Vietnam Scenery: A Trip to Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) is one of the largest cities in Vietnam. This two-day, one-night trip gave me a deeper understanding of this vibrant and historically rich city. Although the time was short, I could still feel its enthusiasm and diverse charm. Here are my travel insights from Ho Chi Minh City. Day 1: Exploring the City, Experiencing the Blend of History and Modernity On the first day of arriving in Ho Chi Minh City, I chose to start from the city center to feel the unique atmosphere of this city. The first stop was the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, a 19th-century church that is a relic of the French colonial period. Its elegant red brick exterior and Gothic architectural style are breathtaking. The square in front of the church is also a gathering place for locals and tourists, with many people taking photos or resting there. Next, I visited the Central Post Office, which is adjacent to the Notre-Dame Cathedral. This is a typical French-style building with luxurious interior decorations, old-fashioned phone booths, and wooden benches, making one feel as if they have traveled back to the colonial era. The atmosphere inside the post office is both ancient and modern, making it a daily communication place for tourists and locals alike. At noon, I enjoyed local delicacies at Ben Thanh Market in the city center. This is one of the most famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a variety of tropical fruits, Vietnamese snacks, and handicrafts. I tasted the classic Vietnamese Pho, with its delicious broth and rich ingredients, making it a must-try. The local spring rolls were also fresh and refreshing, whetting my appetite. In the afternoon, I decided to visit the Ho Chi Minh City Museum, which showcases the history and cultural development of the city. From Vietnam's war history to its modernization process, the museum gave me a deeper understanding of the city's background. The exhibits include numerous photos, artifacts, and films, detailing Vietnam's independence movement and struggles. After dinner, I chose to take a walk along the Saigon River. The night view here is very charming. Walking along the riverside, you can see high-rise buildings and colorful neon lights on both sides, with the lively atmosphere and fresh river breeze intertwined. At this time, Ho Chi Minh City has both the prosperity of a modern metropolis and the leisure of a southern city. Day 2: A Tourist Experience Combining Nature and Culture On the morning of the second day, I went to the Independence Palace (also known as the Reunification Palace), an important historical site of the Vietnam War and a local landmark. The interior of the palace is well-preserved, restoring the office spaces and living areas of the South Vietnamese government and the president. Walking through these ancient rooms, one can feel the grandeur of that historical period. The gardens and ponds outside the palace also add a lot of greenery, making the entire site full of tranquility. Then, I took a taxi to the suburbs of the Mekong Delta to experience Vietnam's unique water village culture. During the Mekong River tour, I took a traditional small boat, paddling on the vast river, with lush coconut trees and water houses on both sides, making me feel like I had entered a paradise. Along the way, I also visited local handicraft shops, tasted fresh tropical fruits, and interacted with friendly locals. After returning to the city, I quickly went to the Dong Khoi Market, which sells a variety of souvenirs and specialty items. During the shopping process, I not only picked out a few exquisite trinkets but also felt the enthusiasm and joy in the lives of the locals. Conclusion The two-day, one-night trip to Ho Chi Minh City was short but fulfilling and memorable. This city not only has a rich historical background but also blends the prosperity of a modern metropolis with the beauty of nature. From historical sites to modern buildings, from bustling markets to tranquil rivers, Ho Chi Minh City always attracts every visitor with its various facets. If you have the chance to visit Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is undoubtedly a must-see destination.