Ho Chi Minh City
Is located near the Mekong River, Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam boasting a population of 7 million people. Is is one of the densest urban areas in the world. For travellers visiting Ho Chi Minh you will find a rich culture Ho Chi Minh is very active at night, with many bars and restaurants.

Saigon or Ho Chi Minh City?

 The first used to be the capital of the French colony and latter of the former state of South Vietnam until the end of the war in 1975. Yet the locals still lovingly call it Saigon. Ho Chi Minh did not escape the war but it is now a rapidly growing city. The nations economic centre has begun urban and education developments. It has over 50 universities and and 300, 000 students! You will also find dozens of supermarket chains, luxury shopping malls and modern fashion centres. But Ho Chi Minh is also a city with a rich past! Heavily influenced by the French in terms of culture and style in the past, there are still elegant boulevards and historic colonial buildings. The best way to do the explore is on foot  Most major tourist venues are in District 1. There you find the History Museum and the famous Ben Thanh Market!

Airport
Tan Son Nhat International Airport is Vietnam’s largest international airport,
located 7km north of the city centre (District 1).
The air conditioned airport bus, service number 152, is the cheapest way into the city. You can also get in town with taxis for US$3-5 (make sure the driver uses the meter and wears an official badge) in
approx. 20-30minutes.
Airport Taxis and Saigon Taxis: +84 (0)88424242
(A departure tax of US$14 must be paid in
cash (dollars or dong) when leaving.)
Phone: +84 (0)8 845 6654
Internet: www.saigonairport.com/home_saigon.asp

Local Public Transport
Since 2004 Saigon has had an efficient public transit bus network. It’s cheaper and safer than many of the alternatives. 2.000 VND/ride (Available onboard bus).
More information:
Address: 131 Nguy?n Hu? Street, B?n Nghé Ward, District 1
Phone: + 84 (0)88298992 / +84 (0)88944010
Internet: www.satranco.com.vn

Taxi
Taxis are the most comfortable way of getting around and are cheap. It’s easy
and safe to catch one anywhere and anytime. It’s recommended to use the
newest taxis, they have air conditioning and they drive more safely. Taxis in Ho Chi Minh City charge you 12 000 VND for the first 2 km, and 6000 VND for every km thereafter. Always make sure the meters work properly!
Airport Taxis and Saigon Taxis: +84
(0)88424242
Phone: +84 (0)88424242

Cyclos
This three wheel pedalled vehicle is being phased out, as more and more streets are banning the cyclos from entering. Cyclos’ prices are bargains, which is about one third of taxi fares.

Bicycles And Motorbikes For Hire
Bicycles and motorbikes for hire are available along the pavements near hotels
and around the backpackers’ area. Many places will ask you to leave your passport as a deposit; other places just ask you for your name and the hotel where you are staying. Prices are negotiable, a motorbike is about 6-12$ per day or less, while bicycles cost around 4 - 6$ per day.