Is it illegal to call Ho Chi Minh City Saigon?
Is calling Ho Chi Minh City Saigon illegal? Legal status?
Okay, so like, is saying "Saigon" instead of Ho Chi Minh City, like, illegal? Nah.
Seriously, it's totally fine. From what I've seen, it doesn't make any political statement at all. It's really just how people talk. I remember being in District 1 (HCMC) back in March, and practically everyone used "Saigon". Felt, y'know, natural.
I think it's more about where you are in Vietnam.
Down south, Saigon just, like, rolls off the tongue easier. It's got this kinda… warm, comfy feeling to it. Reminds me of getting ca phe sua da for like, 20,000 VND from that little stall on Dong Khoi. Up north, though? They're prob'ly gonna stick with Ho Chi Minh City, since that's the official name. I guess.
So, yeah. Not illegal. Just a matter of habit and where you at.
Legal Status:
- Calling Ho Chi Minh City "Saigon" is legal.
- Both names are acceptable and common.
- Usage varies by region and personal preference.
- Neither name carries legal or political weight.
How do I call Ho Chi Minh City from Vietnam?
Ugh, calling Vietnam. For dad. Right, exit code... 011, gotta remember that. Then it's 84, the country code. Okay, easy peasy.
- Exit code: 011
- Country code: 84
Ho Chi Minh City... Is the area code 8? Pretty sure. Man, I always mess this up. The Chidori Hotel/Cafe... Never been. Dad loves that place. Good pho. He always raves.
And the number...038 3121238. Okay, writing it down. 038 3121238. Double check. Yep.
- HCMC Area code: 8 (pretty sure)
- Hotel number: 038 3121238
Wait, Saigon or Ho Chi Minh City? Which do I even SAY? It's Ho Chi Minh City, officially. Saigon is like... old school. I got corrected by that guy at work once. Embarrassing.
- Officially: Ho Chi Minh City
- Colloquially: Saigon is still used
He was so smug. But Dad still calls it Saigon. So confusing! Should I tell Dad not to call it Saigon? Nah. He'd get mad. He's stubborn. Okay, stick with Ho Chi Minh City myself. Better safe than sorry. I'm calling, not him.
Final check: 011 84 8 038 3121238. Fingers crossed it works this time. Maybe I'll order pho myself tonight. Now I want some. Wonder if that Pho place around the corner delivers.
- Can I pay my Visa fee with a credit card?
- How far in advance can you book Trenitalia tickets?
- Who is the largest retailer in Vietnam?
- Which is the longest road tunnel in the world?
- Will my luggage get lost on a connecting flight?
- Is 1 hour too short for a layover?
- How early to get to Bangkok airport for international flight reddit?
- What is the most common means of transportation?
- How early can I check in for my flight at the counter?
- How much do banks charge for ATM withdrawals?
Feedback on answer:
Thank you for your feedback! Your input is very important in helping us improve answers in the future.