Ho Chi Minh is the new Bangkok ✨
Whatever you do in #bkk you can now do it in #vietnam HCM too!
Massage ✅
Shopping ✅
Nails ✅
Spa ✅
Cafe ✅
Bars ✅
Cheap cheap good good ✅
The only downside I would say is that they do not have much late night activities. Most massage places closes at 11PM as compared to BKK at 2am.
Shopping was a surprise to me! Everything cost me less than $400! Prices are steeper than the ones in bkk; but I’ll def prefer Vietnam’s quality over to bkk any day. (Bkk was getting expensive and the quality could not last) 😆 Think of shopping in boutiques but with Bugis street’s pricing. 🤪
*To add on: Vietnamese sizing runs small, might not be ideal for L size girlies!
Not to mentioned, I did my nails in Vietnam and it was relatively cheaper than what I usually do in JB.
My set of nails costed only $92 SGD - with overlay on both my feet and hands, plus I add on all the design and chrome bomb. 😂
💖 Overall, I would def visit HCM again; as I’ve been visiting bkk over the past decade and it has changed into an overcrowding spot for me personally.
*Compiling my full itinerary for Vietnam into a post! Let me know what you think!
Visiting Ho Chi Minh City (HCM) really gives you the feeling of finding a fresh, vibrant alternative to Bangkok’s well-known hustle. During my recent trip, I was pleasantly surprised by how much you can experience in HCM that rivals Bangkok, especially when it comes to relaxing massages and spa treatments. Most massage places in HCM close earlier, around 11 PM, unlike Bangkok’s late-night scene, but the quality and cost make up for it—even better if you’re an early bird. Shopping in Ho Chi Minh truly feels like a mix of boutique charm combined with affordable pricing reminiscent of Bugis Street. While prices are slightly higher than Bangkok’s, the improved quality definitely adds value. If you’re someone who appreciates well-made clothes and unique local brands, HCM offers an excellent selection without breaking the bank. Just a heads-up though, Vietnamese sizes tend to run smaller, so if you usually wear larger sizes, it’s good to try items on before buying. I treated myself to a full nail set with designs and chrome details and was amazed that it cost only about 92 SGD, which was cheaper than what I usually pay back home. This made pampering myself even more enjoyable during the trip. Apart from shopping and spa experiences, HCM's café culture is thriving. I discovered charming cafes like Cafe Eggyolk, where the ambience and quality of coffee made for perfect relaxing breaks. The city also boasts a growing number of bars and eateries that cater to all tastes, enhancing its reputation as an exciting yet affordable destination. If you’ve been to Bangkok multiple times and are looking for a less crowded, quality-focused getaway with budget-friendly options, Ho Chi Minh City is worth a spot on your travel list. From local markets to modern malls featuring over 40 local brands, the city pulses with energy and offers countless ways to explore Vietnamese culture in style. Planning a full itinerary for HCM can be rewarding—whether you’re focused on budget travel, shopping, or enjoying quality personal care treatments. It’s a city that balances charm, cost-efficiency, and cultural vibrancy perfectly, making it a top choice for travelers looking for something new yet familiar.
But the people there not friendly. Esp the market. They hijack the price vry high one.