Whilst I found Hanoi welcoming and honest, but a bit rough around the edges, Ho Chi Minh city (or Saigon still to many locals) is like that good looking friend who shows off a bit and your not quite sure if you can believe everything they say.
But perhaps that is because on day one we have been followed by a cyclo-driver, harrassed by a guy wanting to take us on his scooter and overcharged by a charity. I am also tired after travelling from Nha Trang which I am sure is colouring my view. However, Ho Chi Minh does have some redeeming features, like footpaths that can be walked on! All of the major sights are in walking distance and there is some beautiful architecture thanks to a period of french colonial occuppation. Good pattisseries too!
Unlike Hanoi, whose streets are lined with women selling their wares out of streetside stalls, Ho Chi Minh’s streets are lined with Gucci, Armani, Versace, Chanel and others. Definitely more westernised than the North and at times you could be forgiven for thinking that you are walking down George Street.
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