Unraveling Mysteries: 4 unique things to do in Saigon (HCMC)

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Saigon, officially known as Ho Chi Minh City, pulsates with energy, history, and culture. This bustling metropolis in Vietnam is a melting pot of traditions, flavors, and activities waiting to be discovered. While iconic landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral and the War Remnants Museum often dominate tourist itineraries, Saigon has so much more to offer. Here are three unique experiences to elevate your visit to this dynamic city:

Water Puppet Show: Experience Vietnam's Traditional Folk Art

Transport yourself back in time with a traditional water puppet show, a captivating form of Vietnamese folk art that dates back centuries. Originating in the rice paddies of the Red River Delta, water puppetry combines music, storytelling, and intricate puppetry to depict scenes from rural life, legends, and folklore.

Sit back and marvel at the mesmerizing performances as intricately crafted puppets glide across the water's surface, brought to life by skilled puppeteers hidden behind a bamboo screen. From mythical dragons to playful village scenes, each vignette offers a delightful glimpse into Vietnam's rich cultural heritage. Accompanied by live music performed on traditional instruments, the water puppet show is a truly immersive experience that will leave you enchanted.

Where to book and see the show: http://www.goldendragonwaterpuppet.vn/

Writer’s tips: Book your tickets in advance to secure the best seats, and arrive early to soak in the atmosphere of the theater. Keep in mind that the performances are in Vietnamese, but the visual storytelling transcends language barriers, making it enjoyable for audiences of all ages.

Vietnamese Cooking Class: Learn to Cook Authentic Local Cuisine

Take your love of Vietnamese cuisine to the next level with a hands-on cooking class, where you'll learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Usually, you'll start by selecting fresh ingredients from local markets, learning about the essential herbs, spices, and techniques that define Vietnamese cuisine. Then, roll up your sleeves and get cooking as your instructor guides you through each step of the recipe, sharing tips and tricks along the way. Finally, sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor as you savor the flavors of your homemade Vietnamese feast. From fragrant pho to crispy spring rolls, mastering the art of Vietnamese cooking is a delicious and rewarding experience.

Where to book: https://saigoncookingclass.com/

Not quite ready to do the cooking? Check out our Dining Delights to get a one-stop shop for the flavors of Saigon!

Tips: Choose a cooking class that offers a small group size for a more personalized experience and hands-on instruction. don't forget to ask for the recipes, so you can recreate your favorite dishes at home!

Explore Saigon's Hidden Cafes and Coffee Culture

Ever wonder what all those hidden alleyways - or hẻm as called in Vietnamese - have lurking down them? Believe it or not, when you start wandering around, you’ll find yourself in Saigon's mazey alleyways its hidden cafes, each offering a unique atmosphere and specialty brews. From cozy hideaways to trendy rooftop spots, Saigon's coffee scene is as diverse as it is delicious.

Wander off the tourist area in District 1 and seek out hidden gems tucked away in Saigon's alleyways and side streets in District 3, Phu Nhuan district or Binh Thanh district. These districts are known for their cafes housed in colonial-era buildings, rooftop terraces with panoramic city views, and quirky-themed establishments that cater to every taste and preference. Savor a cup of traditional Vietnamese ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk) or try inventive coffee creations like egg coffee or coconut coffee, all while soaking in the ambiance of Saigon's bustling cafe culture.

If you’re into the hidden alleyways, narrow quirky staircases and untold secrets of the hẻm of Saigon, join us HERE with our Saigon’s Secrets tour.

Writer’s tips: Take your time to explore different neighborhoods and seek out cafes that reflect your style and preferences. Don't be afraid to venture into unassuming alleyways or up narrow staircases – some of the best cafes are hidden in plain sight. And be sure to indulge in a sweet treat or two to accompany your coffee, such as a slice of cake or a freshly baked pastry.

Join a “game” tour:

Vespa A Go Go’s City’s Codes tour is not your simple city tour. You will embark on an adventure through the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, where every corner holds a puzzle waiting to be solved. Join the tour for a unique exploration of this dynamic metropolis, where history, culture, and mystery converge in an exhilarating puzzle-solving tour.

A perfect way to interact with locals and increase your knowledge of all things that make Saigon a hidden gem - whether it be learning about everyday life, or understanding their culture and beliefs more. Ride through the bustling streets to reach a total of five stops full of puzzles and mysteries that all connect to create an intriguing overall story for you to discover and unsolve.

Whether you're a seasoned puzzle enthusiast or simply seeking a unique way to explore Vietnam's cultural treasures, this tour offers an experience like no other. So gather your wits, sharpen your senses, and embark on a journey of discovery through the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Who knows what mysteries await?

Where to book: https://vespaagogo.com/our-tours/city-code.html

Saigon Vintage Tour - Vespa A Go Go
ADDRESS: 13A Nguyen Van Mai, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
PHONE & WHATSAPP : +84 385 312 407
EMAIL: support@vespagogo.com
Website: https://vespaagogo.com/

Travel Tips

Unraveling Mysteries: 4 unique things to do in Saigon (HCMC)

Water Puppet Show: Experience Vietnam's Traditional Folk Art

Vietnamese Cooking Class: Learn to Cook Authentic Local Cuisine

Explore Saigon's Hidden Cafes and Coffee Culture

Join a “game” tour:

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