South Vietnam Destinations

Phu Quoc is the biggest island in Vietnam, boasting the most beautiful white sand beaches, surrounded by palm and coconut trees. It's the largest island in Vietnam and is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes. Located just 45 kilometers from the southern tip of Vietnam and just 4 kilometers from Cambodia, it is the perfect spot for a long weekend getaway. Moreover, you don’t need a visa if you fly in from another country directly, regardless of your nationality. However, if you are taking a ferry from Vietnam, you must have a valid Vietnam visa to enter the island.

Phu Quoc boasts numerous pristine beaches like Long Beach (Bai Truong), Ong Lang Beach, and Sao Beach (Bai Sao), each offering its own charm, from serene relaxation to vibrant beachside activities. Beyond its beaches, the island is home to dense jungles, waterfalls, and nature reserves like Phu Quoc National Park. You'll find diverse flora and fauna, including rare wildlife. Snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing are popular due to the island's rich marine life. 

There are hundreds of resorts to choose from in Phu Quoc, most of them with private beaches and facilities that ensure you relax and unwind. All you have to do is grab a bike and explore the island's scintillating views and food. It is also one of the few places in Vietnam where you can legally gamble. The island has multiple fishing villages and multiple tours that allow you to explore the unique culture of Phu Quoc Island. There are other smaller islands around the main Phu Quoc islands that you can explore on kayaks and boats. 

A touch of Europe amidst the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, the Central Post Office stands as a magnificent architectural landmark. Built between 1886 and 1891, it's a testament to French colonial influence, showcasing a beautiful blend of neo-classical European design and subtle Asian decorative touches. The facade boasts red-brick walls, arched windows, and a clock tower that adds a touch of grandeur.

Step inside, and be transported to a bygone era. Lofty ceilings adorned with intricate stucco work, polished marble floors, and rows of wooden mailboxes evoke a sense of old-world charm. Two large, hand-painted maps dating back to the post office's inauguration grace the walls, offering a glimpse into the region's historical telegraphic network.

While mail service remains operational, the Central Post Office has evolved into a popular tourist destination. Visitors flock to marvel at its architectural beauty, purchase unique souvenirs, or simply send a postcard adorned with a Vietnamese stamp, carrying a piece of Ho Chi Minh City with them. The post office bustles with activity, a delightful mix of locals and tourists, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of this historical gem.

In the heart of Ho Chi Minh City lies a powerful symbol of Vietnam's past - the Independence Palace, also known as Reunification Palace. Designed by renowned Vietnamese architect Ngo Viet Thu in the 1960s, it served as a residence and office for South Vietnamese presidents during the Vietnam War. The building itself is a striking example of 1960s architecture, featuring an airy and open layout that reflects the era's aesthetics.

The palace became etched in history in 1975 when a North Vietnamese tank famously breached its gates, marking the fall of Saigon and the culmination of the war. This dramatic event cemented the palace's place as a symbol of Vietnam's tumultuous past.

Today, the Independence Palace stands as a meticulously preserved landmark. Visitors can explore its various floors, marveling at the grand reception rooms where foreign dignitaries were once welcomed. Upstairs, meeting spaces offer a glimpse into the strategic discussions that shaped South Vietnam's leadership. Even the rooftop helipad, from which the last American helicopter departed Saigon, remains accessible.

A tour of the Independence Palace is a journey through Vietnamese history. From the elegance of its design to the weight of its historical significance, the palace offers a powerful testament to the country's resilience and its ultimate reunification.

Ho Chi Minh City's Bui Vien Walking Street, also known as "Western Street," throbs with a frenetic energy unlike anywhere else in the city. This 1.4-kilometer stretch transforms from a daytime budget haven into a nighttime extravaganza for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.

Imagine a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and smells. Street vendors tempt you with sizzling skewers of meat, fresh spring rolls, and exotic fruits. Plastic tables and chairs spill out from open-air bars, each vying for your attention with flashing neon signs and upbeat music. Tourists from all corners of the globe mingle, their laughter blending with the rhythmic thrum of live music from street performers.

The air vibrates with a sense of anything-goes excitement. Budget guesthouses and travel agencies line the streets, catering to the constant influx of visitors. Souvenir stalls overflow with colorful trinkets and knock-offs, while tailors offer custom clothing at lightning speed. As night deepens, the energy intensifies, with bars overflowing and music pumping into the wee hours.

Bui Vien Walking Street is a sensory overload, a budget traveler's paradise, and a place where memories are made – for better or worse. It's not for everyone, but for those seeking a taste of unadulterated, energetic Saigon nightlife, it's an experience not to be missed.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Cho Lon, Ho Chi Minh City's captivating Chinatown. Literally translating to "Big Market," Cho Lon isn't just a place, it's an experience for all senses. Weaving through narrow alleys, you'll be greeted by a cacophony of sounds - vendors hawking their wares, motorbikes zipping by, and the rhythmic clatter of mahjong tiles. The air is thick with the aroma of exotic spices, sizzling street food, and incense wafting from ornate temples.

Overhead, red lanterns strung across streets cast a warm glow, while weathered shop signs in Chinese characters add a touch of intrigue. Shops overflowing with everything imaginable line the streets - silk lanterns, traditional medicine stalls, overflowing with herbs and curious concoctions, alongside glitzy gold shops and contemporary fashion boutiques. Duck into a hidden alley and discover a generations-old tea shop or a bustling food court serving up steaming bowls of phở and delectable dim sum.

Cho Lon is a living tapestry of cultures, a place where ancient traditions meet modern energy. It's a feast for the senses, a maze to explore, and a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.