Ho Chi Minh City

From traditional markets to high-end malls, the city of Ho Chi Minh is a haven for shopaholics. No matter your budget, there is plenty to shop for in the city. Products and handicrafts come to this place from all over the country to be sold at various department stores, shops, stalls and stands. In addition, one can go souvenir shopping for local crafts such as textile, metalwork, and distinct baskets.

• Dong Khoi area houses many such shops, along with Hai Ba Trung, Le Thanh Ton and Le Loi, which are worth visiting.
• Try out Khoi Silk at 107 Dong Khoi for silk garments and accessories.
• The most popular market among tourists and locals is Ben Thanh Market on Le Loi. The place is packed with quality clothes and souvenirs at very cheap prices. Make sure to hone your haggling skills as prices can go down to 50% but keep your cool. Situated in District 1, the place dazzles as the sun sets and the night market opens outside the building. One can enjoy food at dozens of food stalls there.
• Situated in District 6 is Binh Tay Market in Cholon, flocked with people from early morning until early evening. Crammed in the narrow alleyways, the place is full of fake war souvenirs, Ex-military items and exotic food items, although bargaining is a must.
• At last, if you are looking for shopping malls, Diamond Plaza on Le Duan and Parkson Saigon tourist Plaza on Le Thanh Ton are among the popular ones.

Read more about Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City.

Ho Chi Minh City is the country's largest city with people of various ethnic groups. With dong with its local currency, the city is suitable for all kinds of travellers, be it backpackers, economy or luxury travellers.

Following is the per-day budget (rough estimate) in the country's local currency excluding the accommodation cost (cost includes food, water, local transport, entertainment, communication, tips, souvenirs and alcohol) -

• Budget travel: VND 1,66,360
• Economy travel: VND 4,34,190
• Luxury travel: VND 11,73,494

Vietnamese culture is a fusion of Confucianism and communist ideology. Thus the customs in Ho Chi Minh City, like the rest of the country, are primarily influenced by these two factors.

• There are no handshakes or physical contact between elders in the city while greeting each other, only a slight bow indicating the greeting.
• Pointing toward anyone with a finger is considered disrespectful.
• Also, please do not leave your chopsticks in the dish when you are done with your meal. It is considered insulting.
• Slurping loudly while eating rice or noodles is a sign that you enjoyed your food, and it pleases the chef.
• Make sure to dress appropriately while visiting a temple, and cover your arms, legs and shoulders. Otherwise, the dressing style in most of Vietnam is quite liberal.
• Tipping is usually practised at big restaurants and hotels but is not mandatory.