vietnam // asia
[ Left ] Never a dull moment on the streets of Saigon . [ Above ] Inside fabulous new urban retreat , Fusion Original Saigon Centre . [ Right ] A sixth-floor swimming pool offers mesmerising city views at the Fusion Original Saigon Centre .
TABLE FOR TWO
Good food is easy to find in HCMC , from cheap and cheerful eateries and street food carts to fancier fine-dining haunts . If you ’ re keen to try an authentic Vietnamese dish , look to pho ( pronounced ‘ fuh ’) a tasty broth bowl with flat rice noodles , herbs , and meat . Or sample the crunchy / soft , French / Vietnamese baguette goodness of bánh mì . Coffee-lovers can join the locals sipping cà phê sua dá ( ka-fay sooh-da ), a rich iced coffee drink blending condensed milk with robust drip coffee .
When it comes to bars and restaurants , one of our new favourites is The Triêu Institute . Occupying a vintage two-storey building in the vibrant Mac Thi Buoi neighbourhood of District 1 , the street-level dining space and open kitchen leads to an atmospheric upstairs bar and lounge spilling out to an open-air terrace .
Australian-born Executive Chef Chris Donnellan has crafted a menu of contemporary dishes incorporating the aromatic herbs and botanicals found in Lady Triêu gins , using premium ingredients and local flavours from Vietnam and highlighting the diverse regional flavours of the country . Perfect for a fun night out .
Another Australian connection can be found at the Summer Experiment cocktail bar in District 1 , the brainchild of Aussie mixologist Jay Moir . Think moody yet upbeat bar vibes and playful , experiential cocktails with fruits , vegetables , and herbs plucked from the rooftop garden or sourced locally .
STAY : FUSION ORIGINAL SAIGON CENTRE
In the heart of District 1 , you ’ ll find a fabulous urban retreat perfect for lovers of art , shopping , and design . Fusion Original Saigon Centre occupies ten floors in the city ’ s prestigious Saigon Centre and Takashimaya Shopping Mall with lavish rooms and amenities , a generous guest lounge , and impeccable service . A special treat ( especially after a day exploring the city ) is the incredible sixth-floor swimming pool overlooking the buzzing streetscape and breathtaking skyline .
Each of the 146 rooms offers city views and warmly luxurious interiors . Look for the Premium Deluxe Lounge room for a comfy king bed , lovely bathtub , city views , complimentary mini-bar , 24-hour Reload Pantry , and access to the exclusive guest lounge .
This unique hotel will stir the senses and put the dynamic city at your fingertips , including the Ben Thanh Market and Opera House just minutes away . Our tip ? Dine at Miss Thu , the signature restaurant on the 24th floor .
See & do in Saigon
• Head for the clouds and enjoy breathtaking 360 ° city views at the Saigon SkyDeck , located 49 floors up in the Bitexco Financial Tower in District 1 .
• Take a stroll along Dong Khoi , an historic treelined street brimming with trendy boutiques and shops that will take you close to the Opera House .
• In the heart of the city , don ’ t miss the majestic Opera House , even just for a photo-op . Built in 1898 by French architect Eugene Ferret , this lavish landmark building embodies French colonial architecture .
• Set aside a few hours to see The War Remnants Museum ( District 3 ): a must-visit for anyone interested in understanding Vietnam ’ s history and culture . The museum showcases a collection of artifacts , photographs , and vehicles from the Vietnam War , offering an important local perspective on the conflict . While some exhibits can be difficult to view , the museum serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of peace .
• After wandering through the peaceful 30 / 4 Park and marvelling at the Notre Dame Cathedral ( both District 1 ), stop by The Reunification Palace . The basement holds the fascinating discoveries of all , with tunnels of maps and telecommunications gear from the 1960s .
• Count your blessings at the Thien Hau pagoda in District 5 . This revered 200-year-old temple is renowned for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere , popular for locals and tourists alike to seek blessings for families and loved ones .
holidaysforcouples . travel 47