• Ho Chi Minh City - Embark on a city tour that highlights the historical roots of modern Saigon and explores the traditional lifestyle of the Saigonese. The tour includes a visit to the bustling wholesale district and Chinatown.
• Discover Saigon’s history and culture with visits to:
  • Thien Hau Temple
  • Wholesale market
    Afterwards, explore the city’s center and its cultural landmarks:
    • The symbol of Saigon
    • City Hall
    • Opera House
    • Central Post Office
    • Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral
    • War Museum or Reunification Hall
• The Independence Palace - Once the headquarters of Vietnamese General Ngo Dinh Diem until his passing in 1963, the Independence Palace gained international fame in 1975 when a North Vietnamese Army tank crashed through its main gate, marking the end of the Vietnam War. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction in Ho Chi Minh City, preserving the ambiance of 1975. Visitors can see two original tanks used in the palace’s capture parked on the grounds. The palace also served as the residence and office of the French Governor of Cochin-China.
• People’s Committee Building - Located in central Ho Chi Minh City, the People’s Committee Building showcases well-preserved French colonial architecture within a spacious garden setting. Originally built as a hotel in 1898 by French architect Gardes, it now functions as a city hall and is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Situated at the end of Nguyen Hue walking promenade, it features three buildings adorned with embossed statues of animals and people, intricate bas-reliefs, and a statue of Ho Chi Minh in front of the main building.
• Ba Thien Hau Temple - This Buddhist temple in Saigon is dedicated to Mazu, the Chinese sea goddess believed to protect and rescue ships and people at sea. Mazuism combines elements of Taoism and Buddhism, forming a unique belief system. The temple is located in ‘Cholon’ (Chinatown) in District 5, approximately a twenty-minute drive from the city center.
• Binh Tay Market - Located in Saigon’s Cholon, Vietnam’s largest Chinatown with origins dating back to 1778, this area holds significant historical and cultural value. Chinese minorities sought refuge here from the Tay Son and had to rebuild the area twice after attacks, with an estimated 70% perishing while attempting to escape by boat. Survivors settled and began selling various Chinese products. During the Vietnam War, Cholon was a bustling black market for US soldiers trading American Army supplies. Cholon offers a glimpse of classical Chinese architecture and numerous Chinese restaurants. While the market may not offer a wide variety of products compared to others in Ho Chi Minh, its main attraction is the authentic Chinese atmosphere that has thrived for centuries.
• Emperor Jade Pagoda - Situated in District 1, this is one of the oldest pagodas in Saigon, located about a ten-minute drive from the city center.
• War Remnants Museum - Opened to the public in 1975, the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City serves as a poignant reminder of the Vietnam War. Formerly known as the ‘Museum of American War Crimes,’ it displays graphic photographs and American military equipment, including a helicopter with rocket launchers, a tank, a fighter plane, a single-seater attack aircraft, and a conventional bomb weighing 6,800kg. These weapons were used by American troops against the Vietnamese between 1945 and 1975.

• Lunch at a local restaurant (halal options available)
• Bottled water provided
• Private A/C transportation, including hotel pickup and drop-off
• Local English-speaking tour guide (other languages upon request)

• Other personal expenses
• Drinks are not included with any meal

8:00 AM: The local guide will greet guests with a sign displaying their name at the Cruise port gate, which is a 7 to 10-minute walk from the ship. The tour will explore the city, highlighting historical aspects of modern Saigon and the traditional lifestyle of its residents. The tour will proceed to the bustling wholesale district, including a visit to Chinatown.

• Discover the history and culture of Saigon with visits to:
  • Thien Hau Temple
  • Wholesale market

Following this, the tour will continue to the city center to explore Saigon’s history and culture, featuring:
• The symbol of Saigon
• City Hall
• Opera House
• Central Post Office
• Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral
• War Museum or Reunification Hall

• Enjoy a cup of local café or tea

On the return to the ship, there will be a stop to appreciate the stunning view of the city from the Saigon River.

• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.