, one can easily follow Tran Hung Dao Street – the main route to get into Cho Lon. This can be done by bus number 1, stopping at Ben Thanh Bus Station or flag down a taxi to get there.

Binh Quoi Village, Binh Thanh District

Tourists may find numerous thatched cottages in the northern countryside, sitting by the riversides enjoying fresh coconut under the shade of coconut trees.


Location

Located on Saigon riverside, Binh Quoi Tourist Village has two branches: 1 & 2. Number 1 is at 1147 Binh Quoi, Binh Thanh District while number 2 is just a few kilometers away, at the very end of the road. Binh Quoi Tourist Village is just about 8 – 10 km from Ho Chi Minh City centre and can be a nice day trip from the crowded city centre.

Reminiscence of the Mekong Delta in bygone days

The two Binh Quoi Villages offer quite similar services and both reflect particular scenery of the Mekong Delta region. Just 15 minutes away from busy and crowded downtown of Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Quoi Village gives a completely relaxing experience. These sites are endowed with valuable airy premises and fresh atmosphere, thanks to the Thanh Da Peninsula where sit the two villages.

There, tourists can find themselves drowned in the charming beauty of a bygone Mekong Delta, with gigs, a blue canal, dinghies, a rough monkey bridge and thatched cottages among lush water coconut trees. Moreover, a culinary buffet program is held outdoors weekly , named “Reclaiming Southern Food”, where numerous dishes from hundreds of years ago are served in a harmonious blend of people an nature. There are also rowing boats, fishing and folk games available for those who seek activities. A true soul of the Mekong Delta is there in every corner to discover.

In addition, there is the club named “Hoi Quan Hoi ngo”, where memories about the famous music composer Trinh Cong Son are reserved, with his painting, sculpturing and performances.

How to get there

The villages are open daily from 9AM to 11PM. It just takes about 15-30 minutes to get here from the city centre by car or motorbike, depending on traffic.