Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)
- Ben Thanh market, Ho Chi Minh – vietnam
While Hanoi is considered the center of arts and culture, Ho Chi Minh City or Saigon is the commercial hub of Vietnam and, certainly its most bustling city. The place springs to life early in the morning with the hustle and bustle of the local markets and incessant honks from all manner of vehicles. But if you really want to get to know Saigon, visit Ben Thanh Market, the oldest and largest market in Saigon. It is famous for its fresh flowers but you can find almost anything here. It’s more convenient and safe to take a cab or cyclo taxi to the market; driving in Saigon can make you crazy if you’re not familiar with the traffic and the locals’ driving style.
For those who prefer a leisurely walk in a French colonial atmosphere, try strolling down Kong Khoi Street. This clean, well-paved avenue has a public park and a collection of French colonial-style buildings, most of which have been converted into boutique hotels. Look out for the Hotel Continental building. This legendary structure was the place where foreign journalists and diplomats gathered to discuss the latest events and drink away their blues during the Vietnam War.
Ben Thanh Market
The famous landmark of Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh market was founded since the French occupation in the 19th century. It was originally located on the bank of Ben Nghe River near Gia Din Fort until 1899 when it was moved to the present location. The market is now standing at the intersection of Le Loi, Ham Nghi and Tran Hung Dao Avenue – the centre of the city. Almost every road in the city is connected to the market. The main gate of the market is a yellow clock tower that becomes the symbol of the city.
Giac Lam ancient Pagoda
Only 9 kilometres from Benh Thanh Market is the oldest Buddhist temple of Saigon named Giac Lam Pagoda. The holy shrine formerly known as Cam Dem temple was built in 1744 as a Buddhist training centre in Gia Dinh area. It contains several sculptures of historical, cultural, architectural and religious values. Constructed in different types of wood found in the area, the shrine sits on a hilltop under shady trees. It is designed to imitate a Chinese character.
Most of the structures of the building are preserved in the same condition as it was in 1904 when it undergone the last renovation. It shows some influence of Khmer and Indian architecture through the sculptures of lions, lotuses and Naga snakes. Its front garden has a white statue of the Goddess of Mercy perched upon a lotus blossom.
The shrine in the temple houses 118 ancient statues at the pagoda. Most of them are made of bronze and precious timbers. Giac Lam Pagoda is known for its sophisticated designs and registered as a national historical and cultural relic in 1998. It is open from 6 am to 9 pm.
