Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is an animated and lively urban center that operates around the clock. Nevertheless, it is sometimes necessary to escape the commotion and dissonance of the city. And what could be a better way to do that than to take a weekend getaway? As a person living abroad in Ho Chi Minh City, you are fortunate since there are numerous extraordinary locations within just a few hours. In this piece of writing, we will impart to you the top five weekend destinations that expatriates can visit while staying in Ho Chi Minh City.
1. Mui Ne
If thou art in search of a splendid haven to while away thy weekend, distant from Ho Chi Minh City, thence Mui Ne would be an exceptional preference. It is a seaside municipality, reachable by car or coach in approximately 4-5 hours. Mui Ne is recognized for its powdery coasts and exceptional sand dunes, making it a much-favored haunt for aficionados of water sports and adventurers alike.
Whilst in Mui Ne, it would be prudent to partake of a dip in the limpid waters, take it easy on the seashore, and have a go at kitesurfing or windsurfing. For something more peculiar, it might be worthwhile to consider visiting the Red Sand Dunes or White Sand Dunes. One may hire a quad bike or ATV and relish the adventure of careening through the sand to one’s heart’s content.
Should thou be a lover of seafood, good fortune smiles upon thee, for Mui Ne has some of the most palatable and freshly caught seafood in the locality. Make certain to sample the local delicacies such as grilled squid, prawns, and fish, which are procurable at the abundant seafood restaurants and food vendors throughout the township.
Other activities of interest that can be explored whilst in Mui Ne include visiting the Poshanu Cham Tower, which is an ancient temple erected by the Cham people, and traversing the Fairy Stream, a natural stream that meanders through a breathtaking canyon.
How to Travel to Mui Ne from Ho Chi Minh
To reach Mui Ne from Ho Chi Minh City, one can opt to engage the services of a private car or take a bus. The bus ride generally takes about 4 hours, and numerous bus companies operate daily services. Another option is to rent a motorbike, but it is important to note that the roads can be quite challenging and difficult to navigate.
2. Da Lat
Nestled in the elevated Central Highlands of Vietnam lies the beautiful city of Da Lat. This charming city is referred to as the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its refreshing climate, verdant greenery, and stunning waterfalls. If you’re looking to escape the hot and humid weather of Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat is the perfect destination. You can explore the city’s world-renowned flower gardens, take a relaxing stroll around Xuan Huong Lake, or embark on an exhilarating trek to the nearby mountains.
How to Travel to Da Lat from Ho Chi Minh City
If you wish to travel to Da Lat from Ho Chi Minh City, the easiest and most convenient option is to take a flight. Several airlines offer daily flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat, and the journey typically takes approximately one hour. However, if you prefer to take a bus, keep in mind that the journey is much longer and has many twists and turns, taking around 7-8 hours.
3. Vung Tau
Vung Tau, a beautiful seaside town just a 2-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, is a great place to spend your weekend. It’s known for its stunning beaches, fresh seafood, and amazing views from its hilltops.
One of the places you shouldn’t miss in Vung Tau is the Jesus Christ Statue. It’s a really big statue, standing 32 meters tall, and you can see the whole town and the sea from up there. If you want to relax, you can go to one of the beaches, like Back Beach or Front Beach. You can enjoy the sun, swim in the ocean, and have something to eat or drink at one of the beachfront cafes.
Vung Tau also has some historic places to visit, like the White Palace and the Vung Tau Lighthouse. They tell you about the town’s colonial past. And, of course, you have to try the fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants.
If you want to go to Vung Tau from Ho Chi Minh City, you can take a bus or hire a private car. It takes about 2 hours to get there, and there are lots of buses that go there every day.
4. Hoi An
Hoi An is a magnificent old town in the central part of Vietnam that has preserved its valuable cultural and architectural legacy for hundreds of years. The town is famous for its lively lanterns, historic temples, and outstanding food culture.
During a weekend visit to Hoi An, there are many delightful places to explore, such as the Japanese Covered Bridge. This bridge is a significant landmark that connects the Japanese and Chinese communities in Hoi An. It was built in the 16th century and exemplifies Japanese-style architecture in Vietnam.
Another must-visit location is the Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that safeguards the town’s cultural and architectural heritage. The town is a maze of narrow lanes, ancient homes, and temples dating back to the 15th century.
Hoi An is also renowned for its delectable food culture that combines Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese cuisines. Visitors can try local delicacies such as Cao Lau, a noodle dish made with pork and herbs, or Banh Mi, a Vietnamese sandwich.
If you’re planning to stay in Hoi An, there are numerous lodging options available to suit your preferences and budget. Some popular choices include the luxurious Anantara Hoi An Resort located on the banks of the Thu Bon River, the mid-range Hoi An Silk Marina Resort & Spa situated in the heart of Hoi An, and the affordable Hoi An Orchid Garden Villas, which offer cozy rooms and a tranquil setting just a short distance away from the Hoi An Ancient Town.
5. Nha Trang
Nestled in the southern central region of Vietnam lies Nha Trang, a mesmerizing coastal metropolis known for its breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. This vibrant city offers a range of awe-inspiring destinations to explore during a weekend trip.
One of the top attractions in Nha Trang is the beach itself. With its powdery white sand, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the sun or take a refreshing dip in the sea. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, the beach is also a hub for exciting water sports activities such as jet skiing and parasailing.
Another must-visit location in Nha Trang is Hon Mun Island, a renowned haven for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. This stunning island is home to a wide variety of spellbinding coral reefs and fascinating marine creatures waiting to be explored.
For those seeking a thrill, Vinpearl Land is a captivating theme park that offers an abundance of enthralling attractions. The park features an exhilarating water park, an aquarium filled with mesmerizing sea creatures, and exhilarating roller coaster rides.
When it comes to accommodations, Nha Trang has plenty of options to suit various budgets and preferences. The InterContinental Nha Trang is a luxurious hotel situated right on the beachfront, providing guests with access to a splendid spa, a serene swimming pool, and gourmet dining options. Meanwhile, the Mia Resort Nha Trang is a mid-range resort that sits along the picturesque coastline and boasts a sublime spa, a refreshing swimming pool, and an exquisite restaurant.
6. Can Gio
Consider embarking on an extraordinary weekend escapade from Ho Chi Minh City to a relatively unknown locale, Can Gio, which is located approximately 50km southeast of the metropolis and comprises a coastal mangrove forest and a biosphere reserve.
Can Gio is famous for its multifaceted ecosystem, which encompasses not just mangroves but also a diverse range of fauna, including monkeys, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. By taking a boat ride through the reserve, travelers can immerse themselves in the lush vegetation and spot native wildlife.
Furthermore, Can Gio offers other exciting activities, such as exploring the Vam Sat Ecological Tourist Site, where visitors can get up close with saltwater crocodiles and take a stroll through the mangrove forest, as well as visiting the Rung Sac Guerilla Base, a historic site utilized during the Vietnam War.
Exploring new places can be exciting, especially when you live in a busy city like Ho Chi Minh. Sometimes, it’s good to take a break and go on a weekend getaway to relax or seek adventure. Luckily, there are many great options near the city that cater to different interests. For instance, you can visit the tranquil and stunning city of Dalat or bask in the warm sunshine on the sandy beaches of Vung Tau. There are several other places that you can discover within a few hours’ drive from the city. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable weekend!