Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Ho Chi Minh City or Saigon is the former capital of Vietnam. It is such a lively place, the energy assaulting you the moment you step onto the streets and inviting you to feel the city's pulse. A lot of that is to do with the throngs of motorbikes swarming all over the roads and pavements as they move shoal-like round any obstacle. Want to cross the road? Walk straight with a steady gait and don't hesitate, the bikes will navigate round you, not the other way around. Added to the bike-buzz are lots of foodie restaurants, craft beer joints and refurbished colonial buildings, which all contribute to the Saigon vibe!
The Ao Dai - the world's most alluring national dress! Photo taken on Duong Nguyen Hue.
The Hotel Continental, famous as the foreign correspondents' hang-out in times of war (see separate feature).
It is on Dong Khoi, formerly known as Rue Catinat and then as Tu Do St after the French departed.
It is on Dong Khoi, formerly known as Rue Catinat and then as Tu Do St after the French departed.
Above: the Crescent in District 7
Living in a 'flooding street', the whole road was inundated at high tide, especially at full moon times (the Saigon River is tidal). Water came into the garage but luckily not into the house. This was in District 2.
Weddings are an important occasion - no expense spared! 'Mot-hai-ba-yo' as each table raises a glass!
Above: Nguyen Thai Minh Khai Steet just after a downpour. 'Di vong vong,' round the roundabout!
Above: District 7 during Tet
Left: Vietnamese coffee comes in all sorts of flavours. Luwak coffee is made from beans that have been digested and defecated by a palm civet. Or you can keep things simple with a Moka Weasel - up to you!
It sure knows how to rain in Vietnam
Above - this photo predates the mandatory crash helmet law of 2007. Overnight the uptake went from 6% to over 90%. It has been estimated that in the subsequent ten-year period, the country saved $3.5 billion in medical costs and lost production. The fine for non-compliance in 2007 was 300,000 vnd - a crash helmet cost 250,000!
Above and Below: colourful Ben Thanh Market
Above: Time to chill!
Above: the ubiquitous conical 'Non La' - literally, 'leaf hat'.
The Opera House and the refurbished Caravelle Hotel.