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Tourist Sights :Despite its quite recent past, with more than 300 years history, Ho Chi Minh City nevertheless possesses numerous interesting buildings, displaying a characteristic combination of Vietnamese, Chinese and European cultures. These include Nha Rong ( Dragon House Wharf), Quoc To Temple (National Ancestors' Temple), Xa Tay (Municipal Office), Ho Chi Minh Municipal Theatre as well as many pagodas and churches ,Ho Chi Minh City draws approximately 70% o f visitors to the country. The city's resources and accommodations are attractive to many travellers. Numerous steps have been and will be taken to stabilize the tourism potential of the city . For instance, historical relics and architectural works have been restored, traditional values have been recovered in festivals, and many museums are expected to be upgraded.

Thong Nhat Conference Hall

Thong Nhat Conference Hall is situated at 106 Nguyen Du Street in Ho Chi Minh City. Originally called Norodom Palace and Palace of Indochina Governor General, it was built in 1868 and inaugurated in 1873. After 1954, Ngo Dinh D iem, South Vietnam's Presi­dent, and his family lived and worked in Noro- dom Palace, In 1963, this palace was heavily destr oyed by bombs. President Diem comma nded the remains to be destroyed and to ouild a new palace to be called Doc Lap Palace or Independence Palace. The new palace was built on a 120,000 m 2 area and covered 4,500 m 2. It included a basement, 3 main floors, 2 mezzanines, one terrace, and one upper floor. There are a total of 95 rooms in the Palace, each decorated according to its function. The Palace also features two exhibition rooms, a 33-room guest house, and numerous entertainment services such as tennis cou'te and stilt houses. On April 30,1975, the tanks of the liberation army entered the Independence Palace , and the government, including 45 members and president Duong Van Minh, surrendered without condition. After the liberation, the Independence Palace became the headquarters of the city 's military administration committee. The political consultation for national unification was held in this palace which was renamed Thong Nhat Conference Hall. Nowadays, Thong Nhat Conference Hall has become a historic, cultural relic attracting domestic as well as international visitors ,The Thong Nhat Conference Hall is open from 7.30am to 11am and 1pm to 4pm daily. The entrance gate for foreigners is at 106 Nguyen Du Road. Admission costs 10,O OOVND.

Ho Chi Minh City Municipal Theater

Ho Chi Minh City Municipal Theater is located at N° 7 Cong Truong Lam Son Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It was originally an opera house for the Western audiences. Its construction was begun in 1898 and completed on 17 January 1900 according to the design by architect Ferrt. It holds 800 seats. The cost for the building at that time was nearly 1 million dong (old currency). In 1944 the House was badly damaged by air raids. Then, it became a temporary residence of the French and of Northerners migrating to Saigon after the signing of the Geneva Agreements in 1954. It was restored in 1955 and made the seat of Saigon Lower House of Parliament in 1956. After the liberation of Saigon, it was put under the management of the Artistic Performance Organization Company (Saigon Concert) and became the City's Opera House ever since. A variety of shows and performances are held in the Theater: dancing and singing, spoken drama, circus, and fashion shows. It frequently hosts domestic and overseas professional art troupes. This is also where conferences, seminars and big festivals of the city are held. Investments have been poured into the restoration of the Theater to its original conditions with advanced technique to make it capable of hosting performance of greater national and international dimensions. The theatre features

shows nightly from 8pm to 10pm.

Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is s ituated at the intersection of Le Loi , Ham Nghi , Tran Hung Dao Avenues and Le Lai Road, 700m south-west of the Rex Hotel. At first, the market was situated near the Ben Nghe River Dike. It was a brick market with a wooden frame and thatched roof, which was partly damaged by a fire in 1870. In 1911 it was demolished for a more spadous one, which was completed in March 1914. After being moved many times, it is now standing in the ve ry centre of the city where consumers can conveniently find all sorts of products imaginable. In 1985 the interior as well as the exterior of Ben Thanh Market was completely remodeled except the front with the clock tower, which was kept as it was. Nowadays, the goods in Ben Thanh market are abundant, including almost all-domestic products - especially those from the Mekong Delta - and modern industrial products from other countries.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral is a magnificent building situated at the Paris Square in the heart of the city. It was built between October 1877 and April 1880 in a French style at a cost of 2.5 million French francs. With the approval of the Vatican, the ca­thedral was named Notre Dame dur ing ceremonies held in December 1959. Its neo-Romanesque architecture and two 57.6m-h igh square towers tipped with iron spires dominate the city's sky line. In front of the cathedral is a statue of the Virgin Mary. Visitors who wish to attend mass should go Sunday at

9.30am.

Dam Sen Park

Covering 52ha on the comer of Lac Long Quan and Hoa Binh St., Dam Sen Park is composed of various areas. There is an area for entertainment, including a central flower garden, water fountains, pine tree hills, a rose garden, a prehistoric valley, a fun house, a ball game centre, electronic games, and make-up rooms.There is also an area for camping and a lake offering many aquatic activities. A pavilion for dancing and water puppetry is located near the lake. Dam Sen Water Park is a large-scaled water park within the city, which is convenient for city dwellers to come and enjoy themselves here - espec ially at weekends. A whole community including Co-op Mart, a modern bowling center luxurious Sports and Gymnasium Center. etc. will satisfy all kinds of your needs for shopping, entertainment and give you a truly relax holiday when you are really happy with your families or friends. Entrance ticket costs 15,OOOVND for adult, and 8,OOOVND for children.

Fare for entrance water park: Children under 0.8m: Exemption Over1.4m :50,OOOVND Under 1.4m: 35,OOOVND

Zoo and Botanical Gardens

The construction of the gardens began in March 1864 under the supervision of French tropical botanist J.B. Louis Pierre and was completed in 1865. Many valuable trees from different parts of the country, as well as from India, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and other countries, were planted here. A concrete bridge was built over Thi Nghe Canal in 1927, linking the Zoo and Botanical Gardens. The Zoo and Botanical Gardens consists of separate sections where one can see rare animals and ornamental plants, such as a famous collection of orchids, and enjoy the recreational areas for children and adults. The Zoo keeps hundreds of species of mammals, reptiles and birds. The cages are fairly spacious, including outdoor enclosures for tigers, monkeys, lions, deer, apes, crocodiles, snakes and hippopotami. The Botanical Garden is located at 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem, Ben Nghe Quarter, District 1 . There are two gates to the Zoo. The main entrance gate is on Nguyen Binh Khiem Road at the corner of Le Duan Road. The other gate is on Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Road near the bridge over the Thi Nghe Channel.

Cholon

Whenever Cholon is referred to, everyore may immediately think of a Cholon - China Town inside Ho Chi Minh City. Cholon has become part and parcel of every itinerary 'o this city. Tran Hung Dao Boulevard, which connec ts Sai Gon and Cholon is considered the spine bone of Cholon. Cholon now covers a vast area from the residential quarters in Districts 5 and 10 to the vicinity of Districts 6 and 11 . The Hoa people living there still preserve their age-old cultural, architectural, and religious values. The classical beauty of the ir architectural style finds expressions in rows of tile-roofed houses, which seem to be caught forever in a brownish gray colour. During daylight, Cholon is bustling witn sellers and b uyers doing their business. Binh Tay Market, one of the most important markets of Ho Chi Minh City, is located inside Cholon. It can be said that nothing is not sold there. Three or four-star hotels, restaurants include Aquatria, Dong Khanh, Bat Dat, Ngoc Lan Dinh, Soai Kinh Lam, Ai Hue, Thien Hong and A Dong. When night falls, Cholon seems to rejuvenate. From a distance one can see neon signs of various sizes, shapes and colours. Tourists flock into this area not only for purchasing goods but also tasting the gastronomy of the Hoa. One can enjoy mouth-watering dishes as dumplings, boned duck's legs, Duong Chau fried rice, Tu Xuyen tofu and so on. Tourists also have a chance to explore the other side of Cholon. This is its residential area populated by the poor people, with their street stalls lighted under yellowish oil lamps, saddened by the cry of vendors at night. This poses a picture of great contrast. Such is a panoramic picture of Cholon. Come to explore.

Temples and Pagodas :

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is located on 339 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Road,District 3. It was built between 1964 and 1971 with funds from Buddhist followers as the headquarters of Vinh Nghiem region to entertain religious affairs. The pagoda is noteworthy for its ancient Asian arch itecture and seven-story tower, which houses various Buddha statues and a bell presented by Japanese Buddhists during the Vietnam War as a token of their prayers to end the hostilities. The pagoda is open everyday from 7.30am to 11.30 am and 2pm to 6pm. At the base of the tower is a shop that sells Buddhist ritual objects (open only on holidays).

Giac Lam Pagoda

Giac Lam Pagoda (also known as the Cam SVan Hanh Monastery is situated near the road between Phu Nhuan and Go Vap Districts. It includes the imposing Tam Quan (three-entrance gate), the main court hall. Vietnam Buddhism Higher College off ice. the Institute of Buddhism Research office and the Translation Council of Vietnam Prayer Books office Van Hanh Monastery regularly welcomes international Buddhist delegations and other foreign visitors. Devotees from all over the country come to this monastery to celebrate Buddha's birthday and to take part in preaching sessions. It is open daily. on or Cam Dien Pagoda) is located at 118 Lac Long Quan Street in Tan Binh District. Built in 1744, under the reign of Lord Nguyen Phuc Khoat, it is one of the city's oldest pagodas and, unlike many other local religious structures, it has not been renovated since 1900; the architecture, layout, and ornamentation remain almost unaltered. The scenery around the pagoda is picturesque and many people come here to write or recite poetry.Standing in the front garden is a shining white statue of the Goddess of Mercy, perched upon a lotus blossom, a symbol of purity. Inside, on either side of the main altar, are statues of Ameda Buddha and Sakyamuni Buddha, along with more representations of the Goddess of Mercy. The Pagoda also houses 113 statues made of brass and precious timber. It is open from Sam to 9pm.

Giac Vien Pagoda

The Giac Vien Pagoda is located in Lac Long Quan St ., District 11 . Built in 1798, it is architecturally similar to the Giac Lam Pagoda. However, Giac Vien is situated in a more rural location next to Dam Sen Lake. After a while the pagoda was in need of renovations. Bonze Hai Tinh, of the Giac Lam Pagoda (located approximately 2km from Giac Vien), moved there and gradually raised enough funds to make the repairs. When they were completed, Bonze Hai Tinh entrusted the pagoda to his disciple, Hoang Ngai. The most noteworthy elements of the pagoda are the finely carved wooden boards, typical of the ancient architecture of the South. The repa irs carried out in 1958 and 1961-1962 were inspired by Western architecture. It is sa id that King Gia Long used to worship at Giac Vien before his death in 1819.

Xa Loi Pagoda

Xa Lo i Pagoda is situated at 89 Ba Huyen Thanh Quan Street, District 3. Its construct ion was initiated in August 1956, accord ing to the design of architects Tran Van Duong and Do Ba Vinh. The opening ceremony was held in May 1958. The South Vietnam Association of Buddhist Study built the pagoda to worship the remains of Buddha. The altar on the first floor, ded icated to Sakyamauni Buddha, is soberly decorated. The Sakyamuni Buddha statue is an excellent work of art made by LeVan Mau in 1954. The pagoda is open daily from 7am to 11.00am and from 2pm to 5pm.

Phung Son Pagoda

Phung Son Pagoda is located at 1408, 3 Thang 2 Road, District 11 . Many years ago, it was dec ided that it should be moved to a d ifferent location. All of the ritual objects were loaded on to the back of a white elephant for transportation. On the w ay to the new site, the elephant slipped and all of the precious objects fell into a nearby pond. This event was interpreted as a sign that the pagoda should remain at its original location. All of the ritual objects were retrieved, except the bell. which locals say was heard ringing whenever there was a new or full moon up until a century ago. Phung Son Pagoda was established in the early 19th century by Bonze Lieu Thong. Since then, it has undergone two major restorations. Many statues found in the pagoda were created by a group of craftsmen from Sa Dec. A number of valuable statues, such as Di Da Ta rn Ton, Ngu Hien Thuong Ky Thu, a stone statue of Buddha covered with gold leaves, and a ceramic statue of Tieu Dien are also found in the pagoda. The surrounding area is an archaeological site from which many artefacts were excavated, such as a baked earthen head statues and ceramic items belonging to the Oc-Eo culture. The Ministry of Culture has recognized the pagoda as a historical and cultural relic. Prayers are held three times a day from 4am to Sam, 4pm to 5pm, and 6pm to 7pm.

Le Van Duyet Temple

Le Van Duyet was born in 1764, in the village of Long Hung, Tien Giang Province. He was a renowned military dignitary of the Nguyen Dynasty, and the last governor o f the military province of Gia Dinh . Due to a long feud between Duyet and Emperor Minh Mang in 1835, the Emperor desecrated Duyet's tomb and forbad anyone to offer candles or to burn incense on his behalf.However, in 1841, Emperor Thieu Tri reexamined the case and officially forgave Duyet, repairing his tomb, and once again conferring ancient honourable titles upon him. Since then, Le Van Duyet Temple has undergone constant repairs and is much visted. Le Van Duyet Temple is located on 126 Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Binh Thanh District (Tel: 08.841 2517)

Tran Hung DaoTemple

Tran Hung Dao Temple is situated at 36 Vo Thi Sau Street, District 1 . It was first erected in 1932 as a Buddhist pagoda bearing the name of Van An. In 1958, it was entirely rebuilt, featuring the archite cture seen today, forming a T-shape with ..two-piled up roofs and eight curved corners adorned with dragon and phoenix figures. It is styled after northern Vietnamese temples and communal houses. Inside, there are many horizontal and vertical lacquered boards, as well as carved and meticulously inla id incense tables. On the wall, there are pictures of Tran Hung Dao as he chased away Kublai Khan's Mongol aggressors in the 13 " 1 century. The greatest ceremonies at the temple occur over the New Year and on the 20" day of ! re 8" lunar month to celebrate Tran Hung Dao. The temple is open daily from 6am to 11am and from 2pm to 6pm .

Ho ChiMinh Museum -Dragon House Wharf

The Dragon House Wharf , formerly known as Nha Rong, was built in 1863 by the local materials and European materials. It consists of 2-storey building according to the European architectural style, b ut the roof made by Orient style, head horse-shaped, anchor, and two dragons -shaped symbols on the top of the building, then the name "Dragon House" was taken. This museum mostly contains pictures and objects relating to President Ho Chi Minh. It is from this area that the young man Nguyen Tat Thanh (later became President Ho Chi Minh) set sail on a French ship named Admiral Latouche Treville in June 1911 to serve the country. In September 1979, the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City chose Nha Rong as Ho Chi Minh Memorial Site-Dragon House Wharf, then changed it into Ho Chi Minh Museum branch in Ho Chi Minh City. Over time, approximately ten million visitors. local as well as international, have seen Ho Chi Minh Museum-Dragon House Wharf.The Dragon House Wharf, or Uncle Ho's Memorial Site is located at 11 , Nguyen Tat Thanh Road, District 4, just across the Ben Nghe Channel and the Sa igon River. It is open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, from 8am to 11.30 am and 2pm to 6pm, and on Sunday from Sam to 8pm.

Revolutionary Museum

Located in a building more than 100 years old at 65 Ly Tu Trong Street (on the corner with Nam Ky Khoi Nghia), the Revolutionary Museum used to be the Palace of the Governor of Cochinchina and, then, the office of the imperial delegate of the King. Numerous pictures and exhibits are displayed, related to the struggle against French colonialists and American aggressors, as well as images related to the general uprising at Mau Than Spring (1968) and the historical Ho Chi Minh Campaign (^S) to liberate the country. The museum is open from 8am to 11 .30am and 2pm to 4.30pm from Tuesday to Sunday. Admission to the museum is about 10,000 VND.

Vietnam History Museum - Ho Chi Minh City

It is located in Thao Cam Vien Park, at 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem. The Vietnam History Museum in Ho Chi Minh City was built in 1929 and was called Musee Blanchard de la Bosse until 1956. During that period, the mu&eum had different exhibits on ancient Asian art.In 1956, the museum was renamed Saigon Nat ional Museum, and finally in 1975, after some renovations, the museum was expanded. On August 1979, it became Vietnam History Museum in Ho Chi Minh City.Over ten thousand of objects and docu­ments, 21 show rooms are presented in the museum. The museum is divided into two parts:

Part 1 : Vietnam's history from ancient times (approximately 300,000 years ago) up to the 1930s, when Vietnam's Communist Party was founded. It is divided in 8 periods displaying in 6 showrooms with the sub jects: Primitive Age; Hung Kings founding and safeguarding the country; Figh t for Independence (1" -10" centuries): Ly Dynasty (11 "' -13 "' centuries); Tran Dynasty (13 '" -14 " 1 centuries); Le Dynasty (15 " -18 " centuries); Tay Son Dynasty (-19 '" centuries); Nguyen Dynasty (19 " -middle 20 " centuries)

Part II: It consists of 6 specific showrooms displaying characteristics of the Southern area of Vietnam such as the Oc-Eo culture, the ancient culture of the Mekong Delta, the Champa arts, the Vietnamese ethnic minorities in Ben Nghe-Sai Gon, and ancient pottery of various Asian countries.Besides the exhibits system, the museum also has stores system to keep and preserve abundant of artifacts. It is open from Sam to 11.30 am and 1pm to 4pm from Tuesday to Sunday. Admission costs about 10,000 VND.

Around Hochiminh :

Cu Chi Tunnels

Cu Chi is a rural district, approx i­mately 30km north-west of Ho Chi Minh City. The district, ha­ving an area of 43,000ha. lies between the Saigon River and the Vam Co Dong River. Cu Chi played an important role during the two resistance wars. It was an underground village with a network of tunnels totaling more than 250km. The main tunnel is from 60 to 70cm wides and from 80 to 90cm highs. The tunnels are approximately 3 to 10m under a layer of earth able to sustain the weight of 50ton-tanks, heavy artillery, and bombs of up to 100kg. The network is equipped with various accommodations from meeting rooms to a medical clinic.Those who set foot in the tunnels cannot h elp but admiring the talent, determination and endurance of the communist guerrillas. They dug and removed tens of thousands of tons of earth and stone with rudimentary toois, and then camouflaged the openings so well that nobody could find them, Cu Chi Tunnels is located in Phu My Hung Commune, 40km from the town of Cu Chi District, 70km from Ho Chi Minh City. Cu Chi Tunnels is open to local and foreign vis itors. Admission costs US$4.

Ben Duoc Temple

The Ben Duoc Temple is located on a 7 ha area near the Cu Chi Tunnels , in Phu My Hung Commune, in Cu Chi District. The construction of the temple started in May 1993 and was completed in December 1995. It features a three-entrance gate, a memorial house, a nine-story tower , a main temple and a flower garden. The worshipping area in the main temple is solemnly decorated with a statue of Pres ident Ho Chi Minh and the walls are ca'ved with a list of the names of 44,520 so;d iers who died fighting for independence. Urder-neath the temple is a display of images and objects that reflect the struggle that took place in Cu Chi. Every year, on December 19, a memorial festival is held a t the Ben Duoc Temple.

Eighteen hamlets of Trau (Betel)Garden

Trau Garden is located in Hoc Mon District, 10km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. The lifestyle of this country commune still retains its traditional rustic features. Horse-drawn carts make up the chief means of transport. The locals continue growing betel trees and building houses in traditional style. The most distinguished characters of the local people are their love for martial arts, self-sacrifice for just causes, righteousness, and mutual affection. This land wins kudos for the heroic struggles of its people against the French and American invaders.People here regard betel growing their hard currency earner. Tourists will find in the commune a carpet of everlasting green of betel leaves. The betel trees grow so thick that, when standing under their foliage, one can hardly get wet in the rain. Tourists can go by horse-drawn cart to sightsee the whole commune, and to talk with the local people who are open and hospitable. They will tell visitors about the heroism of their ancestors during the two resistance wars.

Saigon Water Park

Saigon Water Park was opened to visitors on December 13, 1997, providing water entertainment by the Saigon River in Thu Du e District (near Go Dua Bridge), about 10km from downtown Ho Chi Minh City. Covering an area of 5 hectares, the Saigon Water Park is the first water park of international standard in Vietnam . It offers new and lively outdoors - recreational activities suitable for all tastes and ages.This joint venture with Australian Pegasus Leisure is worth of US$11.16 million.In the park, the "Water Slides, Raft Rides", from a height of 15 meters, consists of six slides, and visitors slide over 120 meters of zigzag circles before flying to a blue water lake. Two persons can slide together on special slides. Multi-slides and twisters are also provided which consist of two-slide twittering into each other from a height of 12 meters and are 70 meters long.Visitors may swim or use rubber rings to play in the Wave Pool. Every ten minutes, tiere is an artificial wave, one meter high. Those who want to relax can use buoys to float on the Lazy River, 350 meters long, and enjoy the fresh natural air and see the entire park, shaded with many trees. There is a special swimming pool reserved for children.With new games, some with high speeds t hat give vis itors great thrills, Saigon Water Park now has become a place for anyone who wants to enjoy water entertainment r.ght in the middle of Ho Chi Minh City. Admission 60 .000VND for adult and 35,OOOVND for children, open 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday; On Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays open Sam to 8pm. To go there, tourists can take a meter taxi for about 50 .000VND or catch a shuttle bus (one every half-hour) from Ben Thanh Market (price 5,OOOVND).

Suoi Tien Tourist Site

The Suoi Tien Tourist Site is located in Tan Phu Ward, Disthct 9,19km away from Ho Chi Minh City. A tourist s ite of the Southeast Asian rank, Suoi Tien still preserves a pure, gr een, and clean environment, which makes it "the lung" of Ho Chi Minh City. It is thus an ideal place for holidaymakers from far and near.The 25-ha Cultural Tourist Site of Suoi Tien includes a sightseeing area, a holiday resort, and a high-quality entertainment area. Inside Suoi Tien, one finds a giant dragon of 400m, and a statue of unicorn. Tourists may visit Flower and Butterfly Grottoes, the crocodile-breeding farm with over 2,000 crocodiles, the 8-ha orchards, or the nice, attractive Square of the Mysterious Palace of Twelve Animals. They can catch a mini-train to tour the site. There is still more, Among them are self-controlled Boeing planes, one 30-meter swing, air-bicycle excursions to the crocodile farm, or high­speed hydroplanes.Visitors to Suoi Tien also have chances to immerse themselves in the poetic land­scapes and see the Sea World with hundreds of species of fish, which are breeding in the glass tanks.

Vam Sat Mangrove Forest

Vam Sat is an eco-tourism site with an area of 2,000 hectares in Ly Nhon Com­mune, Can Gio District, 50km from centre of Ho Chi Minh City. This area lies in the buffer zone of Can Gio Mangrove Forest that UNESCO recognizes the first biosphere reserve in Vietnam, and is the 368 th member of the international network of biosphere reserve.The Eco-tourist site of Vam Sat Mangrove Forest has beautiful landscapes and clean environment, suitable for the development of an eco-tourism area. Visitors to Vam Sat can stay overnight at the houses by the seaside, under the foliages. This area has many interesting activities that attract a large number of domestic and foreign visitors.It is an ideal location to sit and sip a cold drink under coconut palms and bamboo trees amid acres of exotic orchids.The Orchid Farm is located at 5/81 Thu Du e Highway, 15km from Ho Chi Minh City. The best time to visit is during the dry season (December to May).

Binh Quoi Tourist Village

Binh Quoi Tourist Village is located on the Thanh Da peninsula by the Saigon River, in Binh Thanh District, 8km from the centre of Ho Chi Minh City. This is the city's biggest resort with its unique scenery. There are 55 modern-equipped bedrooms in the village, which nestle under big trees by the river. The village's restaurant is where big parties can be held and famous grilled dishes and Vietnamese traditional specialties can be found. There are marvelo.us shows of traditional music in the evening, including "Ky Yen Festival," "Southern amateur singing on Ghe Hau." "Traditional Vietnamese Wedding." Such shows attract a great deal of domestic and overseas tourists. You can also go water surf ing, fishing, swimming, play tennis, and many other kinds of sport. From Binh Quoi, yo u can boat along the Saigon River to visit the Ben Duoc Underground Tunnel, Lai Thieu Fruit Gardens, and back to the Nha Rong Wharf

• TRANSPORT

Ho Chi Minh City is 72km from Mytho, 125km from Vung Tau. 136km from Vinh Long, 169km from Can Tho, 250km from Rach Gia and 338km from Ha Tien (Kien Giang Province), 299km from Dalat (Lam Dong Province), 445km from Nha Trang (Khanh Hoa Province), 965km from Danang, 1,071km from Hue and 1,710km from Hanoi.

Air

Tan Son Nhat Airport is 7km from the city centre. Domestic connections with Camau, Buon Ma Thuot, Dalat, Nha Trang, Danang, Hue, Hanoi, Haiphong, Con Dao, Phu Quoc, Pleiku, Qui Nhon, Rach Gia, Tuy Hoa and Vinh. Nearly domestic flights are operated by Vietnam Airlines. There are taxis to the city centre (cost around 60,OOOVND, about US$4). If you are travelling without much baggage, a motorbike taxi is an option (cost 40 .000VND, nearly US$3)

Airline Offices

Aeroflot--4H Le Loi Blvd., Dist.1 Tel: 829 3489, Fax: 829 0076

Air France--130 Dong Khoi Rd. , Dist.1 Tel: 829 0982, Fax: 822 0537

Asiana Airlines--Diamond Plaza, No.707-1 34 Le Duan Blvd., Dist.1 Tel: 822 2663, Fax: 829 4579

British Airway--170-172 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Rd . , Dist.3 Tel: 930 2933, Fax: 930 2928

Cathay Pacific Airways--Jardine House 58 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 822 3203, Fax: 825 8276

China Southern Airlines--21-23 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 829 8417, Fax: 829 6800

China Airlines--132 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 825 1389, Fax: 825 1390

Emirates Airlines--170-172 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Rd . , Dist.3 Tel: 930 2939, Fax: 930 2928

Eva Air - Taiwan --- 32 Ngo Du e Ke Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 822 4488, Fax: 8223567

Japan Airlines--88 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 821 9098, Fax: 821 9097

K.L.M. Royal Dutch Airlines--2A-4A Ton Du e Thang Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 823 1990, Fax: 823 1989

Korean Air--Diamond Plaza, No.909 34 Le Duan Blvd., Dist.1 Tel: 824 2879, Fax: 824 2877

Lao Aviation--93 Pasteur Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 822 6990, Fax: 822 6990

Lufthansa • German Airlines--132-134 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 829 8529, Fax: 829 8537

Malaysia Airlines--235 Dong Khoi Rd. , Dist.1 Tel: 829 2529, Fax: 824 2884

Pacific Airlines--2 Dong Khoi Rd, Dist.1 Tel: 823 1285, Fax; 822 8130

Qantas Airways--170-172 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Rd . , Dist.3 Tel: 930 2944, Fax: 930 2936

Royal Cambodia Airlines--9 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 829 9363, Fax: 829 5832

Singapore Airlines--Saigon Tower, 29 Le Duan Blvd., Dist.1 Tel: 823 1588; Fax: 823 1554

Swiss Air c/o Diethelm Travel--1A Me Linh Square ., Dist.1 Tel: 827 4188, Fax: 829 4747

Thai Airways--65 Nguyen Du Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 829 2810, Fax: 822 3465

United Airlines--58 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 823 4755, Fax: 823 0030

Vietnam Air Service Co. (Vasco)--114 Bach Dang Rd . , Tan Binh Dist. Tel: 842 2790, Fax: 844 5224

Vietnam Airlines--116 Nguyen Hue Bvld., Dist.1 Tel: 823 0695, Fax: 823 0273------------------------------Domes tic Booking Office--15B Dinh Tien Hoang Rd . , Dist.3 Tel: 825 8377

Train

Saigon Railway Station 1 Nguyen Thong Rd . , Dist. 3 (Tel: 843 6528- 931 0666)The Express trains take 30 hours, 33 hours ana 39 hours to reach Hanoi; hard and soft seats are available. Air-conditioned sleepers should be booked in advance.Train ticke ts are purchased at the ticket off ice of the station and also can be purchased from most travel agents.

Bus and minibus

There is a variety of bus stations around HCMC.

Mien Dong Bus Station, 292 Dinh Bo Linh Rd, Binh Thanh Dist, Tel: 898 4893. There are services from Mien Dong to points north of HCMC such as Buon Ma Thuot (8 hours), Danang (24 hours), Dalat (7 hours), Haiphong (43 hours), Nha Trang (8 hours), Hanoi (36 - 40 hours), Hue (25 hours), Phan Thiet (4 hours), Pleiku (13 hours), Vung Tau (2h30 '), Vinh (31 hours), Quang Ngai (20 hours), Quy Nhon (16 hours), Nam Dinh (38 hours) and Tuy Hoa (12 hours). Most buses leave daily from 5am to 5.30pm.

Mien Tay Bus Station , 395 Kinh Duong Vuong Rd . , Binh Tan Dist. (Tel: 877 6593) On the western edge of the city, where buses and minibuses leave for most major towns of the Mekong Delta.

Cholon Bus Station 84 Trang Tu Rd. , Dist 5 (Tel: 855 7719), It is the most convenient place to get buses to My Tho, Long An.

Buses to Tay Ninh, National Highway 22, An Suong four way crossroads. (Tel: 883 2516). The Tay Ninh bus route (includes: Tay Ninh and Tay Ninh's towns.

City buses .At present, there are 66 bus routes. Fare cost: 2,OOOVND. Operation hours: 5am-5pm everyday.

Boat

The Hydrofoil route from Ho Chi Minh city to Vung Tau city (and vice versa) - Operation hours: hourly trips from 6.15am to 4pm (weekdays except for Sat), from 6.15am to 5pm (Sat & Sun).The ticket booking offices:

Vina Express Bach Dang Jetty (Ben BachDang)Tel: 829 7892

Petro Express Bach Dang Jetty (Ben Bach Dang)Tel: 821 0653

Car

Almost touns; cafe, travel agent or hotel arrange car -ental.

Bicycle and motorbike: Bicycle and motorbike rentals at hotels and cafes.

Taxi

Metered tax 's cruises the streets, but it's often easier to phone tor one. Companies offer metered taxis charge almost the same rates. About 12 .0 00VND for the two kilometres and 6,OOOVND for each kilometre after.These are some main taxi companies:

Airport Taxi: 844 6666 Festival Taxi: 845 6456 Mai Linh Taxi: 823 2323 Saigon Tour ist Taxi: 844 6677 Red Taxi: 846 4646 Vina Taxi: 8 n 1111 VinaSun Taxi: 827 2727

Cyclo A good way to get around

Motorbike taxi (Xe om) Quickest way to get around town and cheaper than cyclo. Xe om drivers hang around on most street corners.

VIETNAMESE CUISINE

Ba Mien 122B Tran Quoc Thao Rd . , Dist.3 Tel: 931 7096

Com Ngon Restaurant-88 Nguyen Du Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 827 7896 Seafood and Barbecuse

Cung Dinh Rex-146 Pasteur Rd . , Dist.-Tel. 829 2185--North - Center - South Vietnamese food.

Kinh Bac - 30 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel. 829 1364 Vietnamese Restaurant

Liberty Restaurant - 80 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1-Tel: 829 1623 -Excellent and affordable Vietnamese food, expensive Chinese and Western food.

Maxim's Sea Food Restaurant-17 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 623 0644

Nam Phan-64 Le Thanh Ton Rd . . Dist.1 Tel: 829 2757 Vietnamese Restaurant

Ngoc Suong-9C Le Qui Don Rd . , Dist.3-Tel: 930 5234-The fresh seafood and traditional Vietnamese cuisine

Pho Xua-211 Dien Bien Phu Rd . , Dist.3 Tel: 829 9625

Phu Xuan-128 Dinh Tien Hoang Rd . , Dist.1 Tel; 820 0329 Hue specilities

Quan an Ngon-138 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Rd. , Dist.1 (opposite the Reunification Palace ) Tel: 825 7179 Authentic Vietnamese food served in a really traditional Vietnamese style

Song Ngu- 70 Suong Nguyet Anh Rd . , Dist.1-Tel -,8325017-Excellent Vie tnamese Cruise and Seafood

Thanh Nien Restaurant-11 Nguyen Van Chiem Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 822 5909 Vietnamese Specialties

Vietnam House-93-95 DongKnoi Rd . , Dist.1-Tel; 829 1623-Excellent tradi tional music and costumes

ASIAN CUISINE

Akatombo-38 HaiBaTrungRd., Dist.1 Tel: 824 4928 Well-priced Japanese food

Arirang Ka Tun-17 Hoang Viet Rd . , Tan Binh Dist. Well-priced Korean food

Ashoka-17/1 OLe Thanh Ton Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 823 1372 Traditional Indian cuisine

HiSago-77-89 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 821 7902 Japanese Restaurant

Indian Heritage-12 Thai Van Lung Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 823 4687 Well-priced Indian food

Jollibee-A43 Truong Son Rd ,, Tan Binh Dist.-Tel: 848 6585-Fast food from Philippines

K - Cafe-74A 4 Ha iBaTrungRd ., Dist.1 Tel: 824 5355

La Feneire Soleil- 2 th floor, 135 Le Thanh Ton Rd., Dist.1 Tel: 822 5209

Margherita's-132 Ham Nghi Blvd., Dist.1Tel: 821 1687-Malaysian food in an elegent decor.

Ngan Dinh Restaurant-22-36 Nguyen Hue Blvd., Dist.1-Tel: 829 9137-Hong Kong, Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese Cuisine

Sawaddee-24 ThiSachRd., Dist.1-Tel: 823 3676-Well-priced and tasty Thai food

The Sushi Bar-2 Le Thanh Ton Rd ., Dist.1 Tel: 823 8042 Well-priced Japanese food

The First Hong Kong Gourmet-1 An Duong Vuong Rd ., Dist.5 Tel: 835 4483 Good Chinese food

Yeebo -5 Me Linh Square ., Dist.1 Tel: 823 0368 Good Chinese food

EUROPEAN CUISINE

Amigo-55 - 57 Nguyen Hue Blvd., Dist.1 Tel: 829 0437 Steak Hous

Augustine-10 Nguyen Thiep Rd ., Dist.1-Tel: 829 2941-Popular French food at good prices.

Bibi-8A /8 D2 Thai Van Lung Rd ., Dist.1 Tel: 829 5783 Good French food

Camargue-16 CaoBaQuatRd., Dist.1-Tel: 824 3148-French villa, good French food, rather expensive

Chateu Restaurant-160B Tran Hung Dao Blvd., Djst.1 Tel: 920 0079 European and Asian food

Giao Cafe-11 Mac Dinh Chi Rd ., Dist.1-Tel: 822 9796-Pizza and sandwiches.

Garten Stadt-34 Dong Khoi Rd ., Dist.1 Tel: 822 3623 German food

Good morning Vietnam-197 DeThamRd., Dist.1 Tel: 837 1894 Excellent Italian cuisine

La Fourchette-9 Ngo Du e Ke Rd ., Dist.1-Tel: 829 8143-Good French food. rather expensive

La Taverne Restaurant-76 Suong Nguyet Anh Rd. , Dist.1-Tel: 925 2616 French and Vietnamese Cruise

Le Bordeaux-F7-F8, D2 - 25 Ward, Binh Thanh Dist,-Tel: 899 9831-Excellent food. Wide range of imported delicacies.

Paris Deli-31 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1-Tel: 829 7533 Pizza and sandwiches

Sama Restaurant-35 Dong Du Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 822 4814 French food

VEGETARIAN

Cay Bo De Restaurant (Bohi Tree) 175/4 Pham Ngu Lao Rd ,. Dist.1 Tel: 837 1910 Delicious vegetarian food at reasonable prices

Giac Duc Restaurant 492 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Rd . , Dist.3 Tel: 835 6161

Thai Nhan Restaurant 491/10 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Rd . , Dist 3 Tel: 835 8621

Tin Nghia Vegetarian Restaurant 9Tran Hung DaoBlvd., Dist.1 Tel: 821 2538

Minh Tri Restaurant 40 Cach Mang Thanh Ta rn Rd . , Dist.10 Tel: 930 2594

AniBi 6 Nguyen Thiep Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 822 8855

Apocalypse 2B Thi Sach Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 825 6124

Blue Sky 15/1 Le Thanh Ton Rd . , Dist 1 Tel: 823 7823

Cafe Latin 19 Dong DuRd., Dist.1 Tel: 822 6363

Carmen 8LyTu TrongRd ., Dist.1 Tel: 829 7699

Marine Club 17A4Le Thanh Ton Rd . Dist.1 Tel: 829 2249

Mogamho Cafe 20 Bis Thi Sach Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 825 1311

Paloma Cafe 26 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 829 5813

Spaceship 34 Ton Du e Thang Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 821 8463

Why Not 24 Tha i Van Lung Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 822 6138

JEWELRY

Alpha Jewelry 167 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 825 1918

Saigon Jewelry Shoping Center 66 Ter Le Loi Blvd., Dist.1 Tel: 829 8865

SavicoCenter 57-69 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel 822 9421

CLOTHING / FASHION / SILK

Bich Son Silk Shop 135DongKhoi Rd., Dist.1 Tel: 829 7208

Creation, 105 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 829 5429 Modern fashions

Khai Silk 107 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 829 1146 Tailored ao dai. modern fashions and more

Lucky Plaza 69 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1

Miss Ao Dai 21 Nguyen Trung Ngan Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 822 2139

Re Da Saigon, 29 Le Thanh Ton Rd . , Dist 1 Tel: 827 2695

Saigon Square Center 39 Le Duan Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 823 3917

Tax Center 135 Nguyen Hue Blvd. , D ist.1 Tel: 821 2644

Zakka, 134 Pasteur Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 824 5345 High-quality , original and beautiful designs in silk for ladies

LACQUER / HANDICRAFTS / SOUVERNIRS

Asian Fish, 34 Mac Thi Buoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 829 9836 High-quality handicrafts and beautiful embro idered fabrics from minority tribes.

Butterfly (Con Buom), 26B Le Thanh Ton Rd ., Dist.1 Tel -.8221162 Decorative items and traditional handicrafts

Cong Anh 50 Cach Mang Thang Ta rn Rd . , Dist.10 Tel -,9304916

Em Em, 38 Mac Thi Buoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 829 4408 Specialises in BatTrang pottery from northern Vietnam

GLX Hand Made, 114A Nguyen Hue Blvd. .Dist.1 . Tel: 822 1923 Fire handicraf ts and top qualify gifts

Kim Phuong, 125 Le Thanh Ton Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 827 7091 High-quality hand-embroidered linen and silk pieces

Phuong Nam 219NguyenTrai Rd ., Dist.1 T el: 837 0434

Prekitch, Savico Shopping Centre. 22-36 Nguyen Hue Blvd . , Dist.1 le i: 822 7544 interesting handicrafts and decorative items ncluding ceramics, basketware and other nome decor Hems

Song Shop 53 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist,1 Tel: 823 5438

Tay Son 198 Vo Thi Sau Rd.,Dist.3

T&M Silk (Hand-Made Embroidery, Table Clothes, Embroidered paintings) 155Dong Khoi Rd. , Dist.1 Tel: 824 5398

Van Nam Arts & Crafts 31 Nguyen Van Thu Rd , Dist.1 Tel: 9101058

NIGHT CLUBS

Amara-323 Le Van Sy Rd . , Dist.3 Tel: 843 9999

Ben Nghe-2 Ton DucThang Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 829 0855

Blue-95 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 829 5405

Caravelle Hotel-19 Cong Truong Lam Son, Dist.1

Liberty-80 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Te l: 829 5581

Maxim's Dancing-15-17 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 825 1171

Queen Bee-106 Nguyen Hue Blvd., Dist.1 Tel: 829 1836

Rain Forest-5-15HoHuanNghiepRd.,Dist.1 Tel: 825 7783

Space Ship-34 Ton Du e Thang Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 821 7734

MUSIC CLUBS

131-131 Nguyen Hue Blvd., Dist.1 Tel: 821 8661

259-259 Tran Hung Dao Blvd., Dist.1 Tel 8376779

Maya-6CaoBaQuatRd ., Dist.1 Tel: 829 5180

Underground-69 Dong Khoi Rd . , (BF. Lucky Plaza), Dist.1 Tel: 829 9079

Young Music -(3 places) 161 Nguyen Van Troi Rd . , Phu Nhuan Dist.Tel; 844 0183

97 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Rd . , Dist.1Tei: 925 2705

1 Le Thanh Ton Rd . , Dist.1Tel : 822 9044

• POSTS & TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Cholon Post Office-26 Nguyen Thi Rd . , Dist. 5

Gia Dinh Post Office-3 Phan Dang Luu, Binh Thanh Dist.

DHL Worldwide Express offers express delivery from the Saigon CPO, and from the DHL main office at 4 Phan Thuc Duyen Rd ., Tan Binh Dist ., Tel: 844 4268.

Saigon Central Post Office (CPO) 2 Cong Xa Pari Rd . , Dist. 1 Open daily.7.30am-7.30p m

• MEDICAL SERVICES

Cho Ray Hospital 201 B Nguyen Chi Thanh Rd . , Dist. 5 Tel: 855 4137, 855 4138

Columbia Asia Vietnam 8 Alexandre de Rhodes Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 823 8455

Emergency Centre 266 LyT huongKietRd.,Dist.10 Tel: 863 9139 Open 24 hours, doctors speak English and French.

Franco -Vietnamese Hospital 6 Nguyen Luong Bang Rd. , Dist 7 Tel: 411 3333

International Medical Centre 520 Nguyen Tri Phuong Rd . , Dist. 10 Tel: 865 4025

Intstitute of Traditional Mecine 273 Nguyen Van Troi Rd . , Phu Nhuan Dist Tel: 844 3047

• MONEY

ANZ Bank 11 Me Linh Square , Dist.1 Tel: 829 9319

Bangkok Bank 35 Nguyen Hue Blvd. , Dist.1 Tel: 821 4396

City Bank 15th floor. 115 Nguyen Hue Blvd. , Dist.1 Tel: 824 2118

Credit Lyonnais Han Nam Building , 65 Nguyen Du Rd . .Dist.1 Tel: 829 9226

Deutsche Bank 65 Le Loi Blvd. , Dist.1 Tel: 822 2747

Indovina Bank 39 Ham Nghi Blvd. , Dist.1 Tel: 822 4995

Hong Kong Bank 235 Dong Khoi Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 829 2288

OSBC Bank 35 Nguyen Hue Blvd. , Dist.1 Tel: 821 4120

UFJ Bank 115 Nguyen Hue Blvd. , Dist.1 Tel: 827 8020

Vietcombank 29 Chuong Duong Rd . , Dist.1 Tel: 829 7245