Ho Chi Minh City, in southern Vietnam, is a sprawling metropolis. Formerly known as “Saigon” prior to 1975, today the city is Vietnam’s commercial centre. The city’s dynamic energy is apparent in the bustling street scenes with thousands of people on motorbikes constantly on the move. Although Saigon has rapidly developed into a modern city with skyscrapers, remnants of its past are still visible in the historic landmarks, timeless alleys, teeming markets and beautiful French colonial buildings dotted throughout the city. There is a feeling of palpable energy in this fast-changing city which is home to people from all aspects of Vietnamese society. Women dressed in Vietnam’s traditional ao dai tunic stroll past modern trendy boutiques and crowded cafes. You’ll see newly wealthy entrepreneurs in their luxury cars driving past shoe-shine boys on the street side.