When in Vietnam (Day 3): Ho Chi Minh City

On our third and last day in Vietnam, we allowed ourselves to get lost in the streets of Ho Chi Minh City and discovered more things other than what were planned.

We saw this street vendor who sold us something similar to the Philippines' taho (bean curd).

However, what makes it different is the sweetener that goes with the taho. Instead of arnibal (caramelized sugar), sweet ginger was used. It also had ginger bits in it. What a healthy treat!

There were a lot of funny store names and street signs in this city. They really caught my attention and couldn't help but laugh at them. I find them very creative.

We went to Independence Palace (also known as Reunification Palace) which used to be the home of the former president of Southern Vietnam Nguyen Van Thieu during the Vietnam War.

It is now a tourist attraction, showing different luxurious rooms for welcoming national and foreign dignitaries. I'd say you give at least two hours to visit this place.

It also shows the different rooms used by the presidential family. 

Food is not allowed inside. It's better to eat first before entering. Although there is a small food corner at the souvenir shop, they are overpriced. Bottled water, for instance, costs thrice as much as the regular price.

Independence Palace entrance ticket costs 30,000VND (around 60PHP). It's open daily from 7:30-11:00am. It temporarily closes at lunch break then it opens again in the afternoon from 1:00pm-4:00pm.