Ho Chi Minh City City Guide

Food is a highlight with dishes like Phở and Bánh Mì. You will find many vegetarian options and a variety of international cuisines. Street food and restaurants stay open late.

Nightlife is lively with rooftop bars, clubs, live music, and street beer spots.

Strong coffee culture with many specialty and traditional coffee shops. Iced and egg coffee are local favorites.

Tipping is not expected but appreciated. Around 5-10% in restaurants; rounding up fares is common.

Buy SIM cards at the airport or providers’ stores (Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone). Viettel has the best coverage. Registration with ID/passport is required. eSIMs are available.

Main tourist areas are cleaner; smaller streets and markets can be less so. Waste pickup is regular but recycling is limited.

Pharmacies and convenience stores often open 24/7. Some clinics and food stalls also operate late.

Supermarkets like Co.opmart, Big C, Lotte Mart, and Aeon Mall have international products. Fresh markets offer local produce. Supermarkets open 8 AM - 10 PM; markets close earlier. Bargaining works at markets, not in supermarkets.

Card payments are common in supermarkets and hotels. But many small shops and street vendors only take cash.

ATMs are everywhere, including banks like Vietcombank and Agribank. Fees for international cards can be around 30,000 to 50,000 VND per transaction.

International schools include ISHCMC, British International School, and Renaissance International School. English is the main language. Early application is advised due to waitlists.

Active community with meetups and coworking spaces. Many cafes have reliable Wi-Fi.

Major parks include Tao Dan and Le Van Tam. Parks offer shaded walking but city streets less so.

Popular routes are around Tao Dan Park and the Saigon River. Traffic and air quality can affect safety.

Gyms range from international chains to local centers.

Tennis courts are at clubs and hotels. Padel is less common but growing.

A few padel courts exist but are not widespread.

Many yoga studios offer different styles with English-speaking instructors.

Training available in Vovinam, BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, and Taekwondo. Many gyms offer drop-in classes.

No skiing in this tropical city.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are available on some rivers. Sailing is more common in Mui Ne and Vung Tau.

Surfing spots are far away in Vung Tau and Mui Ne. Mui Ne has better conditions for beginners.

Dive sites are far, near Nha Trang or Phu Quoc.

Private hospitals like FV Hospital and Columbia Asia have English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are common and often open late. Healthcare quality is fair but varies.

Tap water isn’t safe to drink. Use bottled or boiled water.

There are playgrounds in big parks and kid-friendly cafes. Attractions like Suoi Tien Theme Park and Saigon Zoo suit families.

Generally tolerant with safe venues and annual Pride events. Legal protections are improving.

Pet services exist but pet-friendly places are limited. Parks allow leashed pets.