They say Ho Chi Minh City is the little Paris of the East, but it truly fell short of my expectations. Before leaving, I had specifically set aside two days to explore the city, but after just one day of sightseeing, I found myself at a complete loss for what to do next. [DisappointedR][DisappointedR] Not wanting to join local tours to the surrounding areas, I ended up spending most of my time idly in cafes.
[StarR] The main attractions can be easily covered in a single day. [StarR] After checking out on the second day around noon, I wandered aimlessly and found it incredibly dull. I would suggest that only one day is needed here.
TIPS:
1. The Vietnamese baguette with the long queue was not as delicious as I had imagined; it wasn’t even as good as a random one I bought from a street vendor in Hanoi. If you really want to try it, just buy one to taste.
2. At Ben Thanh Market, upon entering, I saw luxury bags, various small goods, and vendors hawking their wares, but I had no desire to shop.
As for the snacks, you really need to be careful before trying them. [CrescentR]
3. The Pink Church is just a church by the roadside. After searching for a while, I found that the only way to get a good angle was from a nearby cafe. Otherwise, you can only take photos from the roadside. With the busy traffic around, it’s hard to appreciate its grandeur.
4. As for the Cafe Apartment, it’s best to admire it from the outside. There’s no need to climb up to experience it. I heard that taking the elevator costs money, so I didn’t go up.
5. My final suggestion: if you have more time, it’s better to explore the surrounding areas.
6. The motorcycle rush during peak hours made me feel a bit scared walking on the streets.
Personally, I still find Hanoi much more comfortable. The motorcycles here make me feel a bit oppressed.
Just my personal advice… real feelings.
I totally get that feeling—sometimes the hype doesn’t quite match reality. Have you considered checking out some of the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods or hidden markets? I think those could offer a more authentic experience. It’s a shame not to find something engaging, but maybe it’s all about knowing where to look!
Thank you for your thoughtful suggestion! I agree that exploring lesser-known neighborhoods and hidden markets can indeed provide a more authentic taste of the city. It’s all about uncovering those unique spots that locals cherish. Thanks for sharing your insight—it’s always helpful to know where to look for the real gems!