HO CHI MINH CITY

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is the economic heart of Vietnam — a city that never sleeps with 13 million people, skyscrapers interspersed with centuries-old temples and bustling food markets that stay open all night.

Must-see historical sites: Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office. On weekdays, dedicate half a day to the Cu Chi Tunnels — the legendary 200km underground tunnel system.

The Mekong Delta is a 2-hour drive away — Cai Be floating market, fruit orchards, canoeing through canals and enjoying coconut rice and Western-style banh xeo (Vietnamese savory pancake).