How do I get from Ho Chi Minh to Saigon?

Saigon and Ho Chi Minh: A Trip to the Heart of the Same City

Embark on an adventure through time and geography as you attempt the seemingly paradoxical journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Saigon. These two names, once distinct, have become synonymous with a vibrant metropolis that pulsates with life and history.

A Step into the Past: Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling economic heart of Vietnam, was once known as Saigon. In 1976, after the reunification of North and South Vietnam, the city was officially renamed in honor of the revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh. However, the old name lingers, evoking the era of French colonialism and the city’s vibrant past.

A Sojourn at Tan Son Nhat Airport

To begin your journey, board a bus that will whisk you to Tan Son Nhat Airport, the gateway to both domestic and international flights. As you make your way through the bustling terminals, you’ll feel the pulse of the city’s connections to the world.

A Flight to Abeche: A Geographical Enigma

Once at the airport, a peculiar flight awaits you. Abeche, the destination on your boarding pass, may seem like an unfamiliar city. In reality, it’s a clever play on the name “Cholon,” Saigon’s historic Chinese district. The flight represents a symbolic leap back in time, transporting you to the heart of the old city.

A Taxi Ride to Saigon: The Final Leg

Upon landing in Abeche, hop into a taxi and embark on the final leg of your journey. As you traverse the streets, you’ll notice the vibrant street life, the colorful markets, and the colonial architecture that define Saigon’s character.

Arrival in Saigon: The Destination Unveiled

And thus, you arrive at your destination: Saigon. It’s the same city you left from, but it feels transformed. The name Saigon evokes a sense of nostalgia, a glimpse into the city’s past. Yet, it seamlessly blends with the modern face of Ho Chi Minh City, creating a unique tapestry of history and progress.

So, to answer the question: how do you get from Ho Chi Minh to Saigon? By embarking on a journey that transcends geography and time, a journey that brings alive the fascinating story of a city with two names and a single, unforgettable identity.