Learning to Walk in a City of Motorbikes - Saigon

Most people know this city as Ho Chi Minh City. But many locals still call it Saigon — a name full of history and warmth.

Before 1975, Saigon was the capital of South Vietnam. After the war, the city was officially renamed Ho Chi Minh City to honor the country’s leader. Still, the name “Saigon” lives on in daily life. People here say “I live in Saigon.” You’ll see the name in cafes, shops, and street signs. It feels more local, more alive.

So, I’ll also call it Saigon — because that’s how it felt to me.

First Impressions

I came to Saigon for a short trip.
The city is busy, colorful, and full of motorbikes.
Even though I don’t speak any Vietnamese, I had no problem living here.
People speak English.

In Japan or Thailand, I learned a few polite words like khob khun krub or arigatou. But here I cannot say a word in Vietnamese, I still can survive by myself as I did in other countries.

This time, I booked a hotel for one week.
Maybe next time, I’ll try renting a small apartment and stay longer.

Motorbike Life

Motorbikes are everywhere.
When crossing the street, there are often no signals or crosswalks.
You have to walk slowly and confidently.
Make eye contact with drivers to show your move.
It feels like a small game of chicken — but that’s how traffic flows here.

SIM Card & Airport Tips

At the airport, many people try to sell you SIM cards.
Don’t buy too early.
Prices before immigration are usually more expensive.
After immigration, they’re cheaper.
In the city, you’ll get the best prices. So wait if you can.

Also, be careful of drivers at the airport.
One man came up to help me “find” my Grab.
He took my phone, canceled my booking, and offered to drive me.
He said the price was the same, but then kept asking for a tip.
I didn’t give one and walked away.

Most people use Grab — it works like Uber in Southeast Asia.
You can also book a motorbike ride through Grab.
You sit behind the driver and ride through the busy streets.
It’s cheap and fun.

Free City Tour with Local Students

I joined a free city tour by a group called Saigon Hotpot.
They connect visitors with local student volunteers.
My guide was Linh, an English major.
We had coffee and dessert together and talked about local life.

There is no tour fee.
I only paid for our drinks and my Grab ride.
She helped me understand the culture much better.
It was a great way to meet a local friend.
You can book a tour on their website.

Currency Exchange Tips

You can exchange money at gold shops in the city.
They usually give a better rate than banks, and much better than any Foreign currency exchanges at any airports.
If you exchange a bigger bill, like $100, you’ll get a better rate than small one.
So try to bring clean, large bills and exchange them all at once.

Final Thoughts

So far, I really enjoy Saigon.
It’s full of energy, flavor, and stories.
Next time, I might stay longer and rent a place.
There’s still so much more to discover.

Would I come back?
Yes. Definitely.
Saigon feels like a city that welcomes you, even if you’re just passing through.