FAQ

1. Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam?

Visa requirements for Vietnam vary based on your nationality and the intended duration of your stay. Recently, policies have become more accommodating for tourists.

  • Visa Exemptions: Citizens from numerous countries benefit from visa exemptions for short stays, typically ranging from 14 to 45 days.
  • E-Visa: Nationals from many countries can conveniently apply online for an e-visa. This visa permits a stay of up to 90 days and allows for multiple entries.

As regulations can change, we strongly recommend verifying the latest official information before your travels. For the most current requirements and the e-visa application portal, please visit Vietnam’s official tourism website: https://vietnam.travel/plan-your-trip/visa-requirements

2. What can I explore within walking distance of the New World Hotel?

Your hotel boasts a prime location in the city center, placing several key attractions within easy walking distance:

  • Ben Thanh Market: Situated directly across from 23/9 Park, this iconic landmark with its distinctive clock tower is a symbol of the city and a true “food paradise”. Open daily, it’s an excellent starting point offering souvenirs and a vibrant taste of Southern Vietnamese cuisine.
  • Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts: Just a few blocks away (97A Pho Duc Chinh, Nguyen Thai Binh Wd., Ho Chi Minh City), discover this architectural gem housed in a stunning Art Deco building from 1934. Inside, explore a valuable collection showcasing the evolution of Vietnamese art, including recognized National Treasures. (Open 8am-5pm, admission fee applies).
  • Independence Palace & 30/4 Park: A pleasant 10-15 minute stroll brings you to the historic Independence Palace. Relax beforehand in the expansive 30/4 Park right in front, known for its unique “Bet Coffee” (ground-sitting coffee culture) – a truly local experience. (Park entrance is free).
  • Tao Dan Park: A slightly longer walk leads to this verdant 10-hectare oasis (Truong Dinh, Ben Thanh Wd., Ho Chi Minh City), once a royal garden. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation, picnics, and is home to the city’s beautiful annual Spring Flower Festival. (Free entrance).
Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market, a bustling hub just steps away.

3. What are the “Must-See” cultural & historic landmarks (a short taxi ride away)?

A short taxi or ride-hailing trip unlocks more of the city’s celebrated landmarks:

  • The Colonial Heart: Immerse yourself in the elegance of French colonial architecture within the central urban core. Key sites include the magnificent Saigon Opera House, the historic Central Post Office, and the iconic Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica.
  • The Modern Skyline: Witness Ho Chi Minh City’s dynamic growth. Ascend the Bitexco Financial Tower for panoramic views from the Saigon Skydeck, or visit Landmark 81, Vietnam’s tallest skyscraper, offering breathtaking vistas from its Skyview observation deck.
  • The Saigon Riverfront Experience: Visit Bach Dang Wharf (10B Ton Duc Thang, Ben Nghe Wd., Ho Chi Minh City), an elegantly transformed historic port, now a vibrant river tourism complex. Admire the striking Saigon Riverside Park (Thu Thiem Wd., Ho Chi Minh City) across the water, boasting a “million-dollar view” of the central skyline.
  • Chợ Lớn (Chinatown): Venture into the energetic streets of the historic Chinatown area. Explore the vast wholesale hub of Binh Tay Market (57 Thap Muoi, Wd.2) and light incense at the ornate Thien Hau Pagoda (710 Nguyen Trai, Cho Lon Wd.).
  • Administrative Center (Branch 2): See the modern twin towers of the former Binh Duong administrative center, now part of Ho Chi Minh City (Le Loi Rd., Binh Duong Wd., Ho Chi Minh City).
Saigon Opera House

The elegant Saigon Opera House.

4. Where can I experience the best local cuisine?

Ho Chi Minh City, now encompassing former areas like Vung Tau and Binh Duong, offers an incredible culinary journey. Here’s a taste:

  • Must-Try Street Food Classics: Be sure to sample these beloved dishes found throughout the city: Bánh Mì, Cơm Tấm, Bánh Xèo, Phở, and Hủ Tiếu.
  • Vibrant Food Markets Exploration: Visit Ben Thanh Market (Le Loi, Ben Thanh Wd.), Ho Thi Ky Market (Ho Thi Ky, Wd.1), or Binh Tay Market (Chinatown area).
  • Michelin Guide Highlights: For recognized quality, consider AnanSaigon (1 Star) (89 Ton That Dam), Cơm Tấm Ba Ghiền (Bib Gourmand) (84 Dang Van Ngu), or Phở Hoà Pasteur (Bib Gourmand).
  • Coastal Flavors (Vung Tau area): Try the famous Ray Fish Hotpot (Lẩu Cá Đuối) or crispy Bánh Khọt pancakes. Recommended spots include Út Mười for hotpot and Bánh khọt Gốc Vú Sữa.
  • Regional Specialties (Former Binh Duong area): Don’t miss the unique Mangosteen Chicken Salad (Gỏi Gà Măng Cụt), Bánh Bèo Bì (steamed rice cakes with pork skin), or Beef Hotpot with Shrimp Paste Broth (Bò Nhúng Mắm Ruốc).

5. Are there any unique cultural experiences beyond sightseeing?

Definitely! Dive deeper into the local culture with these engaging activities:

  • Explore the “Cafe Apartment” Building: Visit 42 Nguyễn Huệ (Ben Nghe Wd., Ho Chi Minh City), an iconic repurposed block teeming with independent cafes, boutiques, and workshops spread across nine floors.
  • Get Creative with a Hands-On Workshop: Connect with local artisans: Try Pottery (e.g., Gom Saigon, Floor 2, 26 Ly Tu Trong Apartment), Scent Crafting (e.g., Note The Scent Lab, 34 Nguyen Duy Hieu, Thao Dien Wd.), Vietnamese Cooking (e.g., M.O.M Cooking Class, 119/2 Yersin), or Coffee Appreciation (e.g., 96B Experiment, 96B Phan Ngu).
  • Discover Contemporary Art & Music: Explore dynamic spaces like De La Sól (244 Pasteur) or catch intimate live music performances at venues like Acoustic Bar (6E1 Ngo Thoi Nhiem).
  • Explore Craft Villages (Former Binh Duong area): Visit the famous Lai Thieu piggy bank pottery village (Lai Thieu Wd., Ho Chi Minh City) or Tan Phuoc Khanh pottery village (Tan Khanh Wd., Ho Chi Minh City) known for its traditional wood-fired kilns.
42 Nguyen Hue Cafe Apartment

The unique “Cafe Apartment” at 42 Nguyen Hue.

6. How can I relax and unwind after the conference?

Ho Chi Minh City offers sophisticated options to help you relax and recharge:

  • Indulge in Spa & Wellness: Treat yourself at high-end hotel spas like The Reverie Saigon Spa (Floor 6 & 7, The Reverie Saigon Hotel, 22-36 Nguyen Hue) or specialized centers like Glow Saigon – Spa & Retreat (129 Nguyen Hue).
  • Enjoy the Saigon River by Night: Take a Dinner Cruise (e.g., Saigon Princess, 5 Nguyen Tat Thanh) for stunning skyline views or relax at a Riverside Cafe (e.g., Katinat at Bach Dang Wharf).
  • Unwind at Chic Bars: Discover refined nightlife at The Trieu Institute (10 Mac Thi Buoi, specializing in Vietnam Gin) or U Bar (50A Dang Dung, vintage apothecary theme).
  • Refresh with Beauty Services: Pamper yourself with professional hair (e.g., Hair Bar, Floor 1, 78 Ngo Duc Ke), nail (e.g., Ther Nail Space, 135/12 Tran Hung Dao), or wellness services available throughout the city center.
Dinner Cruise on Saigon River

Enjoy stunning city views from a dinner cruise.

7. What is the best way to get around Ho Chi Minh City?

Getting around the city is convenient with several modern options:

  • Ride-Hailing Apps (Highly Recommended): Apps like Grab, Be, or Xanh SM (electric vehicles) are widely used for booking cars and motorbikes.
  • Taxis: Metered taxis from reputable companies (Mai Linh, Vinasun) are readily available.
  • Saigon Waterbus: Offers scenic routes along the river, avoiding traffic. Connects Bach Dang Wharf to other locations.
  • Hop-on Hop-off Bus: Convenient for touring major landmarks.
  • Public Bicycle Sharing: TNGo app for short distances in the city center.
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  • Metro Line 1 (Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien): Now operational, this line connects the city center with eastern areas, offering a fast and convenient travel option [cite: 645-647].

8. What day trips are recommended if I have an extra day?

If your schedule allows for a full day excursion, consider these popular options offering diverse experiences:

  • Cu Chi Tunnels (History): Explore the vast underground complex used during the Vietnam War (approx. 1.5-2 hours away, Cu Chi area, Ho Chi Minh City).
  • Can Gio Mangrove Forest (Nature): Visit the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (Can Gio, Ho Chi Minh City), take a boat trip through the lush mangrove ecosystem, see monkeys, visit the historic Rung Sac Base, and savor fresh seafood at Hang Duong Market.
  • Vung Tau (Coastal Escape): Head to the coast (approx. 2-3 hours drive) (Vung Tau Wd., Ho Chi Minh City) for beaches like Bai Sau (Back Beach) and sea air. Visit the Christ the King Statue or the historic Vung Tau Lighthouse.
  • Mekong Delta Glimpse: Experience river life and fruit orchards on a dedicated day tour (longer travel time). Nearer the city, Binh Quoi Tourist Village (Binh Quoi Wd., Ho Chi Minh City) offers a simulated Mekong Delta atmosphere.
  • Tan Lap Floating Village (Tay Ninh Province): Explore the unique wetland ecosystem of Dong Thap Muoi (Plain of Reeds), featuring tree-lined canals and traditional houses (National Highway 62, Moc Hoa Commune, Tay Ninh Province).
Can Gio Mangrove Forest

Explore the Can Gio Mangrove Forest on a day trip.