My overall assessment of the country and its women was lackluster. Ho Chi Minh City, better known as Saigon has undergone significant transformation, evidenced by an increase in vehicular traffic and the emergence of high-end shopping complexes. This influx of capital has subsequently attracted some designer labels and expensive clubs. So lets take a closer look.
Alert: It has become increasingly prevalent for female club promoters to solicit male patrons under the pretense of a date, aiming to persuade them to reserve a table or purchase a bottle, from which they receive a commission. This has occurred to several acquaintances of mine who arrived at the place believing they were meeting for a date, only to find the female accompanied by numerous other bewildered males under the same pretense. It exists in an ambiguous gray region, and I am acquainted with some of the women involved who adeptly navigate the boundary between flirtation and plausible deniability, ensuring they do not appear to have misled you. Most typical Vietnamese women prefer that you take the initiative; so, if she directs you to a particular location, it is unequivocally a warning sign.
The Women
Let’s be real—Vietnamese women didn’t quite match the hype for me. Their appearances lean toward the understated: pale complexions, petite builds, and a reserved demeanor. While some men might find their shyness and simplicity endearing, I prefer women with more vivacity and flair.
The language barrier was an issue. Even a basic question like, “How much is this?” in English often drew blank stares—yes, even from retail workers. Proficiency in English improves slightly with the younger generation, but don’t expect smooth communication unless you’ve mastered some Vietnamese.
Despite their initial timidness, Vietnamese women can become fiercely attached—sometimes to a stalker-like degree. Their devotion can be heartwarming or overwhelming, depending on your perspective. They’re also naturally nurturing; one woman even wanted to take me to the hospital when I had an eye infection! If you're looking for a serious relationship, Vietnam has strong contenders.
Living Costs
Vietnam is delightfully affordable, even by Southeast Asian standards. My flat in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) cost just $300 per month, including utilities. Daily meals from local food stalls—pho, bun bo hue, or com suon—set me back only $1–$2. Even beer is a steal at 35 cents a pint. Gas for my motorbike? A mere $2 a week.
Outside the tourist zones, costs drop significantly. If you’re savvy and stick to local spots, your wallet will thank you. However, Saigon, the most cosmopolitan city, is pricier than rural areas or even Hanoi, which still clings to its traditional roots.
City Life in Ho Chi Minh City
Saigon is a whirlwind of activity, with scooters zipping past in organized chaos. The city has seen rapid modernization since my last visit, with high-end shopping malls and luxury brands now staking their claim in District 1. Yet, outside this cosmopolitan bubble, much of the city remains the same—a charming, chaotic mix of traditional and modern life.
I stayed in the Lancaster Serviced Apartments in District 1, which I highly recommend. Serviced apartments offer flexibility—cook if you want, entertain in the living room, and enjoy separate bedrooms for privacy. Plus, the location was excellent, with a lively side street of bars and restaurants just outside.
All areas in D1 are pedestrian-friendly, and unlike Singapore, the climate is not excessively hot and humid, preventing excessive perspiration after a short stroll. I prefer serviced apartments over hotels when traveling with friends, as they offer greater flexibility. You may cook if desired, as there is an adequate living room area for socializing and pre-drinking. Most importantly, you can invite women for an afterparty while maintaining separate private bedrooms to escort your companion(s) without disrupting the remainder of the gathering, unlike a hotel room where you would need to expel other guests. The apartments were tranquil, the staff was amiable, and the location was excellent, featuring a charming side street of bars and restaurants at your doorstep. We typically commenced our evening in a conventional bar named 5ku Station, located about a block away, where inexpensive beer and quality food are available, which patrons prepare themselves on individual mini BBQ/grill pots.
Vietnamese people often exhibit a tendency to neglect the improvement of their businesses, allowing them to deteriorate without maintenance, akin to their approach to motorbikes—purchasing new ones and operating them until they irreparably fail after 15 years, without ever servicing or cleaning them. The city resembles a polluted wasteland; it is essentially comparable to a developing nation, lacking an operational metro system, although efforts are on to establish one.
Nightlife: From Glitz to Grit
Saigon’s nightlife is as diverse as its people. Here are my top picks:
Culture and Attractions
The War Remnants Museum was a highlight for me—a sobering yet fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s history. Entry is just $1, and it’s a must-visit for history buffs. The Cu Chi Tunnels, while a trek, were worth the trip, especially for the chance to fire AK-47s and M16s at the shooting range.
The city’s malls, on the other hand, left much to be desired. Unlike the vibrant malls in Bangkok, characterized by its international food courts and upscale retailers. Saigon’s shopping centers felt lifeless and uninspiring.
Tips for Success in Saigon
Final Thoughts
The majority of Vietnamese women are exceedingly unremarkable. They possess unremarkable visages, exhibiting a uniformity in appearance, characterized by slender physiques, modest height, and a lack of prominent busts, rendering them easily forgettable. Imagine the Asian nerd with hair tied up in a ponytail and glasses - but the sort that doesn't look hot. That's what the majority all look like. Plain boring practical clothes, wrapped up in hoodies for riding on the streets, some old leggings or jeans, yes often they will wear a nice dress and heels (at work for example) but... it's nothing much to get excited about.
I discovered that attracting women to accompany me home was relatively simple; nonetheless, their lack of warmth and expertise in intimate situations proved somewhat exasperating. Vietnam has its charms and challenges, but for the adventurous, it’s a destination that leaves an impression—flawed, yet fascinating.
Alert: It has become increasingly prevalent for female club promoters to solicit male patrons under the pretense of a date, aiming to persuade them to reserve a table or purchase a bottle, from which they receive a commission. This has occurred to several acquaintances of mine who arrived at the place believing they were meeting for a date, only to find the female accompanied by numerous other bewildered males under the same pretense. It exists in an ambiguous gray region, and I am acquainted with some of the women involved who adeptly navigate the boundary between flirtation and plausible deniability, ensuring they do not appear to have misled you. Most typical Vietnamese women prefer that you take the initiative; so, if she directs you to a particular location, it is unequivocally a warning sign.
The Women
Let’s be real—Vietnamese women didn’t quite match the hype for me. Their appearances lean toward the understated: pale complexions, petite builds, and a reserved demeanor. While some men might find their shyness and simplicity endearing, I prefer women with more vivacity and flair.
The language barrier was an issue. Even a basic question like, “How much is this?” in English often drew blank stares—yes, even from retail workers. Proficiency in English improves slightly with the younger generation, but don’t expect smooth communication unless you’ve mastered some Vietnamese.
Despite their initial timidness, Vietnamese women can become fiercely attached—sometimes to a stalker-like degree. Their devotion can be heartwarming or overwhelming, depending on your perspective. They’re also naturally nurturing; one woman even wanted to take me to the hospital when I had an eye infection! If you're looking for a serious relationship, Vietnam has strong contenders.
Living Costs
Vietnam is delightfully affordable, even by Southeast Asian standards. My flat in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) cost just $300 per month, including utilities. Daily meals from local food stalls—pho, bun bo hue, or com suon—set me back only $1–$2. Even beer is a steal at 35 cents a pint. Gas for my motorbike? A mere $2 a week.
Outside the tourist zones, costs drop significantly. If you’re savvy and stick to local spots, your wallet will thank you. However, Saigon, the most cosmopolitan city, is pricier than rural areas or even Hanoi, which still clings to its traditional roots.
City Life in Ho Chi Minh City
Saigon is a whirlwind of activity, with scooters zipping past in organized chaos. The city has seen rapid modernization since my last visit, with high-end shopping malls and luxury brands now staking their claim in District 1. Yet, outside this cosmopolitan bubble, much of the city remains the same—a charming, chaotic mix of traditional and modern life.
I stayed in the Lancaster Serviced Apartments in District 1, which I highly recommend. Serviced apartments offer flexibility—cook if you want, entertain in the living room, and enjoy separate bedrooms for privacy. Plus, the location was excellent, with a lively side street of bars and restaurants just outside.
All areas in D1 are pedestrian-friendly, and unlike Singapore, the climate is not excessively hot and humid, preventing excessive perspiration after a short stroll. I prefer serviced apartments over hotels when traveling with friends, as they offer greater flexibility. You may cook if desired, as there is an adequate living room area for socializing and pre-drinking. Most importantly, you can invite women for an afterparty while maintaining separate private bedrooms to escort your companion(s) without disrupting the remainder of the gathering, unlike a hotel room where you would need to expel other guests. The apartments were tranquil, the staff was amiable, and the location was excellent, featuring a charming side street of bars and restaurants at your doorstep. We typically commenced our evening in a conventional bar named 5ku Station, located about a block away, where inexpensive beer and quality food are available, which patrons prepare themselves on individual mini BBQ/grill pots.
Vietnamese people often exhibit a tendency to neglect the improvement of their businesses, allowing them to deteriorate without maintenance, akin to their approach to motorbikes—purchasing new ones and operating them until they irreparably fail after 15 years, without ever servicing or cleaning them. The city resembles a polluted wasteland; it is essentially comparable to a developing nation, lacking an operational metro system, although efforts are on to establish one.
Nightlife: From Glitz to Grit
Saigon’s nightlife is as diverse as its people. Here are my top picks:
- Xu Bar: A sophisticated hotspot for well-heeled expats and locals. Conversations flowed easily, and the crowd was lively yet approachable.
- Blanchy’s Lounge: A quieter alternative next to Xu, perfect for intimate chats or picking up where Xu left off.
- Apocalypse Now: A gritty, late-night club with an eclectic mix of characters. While the sex workers dominate on weeknights, it’s still a fun spot for drinks and banter.
- Go2 Bar: Located in the backpacker district, this is your go-to for a late-night, boozy adventure. Be wary of the sneaky “no change” tactics here!
- Chill Sky Bar: Upscale with stunning views but subdued midweek. Save this for a weekend splurge.
Culture and Attractions
The War Remnants Museum was a highlight for me—a sobering yet fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s history. Entry is just $1, and it’s a must-visit for history buffs. The Cu Chi Tunnels, while a trek, were worth the trip, especially for the chance to fire AK-47s and M16s at the shooting range.
The city’s malls, on the other hand, left much to be desired. Unlike the vibrant malls in Bangkok, characterized by its international food courts and upscale retailers. Saigon’s shopping centers felt lifeless and uninspiring.
Tips for Success in Saigon
- Learn Some Vietnamese: It’ll go a long way in navigating daily life and connecting with locals.
- Be Cautious with “Dates”: Some club promoters feign interest to get you to splurge on a table or bottle service. Know the signs!
- Stay Central: District 1 is pedestrian-friendly and offers the best mix of convenience and vibrancy.
Final Thoughts
The majority of Vietnamese women are exceedingly unremarkable. They possess unremarkable visages, exhibiting a uniformity in appearance, characterized by slender physiques, modest height, and a lack of prominent busts, rendering them easily forgettable. Imagine the Asian nerd with hair tied up in a ponytail and glasses - but the sort that doesn't look hot. That's what the majority all look like. Plain boring practical clothes, wrapped up in hoodies for riding on the streets, some old leggings or jeans, yes often they will wear a nice dress and heels (at work for example) but... it's nothing much to get excited about.
I discovered that attracting women to accompany me home was relatively simple; nonetheless, their lack of warmth and expertise in intimate situations proved somewhat exasperating. Vietnam has its charms and challenges, but for the adventurous, it’s a destination that leaves an impression—flawed, yet fascinating.
