"Thành phố không ngủ | The city that never sleeps"
About:
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam. Founded by the Khmers in the 17th century, it was later colonized by the French in the 19th century. It served as the capital of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. After the war's end in 1975, Saigon was renamed Ho Chi Minh City. Today, it's a bustling metropolis, blending its historical past with modern development, and is a significant economic, cultural, and educational hub in Vietnam.
When to visit:
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is a vibrant destination in southern Vietnam that experiences a tropical climate. The best time to visit this bustling metropolis is during the dry season, which falls between December and April. The weather is typically warm and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's historical sites, vibrant markets, and delicious street food scene. Avoid the rainy season from May to November, when frequent downpours and high humidity can dampen your holiday experience.
When to avoid:
Ho Chi Minh City, located in southern Vietnam, experiences its peak tourist season during the dry season from December to April. However, the worst time to travel to Ho Chi Minh City on a holiday would be during the rainy season, which typically lasts from May to November. Heavy rainfall and occasional flooding can disrupt travel plans and outdoor activities during this time. Additionally, the high humidity levels and frequent downpours may not provide the most enjoyable experience for tourists seeking to explore the city's vibrant attractions.
Rainy Season (May–Nov)
The wettest part of the year in Ho Chi Minh City is during the monsoon season from May to November. You can expect heavy rainfall, especially in September and October, with an average of 200-250mm per month. The temperature ranges between 24°C to 31°C. Sunlight is limited due to significant cloud cover, and humidity is high. An average day for a visitor would likely involve navigating through sporadic showers and enjoying indoor activities. Despite the rain, the city remains vibrant and bustling, so pack a good raincoat!
"Hot Season (March–May)"
The warmest part of the year in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, typically spans from March to May. During this period, the average high temperature reaches around 34-35°C (93-95°F), while the average low temperature is about 26-27°C (79-81°F).
Rainfall is relatively low during these months, with March being the driest month of this period. As the season progresses, however, the city begins to enter its rainy season, and by May, rainfall increases significantly.
Sunlight is abundant during this period, with the city experiencing an average of 6-7 hours of sunshine per day. The humidity is also high, typically around 70-80%, contributing to the overall warm and sticky feel of the city.
Cloudiness varies, but the sky is generally partly cloudy, becoming more overcast as the rainy season approaches.
A typical day for a visitor during this time would feel hot and humid. The mornings usually start off sunny and bright, and as the day progresses, it becomes sweltering, especially during the mid-afternoon. Despite the heat, the city is vibrant and bustling, and the warm weather is perfect for exploring the city's outdoor markets, parks, and street food scene. However, visitors are advised to stay hydrated and take breaks in air-conditioned places to avoid heat exhaustion.
Language:
Vietnamese is the official and predominant language spoken in Ho Chi Minh City, reflecting its status as the most populous city in Vietnam. However, due to its cosmopolitan nature and history as a French colony, other languages such as English, French, and Chinese (primarily Cantonese) are also spoken among certain communities.