Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City

Still referred to by locals and expatriates as Saigon,H.C.M is an incredibly vibrant city where the new is on a rapid collision course with the old. Many people speak English and the culture shock is minimal when compared with China.

The French influence is evident in many aspects of Vietnamese culture and is very noticeable with baguette/sandwich stalls at most street corners, coffee bars lining the street at each and every turn and the abundance of patisseries and bakeries. Combine this with the constant background noise of motorbikes and sound systems, as well as the heat and humidity, and it gives the city an energy unique to South East Asia. Just don’t forget the earplugs!