Ho Chi Minh Itinerary

Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary: A Saigon Travel Guide Blog

posted in: Vietnam | 0

Last updated on January 11th, 2025

Are you looking for the best travel tips to help plan for your Saigon trip? Then you’ve come to the right place! In this travel guide blog, we’ll tell you everything you need to know so that you can plan for the Ho Chi Minh City itinerary and make the most of your trip to HCMC.

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon is the biggest city in Vietnam. The city is exciting with modern and old-world characters. There are so many things to do and hidden gems in the city awaiting you to discover. You will be impressed by the war history, cafe culture, tasty Vietnamese food, and shopping when visiting the HCMC.

When considering what to do in Ho Chi Minh City, it can be a little more challenging on your own. Many first-time visitors will find that there is plenty to keep you busy. But don’t worry! Here, I’m sharing the Ho Chi Minh City itinerary to help you plan your trip. We will show you the amazing attractions, what to expect when visiting, where to stay, and things to do in the city for 1, 2, and even up to 3 days!

This Ho Chi Minh travel guide blog will share with you everything you need to know about visiting the town. Keep reading to find out the best things to do, places to stay, and foods to eat while in Ho Chi Minh City. Read on for a 3-Days Ho Chi Minh City itinerary!

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide

Ho Chi Minh Travel Guide Blog

To help you plan your trip to Ho Chi Minh, we have compiled a list of attractions, hotels, tours, and other useful information to fit into your Ho Chi Minh itinerary. Be sure to read our Ho Chi Minh City travel guide to have an overview ideal on the city.

Situated in the southeast Vietnam region, Ho Chi Minh is the economic heart of the country and has grown rapidly over the past few decades. The vibrated city is surrounded by the Saigon river and has a population of 12 million making it the biggest city in Vietnam.

In fact, Ho Chi Minh City was formerly known as Saigon. It was the US base during the Vietnam War until the end of the Vietnamese/American War. Saigon was renamed Ho Chi Minh City (often abbreviated as HCMC), to honor the revolutionary leader who had declared independence back in 1945.

HCMC has transformed into a thoroughly modern, thriving metropolis. You’ll find soaring skyscrapers that tower over charming French colonial structures and traditional pagodas that represent the city’s past as well as its future.

Once you’ve decided on visiting the dynamic city, let’s start our Ho Chi Minh City travel guide blog.

How To Get to Ho Chi Minh City

Travelers can arrived to Ho Chi Minh City by flight, trains, or even buses.

The closest airport to Ho Chi Minh is Tan Son Nhat international airport. This Vietnam’s busiest airport welcomes international and domestic to the HCMC and Southern Vietnam region. A cab ride from the airport to the city will cost you around 100,000 VND.

To avoid the taxi scam, we recommended pre-booking your Private Airport Transfer to the city area or hotel.

If you are traveling to Ho Chi Minh City from another destination in Vietnam, it’s easy to get to Ho Chi Minh City by train and bus. Traveling between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is a very popular trip to make. Generally, the train will be slightly quicker but often double the price.

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide Tips: You may check the best transport options from Bookaway.com to compare various transportation options.

How To Get Around in Ho Chi Minh City

How To Get Around in Ho Chi Minh City

Getting around Ho Chi Minh city is a bit tricky. The city has an extensive and efficient public transportation system but it is not easy for foreign travelers due to the language barrier.

But rest assured. Ho Chi Minh city isn’t that huge and pretty walkable. Most of the tourist highlights are located in District 1, which is considered the heart of the city. Plus, the hailing ride (Grab) is very common and convenient. Just like Uber, download the App to book a ride (Scooter or car) and the price is on the app so you never have to worry about having to pay more than you should!

Pro Tips: We recommended getting around the HCMC by a combination of hailing a ride and on foot to save time and energy! You’ll need your phone to be working for this, so pick up a local SIM card.

Best Time To Visit

Generally speaking, Saigon only has two weather, dry or wet session.

The dry season is run from December and March, and this is also the best time to visit HCMC. The weather is warm and dry during this period. You will have good weather to travel around the city. While the weather is extremely hot and humid from May to October. That the temperature can be up to 34 degree Celsius in June!

While June to September is typhoon season in Southern Vietnam. So be warned of floods or heavy rain that may need to watch out!

Where To Stay

Best Place to stay in HCMC

To plan your visit to HCMC, you’re going to want to think about where is the best place to stay in the city.

For travelers, we highly recommend staying in District 1 or District 3 in Ho Chi Minh City. Many hotels are located directly in District 1 and you can find a wide range of accommodation choices, depending on your budget. While District 3 is cheaper, less crowded, and with better food than District 1.

Here’s my personal recommendation on where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City:

Best Luxury AccommodationHotel Majestic Saigon
Hotel Majestic Saigon at District 1 is a great choice for luxury stay. This colonial-style 1920 landmark sits in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City and overlooks the Saigon River. It offers plenty of modern amenities and yet still retains its French colonial style.

Best Mid-Range AccommodationGreen Star Hotel
Green Star Hotel is the best place to stay if you’re looking for a mid-budget stay in Ho Chi Minh City. The room is simple, and clean and has some amenities that will help you have a comfortable stay.

Best Budget Accommodation9 Hostel and Bar
Our top choice for budget accommodation in HCMC goes to 9 Hostel and Bar. It is a super social hostel that offers sleek dormitory rooms and private guestrooms with free WiFi access. It boasts all the basics and is very comfortable for a short stay in the city.

You can view more accommodation in HCMC here: Where To Stay in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary

Next, it’s time to sample the best the city has to offer! Our Ho Chi Minh itinerary is very flexible and you can freely adjust based on your interest and time.

Here is the best of 3-Days Ho Chi Minh itinerary:

  • Reunification Palace, also known as Independence Palace.
  • Ben Thanh Market
  • War Remnants Museum
  • Jade Emperor Pagoda
  • Tan Dinh Pink Church
  • Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral
  • Saigon Central Post Office
  • Ho Chi Minh City Hall
  • Drink Vietnamese Coffee
  • Enjoy the Street Food
  • Nightlife at Bui Vien Street
  • Aerial City View from the Bitexco Tower
  • Day Trip from Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh Travel Tips: Get the Ho Chi Minh City Hop On Hop Off Pass to see Ho Chi Minh city in a glance! You can explore the sights of Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace on the bus!

Reunification Palace

Ho Chi Minh Travel Guide Blog - Reunification Palace
Ho Chi Minh Travel Guide Blog – Reunification Palace

Also known as the Independence Palace, the Reunification Palace is a great place to know more about Vietnam’s history and sightseeing on your Ho Chi Minh city itinerary.

The historical place made its name in global history in 1975. A tank belonging to the North Vietnamese Army crashed through its main gate, ending the Vietnam War. Today, the palace has been classified as a special national monument by the Vietnamese government.

The Reunification Palace is like a time capsule frozen in 1975 and preserved exactly as it was. The building is interesting architecture and the grounds are quite immense. You can see the original tanks used in the capture of the palace parked on the grounds. While the building has been well-preserved and it retains the elegant furnishings of the day. Do remember to take your time to explore the place and look out for every corner and walkway so that you wouldn’t miss out on any of the exhibits.

If you are into history or architecture, a visit to the Independence Palace is a must-do in HCMC. Give yourself at least 2 to 3 hours to see the palace on your trip to Saigon. Worth a visit!

Reunification Palace
Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghai, District 1.
Operating Hours: Daily from 8:00 to 11:00 and from 13:00 to 16:00.
Admission Fee: 40,000 VND

Pro Tips: We recommended hop-on one of the guided tours if you want to get a bit more out of your visit

Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market (Chợ Bến Thành) is the city’s biggest, most authentic market. It is housed in a building from the early 20th century with almost six thousand tenants inside the building. Apparently, anything and everything that you wanted to buy can be found in Ben Thanh Market. There are plenty of shops selling all sorts of things, from basic supplies, and souvenirs, to food but it is quite similar at the market.

Shopping at Ben Thanh Market

Like most of the Asian market, bargaining is a must to get good buys! Sellers are a little pushy but not too bad. An interesting street shopping in HCMC and worth taking a look at if you are in the mood for some shopping and bargaining.

Ben Thanh Market
Address: Le Loi, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1.
Operating Hours: Daily from 6:00 to 18:00.
Admission Fee:Free!

War Remnants Museum

Things to do in Saigon - Visit War Remnants Museum

War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh is a must for any visitor to Vietnam to gain perspective on a significant chapter. It is so interesting to find out more about this terrible Vietnam war and will allow you to see things from a different perspective.

Visit The War Remnants Museum - Ho Chi Minh Itinerary
Visit The War Remnants Museum – Ho Chi Minh Itinerary

Start with the outdoor display of military equipment along with all the stories and stats on the grounds. Next, the visitor will see the war through the eyes of photojournalists and the US military in the 3-story museum. Displays are mainly photographs and stories in main themes of the history of the conflict, photojournalists and their roles and sacrifices, war crimes, Agent Orange, and protests. Take some thoughtful time here, it’s intense.

We had an hour to allocate there and it definitely wasn’t enough if you looked at everything. It’s tragic and quite a somber experience. You’ll have mixed feelings but it’s worth it to see what the people of Vietnam went through.

War Remnants Museum
Address: 28 Vo Tan Tan, District 3
Operating Hours: Daily from 7:30 to 12:00 and from 13:00 to 17:00
Admission Fee: 40,000 VND

Jade Emperor Pagoda

Ho Chi Minh Itinerary - Jade Emperor Pagoda

A great place to visit on Ho Chi Minh itinerary is with the gorgeous Jade Emperor Pagoda in the center of the HCMC.

The Jade Emperor Pagoda is a lovely temple hidden down an alley off a major roadway. It was built by the Chinese community of Saigon in the 17th century and is still actively visited by locals. The temple is a blend of Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. Many local people worship here and make offerings of flowers and incense.

Not a must-visit attraction but well worth taking about 30 minutes to see the local culture in Saigon.

Jade Emperor Pagoda
Address: 73 Mai Thi Luu Street, District 1
Operating Hours: Daily from 5:00 to 18:00
Admission Fee: Free!

Tan Dinh Pink Church

Tan Dinh Pink Church

Build in 1786, Tan Dinh Church is the second large church in HCMC. This beautiful pink Church is vintage and another must-see on your Ho Chi Minh itinerary. The architecture is amazing, the French influence can be seen. The bright pink church with Gothic pillars makes for some beautiful photos.

The local landmark is situated in District 3 and a few blocks away from the Jade Emperor Pagoda. It is slightly away but is worth the detour. Right across the street is the Tan Dinh Market where you can have a quick lunch or snack in the market.

Tan Dinh Church
Address: 289 Hai Ba Trung, Ward 8, District 3.
Operating Hours: 24 hours
Admission Fee: Free (Note: Inside is no open for tourist)

Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral

Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral

From Tan Dinh Church and continue to head south, then you’ll reach another iconic building that is not to be missed on the Ho Chi Minh itinerary. Commonly known as the Church of Saigon, the Notre Dame Cathedral is an important remnant of the French colonial period in Vietnam.

Notre Dame Cathedral was built, between 1863 and 1880, by French Roman Catholics. The neo-romanesque church is built with an all-red brick facade, two outstanding bell towers, six bronze bells, and beautiful stained-glass windows.

Sadly, Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral has been undergoing severe restoration works and has been closed to visitors. Still, the church is open for prayer service on Sunday morning at 9:30. However, please take note this is a holy place, and please respect it.

Stroll along and the church still looks decent from the outside! There is a virgin Mary statue out side surrounded by a breathtaking garden. Worth to take a look!

Saigon Central Post Office

Saigon Central Post Office

Continue your visit and walk to the Central Post Office, a popular place on the Ho Chi Minh itinerary for the photo opportunity.

The French-built Central Post Office is a beautiful building housing old telephone boxes and historical pictures that showcase some of HCMC’s colonial heritage. The post office is still functioning and you can write a postcard and send it to someone back home.

Inside the Saigon Central Post Office

A great place to stop by to catch a glimpse of the architecture. There were shops with souvenirs on either side.

Central Post Office
Address: 125 Hai Ba Trung, District 1.
Operating Hours: Daily from 8:00 to 18:00 (Closed at SUnday).
Admission Fee: Free!

Admire the Ho Chi Minh City Hall

Ho Chi Minh City Hall
Ho Chi Minh City Hall

The Ho Chi Minh City Hall is another attractive colonial building to admire whilst in HCMC. Also known as the Ho Chi Minh People’s Committee since 1975, the city hall boasted a classic French colonial design in a two-story structure.

The glamorous building was first constructed as a Hotel de Ville by French architects when it was built in 1908. It now serves as a government office. Unfortunately, the building is not open to the public but it does provide a good photo opportunity for the great view of the building. A good time to visit is after dark when the building is illuminated with LED lighting.

In front of the building is the President Ho Chi Minh Statue and from here you can take some lovely symmetrical photos.

People’s Committee Building
Address: 86 Le Thanh Ton Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1.
Admission Fee: Not open to public.

Drink Vietnamese Coffee

Coffee Culture in Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam is the second-largest coffee producer in the world, so don’t miss to taste Vietnamese coffee when visiting Ho Chi Minh. The city has unique coffee culture and locals love to have a cup of coffee for their social pastime.

The Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a vibrant pedestrian-friendly street lined with cafes, restaurants, and a multitude of shops. Great place to go for an evening stroll, people watch, shop, and enjoy a meal or beverage.

Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary - Drink Vietnamese Coffee

Don’t forget to pick one of the coffee shops to relax during the afternoon when strolling around the Nguyen Hue Walking Street. This pedestrian-friendly street is a great place for a stroll and some quality people-watching. We just randomly pick one of the cafes to taste the Vietnamese coffee.

Cafe Apartment Saigon

Alternatively, one of the coolest places to check out is the Cafe Apartment building near Nguyen Hue Walking Street. This fascinating old 9-story apartment which used to be an old apartment has now been converted into cafés and boutique outlets. Head to one on one of the higher floors for a drink or snack and enjoy the views of the bustling street below and sunsets when they occur.

Pro Tips: Using the old elevator to reach upstairs is a unique experience. You will need to pay for the lift service but if you walk the stairs up, it is free!

Enjoy the Street Food

Enjoy the Street Food - Ho Chi Minh Travel Guide

Ho Chi Minh is a food paradise with lots of great restaurants and street vendors for the incredible feast. There are so many delicious dishes in Saigon to experience the eating scene in the city. Don’t miss the banh mi, savory pancakes (banh xeo), broken rice (com tam), and all the tasty Vietnamese cuisine. Eat as much as possible during your Saigon itinerary!

Eat Vietname Food in Saigon itinerary

If you love to experience the local culture, then we can warmly recommend you take a street food tour. Accompanied by a guide, you get to experience the local Vietnamese cuisine specialties.

Recommended food tour: HCMC Private Street Food Tour by Motorbike

Aerial City View from the Bitexco Tower

For the best aerial view of HCMC, head up to the top of the Bitexco Financial Tower. This Saigon observation deck provides a 360-degree view over the city. You can take a look around and see the city in all directions or have a drink at the rooftop bar to enjoy the moment.

Get the Saigon Skydeck Admission Ticket at Discounted Price

Plus, the Skydeck does a great job on all aspects of its presentation with plenty of photo opportunities. Visitors can also learn about some interesting history from the mini-exhibition on Vietnamese fashion, the construction of the tower as well as the city itself. A fun place to spend an hour on your Ho Chi Minh itinerary. Worth a stop!

Bitexco Financial Tower
Address: 36 Ho Tung Mau Ben Nghe Ward, District 1.
Operating Hours: Daily from 8:00 to 23:00.
Admission Fee: VND 200,000 for adults and VND 130,000 for children, seniors and handicapped persons.

Ho Chi Minh Travel Guide Tips: It is best to visit Bitexco Financial Tower in the late afternoon, so you can see the lights of the city change from day to night, and then the city lights come on.

Nightlife at Bui Vien Street

Nightlife at Bui Vien Street

End your Ho Chi Minh itinerary at Bui Vien Street. Lined with endless hostels, bars, pubs, bars, and souvenir shops, the lively Bui Vien street is one of the wild streets for nightlife in HCMC.

The street is very intense and busy during the night. With cheap drinks and meals, there are a variety of venues to choose from, from flash bars to simple old Saigon-style street bars sitting on the footpath. Great place if you are looking to part through the night in Saigon.

Overall, Bui Vien has a great vibe if you’re looking for some nightlife or hanging out with close friends. It’s busy and certainly not for everyone but an experience if you are looking to party. Be aware of the pickpocket as you walk down the street.

Day Trip from Ho Chi Minh City

Tour to Cu Chi Tunnels
Tour to Cu Chi Tunnels

HCMC is a perfect base for traveling around the south of Vietnam. Apart from the main tourist attractions in the city, many attractions are best to plan for a day trip from Ho Chi Minh city. Among them, the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta are the most popular day trip from Ho Chi Minh that highly recommend to you.

Day Trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Cu Chi Tunnels

Cu Chi Tunnels is a must-do in your Ho Chi Minh itinerary. This historical landmark is one of Vietnam’s war-related sights. During your visit, it will take you to a turbulent time in Vietnamese history and show you how the Vietcong fought from the tunnels and the traps they laid for the American soldiers. It is situated about 2 hours drive from the HCMC and is best to visit with a half-day tour.

Read for more tour detail: Cu Chi Tunnels from HCM City (Morning or Afternoon)

Mekong Delta offers visitors the opportunity to view vast agricultural landscapes and a unique ecosystem that acts as the major food source for Vietnam. The most popular way is to get on a traditional rowing boat, and the winding river snakes will bring you to experience Vietnam’s natural beauty around as it goes.

Read for more tour detail: Mekong Delta Guided Tour from HCMC

Ho Chi Minh Travel Tips: We would highly recommend to take the guided tour to visit these two most interesting places around HCMC with transport arrangements included. You can make the most out of it if you have limited amount of time in HCMC.

Recommended Tour: Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta VIP Day Tour (Transfers by Limo)

Planning on Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary

How many days for Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary

If you are asking how many days for Ho Chi Minh? I would suggest spending at least 3 full days are needed to get a taste of Saigon city. Let’s have a quick overall on what to do in if you only have 1, 2, or 3 days in Ho Chi Minh City itinerary!

On the first day of Ho Chi Minh itinerary, I will recommend spending your time seeing some of the city’s highlights and landmarks. By visiting those attractions in Saigon, you’ll be able to get a feel for the city before exploring further. Start your day in the morning and visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, Tan Dinh Pink Church, Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, and Ho Chi Minh City Hall. During the day, you can simply be walking over to the Ben Thanh Market for lunch or hoop into one of the cafes for a cup of Vietnamese coffee. End your day at Bui Vien Street for dinner.

On the second day of your Ho Chi Minh itinerary, you will learn about Vietnamese history by visiting the city. You can pick up whatever is left from the first day and continue the visit to the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. End your second day with an aerial city View from the Bitexco Tower.

On your last day of the Ho Chi Minh itinerary, take a guided tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta with hassle-free!

Pro Tips: HCMC is extremely rich in history and culture, and you could easily spend a week exploring Vietnam’s history city and checking out some of the city’s most important landmarks and food culture!

More Ho Chi Minh Travel Guide Tips

How many days for Ho Chi Minh City?
Generally, we recommend staying at least three days in Ho Chi Minh. That way you have enough time to see the main attractions in HCMC for 2 days and add one more day for a day trip to nearby attractions.

Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting?
Ho Chi Minh City is one of the definitive must-visit destinations for international travelers to Vietnam. Visitors can travel back to the old Saigon time by visiting plenty of colonial-era attractions!

Is it better to visit Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi?
Both cities are vibrant and good to visit, depending on what are you looking for. The HCMC is rich in Vietnamese historical while Hanoi provides a more cultural Vietnamese experience.

Overview: A Visit to Ho Chi Minh City

All in all, Ho Chi Minh City is an exciting, vibrant city with a rich history. It’s no wonder that it attracts tourists from all over the world. The main challenging part of your Ho Chi Minh City adventure is to plan your perfect Ho Chi Minh itinerary. And we do hope our travel guide can help make your trip more enjoyable. Learn about Vietnam’s history, explore its iconic landmarks, and enjoy the best nightlife, you’ll feel in love with HCMC!

Lastly, I hope you have such a unique experience in HCMC that you will never forget it! If you need more travel inspiration for Vietnam, here you can find all our travel stories about this wonderful country!

Related Ho Chi Minh City Travel Stories: Feel free to read on our Saigon travel stories.

Traveling to Northern Vietnam:

Traveling to Central Vietnam:

Where To Stay in Asahikawa

Where To Stay in Asahikawa: Best Hotels Pick

posted in: Hokkaido Japan | 0

Last updated on January 11th, 2025

We have written the below comprehensive guide on the city’s most popular hotel to help decide where to stay in Asahikawa.

Located in the center of Hokkaido, Asahikawa is the second largest city on the island. It is also one of the popular transit cities when travelers visit the attractions nearby such as Asahikawa Zoo, Mount Asahi (Asahidate), Furano, and Biei area. For the first-time visitor to Asahikawa, you might wonder where is the best place to stay in the city. We would recommend staying nearby Asahikawa Station, the city’s main railway station.

The neighborhood surrounding the station is the most lively area in the city with many hotels, restaurants, eateries, shops, and even an AEON shopping mall surrounding the station. Most importantly, there is plenty of accommodation to choose from and most of them are mid-range business hotels at a very reasonable price.

In this accommodation guide, we will share a list of best hotel to stay in the near with the train and bus station. Read on to decide where to stay in Asahikawa!

Quick Guide: Where to stay in Asahikawa

Visitors to Asahikawa have a good range of accommodations to choose from around the city. Here is the popular pick for where to stay in Asahikawa:

High-range hotels with less than 5 minutes walk from the station:

Mid-range hotels with less than 5 minutes walk from the station:

About 10 minutes walk from the station:

Pro Tips: Best hotels always run out fast, especially during peak season. You should book your accommodation to secure your room and the best price!

Hotel Route Inn Grand Asahikawa Ekimae

Hotel Route Inn Grand Asahikawa Ekimae

Hotel Route Inn Grand Asahikawa Ekimae offers comfortable rooms and good service for guests. Guests can unwind in the public bath on the 17th floor which boasts a city view which is a great plus. The location is superb and conveniently located across from the train station. There are lots of restaurants and eateries nearby. The property also has private parking onsite.

JR Inn Asahikawa

Where to stay in Asahikawa - JR Inn Asahikawa
Where to stay in Asahikawa – JR Inn Asahikawa

JR Inn Asahikawa offers simple accommodation directly connected to JR Asahikawa Station. Just a minute from the station will get you to the hotel. The room is small as per Japanese standards but nicely designed and clean. A public bath and laundry facilities are available on site which is another great plus. Free WiFi is provided throughout the property.

Premier Hotel CABIN

Premier Hotel CABIN Asahikawa

If you are looking for where to stay in Asahikawa, Premier Hotel CABIN Asahikawa will offer you exactly that. The rooms here are spacious and very nicely decorated and some other advantages of staying here include free Wi-Fi, a public hot spring bath, private parking, and more. The location is good near the train and bus station and within walking distance of Aeon Mall.

HOTEL AMANEK

HOTEL AMANEK Asahikawa

If you’re wondering where to stay in Asahikawa for first time, I’d highly recommend HOTEL AMANEK Asahikawa!

Newly opened, HOTEL AMANEK Asahikawa is a modern hotel located right in front of the Asahikawa station. It offers a convenient base for exploring the city and is close to shopping, dining, and sightseeing options. They provide spacious air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities and free internet access. Guests can enjoy the free public bath located on the 17th floor of the building. Paid parking is also available at a cheap rate.

Hotel Wing International Asahikawa Ekimae

Hotel Wing International Asahikawa Ekimae

The Hotel Wing International Asahikawa Ekimae is a great option for mid-budget hotels in Asahikawa that offers a nice and comfy room. It is a modern hotel in terms of appliances, decor, and furniture while being very comfortable and at a great price! Each room includes free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and more.

The location is also excellent with an easy walk to the supermarket, shops, and restaurants. Parking in the Aeon shopping center was handy, and cheap at ¥1,000 per night (pay at the hotel).

Y’s Hotel

Ys Hotel Asahikawa Ekimae

Y’s Hotel Asahikawa Ekimae is an awesome place to stay in Asahikawa if you are looking for a great value. It provides awesome service, comfortable rooms with everything you need to have a comfortable stay.

The location is excellent, right next to Asahikawa train station and bus terminal. The room is just as expected and meticulously clean. Some of the best facilities here include a coin laundry, a sauna, and a public bath. Excellent value for money and perfect to stay in the city.

Dormy Inn Asahikawa

Dormy Inn Asahikawa

Dormy Inn Asahikawa is worth recommending when looking for where to stay in Asahikawa. The location is slightly away but within a 10-minute walk from JR Asahikawa Train Station. It offers modern accommodation with a large public hot-spring bath for guests. The signature free noodle at night is a great plus!

There are many restaurants and shops nearby the property. Guests can park at the building behind the hotel at a reasonable fee.

Overview: Best Hotel to Stay in Asahikawa

All in all, I hope this guide has helped you to find the best hotel that fits your budget and requirement. The city is fairly compact so no matter where you decide to stay you should be able to get around fairly easily. 

During my trip to Asahikawa, we stayed in JR Inn Asahikawa for three nights in the city. The hotel is strategically located beside the JR Asahikawa station which is very convenient. From Asahikawa, we departed to many interesting attractions nearby such as Furano, Biei, and seasonal flower fields. Detail can be referred to our travel blog with itinerary and transport arrangements include.

Read on our travel stories to Asahikawa:

Wondering what and where to eat in Asahikawa? Here is some food idea in the city:

A Guide for Using VPN while Traveling

Traveling with VPN: A Guide + Budget Tips

posted in: Travel Guides | 0

Last updated on November 1st, 2024

If you’re not sure yet why you need to use a VPN while traveling, we’ve got all the information that you need to know. Read more about traveling with VPN in our comprehensive guide.

Traveling with a VPN is becoming common. When you’re planning for spending some time traveling around, there’s a high chance there’ll be some need to access the internet while traveling. It can be as simple as checking a few emails, posting on social media, booking flights and accommodation, or even watching TV when you are resting at a hotel abroad. It is important to be aware of your safety online. Fortunately, there’s a solution.

In this quick and simple VPN guide, I’ll share with you all the useful information on how to use a VPN while traveling. I’ll also run through all the essentials on getting the VPN and tips/advice on whether to grab the best VPN to use when traveling!

Traveling with VPN: Everything you need to Know

Ready to travel around with a VPN? The VPN could be your new best travel companion!

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a network that is made available to customers by a VPN provider. When using a VPN service, a connection is first made with a (secure) VPN server. This server then connects to the World Wide Web. Because of this intermediate step, your data are no longer directly shared online. This is a benefit because all data traffic from the VPN server is encrypted. So if an internet criminal should succeed in intercepting your data traffic, they will be unable to read the data, because these are encrypted.

Here is what you need to know when you start using a VPN while traveling:

  • Why Using VPN while Traveling
  • How To Choose the Best VPN for Travel
  • What is the Best VPN for Traveling
  • How To use VPN when Traveling
  • What is the Benefit for using VPN for Travel
  • Final Tips on using VPN while Traveling

Why Using VPN while Traveling?

The VPN gives you a ton of freedom and flexibility for travelling. But, you’re probably asking yourself: Why you need a VPN while traveling? Here’s a quick rundown of the reasons to use a VPN while traveling.

Online Privacy: Nowadays, everyone travels using a smartphone, tablet, or even laptop to check for attractions nearby, food to eat, and most importantly navigation when abroad. That means that we are connected with private or public free Wifi when we’re abroad. Technology makes traveling easier but at the same time open to some serious risks.

Internet Safety: Cybersecurity is one of the major concerns. Hackers may steal your password for criminal activities if you are using public internet networks abroad. VPN servers prevent hackers from stealing your personal information as it is encrypted.

Access to Social Media and websites: Some countries, particularly Asian countries such as China, South Korea, Vietnam, and Thailand will not able to access certain websites and apps due to government censoring. For example, the Great Firewall has blocked major services in China, such as Google, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and many more. You can use a VPN to select your home country and you’ll then be able to access the website with ease while traveling in China.

Watch TV while traveling: Watching TV might not be a need when you are traveling. But if you are planning a long vacation abroad, sometimes access to TV shows from your home country might still be a good idea. VPN will allow you to access them regardless of geolocation.

We particularly recommend NordVPN and have used NordVPN when traveling. We found it completely reliable during my travels through China, Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, and beyond!

How To Choose the Best VPN for Travel?

With so many different VPN providers and plans, it’s not all that easy to figure out which one’s best for your needs.

Below we outline the criteria you might need from your VPN when choosing the best VPN for travel.

  • Works in as many countries as possible – A wide server network with servers in major countries for accessing various international geo-blocked streaming services. This is very useful when traveling abroad.
  • Simultaneous connections – Look for a VPN service that lets you connect several devices at the same time. This is very useful if you have several devices or want to share your subscription with family or friends when traveling.
  • Speed – Without great speeds, using a VPN will only be a hassle. All the VPNs we listed offer fantastic speeds to users without any lags.
  • SecurityOne should always opt for a VPN that offers advanced security features to users.
  • Customer SupportVPN providers should have trustworthy customer service available 24/7 so all the users can get in touch with them at any time of the day even abroad!
  • User Friendly – The VPN shall easy to install and use.
  • Compatibility – The VPN shall compatible with almost every popular operating system, including easy-to-use apps for all devices such as Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Chrome.
  • Pricing – It’s a super-affordable VPN service and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

And more!

What is the Best VPN for Traveling?

Numerous VPN provider is offering the service, and most are reliable. For the most effortless experience, we recommend choosing a VPN provider that has platform compatibility, reliable speeds, a good choice of servers, and availability in as many countries as possible.

Here are some suggested companies you can check out to get started:

  • ExpressVPN – Most premium but slightly expensive.
  • NordVPN – Most secure and best in overall.
  • SurfShark – Cheaper and best for those who have a strict budget.

Editor Pick: We recommend NordVPN because they have always been extremely reliable, optimized streaming servers, and have fast speeds. This popular VPN should definitely take into considerations. Check for their latest features and promotion from NordVPN!

Express – Best Premium VPN:
ExpressVPN Pros:
+ Supports ALL devices
+ Fast servers (3000+)
+ Unblocks Netflix in the USA
+ Torrenting and P2P are allowed
+ No IP leaks or DNS leaks found
+ Simple and easy to use

ExpressVPN Cons:
– More expensive than its chief rivals

Get the ExpressVPN as low as $8.32/mo.

NordVPN – Best Overall VPN:
NordVPN Pros:
+ Fast servers (5,500+)
+ Torrenting/P2P allowed
+ Works with Netflix
+ Strict no logging policy
+ Easy to use VPN apps
+ No IP/DNS leaks found

NordVPN Cons:
– Discounts for longer subscriptions

Get the NordVPN as low as $3.69/mo.

Surfshark – Best Cheap VPN:
Surfshark Pros:
+ Strict no-logging policy
+ Unlimited device connection
+ Torrenting
+ Plays Netflix
+ Secure system
+ Good addons like Ad-Blocker

Surfshark Cons:
– Average speeds

Get the Surfshark VPN as low as $2.49/mo.

Pro Tips: Expect to pay anywhere from $3-10 USD per month of a reputable VPN service. Usually, you can sign up for an annual plan to save beween 50-75% off the regular price. That’s a great deal!

How To use VPN when Traveling?

It’s so simple for using a VPN. Just follow below a few simple steps.

  1. Sign up for one of the VPNs recommended above before traveling. (We recommended NordVPN)
  2. Download the VPN app for your device from the provider’s website.
  3. Connect to the internet and start up your VPN.
  4. Choose and select a server in a country you’d like to use.
  5. Hit the Connect button. Wait a few moments for the connection to establish, and that’s it!

Your IP address is hidden and data is encrypted once connected to VPN.

What is the Benefit for using VPN for Travel?

Cheaper Airfare

Using a VPN can also help you save money when booking hotels and flights. This is a small trick that prices especially flight tickets may fluctuate depending on where you’re booking from. For example, booking a Japan air ticket from Japan is cheaper than if you’re located in Japan. This can be done by tricking the airline website by using VPN.

Access websites blocked in other countries

You can access websites blocked in other countries by using VPN. For example, China has placed numerous restrictions on accessing the Internet and it even prevents using social media, email, streaming sites, etc. Many travelers will tend to use VPNs in China to access websites that are currently blocked in the country.

Secure Transaction

Lastly, you can also use a VPN to secure access to banking websites to perform online activities or transactions. For example, sometimes you may need to perform online bank transactions abroad. This is common that the banking website will block access if it detects this IP address is from another country. Using a VPN with an assigned local IP address will able to let you access the website.

Final Tips on using VPN while Traveling

Last but not least, here are a few quick things you ought to know about the VPN:

Should I use a VPN while abroad?

Yes, we highly recommend it! VPN servers prevent hackers from stealing your personal information and provide unrestricted access to a wide range of streaming content and services. You’ll be protected when connected abroad!

Which VPNs are most trusted to use for travel?

The recommended VPNs for travel are ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and SurfShark. All are very reliable VPNs that are currently working well in most countries.

Can I get free VPN when traveling?

Yes, you can get a VPN for free but this is not adviseable. Most free VPNs will have many limitations such as data limit, injecting advertisements, and may sell your data to third parties to gain profit.

Overall: Best Travel VPN

All in all, we hope our simple guide to the best travel VPN helps you to make the right decision. It’s a cheap way to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself online when traveling. For travelers who plan to travel abroad, then make sure you grab yourself the best VPN on your way there.

We recommend getting ExpressVPN and NordVPN as both are the best VPN to use while traveling. Taking these simple steps will help you greatly reduce the risk of jeopardizing your traveling experience. Enjoy your trip risk-free!

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City

Where To Stay in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

posted in: Vietnam | 0

Last updated on January 11th, 2025

To help decide where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), we have written the below comprehensive accommodation guide on the city’s most popular districts with the best hotel pick!

Ho Chi Minh City (HCM), formerly known as Saigon is a wonderful place to visit in Vietnam. This city offers so much for travelers to visit. From classic history buildings and delicious street food, there are so many exciting attractions awaiting you to discover.

Whether you’re staying in HCM one night or a few nights, there are plenty of hotels in the city. Just make sure you choose the ideal location, which is an important first step in planning your trip. The right accommodation can make a huge difference on your visit to the city.

Although HCM may not be the official Vietnamese capital, this bustling city is huge and full of people. There are 24 districts in the city and deciding on where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City can be a headache. To help you decide the best stay, we would recommend staying at Districts 1, 2, 3, and 5 to get most of the city.

Let’s check out where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).

Where To Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City? The best places to stay in Saigon are District 1, District 2, District 3, and District 5. Listed here is my recommendation and reason, based on your budget.

If this is your first time traveling to Ho Chi Minh City, we highly recommend you stay in District 1. The District 1 is the commercial center of the city and most of the city top’s attractions can be reached within walking distance.

District 2 is good for travelers with their families and kids. The area is the residential area and more laid back.

District 3 is another good option for where stay in Ho Chi Minh City for the first-time visitor. It is situated in the Northwest of District 1 with loads of markets, coffee shops, but slightly away from the bustling area.

District 5 is the best to stay if you are looking for an authentic Asian experience. This area is home to Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown and also the Binh Tay Market. This area is full of eateries and food spots.

For budget travelers, the backpacker District around Pham Ngu Lao Street and Bui Vien Street at District 1 is always the best pick for where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City on a budget. It is also the best places to stay in Ho Chi Minh for nightlife.

For more accommodation options in Ho Chi Minh City check out Booking.com. They continuously offer the best rates and their custom service is on point.

Ho Chi Minh District 1

District 1 is a great place to stay in HCM, especially for first-time visitors who want to see all the most popular sites of the city. At District 1, you’ll find some of the city’s most popular tourist attractions like Notre Dame Cathedral, Reunification Palace, Bitexco Financial Tower, and more.

In terms of accommodation, you can find various selections, from upscale hotels that offer impeccable service to super-budget hostels and guest houses!

Here are the best hotels for where stay in Ho Chi Minh City – District 1 that are best selected for you:

Hotel Majestic Saigon

where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City - Hotel Majestic Saigon
Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City – Hotel Majestic Saigon

To treat yourself during your stay in Ho Chi Minh City, the Hotel Majestic Saigon is a great choice. This colonial-style 1920 landmark sits in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City and overlooks the Saigon River. It offers plenty of modern amenities and yet still retains its French colonial style.

During your stay, you will also enjoy a view of the Saigon River and you can rest assured that this property is comfortable and it has all the luxurious facilities included! You can expect a supremely comfortable experience thanks to the hotel’s pool, spa center, and restaurants. The best luxury stay in Ho Chi Minh City!

Fusion Suites Saigon

Room View on Fusion Suites Saigon

Another worth recommendation is the Fusion Suites Saigon. It is situated in the vibrant District 1 that is near to everything but not a very loud street.

Visitors love its sleek, modern design and sparkling-clean facilities. The super comfy room is incredibly comfortable and had everything you need for an excellent stay. The breakfast is excellent, with a nice mixture of local and Western foods.

Green Star Hotel

Room View on Green Star Hotel

Green Star Hotel is the best place to stay if you’re looking for a mid-budget stay in Ho Chi Minh City. The room is simple, and clean and has some amenities that will help you have a comfortable stay.

The location is excellent and you will be a short walk from all the interesting attractions in this area! Plus, it is very close to many bus stations and could easily arrange to the airport and other cities in Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh District 2

District 2 is my recommendation for people traveling to HCM with their family and kids. District 2 is a residential area and it is a bit more laid-back compared to District 1. A 10 to 20 minutes ride will get you to the city center. Plus, some hotels will offer free shuttle service downtown!

Listed below are some of the most highly-rated accommodation options in District 2.

Mia Saigon

Mia Saigon – Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
Mia Saigon – Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

If you’re on a luxury gateway, opt for a little luxury at Mia Saigon! It is a luxury boutique hotel boasted with lovely rooms and great balconies with wonderful views of the river. All facilities are clean and well-maintained.

The location is slightly far from the city but a free boat service connecting to downtown District 1 is a great plus. Everything was immaculate and extremely comfortable.

Glenwood City Resort

Room View on Glenwood City Resort
Room View on Glenwood City Resort

Glenwood City Resort is another good value hotel in District 2 that has some unbeatable rates considering the quality of its service! The room is spacious and clean, the staff is helpful and pleasant.

Besides, this accommodation is situated in the heart of the Thao Dien area with views of the Saigon River. A bus terminal is just right in front of the resort where guests can take bus 35 to Ben Thanh Market in 30 minutes.

Mecozy Apartel

where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City - Mecozy Apartel

Mecozy Apartel is a cozy apartment hotel located in the Thao Dien area of District 2. The studio featured with spacious room and a well-equipped kitchen with everything to make you feel comfortable at home. The location is also convenient with restaurants and convenience stores within walking distance. Perfect for a stay for a family with kids.

Ho Chi Minh District 3

Situated northwest of District 1, District 3 is another best place to stay in Ho Chi Minh City. This area is home to plenty of good restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls. Most importantly, accommodation is slightly cheaper compared with District 1. A drawback is it’s a bit of a walk from the main attractions in District 1. Alternatively, a grab ride can easily take you to the city’s downtown.

Here are some of the top-rated hotels if you are looking for where to stay in Hi Chi Minh City – District 3:

La Vela Saigon Hotel

where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City - La Vela Saigon Hotel
Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City – La Vela Saigon Hotel

La Vela Saigon Hotel is the best place to stay in Ho Chi Minh City in case you’re looking for the ultimate luxurious stay in HCM District 3. The hotel is perfectly situated in the city center and only 700 m from Tan Dinh Market. Staying here means you’ll enjoy a spoiled stay with a 5-star hotel view.

The room is spacious and very comfortable. A great selection at breakfast can be enjoyed by the hotel guests. The sky bar is superb with a nice view and the infinity pool is also excellent!

Orchids Saigon Hotel

Room View on Orchids Saigon Hotel

Orchids Saigon Hotel is a great choice in the high-range category but at a reasonable price. This famous hotel is located right in the heart of the city with top-notch facilities and amazing staff. The room is spacious and spotlessly clean. The location is perfect and situated right in the middle of the city but not much traffic noise. Good value for money!

Leaf Signature Hotel

where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City - Leaf Signature Hotel
where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City – Leaf Signature Hotel

For a great Hanoi mid-budget hotel option in District 3, you can head to Leaf Signature Hotel. It is a cozy and tastefully decorated hotel featured with comfortable rooms. It is practically within walking distance of many of the city’s attractions. Definitely one of the most affordable out of this middle-price list!

Ho Chi Minh District 5

District 5 is the best place to stay in Ho Chi Minh City if you look for an authentic Asian experience. This area is home to Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown and also the Binh Tay Market, the largest market in Vietnam. Here you’ll find Buddhist temples, colorful pagodas, quaint tea houses, and Chinese street food.

Check out some of the top accommodation options in Distict 5.

Hotel Equatorial Ho Chi Minh City

Room View on Hotel Equatorial Ho Chi Minh City

Hotel Equatorial Ho Chi Minh City is another superb accommodation in District 5 where you will enjoy full luxury service. This 5-star hotel has spacious and well-appointed rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi access, and a casino on site. Breakfast is exceptional, including an interesting variety from day-to-day. Plus, guests can enjoy the free shuttle bus service to the city center which is a great plus!

Zazz Urban Ho Chi Minh

Room View on Zazz Urban Ho Chi Minh

Zazz Urban Ho Chi Minh is another great recommendation if you are looking for where to stay in Saigon. The stylish hotel featured modern rooms and everything else you might need for a comfortable stay.

Clean rooms and well-maintained. Great selection of breakfast choices, both Western and Vietnamese dishes. Plus, the staff is very friendly and makes you comfortable.

Best Budget Hostels in Ho Chi Minh

If you’re looking for where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City on a budget, then you’ll need to check out some of Ho Chi Minh’s cheap and fantastic hostels! There are plenty of cheap hostels with affordable dorms and rooms that suit your budget option. It’s also very ideal for solo and backpackers to look for an amazing stay in HCM.

Below is our best pick for the best budget hostel in Ho Chi Minh City.

where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City on a budget - 9 Hostel and Bar
Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City on a budget – 9 Hostel and Bar

9 Hostel and Bar is a super social hostel that offers sleek dormitory rooms and private guestrooms with free WiFi access. It boasts all the basics and is very comfortable for a short stay in the city.

The hostel is in a great location in District 1. It is within a short walk from the popular Bui Vien Walking Street and an easy walk to the main attractions in the city. The staff is super friendly and always tries to help you. A popular pick for budget travelers!

Best budget stay - The Nineties Hostel
Best budget stay – The Nineties Hostel

The Nineties Hostel is an affordable base for budget stays in Ho Chi Minh City. The interior design is cozy with a great vibe in the hostel. The room is clean and neat. Plus, the location is perfect and great for walking around Ho Chi Minh City. Excellent value for the money and is centrally located.

Overview: Best Hotel at Ho Chi Minh City

All in all, hopefully you have already chosen a place to stay in Ho Chi Minh among all my lists of the best places to stay! All the hotels recommended are great and they offer an amazing service!

If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here’s a quick recap.

Hotel Majestic Saigon at District 1 is a great choice for luxury stay. This colonial-style 1920 landmark sits in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City and overlooks the Saigon River. It offers plenty of modern amenities and yet still retains its French colonial style.

Alternatively, Green Star Hotel is the best place to stay if you’re looking for a mid-budget stay in Ho Chi Minh City. The room is simple, and clean and has some amenities that will help you have a comfortable stay.

Lastly, I hope you have such a unique experience in HCM that you will never forget it! If you need more travel inspiration for Vietnam, here you can find all our travel stories about this wonderful country!

Traveling to Ho Chi Minh City? Feel free to read on our Saigon travel stories.

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