Ho Chi Minh City

Q. You went on a trip?!  When was it?
18 May to 22 May.  Missed me? :p

Q. Why?
It was my birthday present, preciousss...  Heh, not really, my current phone is the birthday present.  The trip was co-shared.

Q. ... No, why there?
This destination came about because it was relatively cheap.  The basic tour was only 200+.  Add $60 for extension.  Add $110 for a change in carrier from Garuda to Tiger Airways.
Also, after cleaning out my bank accounts twice on Europe trips, I wish to see something from Asia.

Q. What were the complications?
Switching to a budget carrier means that we get charged from baggage weighing more than 15 kg, which considering it costs $110 more than the default choice of National Carrier, leaves a bad taste in the mouth.  For our return trip, we paid US$20 for excess baggage.

Q. How bad was the traffic?
At first, we expected something like Bali, but worse.  Actually, the traffic in the city was well managed and relaxed.  Jay-walking is the national past-time.  Just make sure you make eye contact with the driver.

Q. Is it true the best way to cross the street is to close your eyes and walk?
Unlike Singaporean drivers, most drivers in Vietnam do not charge at you, to scare you out of their way.  However, bullies exist everywhere.  We met one.

Q. There's nothing to see in Ho Chi Minh!
True.  But are you there to see Zoos and Bird Parks?  Frankly, among all the lame claims to fame that our country tried to make, it's true about our Zoo being world-class.  We went to the standard tourist traps, with hidden costs.  Grrr...  We learnt our lesson from Bali - If you're gonna be a purse-pincher, then you won't get to experience anything!  So spend!  Go to all the silly tourist traps and enjoy yourselves.

Q. Any tourists traps that I should not go?
All of them are pretty enjoyable.  Take note of the hidden costs.  They made their day trips appear very cheap, but they do not include the price of tickets!  Not exactly ethical in my point of view, but everyone does it there, it seems.

Q. Where are your photos?
Ok, here, here.

200905_hcm_vietnam