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I visited Vietnam in January/February 2002 and though it was hot, it was not miserably so. I left just before the New Year celebration, which was disappointing. My main hub was Ho Chi Minh City with several visits to the countryside and the city of Can Tho.
While visiting Saigon I stayed in a private residence, which had converted four bedrooms to individual rooms with en-suite facilities, full size bed, air conditioner, small refrigerator and television. I must stress the importance of keeping your room locked at all times. I'm sure the proprietors have an extra key, but the Vietnamese are very fearful of the police and want no trouble, so them actually stealing from you is slim. If you are interested in the name and address, feel free to contact me.
We had a translator who spoke broken English - very well at showing us the tourist attractions as well as the "real" side of Saigon. He was also very protective, reminding us to be discreet with our money and almost freaking out while we had our video cameras out. His concern leads me to think that there is a very real threat of thievery - though we never had the slightest bit of trouble. The main mode of transportation was on the back of a moped - though I don't recommend that for the faint of heart! Taxi drivers were very helpful, reasonably priced and most cars were air-conditioned. There are few "rules of the road", so don't be alarmed if, having passed your intended destination, your driver reverses through on-coming traffic to get you where you want to go.
The Vietnam War Memorial is interesting, though they do have one building dedicated to the maimed and babies with birth defects attributed to the chemicals used during the war. It is very disturbing and unfortunately no one informed us of it until it was too late.
I had some clothes made for both myself and my husband while in Saigon - very good value and quality - I paid $21 USD for (3) pr. pants and (1) traditional outfit. I took one of my husbands dress shirts to be used as a pattern. The tailor did an excellent job - the only thing is that they have counterfeit designer labels they like to sew into the clothes they make. I told them I would rather have their label - so they put both.... I have the business card if you would like the name and address, again, contact me.
There is a public fishing area somewhere outside the city, which is great fun. I cannot remember the name of the area, but if you are staying in a hotel maybe they can locate it for you. Basically, it is a large pond with a boardwalk all the way around. There are several "huts" you set up in - complete with a hammock, table and chairs. You rent either a cane fishing pole or a "mechanical" fishing pole - rod and reel. They can suggest what is best to fish for that day. Whatever you catch, they cook and bring back to your table along with all the accompaniments - rice paper, rice, nuts, sauces, lettuce, etc. - it was delicious! Cold drinks are available, as well. If you are not lucky enough to catch your own fish there is a large tank from which you can purchase one. They also have GIANT shrimp swimming around in an aquarium - I highly recommend trying a couple of those, as well! Of course, you must pay to fish and have the food prepared, but it was well worth it!
There is a full service day spa - Qi Saigon, Shiseido Salon and Spa in the Phu Nhuan District of Ho Chi Minh City. The Special Course (day of beauty) included facial, body massage, foot massage, manicure, pedicure and shampoo and style cost $45 USD. Undoubtedly, the best $45 I have EVER spent. The only thing I found funny about the salon is that the disposable panties are made for significantly smaller framed and figured Vietnamese women! The first thing you do after changing into your spa robe is have a few minutes in a sauna. They let you stay in there as long as you want - my girlfriend and I thought they would set a timer and let us know when to come out. I'm sure if I had tried on those disposable panties after I came out of the sauna they would have fit!!!! The service was above excellent - extremely accommodating, professional and quite elegant.
The best place to shop is at the market - there is one down town close to the tourist area, then there is another one that I have no idea how to get to. Again, ask someone at your hotel about it - it is 3 or 4 stories - a lot like a parking garage. It is HOT so dress accordingly, and smelly on the floor that has the food - but the bargains are amazing. If you are there early in the morning you will get the best prices. They believe if they make a good sale in the morning, they will do well all day. You must barter - take a conversion chart with you so you will know what they are asking in terms that you will understand. I bartered for a jewelry box, sure I had done well "beating her down on her price". Upon return to my room I checked my conversion chart and found that I had paid only fifty cents for a large, very nice jewelry box. I still feel bad about that! There are beautiful chopstick sets - so many nice souvenirs to choose from at unbelievable prices. Remember, jade is pale green originally, and gets darker as you wear it. Especially dark jade is most likely injected, and not good quality. I recommend boxing your souvenirs up and shipping them home. Between Vietnam and Bangkok, I had six suitcases full by the end of my trip! US Customs gave me heck - sure I was bringing things back for re-sale.
We went to Can Tho specifically to visit the orphanage. While we were there we ate at a couple of very good restaurants on the river - I will try to locate the bill to see if the name of the restaurant is on it. I can't remember it - but the food was excellent, and fresh, of course.
The culture is nothing like you have ever witnessed. I still have a surreal feeling when I think about my trip. It was very depressing in many ways - but by my standards - for them it is the only life they know. I recommend visiting Vietnam at least once - you'll gain a new perspective and appreciation for life.
Recommended
Yes
Best Suited For: Friends
Best Time to Travel Here: Dec - Feb |
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