How to Plan Your Ho Chi Minh City Free Tours With Local Youth

Are you planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City but worried about the costs of activities? Don’t fret, we have the perfect solution for you! Book a private student-led walking tour with local youth and explore the city’s hot spots without breaking the bank. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your Ho Chi Minh City free tours with local youth.

Overview

The private student-led walking tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want to explore Ho Chi Minh City with a local guide. The tour guides are university students who speak English fluently and are passionate about sharing their knowledge of the city. They will take you on a personalized walking tour of the city’s different districts, back streets, and hot spots, and share local stories and anecdotes along the way.

Booking Your Tour

To book your tour, visit the Viator website and select the Ho Chi Minh City Free Tours with Local Youth option. Follow the steps to confirm your booking, and don’t forget to provide the local provider with your hotel details so that they can arrange for a pickup if needed. Book your tour here

What’s Included

The tour includes a tour-guide service, coffee and/or tea, private transportation, and attractions entrance fees. You won’t have to worry about any additional costs during the tour.

Customizing Your Tour

The best thing about this tour is that it’s entirely customizable. You can work with your guide to create an itinerary that suits your interests and preferences. Some popular attractions to include in your tour are:

District 1

District 1 is the central district of Ho Chi Minh City and is home to many tourist attractions, such as the Reunification Palace, Central Post Office, and Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon.

Chinatown (Cho Lon)

Experience the bustling streets and markets of Chinatown, which is home to many traditional Chinese temples and pagodas.

Meeting and Pickup

If you prefer, your tour guide can pick you up from your hotel or a designated location to start the tour. You can select the pickup point when booking your tour.

Pickup points

– Your hotel – A designated location

Start time

Confirm the start time with the local provider before your tour to avoid any confusion.

Opening hours

12/16/2021 – 5/16/2024
Monday – Sunday : 09:00 AM – 09:00 PM

Book Your Tour Now

A private student-led walking tour with local youth is an excellent way to explore the city without spending too much money. You will get a unique perspective on Ho Chi Minh City from knowledgeable guides who are passionate about sharing their city with visitors. Customize your itinerary to include the attractions that interest you the most and enjoy a personalized experience of the city. Book your tour today and have an unforgettable experience in Ho Chi Minh City.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam and is a popular tourist destination. With its stunning architecture, rich history, delicious cuisine, and thriving culture, there is much to explore in this vibrant city. If you are planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City, you probably have some questions. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help you plan your trip.

1. What is the weather like in Ho Chi Minh City?

The weather in Ho Chi Minh City is hot and humid year-round. The average temperature is around 27-35°C (81-95°F), with high humidity levels. The rainy season is from May to November, while the dry season is from December to April.

2. What language do they speak in Ho Chi Minh City?

The official language of Vietnam is Vietnamese. However, due to its history and international influences, many people in Ho Chi Minh City also speak English and French, especially those in the tourism industry.

3. What is the currency in Ho Chi Minh City?

The currency used in Ho Chi Minh City is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It’s recommended to exchange your money at banks or authorized currency exchange locations to ensure a fair exchange rate.

4. What are the top tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City?

There are so many things to see and do in Ho Chi Minh City! Here are some of the top tourist attractions: – War Remnants Museum: A powerful museum that explores the history of the Vietnam War. – Reunification Palace: Formerly the presidential palace of South Vietnam, this building played an important role in the country’s history. – Notre Dame Cathedral: A beautiful French colonial-era cathedral, one of the few remaining Catholic structures in the city. – Ben Thanh Market: One of the largest and oldest markets in the city, offering a variety of goods from clothing to souvenirs. – Cu Chi Tunnels: Located outside the city, these historic tunnels once served as underground cities during the war.

5. What should I eat in Ho Chi Minh City?

Vietnamese cuisine is delicious, and Ho Chi Minh City is a great place to sample a variety of dishes. Some must-try dishes include: – Pho: A classic Vietnamese noodle soup. – Banh mi: A delicious sandwich on a baguette filled with meat, vegetables, and sauces. – Bun cha: A mouth-watering dish of grilled pork, rice noodles, and herbs. – Banh xeo: A savory pancake filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. – Goi cuon: Fresh spring rolls filled with pork, shrimp, rice noodles, and herbs.

6. How do I get around Ho Chi Minh City?

There are several options for getting around Ho Chi Minh City, including taxis, motorbikes, buses, and the Metro. Taxis are abundant and reasonably priced, but be sure to negotiate the fare before getting in. Motorbikes are a popular option but can be dangerous if you’re not experienced. Buses are a cheap option but can be crowded and confusing. The Metro is a modern and efficient option, but currently has limited routes.

7. What are some cultural norms in Ho Chi Minh City?

Vietnamese culture is based on Confucianism and emphasizes respect for elders, family values, and hospitality. Some cultural norms to keep in mind include: – Removing your shoes before entering someone’s home. – Dressing conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites. – Addressing people by their title and last name, rather than their first name. – Using two hands when receiving or giving something to someone. – Never touching someone’s head, as it is considered sacred.

8. Is Ho Chi Minh City safe for tourists?

Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe for tourists, but like any big city, it’s important to take precautions to avoid scams and crime. Some tips for staying safe include: – Keeping your valuables secured and out of sight. – Avoiding unlicensed taxis and motorbike tours. – Being cautious at ATMs and avoiding carrying large amounts of cash. – Being aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas. – Taking caution when crossing the road, as traffic can be chaotic.

9. What is the best time of year to visit Ho Chi Minh City?

The best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is most pleasant. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. May to November is the rainy season, with frequent downpours and higher humidity levels.

10. How can I show respect for Vietnamese culture?

It’s important to show respect for Vietnamese culture when visiting Ho Chi Minh City. Some ways to do so include: – Learning a few words of Vietnamese, such as “hello” and “thank you.” – Taking off your shoes when entering homes, temples, or other places of worship. – Dressing conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites. – Not touching someone’s head, as it is considered sacred. – Addressing people by their title and last name, rather than their first name. In conclusion, Ho Chi Minh City is a fascinating and exciting place to visit, with plenty to see, do, and explore. By following these tips and being respectful of Vietnamese culture, you can have an enjoyable and safe trip to this vibrant city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is a vibrant and bustling city in southern Vietnam. With its rich history, stunning architecture, amazing food, and friendly locals, it’s a fantastic destination for tourists. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to spend your time in Ho Chi Minh City.

1. Visit the War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the Vietnam War and its aftermath. The museum is home to a vast collection of photographs, documents, and artifacts from the conflict, providing a sobering reminder of the war’s human cost. You can also view preserved military equipment and aircraft outside the museum.

2. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. They are now a popular tourist attraction and offer a glimpse into what life was like for soldiers during the war. The tunnels are a fascinating and important part of Vietnam’s history.

3. Stroll around the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

The Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most impressive architectural wonders. The cathedral dates back to the late 19th century and features striking red brickwork, towering spires, and intricate stained-glass windows. Make sure to bring your camera as there are some great photo opportunities here.

4. Take a stroll around the Ben Thanh Market

The Ben Thanh Market is one of the most popular markets in Vietnam with a wide array of items to purchase, such as clothing, jewelry, textiles, and traditional Vietnamese handicrafts. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and practice your bargaining skills.

5. Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda

The Jade Emperor Pagoda is a Taoist temple that dates back to the early 20th century. It’s one of the city’s most beautiful temples and features intricate wood carvings, statues, and an enchanting courtyard with a koi pond. The calm and peaceful atmosphere provides an excellent escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

6. Try some Vietnamese street food at Bến Thánh Street Food Market

This bustling street food market is a great way to sample local Vietnamese cuisine. The vendors sell everything from banh mi to pho to banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes) to satisfy any cravings you have. The market is busy, so bring your appetite and be prepared to eat standing up.

7. Visit the Reunification Palace

The Reunification Palace was the home of the South Vietnamese president during the Vietnam War. It was the site of the end of the Vietnam War when North Vietnamese tanks crashed through its gates in 1975. The palace is now a museum with many artifacts from the time, including the president’s office, living quarters, and communication rooms.

8. Take a trip to the Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is a lush, fertile region that’s home to many small villages and bustling markets. It’s a fascinating area to explore, with its floating markets, fruit orchards, and unique local culture. Take a boat tour along the river and explore the region’s historic towns and villages.

9. Enjoy the nightlife

Ho Chi Minh City has a lively and varied nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. You can find everything from rooftop bars with fantastic views across the city to lively nightclubs playing the latest music.

Book Your Tour Now

Ho Chi Minh City is a fantastic destination for tourists, with plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, food, or culture, you’ll find something to enjoy in this vibrant and bustling city. With this guide, you’ll be sure to make the most of your time in Ho Chi Minh City.