Concept Advert_Mistake_A4.pdf 1 8/22/14 2:07 PM

Why we love mistakes Energized Engaged Empowered

Because at ISHCMC we understand that mistakes are stepping stones to genuine learning.

Today’s students need to do more than memorize information in traditional classrooms. They need a more evolved approach to education that allows them the freedom to pursue their passions fearlessly. In addition to a strong academic C foundation, they need opportunities

M to be creative, innovative and

Y analytical, all of which lie at the heart

CM of the ISHCMC philosophy.

MY

CY Come and see CMY

K the difference we can make in your child’s life.

The only school in HCMC fully accredited to offer all 3 International Baccalaureate programmes for students aged 2 - 18 years. 28 Vo Truong Toan, District 2 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Tel: +84 (8) 3898-9100 Email: [email protected] www.ishcmc.com

Nathan, Grade 1

2 ISHCMC student since 2009. 3 Everywhere you go

Director Xuan Tran

Business Consultant robert stockdill [email protected]

Sales Director Jimmy van der Kloet [email protected] This Month’s Cover Managing Editor Christine Van Image: Quinn Ryan Mattingly [email protected] Hair & Make up: Kenny Lieu Venue: S3 Studios, District 4 Deputy Editor James Pham [email protected]

Associate Publisher khanh nguyen [email protected]

Creative Director PAOLO MALING [email protected]

Graphic Artists Kevin NGUYEN [email protected] NGUYEN Pham [email protected]

Staff Photographers ngoc tran

For advertising please contact: Kate Tu [email protected] 091 800 7160

NGAN NGUYEN ƠI VIỆT NAM [email protected] 090 279 7951 NHÀ XUẤT BẢN THANH NIÊN Chịu trách nhiệm xuất bản: Đoàn Minh Tuấn chau nguyen Biên tập: Nguyễn Giang - Quang Hùng [email protected] 091 440 0302 Thực hiện liên kết xuất bản: Metro Advertising Co.,Ltd hanh (jessie) le 48 Hoàng Diệu, Phường 12, Quận 4 [email protected] 098 747 4183 In lần thứ mười tám, số lượng 6000 cuốn, khổ 21cm x 29,7cm Đăng ký KHXB: 238 -2014/CXB/119 - 01/TN QĐXB số: 472/CXBIPH-QLXB

General [email protected] Chế bản và in tại nhà in Phụ Nữ Nộp lưu chiểu tháng 4/2014

Inquiries [email protected] Website: www.oivietnam.com

4 We are very pleased to announce our IGCSE and IBDP examination results for 2014. OUTSTANDING 2014 Congratulations to our students and teachers whose hard work and determination has been EXAMINATION RESULTS rewarded with exceptional success.

International General Certificate International Baccalaureate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) Diploma Programme (IBDP)

100% of students gained 5+ subjects at grade A* - C Average points awarded were 35.3 compared to the UK average of 68.1% (2013) compared to the world average of 29.81 (2013)

65% of all grades were either A* or A 24% of students scored 40+ pts compared to the UK average of 23.8% (2013) Our top two students were awarded 43 points 25% of students gained at least 7A* from a maximum of 45 points Our top student achieved 11 A* grades and 1 A

These examination results allow our students access to the very best universities worldwide, including prestigious Ivy League colleges in the United States and Russell Group universities in the United Kingdom.

www.bisvietnam.com

Where is your child going? 5 Contents

COVER STORY PINOY PRIDE The Filipino community in Saigon is multifaceted, from food and sport to music and business. Discover what this culture has to offer a pix el as h

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FEATURES P10 datebook P22 Bridge the Gap P28 Children of the North With these events, you'll never have to be An organization promoting a new culture of Capturing the beauty and innocence in the bored again giving in Vietnam faces of children in Sapa and Ha Giang P16 troi oi P24 Smooth as P68 The of See why an elderly couple, trees and the Revitalizing the traditional art of painting Astoria is the quintessential neighborhood Ebola virus made our noteworthy numbers on silk representing the cultural diversity of New this month York City P26 A Fair to Remember P18 the bulletin Find bargains, homegrown products and live P78 Skin Deep Checking out the latest promotions and entertainment at the latest fair to hit the city Stylish accessories made from ostrich skin openings

6 7 WINE & DINE RESTAURANT REVIEWS From Indonesian , Korean barbecue to Japanese hamburg and , this month’s reviews are all about Asian cuisine

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COLUMNS P80 The White Stuff P16 SAIGON MYTHBUSTERS P83 Home Interior A heavy coffee drinker finds out if one dental Is air conditioning bad for your child’s Lines, whether horizontal or vertical, can make visit can erase years of coffee staining health? or break your home P82 My Life As P70 LIFE'S A TRIP P95 LEGAL EASE A railway crossing guard and how hard it is to Manipulating the credit card system to get Applying for Vietnamese citizenship as a protect people from an oncoming train a free (or very cheap) vacation foreigner P92 Survival Gear P72 Postcards from Vietnam Designer Jake Orak keeps indigenous cultures The process of dyeing batik fabric by the alive with his travel bags H’mong tribe

8 Editor’s ISSUE NO. 18 Note september 2014

Hop on the Jeepney

Despite growing up in NYC, the Melting Granniss speaks passionately about her not charity cases. I found the story behind Pot of America, my first real introduction to corner of , one that few Vietnam-based Ethnotek really inspiring Filipino culture surprisingly didn’t happen tourists (and obviously, even locals) never and love that there are people right here until I was in high school, on Cultural get to see. After readingThe Queens of New in our community that are finding tangible Awareness Day, to be precise. All the York, it’ll definitely be on my list of places ways to give back to the country they love. seniors were to bring in something ― food, to go the next time I’m back Stateside to As my friends can attest, I'm an avid costumes, musical instruments ― that visit family. bargain hunter and live to shop at markets, represented our heritage. It was then that For many of us, living in Vietnam fairs and thrift shops. My closet is full I tasted Filipino food for the first time and means having the opportunity to help of memorable finds like a USD160 pony was surprised by the differences and the the sometimes less fortunate. However, a skin bag that I snagged for USD10 at a similarities. The chickenadobo the Filipino friend recently found out the hard way that mall closing in Kobe and a second-hand exchange students shared reminded me giving cash directly to a charity he hadn’t Comptoir des Cotonniers jacket I picked of thit kho to, swapping out for thoroughly researched was not the best up at a Parisian shop for less than one- and , but essentially a idea. It turns out the considerable sum he tenth of its original price. Naturally I was with a hint of pepper that's great with donated ended up being used to rent a car excited to find out about the launch of 3A white to soak up the sauce. and driver for the owner of the charity to Bazaar in the article A Fair to Remember Happily, since moving to Vietnam, I’ve travel around in for the past nine months, and although I sadly missed their first fair, had more opportunities to experience other not exactly helping the people it was meant I've got my eyes and ears open for their facets of the Filipino culture, from working to help. This incident has sadly made next one. with my Filipino colleagues Rico Gonzales, him hesitant about donating to charities As always, we have so much to share Jim Abril and Oi Creative Director Paolo anymore here in Vietnam but after with you this month, from an Indonesian Maling to taking short jaunts to the reading Bridge the Gap by NPD Khanh, feast with a Dutch twist (All Things to All Philippines for vacation (see the article on I’m convinced that the solution isn’t to People) to how to work the system for free beautiful Boracay in this issue) to enjoying stop donating but to be better informed travel (Life’s a Trip) to some of the most the diversity that Filipino-owned eateries, as to how you give, who will benefit and interesting personalities you’ll ever have businesses and residents bring to Phu My talking to organizations that have inside the pleasure of meeting! Hung. We’re happy to share with you this understanding of the culture and charities Have a great September, everyone! month a small slice of Filipino life here in Vietnam. in Saigon in our cover series, showcasing However, not everyone is out for the talent, drive and creativity our Filipino charity as James Pham’s Survival Gear friends bring to Vietnam. brings out. I’m coveting the Saigon Sling The Filipino culture wasn’t the from Ethnotek, not only because of the only thing I missed back in NYC. I’m ‘cool’ factor of having a well-made bag embarrassed to admit that despite being that features textiles woven in Vietnam, only a subway ride away, I've only been but because it’s a way to preserve the to Queens a handful of times and know traditional craft and lifestyle of ethnic Christine Van very little about the neighborhood. Kendra minorities while respecting them as people, Managing Editor

9 Datebook Fill up your calendar with these exciting events

SEPTEMBER 6

What: Vietnam Swans AFL Match & 'Ladies Day' Where: RMIT Sports Grounds, D7 About: In conjunction with the Saigon Colts & Saigon Lady Gaels, the Vietnam Swans will be holding an open day, which will see them host AFL Asia powerhouse the Philippine Eagles. The day will consist of three games and will be open for all players, new and old to join. Non-players: join in the festivities with bar and catering facilities SEPTEMBER 11 available. To help promote the day a special Ladies Tent will offer free foot massages, mani/pedicures, wine and finger food. What: AusCham Real Estate Symposium Contact: For further info, contact Josh Lee at nationalpres@ Where: Intercontinental Asiana Saigon (corner of Le Duan & Hai Ba vietnamswans.com Trung, D1); 8am registration, 8:30am start About: A symposium that will look 20 years back and two years forward in Vietnam’s real estate industry. Government representatives and experts will share knowledge, experiences and insights on how to discover new opportunities. For members/co- hosts tickets are VND1,900,000 VND; non-member VND2,300,000. Contact: Email Phuong at [email protected]

SEPTEMBER 13

What: Oskar Offermann Where: The Observatory (corner of Le Lai & Ton That Tung, D1); 10pm; VND100,000 entry fee About: As a well-known figure of the legendary Berliner's club Berghain/Panorama Bar, Oskar is the owner of two Berlin-based record labels: White Records and Rimini Records. His DJ sets bring the audience through a deep journey in house and techno. Supporting act will be DJ Hibiya Line. Contact: Visit www.theobservatory-hcmc.com for details

10 SEPTEMBER 15 - OCTOBER 11

What: Nevertheless, solo exhibition by Tom Smith Where: VinSpace Art Studio (6 Le Van Mien, D2) About: Nevertheless exhibition will showcase projects Tom Smith has been working on in recent years. Work such as the Absurdist Fringe series, a collection of quirky ink and watercolor illustrations. Codfish is a series of mixed media pieces which uses oils, enamel paints, solvent transfer and stencils and references absurdist imagery strongly influenced by Sean Landers, Philip Guston and Paul McCarthy. The Visitors, which began several years ago, sees three new pieces in this exhibition. This series uses bland settings and random figures, where the viewer can speculate on the reasoning and allegory behind the imagery. Contact: Visit www.vin-space.com for details

SEPTEMBER 18 - OCTOBER 31

What: Jamie Maxtone-Graham Solo Exhibition: That Little Distance Where: Galerie Quynh (Level 2, 151/3 Dong Khoi, D1) About: Dark, dreamy and fragile, Jamie’s photographs conjure up an elusive world of nostalgia and longing, where people and objects of everyday life find themselves in a whirl of interconnection between the past and present. Playing upon ideas of colonial carte-postales and representation of lives in Vietnam, the works invite viewers to reflect on the meaning of human relationships, of history and of life itself. Contact: Visit www.galeriequynh.com for details

11 SEPTEMBER 19

What: Friendly Neighborhood Bike Ride Where: Starts at The Bike Shop (250 Nguyen Van Huong, D2); 7pm About: To celebrate the joy of cycling. It is a fun 15km ride suitable for riders of all levels. As this is an evening ride and cyclists will be sharing the road with other vehicles, for safety reasons it is strongly recommended that kids under the age of 12 do not participate. This is a self-organized ride and everyone is responsible for their own safety and well-being. Bike rentals are available for the ride. Contact: Email [email protected] for details

SEPTEMBER 21

What: Largest Sailing Event in the World: Vietnam’s Contribution Where: Song Hien-Jibes, Suoi Nuoc, Near Muine, Binh Thuan; 9am- 5pm; VND100,000 for kids, VND500,000 for adults About: The event is in memory of Andrew (Bart) Simpson, UK Olympic gold medalist who died while training for the America's Cup in San Francisco last year. His friends wanted to arrange an event in memory of him, expecting about 20 clubs to register but instead over 600 clubs have signed up, across more than 40 countries, including Vietnam (www.bartsbash.co.uk). Anyone who joins the event has a chance to become a Guinness Book of Records holder. Sailors and non-sailors are welcomed; non-sailors will sail with experienced ones. Contact: Email [email protected] with dinghy/windsurf ability or experience, and equipment preference. Registration deadline is September 12

12 SEPTEMBER 22 - October 17

What: 200 Hour Worldwide Yoga Alliance Teacher Training / 4 Week Hatha Yoga and Wellness Certification Course Where: An Phu, D2 About: Become an internationally recognized, certified yoga instructor with Suzanne Vian, an E-RYT, RCYT, yoga teacher trainer from California. Suzanne has more than 20 years of experience in the yoga & wellness industry. Contact: Email Suzanne at [email protected] or call 090 835 2265 for details

SEPTEMBER 25

What: Canvas & Wine: Joan Miro Where: VinSpace Garage (95 Pasteur, D1); 6:30pm-9pm About: Joan Miro was a Spanish painter who lived in the 20th century. His styles were of broad range and original, including Fauvism, realism and surrealism. Learn to paint like him. Contact: Visit www.vin-space.com for details

13 SEPTEMBER 26

What: Culoe De Song Where: The Observatory (corner of Le Lai & Ton That Tung, D1); 10pm; VND100,000 entry fee About: Culoe De Song is a respected name in ’s dynamic deep house music scene. His talents gained him the recognition of Johannesburg-based superstar Black Coffee early in his career with the track 100 Zulu Warriors. Culoe has also been recognized by the Red Bull Music Academy, which selected him to participate in Barcelona in 2008. Under German label Innervisions, Culoe has released various tracks including The Bright Forest and has performed at the 2013 Innervisions party at Amsterdam Dance Event along with Dixon and Ame. Supporting act will be DJ Hibiya Line. Contact: Visit www.theobservatory-hcmc.com for details

SEPTEMBER 27

What: Vietnam Swans AFL Grand Final Party Where: Game On Sports Bar (115 Ho Tung Mau, D1); Doors open at 9am About: The AFL Grand Final always proves to be a massive event with free flow and an all day buffet, plus kids’ entertainment, prizes and games. Contact: VND1 million for tickets, available at the venue or online at www.vietnamswans.com/online-shop

14 SEPTEMBER 27

What: Sound Adventures Presents Frank Gossner OCTOBER 10, 12 & 13 Where: The Observatory (corner of Le Lai & Ton That Tung, D1); 10pm; VND100,000 entry fee What: Waiting for Godot About: Frank Gossner's career as a DJ began 1994 in Berlin. In 1996 Where: Cargo Bar (7 Nguyen Tat Thanh, Q4); 7:30pm, 2:30pm Saturday Frank moved to NYC and his weekly Vampyros Lesbos Party soon matinee turned into a NYC nightlife classic. In 2000, Frank moved back to Berlin About: Dragonfly Theatre presents Waiting For Godot by Samuel where he founded the Soul Explosion which soon became Europe’s Beckett. Generally considered to be one of the finest plays of the biggest Deep Funk event. In 2005, Frank took a plane to West Africa 20th century, this black comedy takes a lighthearted and irreverent where he extensively traveled countries like Guinea, Sierra Leone, look at the biggest questions in life: Who are we? Why are we here? Ghana, Benin and Nigeria to build a unique collection of rare African What are we waiting for? The play follows two men as they wait for Funk records. Frank's African digging adventures are chronicled on his the seemingly never present Godot. At times striking and thought- critically acclaimed blog www.voodoofunk.com. Frank's DJ sets burst provoking, at others downright silly, this is a play for all. with exclusive tracks and with over 15 years of experience in working Contact: Tickets will be available for an advanced discount for dance floors across the globe, he knows how to put the power of an VND300,00 at ticketbox.vn, or VND350,000 at the door. infectious groove on. Contact: Visit www.theobservatory-hcmc.com for details

general dental check-up - pediatric dentistry - teeth bleaching crowns and bridges - implant - braces - invisalign.

OCTOBER 4

What: Sống Dance Show Where: Hoa Binh Theater (3 Thang 2, D10); 8pm About: A dance show by John Huy Tran and Urban Dance Group International dental clinic equipped with latest technology. English and French speaking doctors. (UDG). Performed by young Vietnamese talent, Sống will bring to the Direct billing insurance service (Liberty, AIG, PVI). stage a dynamic urban scene with hip-hop dancers, circus performers, Implant experts with diplomate in . beat-boxers, graffiti artists and more. Sống supports youth culture development in Vietnam. Contact: Visit facebook.com/songdanceshow for details

15 Troi Oi The country by numbers

trees, located in the 23/9 Park, are scheduled to be uprooted for the Ben Thanh Metro VND150,000 Station. Last month, 51 trees, some over 100 may be collected from motorbike riders as a “road years old, were taken down in front of the maintenance fee” starting January 1, 2015 if the government Opera House for the same purpose. To ease approves a proposal by The Ho Chi Minh City Department of 57 concerns, Nguyen Van Dung, Deputy Director Transport. The annual fee will cost riders of motorbikes with of the Urban Traffic Management Division No.1, said that his engines of up to 100cc VND50,000, VND120,000 for bikes team would try to cut down as few trees as possible and are with 100-175cc engines, and ones with 175cc or over will have exploring options to replant them elsewhere. In addition to the to pay VND150,000. No fees will be imposed on electric trees, it’s been reported that the statue in front of Ben Thanh bicycles while VND2.16 million will be levied on four-wheel Market will also be moved to accommodate construction of cargo vehicles with 1-cylinder engines. the city’s first metro line. VND3 million – VND5 million is how much primary school students in Ho Chi Minh City may have to pay for tablet devices if a proposal on “e-textbooks and tablets for primary students” is approved for the coming school year. The proposal, introduced by the city education department at a conference held last month, will cost around VND4 trillion to “bring around 300,000 first, second and third grade students into special e-classes,” according to a draft of the new law. Each pupil will use their tablet to study with and do test exercises while teachers “control” the class via computer. Study content, including sound files and images, will be pre-installed onto the tablets.

TRUST TRANSLATIONS FAST, ACCURATE ENGLISH TO VIETNAMESE TRANSLATION • Official documents & certificates • Visas & applications • Personal & business correspondence • Full website text • Literature & full-length books/manuscripts • Novel publishing/republishing in Vietnamese • Fluid, pleasant Vietnamese renderings • Reasonable rates – contact for a quote Quick turnaround, attention to detail guaranteed. Contact: Quynh ([email protected]) | YM: quynhnhd | SMS: 090 978 3108

16 106-YEAR-OLD MAN & 100-YEAR-OLD WOMAN have been recognized as the oldest couple in Vietnam by The Vietnam Book of Records (Vietkings). Cao Vien and Vu Thi Hai, residing in a rural village in the north- central province of Nghe An, are farmers. They have three sons and five daughters, six of whom are still alive. The couple has a total of 34 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Both of them are still in good health, according to Vietkings. Vien said he was 24 when they married. It is rare to find couples who are both more than 100 years old. Living in peace and following moral principles and taking exercise regularly help them stay healthy.

fine was given to a Vietnamese couple, by the police, for spreading USD940 a rumor on Facebook that an infection of the Ebola virus had occurred in Hanoi. Vuong Ba Huy, 31, and his wife Do Thuy Linh, 29, each posted false warnings on their Facebook pages on August 11 and 12 that a Vietnamese person had been infected with the deadly Ebola virus and was being treated at Bach Mai Hospital in Hanoi. “Urgent news: The Ebola virus has appeared in Vietnam, at the Hanoi-based Bach Mai Hospital… Be careful to protect yourself and your families from the Ebola infection,” Linh wrote on her Facebook page. The couple admitted to the police they posted the information in an effort to warn everybody about the Ebola virus.The couple committed administrative violations in the fields of post, telecommunications, information technology and radio frequency, pursuant to Governmental Decree 174, said Colonel Duong Van Giap, head of Hanoi’s Social Crime Investigation Department.

17 The Bulletin Promotions and News in HCMC and beyond...

Shop & Win As part of their customer appreciation program, luxury menswear brand Belluni is holding a lucky draw starting now until November 15, 2014. For any bill VND800,000 or more, customers are given the chance to participate in their lucky draw contest. Winners stand to win: - Special Prize: a Vespa Primavera worth VND68,800,000 - First Prize: Electrolux washing machine worth VND15,390,000 - Two Runner-up Prizes: Nokia Lumia 1320 RM-966 phone worth VND7,490,000 each - Ten Third Place Prizes: Philips GC 1028 clothes iron worth VND880,000 each - 16 Consolation Prizes: Belluni gift vouchers worth VND500,000 each

For more info, visit www.belluni.com, email [email protected] or call 1 900 9297

Free Dancing Classes From September 15-20, DanCenter is offering 25 free classes in jazz, contemporary, zumba, ballet fit, hip-hop, high heels and belly dance in the mornings and evenings. DanCenter is a purpose-built dance studio with a team of international dance instructors. For schedule visit www. dancentervn.com or drop by the studio at 53 Nguyen Dang Giai, D2.

18 ENGLISH CURRICULUM

QUALIFIED & CARING STAFF Salon Savings In September Maison Mikio Boutique Salon (8 Ton Dat Tien Street in the Garden Plaza 2 Complex, Phu My Hung) is discounting 40 percent off on all L’oreal hair treatment services and during Happy Hour (9am-12pm, Tuesdays-Fridays) all A New Image & Menu hair services (excluding re-growth and With beautiful 360 degree views of the highlighting treatments) are 30 percent off city skyline and recently revamped, while nail services are 20 percent off. Top of the Town Bar & Restaurant’s The salon and spa offers clients a spacious (located on the 25th floor of the Windsor yet intimate setting for salon and beauty Plaza Hotel in District 5) new menu services such as hair styling, coloring, highlights their extensive selection of manicures, pedicures, skincare and premium USDA and fresh . waxing. Call 5412 4773 or visit www. Additionally, an international selection SMALL CLASS SIZES for more info. facebook.com/maisonmikio of wines is available by the glass or bottle for perfect pairing with any meal. For other choices, TOTT offers a selection of premium spirits, cocktails, and imported authentic Reinheitsgebot brews including Krombacher draught, Krombacher Dark, and Schneider Weisse by the bottle. Imported Henkell Trocken varieties of German sparkling wine are also available. The new menu presents a culinary collection that is savory, balanced and affordable. For a limited time, Windsor VIP Card holders will enjoy a 30 percent discount off the total bill when dining at Top of the Town Bar & Restaurant. Healthy Delicacies COMPETITIVE FEES Sample premium beef cuts and fresh Eating Vietnam at Shang Palace Restaurant Craving some authentic dishes from (www.shangpalace.com.vn) prepared Vietnam's main regions on National by the restaurant’s chefs Day? Then head over to Riverside Café throughout this month. The menu is at Renaissance Riverside Hotel Saigon Residential Area No.5, prepared from fresh ingredients such (8-15 Ton Duc Thang, D1) to enjoy as avocado, asparagus and walnuts the sweetness of Saigon, the spices of Thanh My Loi Ward, D2 combined with juicy and tender imported Hue and the subtleness of Hanoi all (08) 3742 STAR / (08) 3742 7827 beef cuts to bring out healthy delicacies. accompanied by live traditional music Recommended dishes range from pure performances. From September 2-9, the www.saigonstarschool.edu.vn Sautéed beef cube with avocado , hotel’s Vietnamese 3 Region Dinner buffet Baked beefsteak with & is priced at: VND850,000++/person (food BBQ sauces, to Sautéed US beef cube with only) or VND950,000++/person (free flow walnuts & XO chili sauce. of local beer/wines/sodas).

19 Discounted Show Tickets Bring your international boarding pass to the A O Show box office at the Saigon Opera House to enjoy a 30 percent discount on your ticket purchase. Performing three to four shows every week at the city's iconic Saigon Opera House, the A O Show is an authentic acrobatic mix of bamboo cirque, live music and gravity-challenging stunts. In just one hour, the show captures the essence of Vietnamese lives from peaceful hamlets to vibrant cities. The promotion applies only to international flights to New Place Ho Chi Minh City, one ticket per boarding pass, boarding pass The two-story San Fu Lou (www.sanfulou.com) restaurant serves must be valid within seven days of travel and offer is valid until with beef brisket, or wanton prawn dumplings September 30, 2014. For more info, drop by the ticket box (7 Cong along with an assortment of dim sum available daily. Be it the Truong Lam Son, D1), visit or call 0124 www.aoshowsaigon.com classic youmian, traditional hand-pulled la mian or fried ho fun, 518 1188. there’s nothing like the simple sustenance of a plate of noodles. In addition to fare, they offer , pork and chicken. To complement the food, the tea bar serves tea infused with fruits, herbs and flowers.

Luxury Accessories Viet Khanh Phu enters the luxury accessories fashion scene with its debut collection called Aquamarine. Designs include bags, shoes, wallets and belts made out of skins from farm-grown crocodiles, ostriches and pythons. Prices range from a few million dong for wallets and clutches to VND20 million to VND25 million for handbags, and VND40 million for the most expensive item in the collection - a leather traveler’s bag. Aquamarine launched last month and is available at Viet Khanh Phu’s flagship showrooms in both Ho Chi Minh City (14 Pham Hong Thai, D1; 3824 1466) Experience Malaysian Culture and Nha Trang (70 Tran Phu; 058 352 5345). New World Saigon Hotel ([email protected]), in collaboration with the Tourism Board, invites you to Japanese Cooking Classes experience Malaysian culture from September 10-21 with sizzling Saigon Cooking Class, in partnership with Blanchy Street specialties dishes, prepared by a guest Malaysian chef, along with restaurant, has launched a new cooking class for those interested traditional Malay dances. At Parkview get ready to dig into , in learning how to cook Japanese food. Chefs Martin Brito and lamb , (stir- ) and Yogo Oba will be your guide through a delicious journey to much more. Wash it all down with tea, and finish off present the essentials of over two lessons. Born with a traditional Malaysian such as bubur chacha, in Sydney, Martin trained under Peter Doyle (widely recognized talam and kuih dadar. Their Chinese chefs at Dynasty have worked as the founding father of modern Australian cuisine). Yogo with a Malaysian guest chef to create a five-course set menu of was invited by Matsuhisa to open Nobu London, Nobu Milan, Malaysian specialties, which will be available during both lunch Nobu Paris and Nobu Berkeley St where his outstanding skills and dinner. Visit The Lounge for an afternoon filled with Malaysian flourished for eight years. delights. Enjoy free flow of delicious Malaysianteh tarik tea, while In September there are two sessions (two classes per session) to choosing favorites from the high tea selection and a trolley filled choose from: 5th and 13th or 6th and 12th. Classes can be taught with sweet and savory Malaysian treats. A live action station in English, Vietnamese or French on request with a maximum of creating traditional completes the experience. eight students. Visit www.saigoncookingclass.com for more details.

20 VIET NAM

Authetic Japanese Kobe Beef The Grand Ho Tram Promo To celebrate National Day and the mid-autumn festival The Grand Ho Tram Strip ([email protected] or 064 378 8022) is offering deals from now until September 8. Guests will have the option of a festive special menu at Ju Bao Xuan every evening priced from VND1,388,000++. Meanwhile, will be putting on a seafood buffet priced from VND638,000++ on Saturdays. Foreign passport holders can avail themselves of the weekend's slots tournament where entrance is free and all participants get a chance to win prizes with total value up to USD3,500 cash. If golf is more your thing, enjoy the ongoing Preview Play priced from VND2,079,000 net including green fees, caddy and shared golf cart. At The Spa, it’s buy one get one free offers on all 60-minute treatments across the weekend. Finally, free gifts for any child at the Kids' Corner or Teen from September 5 to 8. Simple but elegant European architecture and soothing atmosphere

A Welcome Note Renaissance International School Saigon (Nguyen Thi Thap, D7) welcomes New Academic Year 2014 – 2015. “I would like to offer pupils and parents my very best wishes for 7 Bis Han Thuyen, D1, HCMC an extremely happy and successful year. During the holiday period, Renaissance has continued to fulfill its commitment to remain a family school. Considerable work has been (08) 3822 0187 undertaken as part of our program of investment, and our new Early Years classrooms Hotline: 093 889 7909 and Medical Room are two of the most obvious changes. I would like to express my appreciation and gratitude to the teachers and administration staff for their hard work, [email protected] efforts and the long hours they devoted to complete these refurbishments,” says David Cole, Head of School. Renaissance is an international British school offering the National Opening time from Mon to Sat Curriculum for England complemented by the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), 11:30 am - 2 pm Cambridge IGCSE and the International Baccalaureate. Call 3773 3171 or visit www. 6:30 am - 11 pm renaissance.edu.vn for more details.

21 CHARITY FEATURE by L e Nguy en Tuo n g U y IMAGE Bridge the Gap Promoting a new culture of giving in Vietnam Text by NPD Khanh

“It is difficult to give meaningfully. often getting overlooked for internationally and know the best way to solve them.” To not only feel good about what you do, recognized NGOs. And while international After five years of operation, LIN has but actually create an impact on those you NGOs may be better funded and suited connected with 138 local nonprofit partners want to help,” says Dana Doan, co-founder to respond to large scale crises such as (which include disability groups, minority of LIN (www.linvn.org), an intermediary natural disasters and diseases, they lack the rights groups, children and homeless organization that bridges donors, local perspective to tackle more nuanced shelters, and wildlife preservation funds) grassroots VNPOs (Vietnamese Nonprofit Vietnamese socioeconomic problems and offered 46 Narrow the Gap grants, matched Organizations) and volunteers. LIN’s do not cater to local volunteers and donors. 209 skilled specialist volunteers to the (Listen, Inspire, Nurture) goal is to develop, “International NGOs naturally favor the appropriate VNPOs, and trained countless nurture, learn from and educate a healthy international side of communication. They more. local community of nonprofit participants put out English materials which most locals capable of cooperating and taking on deep can’t read and their programs cater more to Give & Receive and complex Vietnamese problems. It corporate volunteers searching for an outlet In this day and age of transparency, acts as a community center, a supplier of for their social responsibility,” says Dana. “A prioritizing lean organizations, shortening financial, technical and human resources. It lot of the time, these programs receive good the money stream from donors to receivers, prepares local volunteers with specific skills feedback from the corporate volunteers and and avoiding misuse of charity funds, required for specialized problem solving create a lot of good feeling for the givers, the concept behind LIN, which on paper and connects these skilled volunteers to the but don’t actually do anything to really help creates another intermediary between nonprofits most suitable for them. It enables the ones who receive.” donors and end receivers, may be a difficult donors who want to not only provide Adding: “Simply having good intentions one to understand, but to Dana, it is not money but also to actively participate and does not cut it. It takes more to close the only fully justified but also vital to the help create long-term solutions that target gap between the giver and the receiver. long-term development of VNPOs. the root causes of problems. We live in a complex society today and our “It is true that most people, when they One problem, according to Dana, is social problems are becoming increasingly are giving or volunteering, prefer to have that VNPOs are being neglected and complex. It is the people that live here for as few in-betweens as possible. They want underfunded because of a lack of exposure, good that understand the problems the most to be able to get into direct contact with

22 that most international NGOs have to work within. “As it develops, Vietnam is becoming less eligible for international aid. This year alone, many international groups have announced their plan to gradually shift their attention and funding to countries that need it far more than Vietnam. At which point, it falls to the community to decide what to do to make our society better and how to do it.” LIN’s longest running program is their Narrow the Gap grants which are offered three times a year. “Every year we hold surveys to update ourselves on the current issues and let the community choose which one requires our immediate attention. We also invite experts on the issue into our forums,” explains Dana. “It is a chance for us and the community to educate ourselves on deeper issues and to discuss on the best way to solve them.” The best proposal, judged by the by L e Nguy en Tuo n g U y IMAGE community, receives the grant as well as LIN’s active assistance in carrying out their proposal. “Partnership with LIN is free. There is no hidden fee. The purpose of this partnership is involvement, commitment, narrowing the gap between the people who give, the people who receive, and the people who make it happen.” This year the theme was education and, because of the generosity of an anonymous donor, the size of the grant tripled to VND600 million for the first prize winner and VND400 million and VND200 million for the second and third prize winners respectively. “With this money, we can do much more. We can take on bigger, more ambitious projects. We can solve more, do more, call on more people, open more doors. Gradually, this will get us more attention, more people coming and adding to the community.” by adam rob e r t you n g IMAGE

She cites Pakistan and other unpopular NGO destinations. “These are countries Winners of the that naturally have many problems but 2014 Narrow “As it develops, the money doesn’t come pouring in until the Gap Grants something really bad happens or somebody Vietnam is becoming gets killed. It is important to do charity but Your Understanding Lightens we have to solve problems. Money flows Our Life (VND600 million): less eligible for in when a bridge collapses or a typhoon A project to narrow the gap between occurs. We definitely need charity money the community and visually disabled international aid.” after such disasters, but what about making people (by Thien An Shelter - MATA) sure that the bridges are stable enough? Or Desire To Integrate working on a coastal alert system?” (VND400 million): the receivers. Having one organization in LIN believes the important part of A project to foster communication between the donors and receivers already solving the problem is to think proactively, skills, raise awareness about rights opens up chances for misuse of funds. to act before things get so bad nothing and offer art classes to the hearing Going by that rationalization then going can be done. Naturally, this is something impaired (by Deaf Community of Ho Chi Minh City) through two organizations instead of that takes the effort, knowledge and one would probably be worse. But that funding of an entire local community, not Enhancing Education For argument generalizes and oversimplifies just individuals or any single nonprofit Migrant Children the issue at hand. If donors were to give group for the simple reason that they (VND200 million): money directly to the people who need do not possess the required resources. A project to improve the physical state and capacity of migrant children them, will it really solve the problems at Additionally, large international NGOs so they can improve their lives (Cau their root cause?” Dana argues. “I do not may not possess the local insight to see the Han Project by Ho Chi Minh Child think so. What it does instead, is provide a problems from the start. Welfare Association) short-term solution that does little to the “The handouts will stop at some point,” root cause.” says Dana, referring to time frames

23 ART FEATURE Smooth as Silk A modern reinterpretation on a centuries-old art Text by Craig Thomas IMAGES PROVIDED BY cthomas gallery

Silk painting is no longer the popular medium of expression among Vietnam’s contemporary artists it once was. With a history dating back centuries, recent decades have seen this once vibrant traditional art form decline into something bordering on kitsch or cliché. Young Vietnamese artists have come to view silk as an outdated material – a fact reflected in the dwindling numbers of students studying silk painting in the country’s fine arts universities. Saigon-based artist Bui Tien Tuan is doing his best to reverse the tide. “Many Vietnamese artists have chosen to abandon painting on silk because they think the material is not suitable for the times we live in. Even contemporary Vietnamese silk painting has typically focused on themes like landscapes and traditional village life and looks like it could have been made 50 or 60 years ago. The way I am different is the way I look at color, the way I dye the silk, and the modern, urban quality of Saigon that comes into my paintings.” Tuan spent the first decade of his career working primarily with oils on canvas. His decision five years ago to return to painting on silk full-time sprang from his love of the material and his sense that it was starting to fade into a solely decorative form. Tuan hopes to help preserve and reinvigorate what he regards as an important part of Vietnam’s cultural heritage. “When you are working with oils it can be superficial in a way as you are just embossing the surface of the canvas with the paint. With silk, you are penetrating the material with the color,” he explains. “The process for achieving this is quite labor intensive and time consuming but it appeals to my meticulous nature.” Although silk is a difficult material to work with, Tuan modestly downplays his technical abilities. “I don’t overestimate my skill in working with silk. Carving out an independent and unique space for my work in the greater art scene is more important to me and more difficult than just mastering a technique. I want my silk paintings to be immediately recognizable to viewers as my own.” Silky Skin With his ongoing Frivolity series, Tuan demonstrates silk can still speak to a modern audience. His lively and colorful portraits of women are a far cry from Graceful Lady the muted tones and staid subject matter

24 FROM TOP: Girl in the Flower Dress 1, Solo Performance & Bui Tien Tuan

of traditional Vietnamese silk paintings. Uncharacteristically for Vietnamese silk painting, many of his paintings feature nudes and many of his subjects tend towards the zaftig (deliciously plump, or carrying extra weight very well). “I think if you look closely at the images in my paintings you can clearly see the breath of contemporary life, the spirit of modern women and a reflection of present day society.” Tuan’s choice to represent women in the paintings of his Frivolity series is well suited to the material. He believes silk has a delicacy that is feminine in essence and the female form comes to life through silk. Tuan’s women are mostly portrayed nude with the skin not painted or colored but left without tincture, emphasizing Tuan’s belief in the intimate and symbiotic relationship between silk and skin. Paintings like Girl in the Flower Dress 1 show the diverse influences Tuan incorporates into his work. He professes great admiration for the Japanese artistic sensibility and it is easy to see elements of manga in his compositions. The well versed will also see the influence of the ukiyo-e genre of Japanese woodblock prints of the 17th – 20th centuries. Many of the paintings in the Frivolity series evoke the Art Nouveau poster art of the 1890s, also influenced by ukiyo-e, produced by devotees of Japanisme such as Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. A 1998 graduate of the Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts University, Tuan supports silk painting in Vietnam by serving as an adjunct professor at his alma mater. “I don’t do it for the money. I want to share what I have learned and help keep silk painting alive in Vietnam. When I was studying there were only a few of us dedicated to silk and there was a real fear that it would be dropped completely from the university’s curriculum. I love silk painting and will do all I can to help keep it relevant.” Bui Tien Tuan’s Frivolity 2.0 collection is currently on display in the lobby of the Sofitel Saigon Plaza hotel through the end of September.

Bio: Founded in Saigon in 2009, Craig Thomas Gallery (27i Tran Nhat Duat, D1; www.cthomasgallery.com; [email protected]) represents and holds regular exhibitions for young and mid-career Vietnamese artists working in

painting, sculpture and mixed media. t by g len ri le y portr ai

25 FEATURE

“I do not believe that there is a single bazaar in Saigon that can truly be called a fair in its original meaning in the West,” says Lam Quynh Trang, the organizer behind 3A A Fair Bazaar, the latest fair to hit Saigon last month. 3A Station Bazaar (Facebook: 3A Station Bazaar), a bi-monthly weekend fair located on 3A Ton Duc Thang, D1 was founded through a cooperation between her company, to Remember Dream Up, and the community art and event space 3A Station. Skip the malls and head to 3A Station “My first experience with bazaars was about two years ago in England,” she Bazaar for unusual gifts, artisan shares. “It was a great experience. A bazaar bargains and entertainment is not just a place to go to when you need to buy the odd handmade jewelry Text by NPD Khanh Images by Neil Featherstone piece or homebrewed lip balms on the cheap. It is also about the entertainment, the performances, the crowd, the social experiences. People go to bazaars for the experience, to enjoy themselves in the

26 company of those they love for a full day experience like that?” true to its name. or at least a half day, not for the cheap “And then, there are the products,” Trang “I want to create something that a British souvenirs. And not just young people go adds. According to her, the existing fairs person or any expats living in Ho Chi Minh to fairs or sell at fairs. Children can go. and flea markets typically have lax policy can come in, look, and say, ‘Ahh, this is the Couples can go. Old people definitely do regarding sourcing or accepting merchants bazaar that I know.’ To that end, sourcing go. The whole family can have an entire and products into their bazaars, which the products is very important,” she insists. day's outing at the fair.” eventually turned them all into pseudo “I do not want a long line of lookalikes. The fair boasts long lines of stalls selling markets selling cheap Chinese mass imports. Every single stall, every product has to various local handmade goods, fashion items “I often go to other bazaars to see what is have its own flair. The fashion items have from indie designers and odd knickknacks. already on offer. Most of the time, they are to be designed. The handmade items need However, frequenters of similar Saigon-based all the same. Export Vietnamese products, to be produced with love and care rather fairs and flea markets may think 3A Station cheap imports, a smattering of than whimsically for a quick buck on the Bazaar is just the latest in a trend of outdoor stuff handmade by college or high school side. And the knickknacks need to be truly markets popping up around the city. students. And there are so many of them. unique and delightful.” “I do not think that Saigon actually has any Hello Weekends Market has 150 stalls. Saigon Trang also organizes on-site entertainment. single fair that truly replicates the authentic Flea Market also has 150 stalls. Yet so many “We have music performances planned. But experience,” Trang says. “Whenever the of them are the exactly the same that I feel I want more: circus acts, stand-up comedy, Vietnamese go to these bazaars, they go in, dazed just looking at the stalls.” theatrical plays and community events. buy whatever they want, take a quick gander Learning from others before her and Things that make you come back to the around, and then hightail it out of the bazaar drawing directly from her experience in bazaar every other weekend and not feel like before they suffocate. Who can enjoy an England, Trang sets out to create a bazaar you have seen this before.”

27 through the lens

Children of the North Sapa and Ha Giang was amazingly beautiful and endlessly fascinating because of the children I met while traveling there. No matter how rugged and remote, there were always one or two children around either playing or going about their everyday activities without a care in the world.

Images by Ngoc Tran

28 29 30 saigon mythbusters

THE MYTH: My Vietnamese family thinks air-conditioning is unhealthy, and is reluctant to let our kids spend too much time in an air-conditioned room. But I think the is too much for them, and that the air pollution isn’t good for them either. Is there any truth to their belief?

With all those bikes and the constant dust blowing about from construction projects, it’s certainly true that the air over this city is far from fresh and it’s not always good for young children to spend a lot of time outside breathing in all those pollutants – not if they have another option. Vietnam is in the world’s top 10 most air polluted countries in the world, much of it sitting in a hazy smog over Ho Chi Minh City. It’s not even recommended for adults to do much exercise outside, let alone children. Air conditioners filter as well as cool the air, so they’re an effective way of removing dangerous particulates that can otherwise lodge themselves in the lungs. That said, air-conditioning isn’t without its own health issues. According to pediatrician Dr. Jonathan Halevy of Family Medical Practice, the air-conditioning,” he adds. “It can trigger (every three to four weeks) and that the benefits of air-conditioning are obvious. coughs or an asthma attack and worsen room temperature is pleasant (not too “Air-conditioning reduces humidity, the symptoms of a flu. If not treated cold or too hot) – remembering that the keeps you cool, reduces sweating and routinely, a/c filters can collect dust temperature you see on the a/c screen is also reduces skin irritation such as heat and mold and spread them into the air, not the actual temperature of the room. rash or a worsening of atopic dermatitis increasing the irritation.” Using humidifiers may help a little.” – and it does keep the air a bit cleaner,” For the best solution, especially with With regular filter cleaning, air he says. “Bringing down the humidity kids who are sensitive to colds and flu, Dr. conditioners aren’t harmful to the health also reduces dust mite and mold growth, Halevy recommends a mixed approach: per se – your kids are more likely to as well as any allergic reaction to them “If your kids tend to suffer from a stuffy benefit from the cooler temperatures (such as allergic rhinitis and asthma). nose when they wake up in the morning than otherwise. The only real threat “On the other hand, dry, cold air can and you suspect that the air-conditioning is the prolonged exposure to dry, cold be very irritating on the airways and is irritating their breathing, try using a air. Balance air-con use with fans and many babies and adults suffer from fan at night. If that’s not an option, make humidifiers, and try to keep your kids stuffy or blocked noses because of sure the filters are cleaned routinely cool at all times. – Michael Arnold

31 PINOY PRIDE With the history of the Philippines littered with influences from diverse nations and cultures, its people have been uniquely prepared to adapt, blend and integrate. The Filipino ability and willingness to adapt has led to the Philippines sending its greatest export commodity - its people - all over the world.

This month, we explore the pinoy diaspora in Saigon to learn about its culture and people.

32 Saucy and Sizzling finds a foothold in Saigon Text by Michael Arnold Images by Ngoc Tran

Don’t be too surprised if you happen squatting on a plastic stool by the side of to notice some expensive vehicles pulling the road and enjoying a little taste of home. up to an unassuming little canteen on one Beneath the Vietnamese camouflage, of the more anonymous stretches of Dien this is a real panciteria of the kind you’ll Bien Phu. Although the venue may seem see everywhere on the streets of Manila, indistinguishable from the many cheap, the kind of place affectionately referred to outdoor-eating binh dan diners that exist as a ‘turo-turo’ venue. As the restaurant’s to serve the Vietnamese everyman in this proprietress Marie Malit tells me, “Turo- town, look a little closer and you’ll see turo means ‘point-point’ – you just point that the cuisine on offer at this restaurant through the glass at the dishes you want. is anything but the common fare. It’s It’s food for the masses, the common probably the only place in Ho Chi Minh people. It’s the way we Filipinos like to eat, City where you’ll find 100 percent genuine very casual. We just love to gather, eat and dishes from the Philippines – and if you laugh. It’s nothing fancy.” happen to know any Filipinos who live The name of the venue is a bit of a here, chances are that they probably mouthful – Loriekot's Lutong Bahay already order a good number of their (193 Dien Bien Phu, D3; 093 742 0716) – it meals from this tiny kitchen. Even the means “Little Lorie’s Home Cooking.” Lorie most successful among Filipino expats – is Marie’s little daughter, who I see hopping and there are more of them here than you around the stools begging for a hotsilog. might think – drive right across the city to That’s a cross between an American hot find this little diner, just for the privilege of dog and a plate of egg and rice that looks

33 CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: , very similar to a Vietnamese com tam, a flavors. It’s nicely paired with a plate of , Tapsilog, , Bopis prime example of the crazy mish-mash of adobo, a preserved marinated you’ll cultural influences that has made modern find on the tables of every restaurant in Filipino cuisine the extraordinary hybrid the Philippines. Although it’s named after it has become. Just as Chinese as it is a similar Spanish dish, adobo actually Hispanic and just as Central American as it predates the European presence in the is Austronesian, the taste of the Philippines Philippines and is about as close as you can is very much like its people – a complex get to truly native cooking. blend of polar opposites made warm, Loriekot’s other Filipino staple is its simple, and really, really likable. series of silogs – traditional breakfasts That’s the one insight you’ll need if with rice (sinangag) and eggs (itlog), you’ve never tried Filipino cuisine – it’s a hence the name. Marie provides silogs at mash-up. Take the pancit, one of Loriekot’s any time of the day – we try a tapsilog signature dishes – an easy stir-fry noodle (VND50,000), the original recipe with that’s essentially a local twist on a Chinese beef marinated in , soy sauce, sugar, vermicelli. “The secret topancit is that it’s and pepper. It’s intensely aromatic, made highly adaptable,” says Marie. “You can even more fragrant by the dipping sauce (a almost put anything you want in it.” delightful mild vinegar dip with and What gives it its Filipino kick is the lime) and a side dish of bulalo vinegar marinade and the thick, gravy-like , infused with pork bone marrow sauce. We try a chicken pancit (VND40,000) and as rich as any thick, creamy broth – that has a creamy texture almost like a although it’s actually a clear soup. sauce, but with bold soy and pepper We went a little deeper into Filipino

34 “I do most of my business through Facebook and my Viber group,” says Marie. “We deliver anywhere in the city, and I put up a new menu every day. People are always dropping me messages and orders, asking what’s on today, or if I can make this or that dish.”

territory with a couple of small side dishes involved in. “I started out just cooking at and my Viber group,” says Marie. “We – a bopis meat salad (VND50,000) made home for friends, and then for parties,” she deliver anywhere in the city, and I put up of diced pork heart and lungs, and thus says. “It was mostly pancit noodle dishes a new menu every day. People are always incredibly soft and tender, and adinuguan and baking. Every weekend, I had a lot of dropping me messages and orders, asking pork blood stew (also VND50,000) that was orders, especially for the CLS Christian what’s on today, or if I can make this or viscous and tangy, the sharp undertones of Life Program. I found myself catering to that dish. If I get new customers arriving the blood brought into fine relief by pureed 80-100 people. When I started realizing I at the restaurant, I’ll take a photo for my tomatoes and onion. Perhaps unusual could handle it, I knew I had to do this as Facebook page and tag them. The word preparations for the modern Western a business.” spreads from there. I get a lot of new palate, these are hardly among your typical The result of this decision was the friends that way.” Asian fear-factor dishes – both of them are modest Dien Bien Phu venue. There’s It’s really all the business needs right now. European in origin. no indoor seating, and the drinks are When I ask her if the venue is successful, provided by the café next door, who she answers frankly – “very.” Her husband Socially Connected sometimes lend Maria extra chairs in confirms this: “It was originally just Loriekot’s has been open since last return for the side business. While other something for her to do. Now I’m looking November, but Marie has been serving the international cuisine venues in Ho Chi forward to quitting my job and letting her local Filipino community since long before Minh City go in for colorful décor, a make all the money.” He may be joking, but that. In the seven years since following snazzy website and high-end prices, that day may come sooner than he thinks her husband here (an engineer whose Loriekot’s settles for a functional menu – Marie’s looking for larger premises along company transferred him to HCMC), board, a Facebook page, and prices on a the same stretch, so Loriekot's Lutong Bahay Marie has taken on an increasing role level with a side-alley diner. in its current form could well be on its way in catering for various Christian groups The social media is certainly working. “I to becoming something a whole lot bigger. from the Philippines that the family was do most of my business through Facebook Watch this space.

35 THE TASTEMAKER Edge Pamute talks dubbing, DJing and revolutionizing the face of Asian TV Text by JAMES PHAM Images by Ngoc Tran

Move over Zac Efron, Justin Timberlake an enigmatic smile) found himself as an and Jennifer Lopez. Hollywood’s so-called unfulfilled music-crazed teenager in the Triple Threats (singing, dancing, acting) have 80s amidst a music revolution fueled by the a ways to go to catch up to Edge Pamute: British Romantic movement led by groups international DJ, event promoter, music / like The Pale Fountains and The Smiths. Shut TV / radio producer, sound architect and co- out of clubs, Edge started organizing his own founder of Yan TV. parties in the park. “People were hungry for On a lazy Thursday afternoon, we find this type of music, but it was hard to get the ourselves in the vintage hip surrounds of records. I started organizing my own little Maison Mikio, a tony salon that would not roving clubs that came out of my dire need to be out of place in Seoul, or New York. play music and to hear music.” The budding Sipping an iced tea, Edge is making use of DJ / event promoter found his calling, doing the huge, open space, striking rapid fire weddings, parties and even missing his own poses against the floor-to-ceiling windows, prom for a gig. spinning around on one of the salon's stools After getting a degree in Marketing and or playing with a handful of salon props. Economics, Edge found himself working “Slower! Slower!” pleads the photographer, for an ad agency in the early 90s when his shutter clicks falling woefully behind the boss took a job at the biggest TV channel in action. But as is so often the case, this self- Asia, bringing Edge along as an idea man. proclaimed dreamer needs (or maybe takes?) “Edge, you have only one task here and that’s no direction. to make this a happenin’ TV channel. Not Born in the Philippines, Edge Pamute ‘happening’ but ‘happenin.’” Edge’s response (yes, that is his real name he confirms with was: “Buckle up and enjoy the ride.”

36 Would you consider that your first big talented and cool. I asked them who was But media stacking is the next big thing. You break into television? managing them and they said, “No one. We watch TV while texting a friend on your want to be independent, indie.” I told them: phone and googling something on your I was 23, 25 at the time and I didn’t know “If only you would open your mind not just tablet. MIT did a study and showed they’re what I was doing. I just thought: TV! about your art and your music but to what's complementing each other, not killing each Celebrities! Wow! But commercial TV was happening around the world, you'd be much other. What you see on the internet will be boring. There was no depth, no art, no bigger artists.” They had the look: boots, big amplified. You like what the host is wearing? fullness. Thankfully, my boss said, “Let’s hair, eyeliner. But it's going stop there if they Snap the QR code and go to the shopping do something different. Let’s not do what don't work. site. We're doing everything. [In addition to everyone else is doing.” I thought that was My project now is opening windows to Yan TV, the Yan Group is involved in events, cool because whatever I envisioned, these the world for Vietnamese artists. I’m dealing websites and television production.] The people had the willingness, money and with an aggregator that will help expose psychology is if you want to win the young infrastructure to do it. I remember closing Vietnamese artists to 350 music portals generation, you've got to be present wherever down a whole street to launch [the 90s around the world. Vietnamese artists can they are, from Coffee Bean to movie houses use social networking to find gigs outside of to bars to parking lots and even here at TV hit] Charmed. It was an event! We Vietnam. If they’re industrious enough, they Maison Mikio! had fortune tellers and gothic bands and can manage a YouTube channel under Yan. decorated the whole street like it was New It’ll be a big thing to open up a market for Orleans. Nobody had done that. It wasn’t just You program and produce. You’re the them that’s not just in Vietnam. TV. It was a 360-degree experiential approach Chief Strategic Officer of a hugely that wasn't there in the 90s. Now it sounds successful TV channel. You do artists and dinosaur but at the time, it was like “Wow. repertoire. You DJ internationally. Who is This is how TV should be!” the real Edge?

How did you get involved in the Vietnamese It's funny you ask that because I’m still television industry? trying to figure that out. I sent a text message to five people close to me, asking In 2007 when the television business was them who they thought I was. Everyone said privatized in Vietnam, I was hired to set up that I am a child trapped in a man’s body. a TV channel here. I thought it would be an I’m highly creative but still naïve. I think easy cut-and-paste job, catering to a similar it comes from me always being a dreamer. population and demographic. But when I got I feel like I have two personalities. There’s here, I saw TV was a challenge. They were the professional Edge who helped build dubbing programs with only one voice! The Yan from the ground up. Then there’s the challenge was to find the right people. It was Scrambled Edge, my name when I produce hard to even find a cameraman. There was music and DJ underground gigs. I try to DJ only graphic design school, no school for once a month in another country. It’s all television or film. about travel, some money and exposure. At the time, they still played old, Different cultures, different kinds of music. “” songs. But we made it cool. That side of me is totally unrelated to Yan. We added pop ups, channel bugs (on-screen But it feeds my mind, body and soul. logos) and straps (graphics in the lower part of the screen). We made it edible for The entertainment field is dominated everyone, revolutionizing TV without by young people. Is your age a plus or alienating the viewers by taking a “modern minus? traditionalist” approach. "The psychology is if you want to win the young generation, You know, I'm like a big kid. I don’t need to Yan TV has blown up reaching 4.5 million cope with people. It’s the other way around households with over 7 million digital you've got to be present ― people need to cope with me! [laughs] followers. How important is that kind of wherever they are" But I try to keep myself updated. I read a lot. reach? I go to where the youth are, the bars, cafes and clubs they go to. I follow their websites Size matters. The reach matters. We have to keep abreast with what's happening. In the power to shape the youth. You know the the beginning, my Vietnamese staff would phrase: Do you want to be famous? Well, we What does the future of Vietnamese TV ask me, “Edge, are you sure about this? can literally make anyone famous if we want look like? Vietnam may not be ready.” But I reminded to. Five or six years ago, we had a show called them that I have 25 years’ experience. They stop and realize, “Oh shit, this guy knows Hip Hop Central where we exposed people to The big thing on TV now is the formats what hip-hop was all about by featuring hip- what he's doing.” [syndicated and structured shows] like The hop artists in Vietnam and abroad. That was Voice, Big Brother, American Idol… You’re an important catalyst for the hip-hop scene to going to see at least 25 different formats Maison Mikio is located in Garden Plaza 2 explode in Vietnam. This has been true with shown this year. Moving forward, you’ll see other music genres and scenes here. (8 Ton Dat Tien, D7). In addition to the usual more Western-inspired locally produced hair cutting, coloring, perm and hair / scalp Speaking of Vietnamese artists, what will shows. We’ll soon be launching a family treatments, the spacious two-story salon also channel skewed towards women. I hope it'll does nails, waxing and skincare, including it take for Vietnam to be able to export a be revolutionary, something like the Star the 90 minute galvanic face massage crossover product, something along the World of Vietnam, but not with the usual (VND1,000,000) enjoyed by Edge. Hair- lines of K-pop? dramas. Maybe there’ll even be a Vietnamese related services are done on the cheerfully version of Sex in the City! open ground level while skin treatments are It'll take a big door to the world. Vietnamese cared for upstairs, in one of two VIP rooms, artists need this door to open but right now You know the song "Video Killed the Radio a massage room or a manicure / pedicure it's not yet open. I mean, there are good Star"? Is the internet going to kill TV? nook. Owner Mikio has more than 10 years’ artists but they're only thinking of Vietnam. I experience in the industry, aiming to replicate recently met some artists in Hanoi who were In Vietnam, the medium of choice is still TV. the success of his salon in Korea.

37 38 PACIFIC RIMS for the Saigon Heat, Froilan Baguion opens up about The Philippines, family and Text by npd khanh Image by Ngoc Tran

“I used to sneak out of my house in the you have to stand up offensively and tell afternoon to go play ball while I should your player to do this and do that. But have been sleeping like my mother told me Froilan has a great feel for the game and to,” shares Froilan Baguion, Saigon Heat’s communicates with all the players so it Filipino point guard. Born in 1980 in Metro really makes the job easier on offense.” Manila, he started playing as early as six- years-old and calls basketball an addiction Drafted that would define his life and career. “My entrance into the Saigon Heat was Basketball was Froilan’s ticket to pretty uneventful,” he says. “My coach college because his family was too poor talked to me one day, and then I met Mr. to pay tuition fees. Resigned to working Michael from Saigon Heat. And they asked right after high school to support his me, ‘How would you like to come play honest and show the world what I’ve got. It family, everything changed when he met for this young Vietnamese team that just really was no choice at all.” the coach of a college basketball team, started a couple years ago?’” For his family, however, the decision was Manny Fandango and later on Rico Perez. more difficult. “My wife and I argued. She These guys laid the foundation for his worries about me. I’m here and she’s in the professional basketball skills and passed Philippines and she doesn’t know how I’m on the principles of a good basketball doing and if I’m OK. And then there are my game. “I’ve seen the Vietnamese kids and I can’t bring them over… yet.” "It's not how you play the game. It's He joined the Saigon Heat earlier how you finish the game," Froilan recalls crowd in my previous this year in a team consisting of six the advice he received from them. The Vietnamese, two Americans, two Filipinos fourth and last quarter of the game is the tours since the Patriots. and one Viet Kieu. Saigon Heat was formed most vital one. A team can win the first in 2010 and officially participated in the three and then lose during the last quarter ABL in 2011 so recruiting seasoned players because stamina is ebbing, fatigue rising Vietnamese basketball is locally, then and now, has been difficult, and the wrong tactical decisions are made. sometimes causing friction between local His skills eventually earned a two- so young, but the crowd and foreign players. year college scholarship playing for the “The Vietnamese players do not lack for Philippine National University Bulldogs is amazing. There is a sense talent, that I can tell you,” says Froilan. and a professional league spot under the “But if I can describe them by one word, it Welcoat Dragons. However, it was in the of purity in the Vietnamese would be 'young'. On the other hand, I’ve ASEAN Basketball League (ABL) where been where they are. Most of the time, I he garnered international fame, winning fans’ love for basketball. " just think I’ve gotta help them out. I’m the his first ABL crown under the Philippine experienced one. I have to show them what Patriots and then by touring the next five I know, and that’s it. I would say that in the years with the San Miguel Beermen and ABL, they [Saigon Heat] are the best. the Chang Thailand Slammers. Froilan is “I’ve seen the Vietnamese crowd in my one of the Philippines' pure point guards. Froilan’s answer came easily. “People previous tours since the Patriots. It’s funny. A great pass-first point guard, he leads the may think that I came to play for the Vietnamese basketball is so young, but the ASEAN Basketball League in assists. He is Saigon Heat because they pay better, but crowd is amazing. There is a sense of purity one of the few remaining pass-first point that’s not true,” he explains. “They pay in the Vietnamese fans’ love for basketball. guards in the Philippines. about the same. But in the Philippines, I Filipinos love basketball just as much of In an interview that appeared on can get paid five, six grand a month and course, and there are more basketball fans the ASEAN Basketball League website, sit on a bench to watch players I know in the Philippines, but whenever a sport Froilan’s coach at the time Joe Bryant are not as good as me on the court simply grows too strong eventually it’s no longer (father of Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe because they know someone I don’t. The just about the game anymore. Other things Bryant) said: “Froilan has the kind of skills choice then for me was either stay in the start coming into the equation - money, of Chris Paul and Steve Nash. He has a Philippines, sit around and do nothing politics, gambling.” great leadership skill in him and has made and still get paid top dollar or go to other For Froilan, he’s just enjoying the love of my job a lot easier. Sometimes as a coach countries where the sport is still young and the game, wherever it takes him.

39 ISLAND ESCAPE Fun and sun in the emerald waters and white sands of Boracay Text by fiona gonzales

It was the midweek of an off-peak word “borac” meaning white cotton, which season. Usually, times like this, I would shares some of the same characteristics of expect to have the beach all to myself. the fine, powdery sands synonymous with But this was no ordinary beach. This was the area’s shoreline. Boracay. And in Boracay, even a slow day Somewhat remarkable given the island’s is roaring. limited dimensions is the variety in Located about 2 km off the northwestern beaches. White Beach, probably the most edge of Panay Island, Boracay is still popular among tourists, is located on the very much in the midst of an upswing west coast and offers the kind of landscape in popularity. Subsisting mainly on its that appears to be lifted directly from a plantations and fishing for much postcard. Sugary sands, palm trees and of its modern history, it was only when calm, clear waters make it the perfect spot a German travel writer named Jens Peter for a relaxing dip in the ocean. shared details of the island to the world The east side is host to Bulabog Beach, in 1978 that it began to take root as a one of Asia’s most attractive destinations popular destination for backpackers. The for kite surfers and a spot that enthusiasts wider travel community’s interest has well of water sports simply have to visit. The and truly been piqued in modern times as higher winds and rolling waves combine Boracay draws over a million tourists each to create a fantastic environment for year, both domestic and foreign. the adventurous traveler to enjoy an Probably the most famous aspect of exhilarating afternoon. Although these Boracay is its absurdly picturesque beaches. are perhaps the most well-known beaches, a pix el Although there is some uncertainty about there are plenty of others to discover and as h the etymology of the island’s name, one explore. Yapak, Diniwid and Balinghai are

theory is that it is derived from the local all stunning in their own right, and a case by p image

40 o3p image by sa i k image

could certainly be made that their relative to take the stress out of shopping for a everyone. A further stroll down the beach seclusion could make them even more bargain. The coral reefs surrounding the offers fire twirlers, or a bargain at the night attractive to prospective beachgoers. island beg to be explored and with a range market. Or maybe charter a boat for an of certifications on offer and companies evening sail and a few champagnes while Get Active catering to every level of experience, it taking in the neon lit island from afar. One thing irresistible in Boracay is the wasn’t long before I was doing just that. While famous for its booming nightlife, the urge to get wet. The invitation from its One of the most popular sites is Crocodile good times are certainly not limited to the enticing blue waters makes any excuse to Island, sitting about 20 minutes from White party animals. stay dry futile and there are so many ways Beach by boat. Named for its distinctive With so many restaurants to choose to get wet which go beyond just diving shape, it is host to a wide range of marine from, every meal in Boracay might be in. Right at the top of my list of must-do life of which moray eels, nudibranch, sea a hit-and-miss affair. It’s very easy to water activities was helmet diving. The snakes and lion fish are but a smattering. fall prey to beachfront displays, buffet helmet was a heavy fiberglass shell with promos, and even free dinners, which a clear visor – heavy enough to rest on Nightlife & Dining turn out to be no charity work at all. So I my shoulders while a constant supply of The sun may be down, but Boracay is never made it a point to ask around first before pressurized air from the surface, through out. Bass starts pumping, streaks of light stepping in. Among the rows of paluto a hose into the helmet, allowed me to pulsate with the beat and the energy is restaurants in D' Talipapa, I opted for breathe normally while pushing the water still rising – it’s party time in the island. I Plato D' Boracay Resto for most of my out through the opened bottom. While this was looking for a place to relax over a few lunches since it had the most occupied doesn’t give the mobility that scuba diving drinks while enjoying the cool breeze of tables; I had to wait 10 minutes for a table or even snorkeling does, it did let me walk the sea and came across Bamboo Lounge to become available my first visit there. on the sea bed under several meters of in Station 1 (Boracay's 3.5 km long White The seafood was so fresh and delicious I water. It’s a wonderful way - especially for Beach is divided into three parts: Stations often ate with my hands. those who have not had the opportunity 1, 2 & 3). I plopped down on a big couch Dinnertime had me heading to Zuzuni, to take up scuba diving - to get a view of around a low box table - which stood on a a Mediterranean restaurant located Boracay’s aquatic life. native hand-woven mat - and as the lounge between Stations 1 and 2. It's a warm The descent into the underwater world music played I ordered a drink, met some and cozy place that's best for people who was down a ladder from a boat assisted by locals and kick started our night. dislike noisy and crowded places when a certified scuba diver, whose instructions After a few drinks, we walk towards eating or drinking. The star of the meal (what hand signals mean and when to use Station 2, every step we were taking, we was the to-die-for Mati Chocolate Sin – a them) were important to follow. Dives felt the bass thud harder and found the molten chocolate lava cake that's known are done in groups and once down, the 15 source of the beat at Epic Bar. Different across the island as one of the most minute dive offered not just an opportunity streaks of light flashing with the house decadent delights legally available. to interact with those in my group, but music playing and without even noticing, I Boracay can be a place of relaxation and also to take a few photographs and interact was nodding my head to the beat. Epic Bar, pampering by the beach. It could also be a with the fish (a piece of bread is given to during my visit, probably was the hippest place of endless activities from snorkeling, everyone to feed them). place where everyone gathered for some helmet diving and island hopping to There are dive centers everywhere and moving and grooving in their bikinis, board endless bars and beach parties. Boracay they operate as a cartel and so you will find shorts and flip flops. can be anything you want it to be. Just pricing is consistent among them, helping Of course the partying lifestyle isn’t for make sure you pack the sunscreen.

41 two-live crew The story of how a singer met a musician to form a hit sensation Text by robert stockdill Images by Ngoc Tran

Thanks to their musical career and Occidental Province, near Cebu. After popularity, Sitti Gomez and musical partner six months, that free spirit was niggling Jason Jazz are amongst the most visible once more so she decided to check out Filipinos in Ho Chi Minh City. Sitti, 29, opportunities in Thailand. That led to three and Jason, 33, have entertained expats in months on Koh Chang (Elephant Island) in the city’s entertainment venues for nearly a band at a resort. four years. They’ve made their mark on the “Somehow my keyboard player, the expat community for their broad repertoire leader of the band, got a gig in a casino in of music styles, from jazz and cabaret to Cambodia on the border with Vietnam. pop and rock and a generous contribution That’s how I made my way to Vietnam. of time to charity. Almost every weekend I went to Ho Chi Minh City to escape. My main reason was Sitti’s Story to see movies. And I was sick of hotel food “I’m a free-spirited person. I came from - in Saigon I could eat burgers!” the provinces. I wanted to free myself,” she Over the course of a year, Sitti shopped, says. socialized and dined in Ho Chi Minh City Her first singing gig was at a five-star before heading back to the Cambodian hotel in Guangzhou, aged just 22. By night border town which, as every expat passing she sang jazz and love songs in English, by through on the way to Phnom Penh knows, day she taught Chinese students English. has nothing but garish and often decrepit, When the contract ended, she returned casino complexes. to her hometown Bacolod City, in Negros Like most Filipinos, Sitti is Catholic and

42 one Sunday morning at church in Ho Chi he returned, footloose and fancy free, management. Minh City, the minister asked what her single, with no idea where his future was Besides their paid acts, the two plans were. She said she wanted to sing; heading. “I was just a backpacker. I had no frequently participate in charity events and the minister just happened to know a instruments. I had sold my trumpet so my church concerts, including a benefit for musician looking for a singer… brother could buy a saxophone. My capital Filipino typhoon victims last year. was my talent. I just went into a bar. It was Musicians are not the highest paid Jason’s Story like an answered prayer.” professionals, an important consideration Jason Jazz comes from Lucena City, capital The bar was Cage, the gig short lived for Jason with two children to raise. Sitti of Quezon Province located between Metro - the venue closed two months later. But supplements her income teaching English Manila and Bicol Region. He taught himself Cage would have a lifelong impact on part-time. But they say performing is more to play the piano when he was 12. Jason because he met Nhung there. She about fulfillment than income. They have “I started playing music at church, where is now his wife with whom he has two an obvious musical connection. I was an altar boy. I learned my love of children. Neither is sure about their future. music at church listening to others play “After Cage closed, I had a girlfriend, “Should I stay here? Because I have the and sing. At the time I had no background but no job. Nhung helped me find a house travel bug, so should I see somewhere else? in music, but I was very curious. After the and someone introduced me to play in Even though my mum is in the Philippines, band went home I would experiment with the Catholic Church.” A member of the my friends are here. If I move on to another the instruments. I did not know at that congregation bought him a guitar and he country I will still miss Vietnam. There’s a time I had a talent for music,” he explains. kept practicing and soon, despite having special place in my heart here. I live with Music was part of the secondary school no formal tuition, he was playing the a Vietnamese family and I’m lucky here to curriculum, so as a teenager Jason joined guitar in a weekly gig at Buddha Bar have met so many great people. Home is the marching band and learned the among other places. where the heart is. I want to do two things if trumpet. But his family was poor and could One day, Jason was on a bus to Cambodia I stay in one place: teaching and singing. I’ve not afford to buy a trumpet so he only and chatting to a fellow passenger, a Filipino found that here in Saigon. It’s like my dream played at school where he could use the church minister from Ho Chi Minh City. to improve myself and living in Vietnam I class one. Then he added keyboards to his Jason said he was looking for a female can make my dream come true,” muses Sitti. range of instruments and soon earned a vocalist to team up with. Turned out the Jason is equally content: “I always trust role as a session musician. priest knew just the woman. God, what He wants me to do. I have the Later he majored in music but, as talent. I don’t know where my journey will the oldest of seven siblings, he had a Their Story lead me. But my family is here in Vietnam. responsibility to support the family and Sitti and Jason have been playing together Coming here all started with music. And at that stage a career in music seemed now for four years. Their first gig was a now I have another reason to be here.” unlikely until he got a lucky break. private party at a golf club in District 8 in Someone was recruiting performers from 2011 and a regular appearance at the now Sitti Gomez and Jason Jazz perform at the Philippines for a cover band to play in defunct Mexico Lindo, along with local the Reflections bar in Caravelle Hotel on Vietnam. That was how he first visited Ho expat bars like Universal and Number Five, Monday and Wednesday through Saturday Chi Minh City, in 2004. then Cavern on Dung Du, which is where from 7pm to 10pm and at Saigon Saigon on It would be more than two years before they came to the attention of Caravelle Tuesdays from 9pm to midnight.

43 CULTURAL RELATIONS Taking time out of her busy schedule, Vietnamese Honorary Consul General of the Philippines Atty. Le Thi Phung speaks to Oi via email about relations between Vietnam and The Pearl of the Orient Seas Image by Ngoc Tran

teaching/education, advertising, and hospitality management.

Is there a Vietnamese diaspora in the Philippines?

Ten years after 1975 there are some records that say there are few Vietnamese in the Philippines but many of them already left for other countries.

Why do you think Filipinos have adapted so well here?

Both Vietnam and the Philippines share many similarities: culture, geography, climate and the likes. Vietnam and the Philippines also share the same body of water (East-West Vietnam-Philippine Sea). One great reason I can say is that how the Vietnamese people welcomed the Filipinos here in Vietnam. The natural cheerfulness, sincerity and friendliness of the Vietnamese people made the Filipinos feel at home and love Vietnam more.

How many Vietnamese tourists visit the How big is the Filipino community in HCMC, and in to perform our traditional dance. At the Philippines every year? Vietnam as a whole? moment we are working on sending our participants to the HCMC Our Common In 2013 about 5,000 Vietnamese tourists At the moment, we can’t give an accurate Home Festival this September. visited the Philippines; Manila, Makati and number because this hasn’t been cleared to Palawan in particular. us as well, but according to the High Ranking How much remittance do the Filipinos living in For Filipinos visiting Vietnam, they are Officer in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Vietnam send back to the Philippines each year? interested in seeing the historical places, but Hanoi there is an average of 1,000 Filipinos they enjoy the shopping more. with three month visas and registrations, In general, 30 percent of [the Philippines’] while the report from the High Ranking GDP is contributed by Overseas Filipinos. An excerpt in an article in Thanh Nien News Officer of the Department of External about a plan to hire Filipino teachers to teach Relations of HCMC [states] there are more What materials do the two countries trade with English at Vietnamese schools stirred some than 5,000 Filipinos in southern Vietnam. We each other? controversy with critics of the plan saying the are working with both agencies to have this city “should hire only native English speakers clarified. Rice, instant noodles, fertilizer, canned or improve local teachers instead.” And a [goods], sugar, and cashew nuts. principal of a primary school in HCMC said she Does the consulate office organize cultural was concerned by the plan because “English is activities? Tell us the history of Filipino migrant workers in not the mother tongue of Filipinos. The best way Vietnam. When did they first arrive? to learn a foreign language is to study with a Normally through the initiative and effort native speaker… I am afraid that they will speak of the Filipino community, the Philippine This is a very long history, but it has been English like a Filipino rather than native English consulate office co-hosts the Annual Family recorded that Filipinos has been in and out of speakers." Your thoughts on this? Day and Christmas Party for Filipinos. The Vietnam since French colonization and the consulate supports all the activities of the American War. Nowadays, the Filipinos are We respect the idea that everybody is Filipino community such as the basketball very visible and active for business. entitled to their own opinion. The Philippines league, festivals, etc. has adapted English as the second language. The consulate actively participates in In what industries are they mostly employed in Vietnam, a country that is starting to do the many festivals hosted by other agencies here? same, the Filipinos is still thankful that the as well. Recently we have participated in majority of the locals are still recognizing the ASEAN Anniversary Celebration here Executive leadership (Director, General their English communication skills as in HCMC where we organized 70 kids Manager, etc.), construction, garments, globally competitive.

44 Wine & Dine IMAGE BY NGOC TRAN

Kang Nam Ga Korean BBQ

45 restaurant review Steak Your Claim ’s delicious fusion take on the American Salisbury steak Text by Robert Stockdill Images by Ngoc Tran

With a proliferation of Japanese or , it’s a blend of testament to the popularity of the eatery, restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City, it’s - usually beef - vegetables, breadcrumbs despite its newness on the street. Inside, hard to imagine a new one offering and herbs and sometimes egg. The the dining room is cozy, yet functional, the something unique. But in the delightful Americans eat it with gravy and mashed guests a mix of Japanese businesspeople, little restaurant lane off Le Thanh Ton St or noodles. local Vietnamese who are in on the secret in District 1, Yoshiki Kondo manages just Hamburg (ハンバーグ hanbāgu, and some foreigners. that. He is General Manager of Gyumaru steak) is the Japanese version, made from There are more tables upstairs and a Hamburg & Steak (8/3 Le Thanh Ton). ground meat with finely chopped onion, small private function room is available. The Gyumaru is not what you might egg and breadcrumbs, flavored with service, from our arrival to departure, was expect. It’s not a burger joint, nor is it spices and made into a flat, circular shape warm and friendly; our waiter Albert speaks a steakhouse. It is a quintessentially about a centimeter thick and 10 to 15 excellent English and was happy to explain minimalist Japanese dining experience cm in diameter. Gyumaru makes them a the menu and offer his recommendations. rotating around the style of meat meal little larger and rounder, but the concept Westerners would be quick to link to a remains the same. Many restaurants in The Food gourmet burger, but without the bread. Japan specialize in variations of The house signature dish is of course It also offers Western steak dishes and steak, including hanbāgu topped with the Hamburg Steak - and it comes in Japanese barbecue. And, of course, as one cheese (or chizuhanbāgu) or hanbāgu with six large but very affordable variations: expects from the Japanese dining culture, Japanese . Gyumaru, Cheese, Japanese Style, Stewed, presentation and perfection is everything. Gyumaru Hamburg & Steak is housed Stewed Cheese or Deep Fried. You choose Before we get to the meal, here’s an in a typically narrow Vietnamese style your size - medium is recommended for explanation for those unaware of the shophouse, the ground floor featuring a between VND158,000 and VND210,000, Hamburg steak concept. The Americans glazed kitchen affording every customer but for those with more modest appetites, have been eating Salisbury steak since - and passersby - a view of the shiny there is a smaller option (VND128,000 to 1897, a recipe created by a physician who stainless steel food preparation area. It’s VND180,000) or for the big eaters, large at was an early pioneer of the low-carb diet immaculate and the team of chefs are in VND188,000 to VND240,000. We took the for weight loss. Much like a burger patty an organized frenzy when we arrive - mid-sized option - which was more than

46 filling - of the Cheese Hamburg Steak. My whole mushrooms. Even with just a salad companion chose the US tenderloin steak, and bread for starters (the bread was sliced cooked medium rare and served with salad baguette served with ), it proved and unlimited bread for VND420,000, too big for her alone. which, given the size of the cut, was If you’re not keen to try the Hamburg “It was moorish, excellent value by Vietnamese standards. (you really should!), Gyumaru offers After just one mouthful, it was quickly Japanese , seafood barbecues, tasty and smooth obvious why the Japanese have embraced and as well. And there is a small the Hamburg concept, adapting it to their children’s menu. - far smoother own palate. The meat mixture was fresh In the unlikely event you’re not full and tasty, the meat and herbs contrasting after the main course, there are - than a patty you the thick slice of cheese melted over the cake of the day, sorbet or ice cream. Also, might encounter top. It was moorish, tasty and smooth - far uncharacteristically perhaps for Japanese smoother than a patty you might encounter eateries, there is a small but well-priced in a burger bun in a burger bun in a Western restaurant, no wine list including a Spanish Cava and three matter how ‘gourmet’ it might be labeled. red and three white wines from Chile, Italy in a Western The dish was served with crunchy sprouts, and . A glass for VND110,000, bottles greens, and roasted potatoes, and from VND450,000 to VND800,000. restaurant, no a crisp green salad. It came to the table on Not surprisingly, word of this new entry a cast iron plate resting on a wooden base, onto Ho Chi Minh City’s dining scene is matter how juices still simmering in the bottom. spreading fast and Gyumaru has responded ‘gourmet’ it might My companion was equally delighted with a box takeaway and delivery with her US steak which was tender and service. You can order or take away be labeled. ” juicy, perfectly cooked and served with a any of the items on the menu for home generous mountain of mash, cauliflower, consumption - and the team in the kitchen broccoli, carrots and zucchini… this is are open to requests for variations on the about as healthy as a steak dish could get. menu items. Fresh, healthy, innovative The chef’s special sauce was a savory gravy cuisine in a relaxed, cozy environment - mixed with thinly sliced vegetables and Welcome to HCMC, Gyumaru!

47 restaurant review The Thrill of the Grill A refined new invention on Korean barbecue Text by Michael Arnold Images by Ngoc Tran

Perfection is an ideal that’s rarely aimed for in BBQ venues – it’s usually all about the sizzle, the smoke, and the thrill of the grill. With the recent reincarnation of Kang Nam Ga on 6B Le Quy Don, that paradigm has now changed. Under new owner James Kang, this second-tier Korean venue has risen sharply in the ranks, and it’s now a serious contender for the crown within its category. Kang, who operates a number of successful businesses in Ho Chi Minh City, has reinvented this once-tired restaurant with the intention of introducing a more refined style of Korean BBQ to local diners – fitting it out with high-tech smokeless racks and commissioning the services of Lotte World Hotel’s Head Chef Im Woon Ky to retrain all staff and bring in some classy, cutting-edge cooking techniques. Our table is attended by 21-year-old student Yen My, although not exclusively – under the new management, every table is looked after by a team of three wait staff, each of whom have been through Im’s training. My enthuses with the energy of a convert – since reopening last month, she’s seen some big infrastructural changes at the restaurant (she mentions the kids’ playground up front, which is actually one of the better ones I’ve seen), and she says that she appreciates the clarity of the new, more disciplined regime. It shows. My, other staff tell me, is Im’s star pupil. It’s obvious that he’s succeeded in passing on his culinary skills – she wields the tongs like a seasoned professional. It’s not showmanship, it’s methodical: every aspect of the cooking is under tight control, including the exact sequence of temperatures used to cook each morsel – which is why customers are deftly waited upon rather than left to clumsily overcook their choice, imported American beef. In Korean BBQ, beef is treated with a certain reverence, and at Kang Nam Ga, it’s almost always served first. We ordered the ambitious assorted meat grill set (modum gui) at VND890,000, which is a selection of four beef cuts, each of which, according to the young team of experts at our disposal, are cooked in different ways. The grill is spotless – there’s no gas or coal smoking out, it’s all electrical – and a water cache beneath the surface channels all the fumes down through a chute, so the air throughout the restaurant remains clean. The sirloin cuts, My explains, cook fast – so turning is kept to a minimum. The grill is swabbed first not with oil, but with a chunk of fat from the same type of meat that’s about to be cooked. It’s cleaned Modum Gui easily with a dousing of soju.

48 FROM TOP: Samgyeopsal Gui, Samyetang & Kamg Nam Ga's main dining area

You can roll your beef up in fresh lettuce leaves with , pickle, and garlic, dipped in a Korean BBQ sauce – but if you’re not in so much of an herbal mood, you can always dunk the meat by itself in the rich, salty sesame sauce provided. It serves to remove any persistent odors in the meat, and it’s divine. Chiseled and Cut We follow the beef with a pork dish for a little contrast, ordering the grilled pork belly (samgyeopsal gui) at VND160,000. Pork, unlike beef, needs to be gradually cooked and turned, and the resulting portions are fully- done without any chewiness. The fat is a tad crispy – just like a Christmas roast. The meat dishes are served with a number of , each chiseled to perfection. One of Im’s trademarks is his attention to detail and symmetrical cuts, even with the and radish sticks. Kim chi is on the table, but in deference to the foreign palate, this is lightly fried to bring out the flavor of the fresh cabbage leaves – it’s not as acerbic as raw kim chi, and the heat descends gradually on the tongue rather than bites back at you on contact. That being said, I’m a particular fan of kim chi, and so my preference was to finish off the meal with a fine kim chi stew (kimchi jjigae) at VND120,000. Properly matured kim chi makes for the best stew, and this variety is made with genuine Korean sauces and top-quality local cabbage from Dalat, set off with and pork. The dish has a pleasant, insistent burn that rivals the best of Thai soups. Korean food should be accompanied by Korean spirits, but watch out – the stuff has a habit of catching up with you before you’ve realized how much you’ve had to drink. Kang Nam Ga has a good selection available, from a small bottle of Hongjo at VND45,000; a variety of sojus (around VND120,000) and fruity macgoli (VND160,000); and a particularly fine nigori sake at VND400,000. The best is yet to come with Kang Nam Ga – Chef Im Woon Ky’s back at Lotte World now, but he’s due to return to set up the venue’s next signature dish – the infamous and eminently popular ginseng (samyetang), which will be prepared with Korean ginseng and Dalat chickens and sell at VND215,000 per bowl. Samyetang is served in a claypot with the broth bubbling at boiling temperature, and it’s one of the most memorable dishes of the for those whose experience extends only to meals with kim chi. The ginseng wine has already arrived – massive jars of 16-year- old ginseng sit steeped in 15 percent proof alcohol, and complimentary shots will be served with the soup. Try it when it gets here – Kang Nam Ga may well be the Korean go-to venue long before then.

49 restaurant review

All Things to All People A Saigon mainstay returns to its roots with Indonesian rijsttafel Text BY James pham Images by ngoc tran

I get nervous when I see flags on a walls, well-worn wood floors, bookcases Home Sweet Home menu. It’s often a sign of an establishment and a musical stage. Another group Ironically, La Fenetre Soleil goes home for either catering to tourists who neither of friends might be chillaxing on the its newest addition to the dinner menu, speak English nor the local language or of oversized corner sofa. And a family of back to the Indonesian roots of owner a diluted menu that lacks focus, a culinary tourists could be enjoying a late lunch at Cinta Wijayanti, in the form of rijsttafel jack of all trades but master of none. one of the long granite tables, pouring (VND280,000 per person, minimum The menu atLa Fenetre Soleil (44 over matching Lonely Planets deciding of two orders). Meaning “rice table” Ly Tu Trong, D1) looks like the phone on where to go next. The space takes on (pronounced , “RACE-tah-fell”), rijsttafel directory of the United Nations. There’s a a completely different personality in the is essentially an Indonesian feast made Japanese corner, vestiges of the restaurant’s evenings. Chandeliers give way to disco up of anywhere from seven to a hundred Japanese-Vietnamese fusion origins balls. On certain nights, someone will be dishes, showcasing the best of the 300 or catering to Japanese tour groups, a French softly playing the baby grand in the corner so distinct native ethnic groups making up niçoise salad, Italian pasta, Mexican , or crooning out jazz standards with a live the archipelago. Meant to celebrate (and American burgers and Thai mango with band. On another night, tables and chairs show off) the bounty of the country, the sticky rice. The restaurant itself takes its are pushed aside for sultry salsa and on concept originated during the more than name after a lovely old bay window from Sunday evenings, the city’s musicians 300 years of Dutch colonialism, and is its original location now framing the bar rock up for jam sessions in exchange for more popular in the Netherlands than it is area, although French speakers may have free beer. (See video clips at La Fenetre’s in itself. fun debating the grammatical accuracy of Facebook page.) “The influence of “La Fenetre Soleil.” Being all things to all people ― a cozy on the Dutch one is huge,” says Mark The venue is equally schizophrenic. hangout spot, a trendy night club, a kitchen Schiefelbein, food blogger at DutchGrub. Come on a weekday afternoon and that serves up meals from around the globe “There are Indonesian restaurants and you’ll likely find freelancers feverishly ― shouldn’t work, but it oddly does at La tokos [Asian food shops] all over working on laptops at one of a handful Fenetre Soleil. Its 14 year history when so Amsterdam, kip (chicken) saté is of mismatched tables set up in the sunny many other lofty restaurants have come considered a typical Dutch dish and many corridor that runs around the perimeter and gone is testament to the success of tourists visiting the Netherlands end up of the main restaurant space, an upscale giving people what they want ― a taste of having rijsttafel when looking for authentic bohemian combination of exposed brick home ― wherever home may be. Dutch food.”

50 CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Cinta Wijayanti, Traditionally, rijsttafel isn’t confined to sauce of chili peppers and paste, Rijsttafel, Sate Ayam, any predetermined set of dishes, and La ayam, a mild with tofu Fenetre Soleil’s version has eight, starting and egg, and sayur labu siam, a coconut with a trio of appetizers including milk-based stew thickened with tomatoes jagung, sweet corn with shrimp, and featuring chayote (a gourd known and the excellent rissoles, something as xu xu in Vietnamese). , a steamed akin to a , stuffed with cubes of medley of vegetables with a side of Where Vietnamese chicken and French beans in a béchamel sauce, completes the feast. sauce, rolled into a crepe and deep fried. La Fenetre Soleil’s rijsttafel doesn’t cuisine relies on The standout appetizer for me was thesate include a dessert, but one can be ordered ayam, grilled chicken on served a la carte. We tried the quickly cooked food with a rich (which the Dutch (included in the lunch set menu at also call “satay”), accompanied by discs of VND180,000), shredded coconut cooked and tasty sauces, , compressed, slightly mushy rice in brown sugar and wrapped in a pandan Indonesian cuisine cooked in banana leaves, ideal for mopping flavored spongy crepe and the more up the satay. Where interesting pisang bakar (VND60,000), often marinates relies on quickly cooked food and tasty grilled bananas topped with shredded sauces, Indonesian cuisine often marinates cheddar cheese and chocolate , a the meat for the meat for longer, allowing the flavor to pleasantly odd sweet and salty combination permeate the proteins. along the lines of salted caramel. longer, allowing the Mains are represented by beef rendang, a “Gezellig” is an untranslatable Dutch tasty stew with large chunks of beef cooked word conveying the idea of “quaint” or flavor to permeate over low heat for hours until the coconut “cozy” but almost always attached to the the proteins. milk practically reduces down to oil and a company you’re with. And if there’s ever trio of dishes meant to be eaten together: a meal that’s guaranteed to make you feel goreng kentang, a sweet, savory, “gezellig,” it’s La Fenetre Soleil’s rijsttafel, spicy potato dish cooked in a feast to be shared amongst friends, no and flavored withsambal , the ubiquitous matter where you call home.

51 restaurant review

When entering The Crab Shack (11B Le Quy Don, D3), now six months old, guests are greeted by tanks of live shellfish, exposed brick walls, and simple, Southern square wooden tables covered in butcher’s paper. With the smell of Cajun spices wafting from the kitchen, one yearns for jazz music playing in the background. Frankie, the restaurant’s manager, Comfort explains the inspiration for this decidedly American South eatery popping up in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. “The owners A taste of Cajun cooking in the city have visited Louisiana several times and Text BY mike jones Images provided by the crab shack fell in love with crawfish and wanted to bring that back to Vietnam,” he tells us. Indeed, one can see they went to lengths to try and recreate the atmosphere and menu one might stumble into in New Orleans. We opted to start with some fried calamari (VND129,000) which isn’t necessarily Cajun, but we were in the mood for some. Served with and a side of tartar sauce instead of marinara, they were done properly. Crawfish (VND699,000) are one of the signature items on the menu and can be ordered in a variety of sauces and flavors. We opted to stick with the traditional Cajun spices and asked to have them with as much kick as they could muster. It was a treat to have them after being away from the US for so long. They have adapted them to the local palate, so the sauce is a bit sweeter than the Louisiana version those who are familiar with the cuisine would expect, and they come in a large bag tossed with garlic and in an oily sauce. The addition of corn on the cob (VND50,000 for five pieces) is a great touch, but if you prefer the traditional style let your server know so they can accommodate you. They currently use frozen crawfish, but are looking at Crawfish with corn Moules mariniere experimenting with fresh options as well to see how customers will respond. Of course fresh ones are certain to raise the price, but they’re equally as certain to increase the enjoyment. Themoules mariniere (VND350,000) were spot on for flavor. Using fresh New Zealand mussels, Cajun cooking is their chef did a great job of recreating the a spicy treat and Southern American taste. But of course, this restaurant is called the items found The Crab Shack, so their crabs are the reason to visit. We had local mud crabs on the menu are (market price). Two to an order, we were served one deep fried in Hong Kong as much fun to garlic sauce and the other sautéed in black pepper sauce. The Hong Kong style indulge in as they was nice, even fun, and certainly geared are messy, both towards Asian tastebuds. The black pepper version, while perhaps not strictly Cajun, of which rank pops in your mouth and encouraged us to find a new home for the garlic bread. It’s high for locals and something spice lovers will enjoy. The Crab Shack is toeing the line expats alike. between traditional Cajun and local tastes. Cajun cooking is a spicy treat and the items found on the menu are as much fun to indulge in as they are messy, both of which rank high for locals and expats Mud crab alike.

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bakery service with a charitable focus, 135 Nguyen Hue, D1 31 Ly Tu Trong, D1 bakeries teaching young Vietnamese hopefuls 3914 3773 3824 3483 how to bake delicious breads and www.savourebakery.com [email protected] ABC Bakery & Cafe through their food training program. www.bluegeckosaigon.com The bakery serves more than 30 30 Lam Son, Tan Binh Tous Les Jours different baked products ranging from 3547 0577 Bootleg DJ Café baguettes to pizza slices, along with a harvestbaking.net A Korean owned French-style bakery wide selection of drinks such as coffee 7am - 5pm Monday-Saturday franchise serving fresh baked bread and Modern, moody, and minimalist cafe bar and fruit juices. popular , all baked on-site. with reasonable prices by day, chic lounge 223-225 Pham Ngu Lao, D1 Kinh Do Bakery 180 Hai Ba Trung, D1 with DJs playing by night. Has a limited 3823 8302 menu of and other health- Bread Talk Kinh Do Bakery makes reasonably priced conscious Italian fare. With a mission to revitalize the once-stale baked goods to-go, such as cakes and bars 9 Le Thanh Ton, D1 business of bread, Singaporean BreadTalk cupcakes, tarts, sandwiches, Vietnamese 090 760 9202 now has outlets throughout Asia and “banh bao”, Western-style 2 Lam Son [email protected] has established itself in several HCMC and mini-pizzas and gelatin-based Serves a variety of premium beverages locations. A brand partnership with Gloria desserts. Boston Sports Bar from vintage wines to signature Jeans has seen a wide range of bakery 128A Hai Ba Trung, D1 cocktails. Located above the illuminated goods available in the cafés, with both 3829 6552 Located in the heart of the backpacker glass bar is a mezzanine floor that offers brands sharing the premises at this kinhdobakery.vn area, Boston Sports Bar is open 24 hours a cozy lounge seating area for more location. and provides guests with a modern privacy. Features DJ performances every 106 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D3 La Doree bar-going experience. The bar boasts a Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 3930 3181 Providing patrons with over 50 varieties of pool table, live sports on LCD TVs, and 9pm-12am. cakes, along with a rich menu western food. First Level, Park Hyatt Saigon, Brodard Bakery from luxurious French-designed premises. 28/4 Bui Vien, D1 2 Lam Son Square, D1 La Doree is the best place in town for 6656 6338 3812 1234 Brodard Bakery has been operating in . Saigon for over 30 years. It provides finely 216 Ly Tu Trong, D1 Ahoy Beer Club Broma Saigon Bar crafted cakes for all occasions in addition 3822 1718 Recently opened, this nautical themed to ice cream, pastries, chocolate and tarts. www.ladoree.com bar serves local and imported beer Famously known for 'not being a bar' 95 Nguyen Hue, D1 L’amour Bakery & Cafe along with food served by wait staff in Broma is one of Ho Chi Minh City's most 3821 2416 sailor outfits. popular hangouts with prices ranging 6am - 10pm More than just another bakery, L’amour 79 Nguyen Cong Tru, D1 from VND30,000 - VND500,000. Broma is the perfect place for those whom are is a more upscale option for those wishing Cheesecake Ngon Oi’s Pick looking for respite from busy HCMC. Allez Boo to escape the cheap drinks in The Pham. Cheesecake Ngon is a small boutique- This patisserie offers a large selection of 41 Nguyen Hue, D.1 European cake and , fresh juice and style cheesecake shop. They use only A popular bar in Saigon featuring tropical 3823 6838 coffee. You will also find , salads, top quality local and imported ingredients bamboo decor, multiple levels and a DJ [email protected] and sandwiches, ideal for lunch time. that give their cakes their signature spinning funky beats. This unique bar Open from 6am – 10:30pm smooth, creamy taste. They can provide offers a wide range of beers, shakes, Cargo Bar 24 Hai Ba Trung D1 cheesecakes for all occasions: birthdays, spirits cocktails and food throughout Cargo Bar is a dedicated music and functions, cafe/restaurant supply or Nhu Lan Bakery the day. arts venue designed and committed to even just a single slice. With a range of 187 Pham Ngu Lao, D1 delivering diverse entertainment, along One of the most famous and prestigious flavors including passionfruit, raspberry, 6291 5424 with a good drink menu. local brands of bakeries in the city, Nhu strawberry, lemon, coconut and of 7 Nguyen Tat Thanh, D4 course original and a price starting at Lan Bakery supplies bakery products, Alpha cakes, bread, ham, sausage, poultry, VND40,000 per slice. Alpha is a sports bar recently opened on Carmen Bar roasted pork, and dried foods. 44 Truong Quyen, D3 the first level of The Manor. Offers weekly Carmen Bar features a small cavern-like 50 Ham Nghi, D1 www.cheesecakesnow.com promotions such as Manor Mondays entrance with rough rock walls decorated 3829 2970 3610 0211 (happy hour all day for Manor residents), with ambient lighting. With an exclusive www.nhulan.vn Fly Cupcake Teacher Tuesdays (happy hour all day range of drinks and cocktails, guests for teachers), Thirsty Thursdays (two for can relax while enjoying tunes from an The shop specializes in various flavors Pacey Cupcakes one on all cocktails), Sport Saturdays excellent Flamenco band. of cupcakes. This cozy little bakery features elegant (screening sports from around the world) 8 Ly Tu Trong, D1 74E Hai Ba Trung, D1 décor and offers 12 kinds of cupcakes and on Sundays movie nights by the 06 Pham Ngoc Thach, D1 daily, located near the cathedral in a hip, pool and a roast dinner. www.flycupcake.vn modern setting. The Manor, Level 1, 91 Nguyen Huu Canh, 53G Nguyen Du, D1 Binh Thanh Givral 3823 3223 The cakes and tradition of this unique [email protected] Bernie’s Bar & Grill cake shop have captivated generations www.paceycupcakes.com of Vietnamese customers. With many An Irish bar and restaurant serving outlets throughout the city, this particular Paris Baguette international cuisine like pizza, burgers, store was reopened in 2010 on its original Korean chain Paris Baguette offers fresh pasta and more. Celebrates happy hour site at Vincom A, built on the old Eden baked products such as cakes, pastries, from 5 to 7pm, and frequently provides complex. bread, as well as assorted coffee and live music. Cavern Pub 171 Dong Khoi, D1 tea drinks. They also serve sandwiches 19 Thai Van Lung, D1 Live band entertains a crowd of locals, expats, 3822 8659 and salads. 3822 1720 www.saigongivral.com Nguyen Thi Minh Khai corner Cao Thang, D1 foreigners every night. 6am - 10pm Vincom Center A, 171 Dong Khoi, D1 Blanchy’s Tash The bar also shows sport 2 Cao Thang, D3 channels on a large TV screen. This cocktail lounge is a perfect place to Tired after work, don't know where Gourmand Shop www.parisvn.com relax with friends, meet with colleagues or to go to play? Come Cavern Pub to

Pat’a Chou just enjoy a cocktail or two. With plenty of mentally relax and enjoy exciting offers. A traditional delicatessen shop featuring seating around the central bar as well as Buy 2 Beers - Get 1 Free freshly baked baguettes, croissants, French-style bakery with charming décor. tables for couples or larger groups, plus a From 6pm to 9:30PM chocolate breads, charcuteries, pastries, Specializing in baguettes, fresh croissants more intimate VIP area with comfortable Live music every night finest macaroons and other French of various varieties, small quiches, and sofas, you will find the right space for any from 9:30pm-1am delicacies prepared daily. Special products cakes for every occasion. occasion. 19 Dong Du, D1 ats imported from France are also available 74B Hai Ba Trung, D1 95 Hai Ba Trung, D1 090 826 5691 such as French oysters, Damman Freres 3824 8179 www.blanchystash.com te xp luxury tea, and a range of authentic 5am - 10pm 090 902 8293 products. Ground floor, Sofitel Saigon Plaza Savouré Bakery Blue Gecko Chill Skybar 17 Le Duan, D1 Shops have a wide selection of cookies, Offers the most stunning panoramic 3824 1555 sweet and savory breads and cakes Blue Gecko provides a classic bar views of Saigon and a wide range of including cashew chocolate, and experience complete with a pool table, wines and cocktails personally prepared Harvest Baking orange. Custom cakes can be ordered for darts board, cold beer and friendly staff. by Vietnam mixologist Le Thanh Tung. weddings and holidays. Guests can watch live sports and relax in Rooftop, AB Tower, 76A Le Lai, D1

Harvest Baking offers a delivery-based Unit E3, 1st Floor, Saigon Tax Trade Centre, the comfortable ambience of the bar. www.chillsaigon.com Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 54 Boudoir Lounge Cloud 9 Rooftop Lounge Go2 expats with reasonably priced drinks, friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere. Designed to look like a lived-in yet Located near Turtle Lake, this stunning bar Go2 is a popular nightspot in the Great place to play darts. immaculately styled Parisien home with offers panoramic views of Saigon. Guests backpackers area. This two level bar offers 54 Dong Khoi, D1 plush leather sofas, silk cushions and can peruse an extensive international dancing, shisha, and a streetside view velvet armchairs, Boudoir Lounge serves wine list or choose from an array of with comfortable seating. The bar also Kim’s Tavern up everything from afternoon tea to creative cocktails and international beers. has a pool table and extensive western evening cocktails along with signature Level 6&7, Hai Nam Building, 2 Bis Cong food menu. An expat bar on the edge of the downtown shopping district renowned for dishes for any occasion from informal Truong Quoc, D3 187 De Tham, D1 meals and business lunches to gourmet 090 944 5544 friendly, attractive staff, cold beer, and a canapés accompanying evening drinks. Hair of the Dog relaxed ‘local pub’ environment. Ground floor, Saigon Sofitel Plaza Cold Beer Club 20 Huynh Thuc Khang, D1 A large space creating an interesting 17 Le Duan, D1 The bar features Beer of the Day 090 777 5141 bar with an alfresco sidewalk area 3824 1555 Promotion all day, and also offers a 2 for 1 deal on the beer of the day. Prices start downstairs, and an upper lounge area Last Call Oi’s Pick Brotzeit German Bier Bar & at VND30,000. The upstairs room can overlooking the lower bar that allows for a view of the DJ station. If it follows Restaurant accommodate big groups. A fine hole-in-the-wall cocktail bar in the 64 Ton That Thiep, D1 its Hanoi theme, it will be a DJ music- centre of town opposite the Sheraton The HCMC venue is in the flashy Kumho 3914 3999 focused nightclub. Hotel, Last Call is a 70's themed lounge complex on the edge of the central 194 Bui Vien, D1 with a permanent neon glow. Now one district, and features a wide 24-meter Eon51 of the most popular expat/hip local late restaurant frontage on the mezzanine Eon51 includes a fine dining restaurant, a Hard Rock Café evening bars, with a small deck from level and a contemporary and chic setting champagne lounge, a cigar bar and a heli which to overlook the nightlife set on with German-inspired wooden benches pad cocktail bar. Spread on three levels, Memorabilia from Hard Rock’s iconic Dung Du. and a long wooden bar counter. Serving Eon51 is a destination for bespoke private collection adorns the walls of Hard Rock 59 Dong Du, D1 authentic Bavarian cuisines and premium and corporate events in Saigon. Café Ho Chi Minh City and there is live 3823 3122 beers. Levels 51-52, Bitexco Financial Tower, 2 Hai music most nights. Located in the Kumho 39 Le Duan, D1 Trieu, D1 Plaza complex. Le Pub 9822 4206 6291 8751 39 Le Duan, D1 brotzeit.co/kumholink 6291 7595 In a brawny Australian snub to the effete Game On Oi’s Pick www.hardrockcafe.vn vestiges of French Colonialism that Chilli Pub Saigon Oi’s Pick Opened in July, Game On is Saigon’s 11.30am - 2am pervade in Saigon, Le Pub is a hearty newest and biggest sports bar that serves A fun place to unwind, with cold drinks, breakfast, lunch and dinner. The bar also Heaven Bar Saigon Oz-styled pub proudly located in a small good music (customers can choose the has an extensive drink menu that includes alleyway between Pham Ngu Lao and Bui

music) friendly staff, light pub food, weekly coffees, juices, beers, wines, vodkas and Vien st, Opposite the Chua Au lac arch, Standing out from other nightclubs, quiz night (Mondays), darts and televised more. Besides being a good place to where it is a magnet for backpackers and sport. Try a challenge shot from the big watch games, Game On also boasts a Heaven Bar impresses their guests with blokey expats. The manager and staff are Chilli on the bartop. function room for corporate meetings or nice decor in tone of red and blue, a broad friendly enough too, I suppose. ats 104 Ho Tung Mau, D1 private parties. range of sparkling drinks, Ladies’ night, 175/22 Pham Ngu Lao, D1 09 8376 3372 115 Ho Tung Mau, D1 awesome DJ at weekend, and many 3837 7679 te xp [email protected] 6251 9898 exciting events for expats. www.lepub.org [email protected] 8 Le Quy Don, D3 Chu Bar 090 534 3316 Lion Brewery and Restaurant Ginger 60 www.barsaigonheaven.com The brewery offers its signature Lion At this beautiful, laid back venue, tourists beer, brewed by its German master and locals alike can sit around Chu’s large A low-key expat bar with an extensive Ice Blue brewer, who trained in , along oval bar or on luxurious padded benches. drink menu and live music in a friendly with other kinds of beer. The Lion It has a full cocktail menu as well as a atmosphere. A small, atmospheric, emphatically restaurant has two banquet halls that short menu of and sandwiches. 60 Ton That Thiep, D1 English-style pub, Ice Blue is a popular can accommodate 530 persons.

Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A 158 Dong Khoi, D1 093 772 1011 meeting place for Ho Chi Minh City’s 11-13 Cong Truong Lam Son, D1

55 Long Phi embassy staff – and it remains one Wine Embassy on the ground. While offering elegant One of the staples in the backpacker of the most sought-out casual tourist For those looking to relax and enjoy a drinks and tasty simple dishes, make district, Long Phi is a no-frills bar that attractions in the city today. Panoramic glass of wine after work, Wine Embassy is sure to catch the live bands. It won't set as a cheap diner serving some views of Saigon can still be obtained the perfect place with wine specialists and you back much either with inexpensive fairly decent French and European on the garden terrace despite all the an interactive menu to help you pair your drinks. cuisine. construction, and efforts have been wine with crafted food. 43 Nguyen Huu Cau, D1 made to preserve the original character 090 265 2635 207 Bui Vien, D1 13 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 of the venue with its multiple ceiling [email protected] 3837 2704 3824 7827 fans, subdued decor, and quietly www.wineembassy.com.vn romantic atmosphere with oil candles Café Ban Sonate Lush 4pm till late on the table tops. Cafe Ban Sonate is a peaceful haven, Lush has a highly distinctive, modern 11am - late look, with different areas catering to 19 Lam Son Square, D1 tucked away from the boisterous noise different needs, including a VIP space 3823 4999 Xu Bar of the city. This cafe offers elegant decor along with indoor and outdoor seating with plush couches for chatting with hot A cocktail hot spot with Coconut Martinis, Saigon Retro Oi’s Pick options. new friends. Cranelo Sparkles and Passion Fruit 53 Dang Dung, D1 2 Ly Tu Trong, D1 Caprioska on offer along with a variety One of the newest expat bars on the 3290 6004 block, offering friendly bar service. Live of tapas with DJs and drink specials Number Five Bar throughout the week. Number Five Bar has become notorious sport on screen, including English Premier Caffe Fresco League. 71-75 Hai Ba Trung, D1 for its “all you can drink” draught tiger www.xusaigon.com beer offer. Attractive waitresses are 113 Ho Tung Mau, D1 A new player on the scene currently always enthusiastic contestants on the 6278 2349 battling for supremacy in the coffee chain billiards table. cafés market, Fresco offers a wide range of 44 Pasteur, D1 Shots Bar espresso and local coffees, juices and A corner bar on Bui Vien that, along with ABC Bakery & Cafe smoothies. O’Brien’s Oi’s Pick drinks, serves a variety of food such as 121 Le Loi, D1 ABC Bakery & Cafe has over 30 Two-storey Irish-themed bar & seafood, pork and chicken dishes. 3821 1009 different kinds of baked goods such restaurant furnished to high standard. 207 Bui Vien, D1 www.fresco.com.vn as baguettes, danishes, whole cakes, O’Brien’s promotes a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. Known for its Slate sliced cakes and even pizza. Together Cafe Runam excellent food menu, this is a fun place with its range of baked items, it is also Cafe Runam (the name loosely comes to socialize while shooting pool, playing Slate takes its name from the dark grey has Western and Vietnamese coffee from a traditional Vietnamese lullaby darts, or chatting with the friendly staff. slate tiling that covers the floor of the and juices. song for young children) is a three storey 74/A3 Hai Ba Trung, D1 entire establishment. A modern, relaxing 223 - 225 Pham Ngu Lao, D1 building with the first two floors designed spot for an after-dinner drink with an www.abcbnc.com and decorated in detail to offer different onTop Bar extensive martini list and delicious BBQ atmospheres for customers. The second Located on the 20th floor of Novotel menu. A tad difficult to find above a BMW Achaya Cafe Oi’s Pick floor is an intimate coffee lounge with big Saigon Centre, onTop Bar provides dealership, but accessible from the hotel it sofas and armchairs. Next to the lounge views over Saigon on the outdoor is worth the effort. Achaya Cafe have two floors providing a is a terrace where white wood tables terrace. Offers a menu with over 3rd Floor, Moevenpick Hotel, 253 Nguyen nice atmosphere for meeting, relaxation and armchairs are surrounded by plants. 20 cheeses and Vietnamese and Van Troi, Phu Nhuan or party. The menu is extensive Offers wide range of coffee, cakes as well international inspired tapas. 3844 9222 with drinks and Western, Japanese, as set menus. 167 Hai Ba Trung, D3 5pm - 11pm Vietnamese food from sandwiches, 96 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 spaghetties, pizzas, steak and special 08 3825 8883 Phatty’s Spotted Cow Japanese sweet desserts. www.caferunam.com A sports bar offering a selection of ice- 90 Le Loi, D1 cold local and imported beers as well Hearty breakfasts, great pub grub, cheap 093 897 2050 Café Terrace as a complete range of tasty pub food. drinks and the latest sport on TV make Central features are the TVs, connected this an appealing destination for tourists Aisha Lounge Cafe Terrace is a popular modern cafe/ to an extensive sports channel network. of all budgets. Located in the heart of the restaurant in the chic Saigon Center. This 46-48 Ton That Thiep, D1 backpacker district. Aisha offers a menu studded with various cozy, dimly lit cafe offers customers a long 111 Bui Vien, D1 Vietnamese drinks and food – although outdoor terrace with views of the bustling Purple Jade 3920 7670 the belly dance show does evoke the pedestrian and traffic scene. A second Purple Jade is a stylish and chic venue [email protected] spirit of the interior design. cafe is located on the first floor amongst with exceptional world class cocktails 63/1 Pasteur, D1 fashion stores. by the city’s award-winning bartender Storm P 6660 9040 Ground Floor & First Floor, Saigon Centre, along with snacks to melt away the Storm P restaurant and bar is named after www.aishalounge.com 65 Le Loi, D1 bustle of the city. the famous Danish cartoonist Robert First floor- InterContinental Asiana Saigon Storm Petersen, and it’s the only Danish AQ Coffee Cafe Vuon Kieng Corner of Hai Ba Trung & Le Duan restaurant in Vietnam. Beautiful café situated in one of the city’s 3520 9099 5B Nguyen Sieu, D1 oldest French mansions, serving coffee Cafe Vuon Kieng is a quiet, casual cafe www.intercontinental.com/saigon 3827 4738 made with traditionally-roasted coffee near the banks of the Saigon River, www.stormp.vn beans. boasting relaxing views and refreshing breezes. This riverside cafe offers jasmine 32 Pham Ngoc Thach, D3 The Cube Bar tea, coffee, ice cream, beer, even cocktails. 3829 8344 Besides being a place for drinking and 10B Ton Duc Thang, D1 unwinding, The Cube Bar is also a place Angel-in-us Coffee 3823 3279 where unique, educational and exciting A sophisticated and classy coffee events like bartending, modern cuisine, Cake Duiro franchise with exemplary attention to art crafts, theme parties and live music detail, Angel-in-us has a pretty angel wing take place in a daily basis. A chain of cafes selling durian inspired motif and a quality coffee menu. 31B Ly Tu Trong, D1 crepes and buns with prices under 145 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 09 0336 9798/01 2088 1964 VND100,000. 3827 8588 [email protected] Kiosk in Le Thi Rieng Park, 875 Cach Mang facebook.com/angelinuscoffeevn Thang 8, D10 The Orient Bar 093 333 9365 Its game room features pool table, Bobby Brewer’s www.banhsaurieng.com foosball and darts. Offers free flow of draught Tiger and during Happy A contemporary cafe in the backpacker Centrofarms Coffee Oi’s Pick RED Bar Hours (5:30-8pm). Serves imported steak area set over three floors, the cafe This recently opened cafe, located near RED offers one of the longest Happy and pizza. features a large free cinema, a great the airport, sells its own eponymous Hours in Saigon, from 9am - 9pm, 24 Ngo Van Nam, D1 place for couples. brand of Centrofarm organic roasted with live music available from Monday 45 Bui Vien, D1 beans direct from Dalat with indoor and - Saturday. This multi-level bar has Universal Bar Saigon 3920 4090 outdoor seating that’s perfect for people a non-smoking floor and a function Offers food, drink specials and cold www.bobbybrewers.com watching and getting your daily dose room along with a top quality pool beers. Play pool upstairs or down by the of caffeine. table and soft-tip dart machines. A Boulevard Cafe 19 Ut Tich, Tan Binh menu of Eastern and Western dishes main bar. ats also includes wood-fire pizzas. 90 Bui Vien, D1 70-72 Ng Duc Ke, District 1 This Parisian-style cafe has a fine, white Chi’s Cafe te xp 2229 7017 Voodoo Bar tone and a warm ambiance that attempts White-washed walls, dartboards and a look of luxury with its plush sofas and Chi’s Café is a restaurant serving a décor lined with voodoo-esqu oil chandeliers. both Western and Vietnamese food Saigon Saigon Bar paintings make this a pleasant venue 98 Phan Xich Long, Phu Nhuan in the backpacker area. The menu for a beer or a glass of wine. Friendly is extensive, with everything from In wartime Saigon, the rooftop of female bar staff brings a convivial Bukafe - Cafe sandwiches and pizzas to their the Caravelle hotel was one of the atmosphere to the place. popular baked potatoes with filling. most popular drinking holes in the 92 Ho Tung Mau, D1 This quaint cafe offers a Japanese style 40/31 Bui Vien, D1 city for foreign journalists and expat 090 826 5691 setting with chairs that have you seated 3836 7622 Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 56 Ciao Cafe restaurant offers selected, quality Kesera place to unwind with that special Vietnamese tea and coffee to drink or to someone or just a cup of coffee. An icon in downtown HCMC, Ciao cafe buy as leaves and beans. They also have A cozy and friendly café/bar serving 65 Vo Van Tan, D3 features two floors serving simple food, a delightful all day casual dining area in coffee, beer, wines, freshly- baked 3930 2597 coffee, smoothies and ice cream – and their stylish bistro. homemade cakes and delicious mtvcafe.com.vn an opulent lounge bar on the top floor. 44 Nguyen Hue, D1 Western food. Antique tiles mix with velvet curtains 3824 1534 26/1 Le Thanh Ton, D1 MZ Coffee and stylish paintings to make this a 8am - 11pm keserakesera.com A cafe in a colonial villa that was built memorable chill out environment. [email protected] in the early 20th century. It boasts a 74-76 Nguyen Hue, D1 www.hatvala.com Beans broad selection of coffee, from fine 40 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 www.facebook.com/hatvala Vietnamese condensed milk coffee to Kopi Beans Cafe is a favorite among Italian Lavazza expresso, cappucinos Cosmo Lounge Hi-End Coffee high school kids. It’s a small takeaway and lattes as well as wines and beers. coffee shop with cheap espresso and 56-56A Bui Thi Xuan, D1 Cosmo Lounge is a popular location Located near the leafy Tao Dan Park, Hi- iced coffees. 39255258 for stylish and trendy locals and expats End Coffee is one of a few venues serving 206 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 www.m-zing.com alike. Chill out in a bold blue and white up just as much music as caffeine. environment with local and European 126 Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 L’amour NYDC cafe food and a broad selection of coffees 3824 1004 and drinks. Open to 10pm A stylish bakery and cafe new to Hai A fun, dynamic and cosmopolitan place Ba Trung, in the city centre, L'amour 86 Bis Le Thanh Ton, D1 for food, desserts, beverages and not Gloria Jean's specialises in cakes and desserts and 3823 5848 forgetting the company of good friends. Australia’s most popular coffee franchise serves Illy Coffee. Eat in or take away. Prices range between VND100,000 - Cooku’s Nest now has a solid presence in Ho Chi 24 Hai Ba Trung, D1 VND300,000. Minh City with multiple locations in the 3520 8180 Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan, D1 inner city. While the favourite Dong Khoi www.lamourbakery.com Cooku’s nest has a clean, artsy vibe 3822 9992 address has now been given over to a offering drinks and snacks. www.nydc.com.vn Sony store, new venues in Vincom A and LightBox Cafe 13 Tu Xuong, D3 at CMT8 prove this favourite brand with 2241 2043 Paris Deli locals and expats alike is steadily growing This stunningly designed cafe also in Vietnam. doubles as an event and photography A French style cafe serving some of the Crèperie & Café studio, so make sure you dress to 2 bis Cong Truong Quoc Te, D3 best pastries in Saigon, this cheerful impress at this location because you www.gloriajeanscoffees.com/vn spot is a real slice of Parisian life. Many Inexpensive Western fare targeted mainly never know who might snap your picture. European drinks and dishes. at locals, delivering some fairly decent They also serve with Highlands Coffee Ground Floor, Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 low-cost sandwiches. prices ranging between VND300,000 - 5 Han Thuyen, D1 3821 6127 With over 50 cafes in Vietnam, Highlands VND500,000 Cryptic Acoustic Cafe Coffee serves up international and 179 Hoa Lan, Phu Nhuan Passio Coffee to Go traditional Vietnamese blends. Coffee 3517 6668 Cryptic Acoustic Cafe features an lovers can also find Highlands premium www.lightbox.vn architecture that blends classic and Passio Coffee offers its guests fine quality blends in selected hotels and Italian style coffee made from the finest modern elements. Featured drinks supermarkets. L’Usine ingredients. Since Passio’s inception in include Cryptic frappe (the combination Saigon Center, 65 Le Loi, D1 L’Usine is a retail, café and gallery of coffee and Orion cake, banana space occupying two locations in the 2006, this enthusiastic team of coffee and fresh cream), Cryptic soda (soda, i-Box Cafe center of D1. Its retail space is dedicated brewers has become recognized by flavored orange peel, lemon and to Vietnamese designers and more international coffee drinkers. 112 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D3 fresh cream) and Cryptic yogurt (with iBox cafe is a unique, cafe with aristocratic established brands from abroad as well yogurt, mango, strawberry, peach). decor. This decorative cafe specializes as stocking a wide range of stationary Phuong Cac Cafe This place also holds acoustic and art in red wine, Asian dishes and spaghetti. and home ware items. The café in both

performances. They also offer an extensive selection of locations serves international fare and With indoor and outdoor lounge areas this 343/6 To Hien Thanh, D10 ice cream creations. a range of pastries and the ever popular cafe is a relaxing respite from the grind 135 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Sweet & Sour Cupcakes. of Ho Chi Minh City. With live bands and DeJa Vu Cafe 3825 6718 151/1 Dong Khoi, D1 70B Le Loi, D1 drinks under VND100,000 it makes for It is easy to mistake this cafe for ID Café www.lusinespace.tumblr.com the perfect getaway. someone’s home as the tranquil 9am – 9pm Bis 213 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 3932 7484 atmosphere will have you tension free Separated from the bustle of nearby Ben Le Tokyo Baum in no time. The peaceful setting is ideal Thanh Market by a tiny alleyway, ID is a for dates or low-key social events. Make retro café opening a door to an earlier Phúc Minh Coffee Popular Japanese cake cafe with quiet sure to catch the live bands that frequent Saigon. seating area, specializing in orange cakes. the cafe. 34D Thu Khoa Huan, D1 Phuc Minh coffee is an airy, clean 314/2 Dien Bien Phu, D10 46 Nguyen Van Trang, D1 environment providing a varied menu 6276 6966 Imagine Coffee shop 3926 0388 and delicious coffee. The staff is [email protected] May Coffee attentive and quick with a friendly One of the walls of this rustic cafe is approach. Prices start around VN A superb, friendly, and inexpensive little Elle Cafe literally covered with books. An easy 25,000 for this simple cafe. café most notable for its perfect view place to get lost for an evening with prices 51 Hung Phuoc 4, D7 Keeping in line with the sense of style of the Cathedral tower bells and close 9am-10pm below VND100, 000. proximity to the post office. that comes along with the Elle fashion 58 Ho Bieu Chanh, Phu Nhuan label brand, the menu and décor of Elle 1 Cong Xa Paris, D1 Princess and the Pea 090 956 0105 www.maycoffee.com Cafe sets it apart from the competition. www.facebook.com/ImagineCafeShop Ground Floor, Bitexco Financial Tower, 45 09 0956 0105 Minhu Coffee A fairytale-themed venue for the Ngo Duc Ke, D1 dreamers of Ho Chi Minh City, hidden [email protected] 6291 8766 away in a tiny alleyway off Pasteur. 8am - 10pm This specialty cafe offers a wood Discover it if you can. Cafe furniture interior setting, which Fe Cafe 63/18 Pasteur, D1 resembles the cabins you would expect Fe Cafe brings you all kinds of The healthiest kebab! Featuring an to see in the western North American scrumptious coffee, along with Retrobite Diner Cafe excellent homemade white sauce, fresh frontier. Live bands are a regular Inspired by the concept of 1960s Vietnamese food and dessert. It offers veggies and chicken or pork marinated feature at the cozy cafe and prices are Americana, bi-level Retrobite Diner breakfast, lunch, dinner and offers delivery without oil. The French owner also serves inexpensive. as well. The interior is a mix of alternative savory and sweet crepes and a home- 149/35 Le Thi Rieng, D1 Cafe features an interior that includes and fancy, with wooden furniture, soft made puree. 3601 9319 booths, retro egg chairs, jukebox and backrest pillows and decorative paintings. 538/2/8 Doan Van Bo, D4 classic radio players. The menu is 26 Ly Tu Trong, D1 01648 805 915 Mojo Cafe mostly American food with sandwiches, 090 878 3788 [email protected] This modern, chic café, restaurant and hamburgers, pastas, steaks, milkshakes, www.facebook.com/fecafe.vn www.kebab-cafe.com bar offers freshly baked homemade waffles and more. 7:30am - 11pm 6 Cong Truong Quoc Te, D3 ats 10am - 10pm cakes, pastries, wood fired pizzas, light fare and superb coffee and smoothies 3521 0673 te xp Gemmi Coffee Kem My for dine in or take away. [email protected] This cafe serves a variety of food like 88 Dong Khoi, D1 7:30am - 11pm salads, chicken dish alongside coffees This quiet ice cream shop is the perfect 08 3827 2828 and other beverages. Provides live solo place for families and couples to indulge ww.mojosaigon.com Soho Coffee piano music every night from 8pm. their sweet tooth. It offers a fresh release 193 D3 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 from the heat of Ho Chi Minh City. MTV Cafe Two level local cafe chain serving light 11 Duong 41, D4 meals, coffee and local chilled drinks. Hatvala Oi’s Pick 093730 3030 Providing a relaxing atmosphere after 185 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 www.kemmy.vn a hard day’s work with some of the top 3839 5038

Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A This tea house, coffee shop and 3.30pm - 11pm hits out today, MTV cafe is the perfect 7am - 11pm

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 57 Starbucks Coffee 6D Ngo Thoi Nhiem, D3 Li Bai Chinese Restaurant Au Manoir de Khai 3930 7436 Located in the Sheraton Hotel, Li Bai Has a large, open ground floor space with offers a selection of over 50 dim sum Au Manoir de Khai is an authentic, first ample seating in booths and tables, and a Vecchio Cafe dishes as well as traditional Chinese and class French restaurant. Guests can enjoy smaller space upstairs with views out on The interior features Italian ornate décor, Cantonese specialties. Diners will enjoy traditional French cuisine in this classic the busy Nga 6 Phu Dong roundabout. dim lighting and antique furniture, the relaxed, upscale ambiance provided 100 year old villa. Their menu is extensive Also has outdoor seating. Expect to pay enhanced by Italian music. Offerings by the wood paneling and oriental art. and features dishes like Kobe beef, foie Western prices. include pasta, soup, chicken dishes, Level 2, 88 Dong Khoi, D1 gras, red grouper, and truffle mushrooms. 76 Le Lai, D1 salad, beef dishes, gelato and beverages 3827 2828 251 Dien Bien Phu, D3 such as smoothies, fresh fruit juices www.libaisaigon.com 3930 3394 The Blue Cafe and tea. 39/3 Pham Ngoc Thach, D3 Ming Court Augustin Augustin is a romantic and charming A spacious cafe divided into two different Windows areas with a lush, outdoor garden seating Since the Nikko Hotel graced the Saigon French restaurant located just steps away lounge and an air conditioned in-door skyline, the venue has managed to set the from the Rex Hotel. Serves lunches and A highly fashionable cafe near the dinners and offers 10 percent discount on lounge. The Blue Cafe has live music with standard for classy, five-star dining with its cathedral. For many years, this eye- a la carte menu items. drinks under VND100,000. bold grey modern decor and Japanese-style catching venue has remained a place to 10D Nguyen Thiep, D1 701-703 Phan Van Tri, Go Vap efficiency. Ming Court, on the hotel's third see and be seen, often frequented by www.augustinrestaurant.com 3588 6824 floor, is a large Chinese restaurant with all the famous, the well-to-do, and the ne’er the expected graces of the Orient belonging The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf do well. Bon Appetit to the exotic fantasy of the dynastic era. 12 Alexandre De Rhodes, D1 3rd floor, Nikko Saigon Hotel Offering over 22 varieties of coffee and 38238408 A small French-Vietnamese fusion bistro 235 Nguyen Van Cu, D1 20 kinds of tea, The Coffee Bean & Tea on Pham Ngoc Thach with a simplistic 3925 7777 Leaf has been serving the best coffees Yogen Fruz charm enhanced by a fine selection of and teas from around the world for more Serves frozen yogurt with 20 different Ocean Palace old-style French music. than 40 years in its cozy, handcrafted oak kinds of fruits for you to choose from. 78 Pham Ngoc Thach, D3 A place for those who love Chinese paneled stores. This place also provides an environment 090 789 8345 food. The large dining room on the www.coffeebean.com.vn where customers can relax and be social. ground floor can accommodate up to 7am - 11pm B3-15B Basement Vincom Center B, 72 Le Bonjour Restaurant 280 diners. Up on the first floor are six 39 Le Duan, D1 Thanh Ton, D1 private rooms and a big ballroom that Ground Floor, Crescent Mall www.yogenfruz.com.vn Bonjour serves up international dishes with a Ton Dat Tien, D7 can host 350 guests. French flair. The large menu of main courses 157-159 Nguyen Thai Hoc, D1 Zoom Cafe Oi’s Pick 2 Le Duan Street, D1 feature roast duck, salmon, lamb and steak 39 Le Duan, D1 3911 8822 with specialties being ostrich and venison. 150/26 Nguyen Trai, D1 12-14 Thai Van Lung, D1 This distinctive Vespa-themed Café has Seven Wonders (Bay Ky Quan) 3926 0699 94 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D3 been a popular fixture in D1 for ten years. It’s worth traipsing out to D6 for this one. Not 235 Nguyen Van Cu, D1 Today, the café serves as the place for Cocorico - Ga Nuong Phap 235 Dong Khoi, D1 Vespa enthusiasts and tour veterans only are the Dim Sum, Peking Duck, and 1-5 Le Duan, D1 pan- home-style cuisine exemplary, Serves an eclectic menu of roasted to swap stories over ice-cold beers and chicken (French style), pastas and Asian 60-62 Cach Mang Thang 8, D3 what many claim is the best selection but the venue design, with its architectural 1-3 Phan Chu Trinh, D1 flourishes from the seven wonders of the dishes. of mouth-watering burgers, paninis, and 127 Dien Bien Phu, D1 baguette sandwiches in town. world (including the Great Wall, the Taj The Library Mahal, and the pyramids) makes for a highly 6292 0606 169A Bui Vien, D1 www.cocorico.com.vn The Library provides a welcoming 3920 3897 distinctive dining experience. atmosphere for those in search of 12 Duong 26, D6 Cordon Blue tranquility, comfort and great drinks in the 3755 1577 heart of Saigon www.7kyquan.com chinese A unique French venue decorated with Ground floor – InterContinental Asiana blue and green shades serving high- Saigon Shang Palace Restaurant Dragon Court quality French cuisine on the outskirts of Corner of Hai Ba Trung & Le Duan the inner city. 3520 9099 The slightly off-centre, high-class Norfolk Dragon Court is a large restaurant 38 Mac Dinh Chi, D1 www.intercontinental.com/saigon Mansion Hotel on Ly Tu Trong is home opposite the Opera House in Saigon’s 3822 5216 to one of Saigon's most well-respected Tram Coffee bustling District 1. Enjoy Chinese dishes www.cordonblue.vn Oi’s Pick from many regions with dishes like Chinese restaurants outside of . glass noodles, , and a large dim Located on the 1st floor, Shang's dark La Cuisine A unique romantic cafe experience sum collection. intricate wooden tables and chairs with hidden well off the beaten track, but 11-13 Lam Son Square, D1 white linen and deep red carpeting make This ultra-fine little bistro is an close to District 1 in neighbouring Phu 3827 2566 for an atmosphere of moody opulence; exercise in minimalism with its twenty Nhuan District. Sip a coffee, juice or there is seating for over 300 guests, and seats and bare, chic-rustic interior of beer or indulge in good cafe food Dynasty private rooms are available. wooden furnishings and black & white over candlelight in a dark, intimate 1st Floor, Norfolk Mansion photographs on whitewashed walls. Its environment hidden amongst trees New World hotel's in-house Chinese 17-19-21, Ly Tu Trong, D1 warm lighting and clean atmosphere and trickling streams. Relax in an air restaurant is certainly a venue of fine 3823 2221 belies a certain sophistication, however, conditioned room or dine alfresco contemporary Chinese dining. The chef and the price of the fare is significantly amongst the greenery. The perfect spot to Shi-Fu Dim sum damaging enough to make this a rare impress a date with your local knowledge. offers a variety of authentic Cantonese dishes along with classic dim sum under a treat for those not in the restaurant's 100 Tran Huy Lieu St, Phu Nhuan Shifu Dim Sum House is a restaurant fabulously wealthy target market. 2240 5306 high lantern/chandelier-lit ceiling, in a broad dining room decorated in classic Chinese specializing in dim sum, with modern 48 Le Thanh Ton, D1 The Myth Cafe style. VIP guests can dine in one of four Chinese décor and over 68 dim sum dishes. 2229 8882 139A Nguyen Trai, D1 www.lacuisine.com.vn semi-private or thee totally private rooms. 3925 1111 Escape the daily grind of Ho Chi Minh New World Hotel www.dimsumhouse.vn La Creperie City with a trip into the mystical setting 76 Le Lai, D1 3822 8888 La Creperie is the first authentic Brittany of Myth Cafe. With live bands and prices Yu Chu French restaurant that serves savory under VND100,000 it's no wonder The www.saigon.newworldhotels.com Yu chu is renowned for the quality and galettes, sweet crepes with tasty seafood Myth cafe is one of the best around. Hung Ky Mi Gia presentation of its authentic Cantonese and the best apple cider in Saigon. 176 Dien Bien Phu, D3 17/7 Le Thanh Ton, D1 and Peking cuisines along with its 3820 9735 3824 7070 Hung Ky Mi Gia is a famous and long- elegant décor. Watching the chefs [email protected] [email protected] standing restaurant with more than 13 prepare signature dishes such as hand- Mon-Sun 11am-11pm Trung Nguyen Cafe years of operation. It serves traditional pulled noodle, dim sum and Peking with authentic dishes duck right in the kitchen is a prominent La Fourchette dining feature here. One of the most ubiquitous coffee such as roasted chicken, duck, and pork. First floor, InterContinental Asiana Saigon brands in Vietnam. With a burgeoning 20 Le Anh Xuan, D1 Small and cozy, La Fourchette is a favorite Corner of Hai Ba Trung & Le Duan presence throughout the city, it’s hard 3822 2673 amongst the French expat community. to go anywhere without tripping over a 3520 9099 The vintage posters and wood paneling ats Trung Nguyen café – serving gourmet Kabin www.intercontinental.com/saigon add to the charm of this French eatery Vietnamese street coffee. located downtown, a stone’s throw from te xp 26B-C Le Loi, D1 Kabin is a french the Saigon River. specializing in exotic dishes such as baked 9 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 The Serenata Cafe duck tongue, grouper cutlet, and lobster 3829 8143 soup. Located in the five star Renaissance Annamite www.lafourchette.com.vn The Serenata Cafe is a peaceful, relaxing Riverside Hotel, this restaurant offers a Annamite specializes in French cuisine oasis in a French Colonial house. This cafe wide variety of dim sum. within a modern setting. La Nicoise embraces nature with plants, fishponds, Renaissance Riverside Hotel, 21 Tu Xuong, D3 and small fountains, and offers music in 8-15 Ton Duc Thang, D1 6277 8332 A small, friendly French bistro with about a the evenings. 3822 0033 www.annamite-restaurant.com dozen tables, La Nicoise serves up typical Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 58 French dishes under the watchful eye of of the French culture now exercises basic, the food is amongst the best of its Chef Mamma’s its French-Vietnamese owners. its influence over present-day Saigon, type in the city in terms of taste alone. The Chef Mamma’s is located at Saigon’s 56 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 serving modern European cuisine in its brand has a second branch in Da Nang Superbowl Center offering a variety of 3821 3056 tastefully decorated dining area and airy city if you're ever on holiday and missing Italian and Asian food. The restaurant outdoor patio. your curries. opens from early in the morning until L'essentiel 74 Hai Ba Trung, D1 226 Bui Vien, D1 late at night serving breakfast, lunch 3825 7667 3837 1767 and dinner. L'essentiel offers a quiet intimate dining www.therefinerysaigon.com A43 Truong Son, Tan Binh experience downstairs with space for The Punjabi private functions and alfresco dining Ty Coz Oi’s Pick Da Vinci’s Authentic North Indian cuisine prepared on an upper floor. The menu changes Da Vinci’s is an Italian-American style in a home-made tandoori oven makes weekly, the food is fresh and the wine list An unpretentious venue focused only on pizzeria delivery offering pizzas, lasagna, Punjabi a popular spot for budget carefully collated. serving great cuisine. Ty Coz provides a spaghetti, , salads and desserts. conscious eaters who crave Indian 98 Ho Tung Mau, D1 fine balcony view of the cathedral, intimate Their full menu is online at www. standbys like spinach and chicken 0948 415 646 atmosphere, and affordable prices. davincisvietnam.com. Free delivery to tandoori. 178/4 Pasteur, D1 Districts 1, 3, 4, 5, 7 and Phu My Hung. Le Bordeaux 3822 2457 40/3 Bui Vien, D1 Open 11am - 10pm. www.tycozsaigon.com 3508 3777 Call 083 943 4982 or Set in a French colonial-style mansion, Le SMS your order to 093 328 4624 Bordeaux serves southwestern French Vatel Saigon Restaurant italian cuisine in a beautiful setting. Known for Good Morning Vietnam its foie gras and large selection of wines, This is a fine, well-managed, and even

Le Bordeaux is worth the trip to Binh luxurious dining venue serving authentic 1960 Presidential Club Italian restaurant with a unique menu Thanh district. French cuisine in a Franco-Viet design 1960 Presidential Club is a member- including traditional Italian dishes. The 72 D2 Street, Binh Thanh space. There's red carpet along the only restaurant with an interior design restaurant is conveniently located in a 3899 9831 entrance way, gallery-standard art on inspired by Saigon in the 60s. You will beautiful old house in the heart of Saigon, restaurant-lebordeaux.com.vn the walls, and an overall atmosphere of experience more traditional style of well integrated in the local architecture. 11.30am - 1.30pm; 6.30am - 9.30pm refinement and good service. Italian cuisine with an extensive menu 197 De Tham, D1 120 bis Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 led by chef Franco Buressi. 3837 1894 Le Bouchon De Saigon 08 5404 2220 Floor 22 Sailing Tower, 111A Pasteur, D1 www.thegoodmorningvietnam.com vatelsaigon.com www.club1960.vn Red and white checked tablecloths and closely set tables make Le bouchon Basilico Restaurant de Saigon the place to go for a casual, indian classic French bistro experience under Trattoria-style Italian eatery Basilico the eye of iron chef Vietnam winner Ashoka specializes in homespun recipes. David Thai. Ashoka is one of the city’s most popular Contemporary décor, casual ambience, 40 Thai Van Lung, D1 and enduring Indian restaurants with and casual yet attentive Bistro-style www.lebouchondesaigon.com a reputation for good food with a wide service makes it a relaxing dinner venue. range of North Indian culinary dishes Ground floor, on the Corner of Nguyen Du & Le Chateau de Saigon at a reasonable price. Large space Le Van Huu, D1 Situated in a small but romantic French for private parties,outdoor catering 3520 9099 villa, Le Chateau De Saigon Restaurant and free home delivery also available. 6.30am - 10.30pm La Bettola is designed to accommodate any kind Special set lunch veg/non-veg from Chef/owner of event. Whether it is dinner with family VND90,000 upwards.Promotion (free Capricciosa Giuseppe Amorello's and friends, or a passionate evening trip to Cambodia) and discount available combines sleek with your loved one, Le Chateau De for people booking in groups. You'll find the standards here – pizza, decor with traditional homecooking in Saigon will provide a sophisticated and 17/10 Le Thanh Ton, D1 pasta, soups, salads, with a few special dishes such as calamari and onion in this two-story centrally located Italian memorable dining experience. 3823 1372 eatery. Expect creative dishes such as squid ink sauce. They're all prepared 45A Le Quy Don, D3 www.ashokavietnam.com rucola e Gamberi, and La Bettola that according to strict Japanese standards, www.lechateaudesaigon.com includes shaved , Baba’s Kitchen Oi’s Pick and the result is actually really good. and homemade mozzarella. There's Le Jardin Oi’s Pick Booth B3-03A, Level B3 a wood-burning oven on the premise Le Jardin is a gorgeous enclosed garden Baba’s Kitchen, also known as the best Vincom Tower, 70 Le Thanh Ton, D1 and they try to handmake all their space that allows eaters to follow the Indian restaurant on Bui Vien, is familiar 3993 9786 ingredients. They also deliver. example of the French colonists a among expats and locals alike, rating www.capricciosa.com.vn 84 Ho Tung Mau, D1 century ago and pretend they're actually 4.5 out of five stars on Trip Advisor. Their 3914 4402 in Paris. Whether dining outside under vindaloo is a must try. Casa Italia www.labettolasaigon.com the shaded terrace or within the old, 164 Bui Vien, D1 warmly-lit villa, the cuisine, decor, and 3838 6661 Italian owned & run, Casa Italia’s menu general mood of the place is like a www.babaskitchen.in ranges from home-style cooking that La Hostaria Stargate direct to France. 11am - 11pm includes steaks, seafood, a large variety 31D Thai Van Lung, D1 of homemade pastas, jumbo salads, Designed with an intimate atmosphere 3825 8465 Bombay Indian Restaurant appetizers and the best pizzas. invoking something like an Italian town, Located in D1 near the Ben Thanh Market 86 Le Loi, D1 this venue focuses on traditional ethnic L’Olivier area, serving Indian & Halal cuisine. The 3824 4286 Italian cuisine (rather than the ubiquitous ambiance is relaxed thanks to Bombay’s www.casaitalia.com.vn pizza and pasta), creations of the skillful L’Olivier is a restaurant serving authentic easy-going, family kitchen vibe. executive chef – straight out of Venice. Mediterranean cuisines, located on the 57-59 Ham Nghi, D1 The place lights up on romantic Thursday 2nd floor of the Hotel Sofitel. 9am - 10.30pm evenings with candlelight and light music. Sofitel Saigon Plaza, 17 Le Duan, D1 17B Le Thanh Ton, D1 3824 1555 Ganesh 3823 1080 www.sofitel.com www.lahostaria.com Ganesh serves authentic northern Indian Le Rendez-Vous de Saigon Oi’s Pick tandooris & along with the hottest Lucca A new wine bistro that offers a warm and curries, dovas, and from the southern friendly atmosphere. Unwind either in their region. A Brooklyn-style Italian eatery upstairs stylish downstairs bar, or lounge on cozy 15B4 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Ciao Bella with an adjoining bar. Downstairs is a leather seating in the upstairs section with 8223 0173 Oi’s Pick relaxing cafe offering generous breakfasts,

a balcony overlooking a courtyard in an www.ganeshindianrestaurant.com simple cafe fare for lunch and some of the Hearty home- best espresso coffee you’ll find in the city. alley. The venue offers a tasty selection of style Italian food wines from France to South Africa, and a Indus Indian served with flair and excellent service. 88 Ho Tung Mau, D1 delectable menu of French cuisine. An extensive menu is complemented 3915 3692 9A Ngo Van Nam, D1 Indus Indian is a relatively new Indian with daily specials. Arriving guests are 8am - 11pm www.lerendezvousdesaigon.com restaurant in Saigon providing all the greeted with a free glass of Prosecco. ats 6291 0396 classic Indian favorites. Operated by Diners sit in a cozy setting upstairs Margherita te xp a dedicated husband/wife duo, this or on the ground floor for people The Refinery Oi’s Pick restaurant specializes in Halal food. watching. Big groups should book in Well-reviewed overseas, Margherita is 2G Thi Sach, D1 advance. a familiar place to tourists trawling the 11 Dong Du, D1 This Parisian bistro hidden away in its 3521 0324 nooks of Ho Chi Minh City. This is partly 3822 3329 enclave on Hai Ba Trung is an exceptional 15 Dong Du, D1 a result of its agreeable price, sumptuous venue, making for an elegant reparation Mumtaz 3823 3597 Western-style pizzas, English-speaking of the sins of the past. It was here in [email protected] staff, and more than average customer French Colonial days that opium was With bona-fide Indian owners and chefs, www. saigonrestaurant service. manufactured, bringing ruin to the people authenticity at Mumtaz is guaranteed. group.com/ciao 175/1 Pham Ngu Lao, D1

Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A of Asia; it is here that a far softer side While the service and setting is relatively 3837 0760

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 59 Opera best-known for its tasty “white” soups. The Ebisu La Fenetre Soleil restaurant serves at least 250 traditional Located at Park Hyatt Hotel, Opera is dishes. Ebisu serves neither sushi nor sashimi Glass tables with mosaic tiles and a contemporary, casual trattoria-style 120 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D1 – instead, the menu focuses on a range wooden floors set off large comfy sofas restaurant that specializes in authentic 3822 0522 of wholesome charcoal-grilled meals and high ceilings, and diners can look pizza made fresh from a wood-fired oven, Aki Japanese Restaurant and on thick, white Japanese out over the busy Ly Tu Trong though pasta and homemade Italian dishes noodles – made from imported udon 11 large French windows. Its sense of prepared from one large open kitchen. powder from Australia – and presenting personality attracts artistically-inclined A small Japanese restaurant with a cozy Park Hyatt Hotel, 2 Lam Son Square, D1 an overall rustic cuisine with a variety of expats to return often, and many of and comfortable atmosphere, Aki serves 3520 2357 good sakes. these profess it as their favourite over 100 authentic Japanese dishes. 35bis Mac Dinh Chi, D1 hangout in Saigon. Cuisine is Japanese- 15/9 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Pendolasco 3822 6971 Vietnamese fusion. 3827 9083 There leafy garden is perfect for all those [email protected] 44 Ly Tu Trong, D1 people looking for some fresh air away ebisu-vn.asia 3824 5994 from the hustle and bustle of the city. It Baby Spoon also has a fully air-conditioned dining Fuji Restaurant Mus Mus Famous for its extensive room. Offers large selection of Italian wines and Italian dishes such as wood fire menu (fried rice wrapped inside an Customers choose a total of twelve egg omelette), Baby Spoon offers The cuisine is exceptional – fresh seafood oven pizzas, pastas, grilled food, among ingredients from the selection on offer, contemporary Japanese-Western fusion and vegetables flown in direct from Japan others. which are then added to a bowl of boiling cuisine. Baby Spoon omurice (green bell and Dalat. A preferred venue for those 87 Nguyen Hue, D1 broth on the tabletop. Flavours are peppers, bacon, tomato sauce omurice) staying at the hotel, and worth trying if www.pendolasco.vn essentially Japanese seafood. is the house specialty. you're living local. Ground Floor, Nikko Hotel Saigon 117 Vo Van Tan, D3 Pizza 4P’s Oi’s Pick 47 Phan Chu Trinh, D1 235 Nguyen Van Cu, D1 3930 9185 A little treasure hidden away at the top 3830 8123 www.musmus.net of an out-of-the-way alley off Le Thanh Ton, this Japanese pizzeria is a major hit Hanayuki Osaka with those in the know. Highly attractive premises and some extraordinary Traditional Japanese noodle restaurant toppings catering to all tastes make this A Japanese-style restaurant on Ton Duc Thang with a sushi bar on the offering traditional Ramen dishes as well an unmissable pizza experience. as Japanese/Vietnamese fusion cuisine. 8/15 Le Thanh Ton, D1 ground floor and a fine mezzanine level, Hanayuki serves more than 200 67 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D1 012 0789 4444 10am - 10pm www.pizza4ps.com exquisite Japanese dishes with more than 30 kinds of sushi and sashimi. Private, traditional Japanese VIP rooms Robata Dining An Pomodoro The restaurant has a downstairs bar Blanchy Street Oi’s Pick are available on the top level. 21C Ton Duc Thang, D1 and a second floor with private rooms In this family-style, simply-decorated that have sunken tables, sliding fusuma 3824 2754 trattoria restaurant with an arched ceiling Once hidden upstairs doors and tabletop barbecues. Popular and an all-brick interior, a fine Italian at the Blanchy’s Tash Ichiban Sushi Oi’s Pick with the Japanese expats, the menu menu pleases diners with 12 different bar, Blanchy Street now serves up healthy appetizers, rolls, pizzas along with pasta dishes, parma Ichiban Sushi Vietnam serves fine sushi has its own location in the courtyard sashimi and An specialty dishes like ham with a spicy tomato , and and signature drinks/cocktails in a lounge of eateries on Hai Ba Trung, offering deep with garlic salt sauce a highly-recommended French onion setting. authentic Japanese food mixed with An style (VND100,000). soup. Ideal option for a simple, reliable, 204 Le Lai, D1 fusion cuisine and the occasional 15C Le Thanh Ton, D1 and thoroughly pleasant night out with no www.ichibansushi.vn additional Southeast Asian dish. Run www.robata-an.com complications. by an ex Nobu (London) chef with 79 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Inaho Restaurant his own signature dishes, it has wide Sakura Vietnamese-Japanese 3823 8998 appeal. Food is designed to be shared Restaurant www.pomodoro-vietnam.com This unique venue specializes in and is backed by an extensive list of traditional sushi & sashimi as well as hot Cozy, friendly and modern Japanese Sarpino’s Pizzeria sakes and wines. pot dishes. Couples can retreat to the restaurant near all of the attractions in the 74/3 Hai Ba Trung, D1 upstairs area; it’s far more private than the city center. Sarpino’s Pizzeria provides authentic 3823 8793 downstairs bar. 99 Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 Italian pizzas made from gourmet www.blanchystreet.com 4 Chu Manh Trinh, D1 6291 1036 ingredients. 11am - 10:30pm 3829 0326 sakurasaku.vn 125 Ho Tung Mau, D1 www.sarpinos.vn K Cafe Dragon Hotpot Sumo BBQ

Scoozi K Cafe Sushi is a large Japanese An Italian restaurant that offers pizza, Dragon Hotpot blends fine taste with the Sumo BBQ is a rising star amongst restaurant; an ideal place to gather for a Japanese venues in Saigon, offering pasta, salad, special desserts and a wide healthy ingredients of Japanese cuisine. business lunch or for a social dinner. Drinks include Japanese favorites along smokeless table BBQ and a unique variety of drinks. Provide dine-in , take 74A4 Hai Ba Trung, D1 with fine international wines. buffet/a la carte concept: get whatever away and home delivery services. 38245355 122-124 Ho Tung Mau, D1 you want from the menu, as much as 6 Thai Van Lung, D1 www.yakatabune-saigon.com 3825 8842 you like. Free birthday beer specials on Kissho arrangement. Dragon Noodle 300 Le Van Sy, Tan Binh japanese Experienced chefs prepare teppanyaki, 3991 4757 sushi, and yakiniku dishes before your Achaya Cafe A rather small but pretty restaurant sumobbq.com.vn eyes. In addition, an extensive wine list is Achaya Cafe have two floors providing a with warm tones and a nice series of 10.30am - 10.30pm available as well as an array of fine sake nice atmosphere for meeting, relaxation or murals depicting old Saigon, Dragon to complement the exquisite flavors of party. The menu is extensive with drinks Noodle focuses on the Japanese staple Sushi Bar premium imported meat and seafood. and Western, Japanese, Vietnamese – ramen noodle soups – although food from sandwiches, spaghetties, their version is a little less spicy than is 14 Nguyen Hue, D1 There are plenty of dining spaces pizzas, steak and special Japanese sweet traditionally served, increasing perhaps www.kissho.wmcvietnam.com – large and small rooms, floor-level desserts. the international appeal of the dish. Japanese dining on tatami mats, private 90 Le Loi, D1 There are a total of four soup bases to Kuru Kuru Shusi areas, and the eponymous large sushi 093 897 2050 accompany the noodles. A Japanese restaurant that features a bar on the ground level. 11am - 10:30pm 29 Dong Du, D1 rotating conveyor belt for the buffet, 2 Le Thanh Ton, D1 3521 0008 offering 50 different selections. It also 3823 8042 Aka Taiyo www.ramen.vn offers an a la carte menu. www.sushibar-vn.com 129 Nguyen Du, D1 Aka Taiyo serves traditional and exotic Dragon Steak www.kurukuru.com.vn Sushi Dining Aoi Japanese cuisine with an extensive menu featuring more than 200 dishes. Also A striking Japanese restaurant tucked Kokekokko Pandora Sushi Dining Aoi is one such restaurant, ats stocks a surprisingly comprehensive away off Saigon's central street, Dragon where the whole atmosphere of the range of Japanese alcoholic beverages. steak specialises in thick wagayu cuts Kokekokko is a combination of modern place evokes the best of the culture. te xp 74B Hai Ba Trung, D1 and tenderloin that could well have style fast food with the essence of ancient With its typical Japanese-style decor 3824 4295 been cut off a beast the size of a dragon. Japanese cuisine. The restaurant space is – the smooth earthen tones of the www.akataiyo.com They're so enormous that the restaurant designed with high quality materials and wooden furniture and surrounds, the once ran a cheeky competition – guests features youthful and modern dynamic warmth and privacy of the VIP rooms – who finished one within half an hour subtleties. With prices under VND100,00 it's possible to believe you're in a more dined free. Kokekoko is a must see. elegant realm. One of the more authentic Japanese 138 Ton That Dam, D1 4th Floor Pandora, 1/1 Truong Chinh, Tan Phu 53-55 Ba Huyen Thanh Quan, D3 venues in the area with ingredients 3821 0288 3849 6840 3930 0039 imported from Japan, this restaurant is www.steak.vn www.kokekokko.com.vn www.sushidiningaoi.com Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 60 Sushi World 2A-4A Ton Duc Thang, D1 years, Au Lac do Brazil is the very Samba Brazilian Steakhouse 3823 3333 first authentic Brazilian Churrascaria A four-storey restaurant in a Japanese- in Vietnam, bringing a new dining This is certainly Saigon's most visible and style, the first and second floors feature Yuki concept - an “All you can eat” Brazilian colourful restaurant serving the popular an open sushi bar, while the upper style BBQ where meat is brought to Brazilian buffet style, where enormous levels contain 15 VIP rooms decorated Yukie is a popular Japanese restaurant your table on skewers by a passador skewers of meat are circulated around in a traditional Japanese style with located in the backpacker area of and served to your heart’s content. the tables for diners to enjoy as much of tatami matting. District 1. Offering authentic Japanese They have an extensive selection of as they can. 28 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 cuisine at affordable prices. fine wines as well. 10C Thai Van Lung, D1 3911 0147 99 Nguyen Thai Hoc, D1 Ho Chi Minh City 3822 0079 www.sushiworld.com.vn 3824 2754 Au Lac do Brazil I www.samba.vnnhahang.com 238 Pasteur, D3 Tasaki korean (08) 3820 7157 Wild Horse Salon A Japanese restaurant offering Ha Noi pork, beef and seafood barbecue Au Lac do Brazil II Cowboy-themed western steakhouse favorites with wagyu beef as the most Hana Restaurant 6A Cao Ba Quat, Ba Dinh with an impressive exterior on trendy recommended. (04) 3845 5224 Thai Van Lung, Wild Horse serves high- 12B, Ngo Van Nam, D1 Japanese-Korean fusion in the heart of For Banquet & Catering quality Tex Mex/American cuisine with 3824 2179 D1. Hana has contemporary decor with Call or email enormous servings. www.tasaki.com.vn a private, open feel. Its broad menu [email protected] 8A/1D1 Thai Van Lung, D1 includes both cooked and raw fish in 090 947 8698 3825 1901 Tokyo Deli addition to traditional hot pot with fish www.aulacdobrazil.com eggs, rice and vegetables. www.facebook.com/aulacdobrazil thai Tokyo Deli’s menu consists of a wide 8 Cao Ba Quat, D1 range of distinctive and delicious meals, 3829 5588 Corso Steakhouse and Bar prepared by specialists to create pure 9am - 10pm Golden Elephant Japanese flavor. The menu is always Corso Steakhouse and Bar operates being changed and improved. under an open kitchen concept, A cozy and relaxing Thai style 240 Le Thanh Ton, D1 bringing together an exciting menu restaurant, serving an extensive 5404 2244 of Asian and European dishes with a collection of Thai specialties including tokyodeli.com.vn focus on grilling. Guests can choose noodles, curries, rice, stir-fries, soups, from a wide variety of wines and spirits. and a good range of seafood. Uraetei BBQ Restaurant 117 Le Thanh Ton, D1 34 Hai Ba Trung, D1 3829 5368 3822 8554 Uraetai serves yakiniku grill, a variant www.norfolkhotel.com.vn of the popular Korean dish bulgogi. Jasmine Thai The restaurant itself is attractively Dragon Steak done, with a nod to feng shui in its A quiet, candle-lit affair complete with selective placement of ponds and rocky Specializing in generous portions of the ethereal tones of traditional music, pathways outside. Kang Nam Ga Korean BBQ Wagyu cuts; they’re so enormous guests can enjoy variations on dishes prepared in the Thai culinary tradition. 6673 9373 All the theatrics of a traditional Korean that the restaurant runs a cheeky experience are part of the service at competition - finish one within half an 85 Quoc Huong, D2 Vicki’s Teppanyaki & BBQ this newly opened restaurant. From hour, and it’s free. 35190038 5pm - 9.30pm Tue-Sun waitresses in hanboks to vast plates 138 Ton That Dam, D1 It provides a fusion of Asian cuisines of kim chi, this is the one of the most 3821 0288 Koh Thai with dishes from Japan, , and authentic introduction to the cuisine www.steak.vn

Vietnam. Their menu is interesting and in the city. The vast menu consists of 11am - late the finest beef cooked to perfection Stunning Thai-chic decor and unique diverse, with many delectable seafood along with a range of sojus. Siam cuisine make Koh Thai one of options. El Gaucho 6B Le Quy Don, D3 Saigon’s most authentic and memorable 42 Le Anh Xuan, D1 Serves great Argentinean steaks, Thai restaurants. Located in the 3823 3232 hamburgers and more. A great place Intercontinental complex, Koh Thai serves vickis.com.vn to entertain clients or friends from Mi Han Quoc overseas. With outlets in Hanoi and Asian inspired cocktails in a trendy lounge environment with chill music. Vietnam Monde Bangkok too. 1st floor, 39 Le Duan, D1 Good for receptions, team meetings, This franchise has gained popularity 5D Nguyen Sieu, D1 3823 4423 relaxation, family dining, banquet in Ho Chi Minh City for having 38251879 091 233 9138 and other special occasions. The successfully adapted the spiciness of www.elgaucho.asia Korean cuisine to the local Vietnamese www.kohthai.com.vn recommended dishes include Kobe 11am - 10pm Daily beef imported from Japan, Tepan Steak, palate, serving perfectly balanced Indaba Restaurant Sashimi and Sushi. Average price per noodle dishes. Indaba Steakhouse combines German Lac Thai 92 Ham Nghi, D1 style steak and Italian coffee under person is between VND100,000 to 3914 1565 one roof. Expect a fusion dishes like VND300,000. Lac Thai is a large, three-floor www.mihanquocvn.com Indaba Spring Rolls, Mexican BBQ Spare 7bis Korea Sailing, Ben Nghe Ward, D1 restaurant offering a wide range of Thai 8am - 11pm 0838220187 Ribs, and Grilled Duck Breast served cuisine with signature dishes like Pad with sesame sauce, steamed rice and Mr. BBQ – Korean Chicken & Hof Thai, Tom Yum Koong, Chicken Satay Vui Vui salad. The quaint and cozy restaurant is and many others.

Vui Vui is a Japanese restaurant decorated in soft hues of red and black, 71/2 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 This unusual Korean import famous for specializing in barbecue and Japanese- complemented with soft jazz music. A 3823 7506 style hot pot. Offers a variety of set extraordinarily spicy chicken is an odd German Viet Kieu with experience in lunches including Yakiudon, Kimuchi phenomenon on the HCMC culinary restaurants in Germany helms the kitchen. Mai Thai Pokka, Sukiyaki and Purukogi. The landscape, serving up a version of KFC 35 Ly Tu Trong, D1 restaurant has two floors with each that's actually painful. Lovers of spicy www.facebook.com/indabacafe Mai Thai is a Thai restaurant offering floor accommodating approximately food rejoice. The restaurant itself is Contact them at 3824 8280 or visit an extensive menu with many Thai 100 guests. clean and modern in design, and there www.facebook.com/indabasteakhouse favorites. This two-storey restaurant 125A Tran Quoc Thao, D3 are another 50 Korean dishes on offer features traditional decorations and www.vuivui.net.vn beyond the signature dish, including friendly service. some tasty mixed rice dishes. New York Steakhouse 13 Ton That Thiep, D1 Wainosuke 20 Ho Huan Nghiep, D1 Wainosuke is a Japanese and Italian 3823 9000 While situated in a fairly laid-back area, Malee Thai style restaurant. It serves food such as New York Steakhouse is definitely in the pastas, salads and steaks to name a Seoul House upmarket category and serves exclusive A cute, central Thai venue decked few and wine from traditional Japanese American imported beef dishes, with a out in royal purple decor, Malee is an to premium Italian wine. Seoul House is a well-known two-story whole range of steaks from rib eye, New intimate restaurant serving a wide range 37 Ho Tung Mau, D1 Korean restaurant with a simple, cozy York strip steak, and tenderloin being of consistently tasty dishes, although 3821 4016 atmosphere. Its menu contains Korean popular options. without the full effect of Thai cuisine’s www.wainosuke-vn.asia favorites like , hotpots, grilled 25-27 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D1 ats signature burn. meat, clay pot mixed rice, and kim chi 3823 7373 37 Dong Du, D1 te xp Yoshino tofu soup. www.steakhouse.com.vn 33 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Spice The decor is straight out of the set of 3829 4297 Pho 99 Oi’s Pick Shogun, with black wood, tatami mats, Spice Thai restaurant has been a favorite stencilled cherry blossoms and all the Not a traditional steakhouse per se, but among the locals in Saigon since 2003. trappings of Japanese exoticism – steakhouses Pho 99 is known for its excellent filet This multicultural eatery offers Thai food tastefully done. While Ho Chi Minh City mignon steaks made out of Cu Chi beef. & seafood in a décor fusing Oriental & is certainly not short of fine Japanese Au Lac do Brazil Also serves great pho. Mediterranean artifacts. eateries, this one is particularly 139 Nguyen Trai, D1 27C Le Quy Don, D3

Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A impressive. Serving Saigon for more than 10 3925 2791 www.spicevn.com

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 61 Thai Express banqueting services, Binh An Village Grillbar - Eatery & Cafe classical music. serves traditional country cuisine such A new trendy kitchen and cozy 34 Vo Van Tan, D3 Thai Express is the world’s largest Thai as in house fried spring rolls, fresh lotus restaurant with the concept of taking restaurant chain. Enjoy fantastically shrimp salad, selective grilled seafood traditional Vietnamese charcoal grilled Nam Phat Restaurant authentic Thai cuisine at reasonable prices and served with sticky pineapple and serving it in a New York in a relaxed, contemporary atmosphere. rice. A jazz band is available for booking stylie cafe. A Vietnamese restaurant that specializes 8A Le Thanh Ton, D1 for private functions. It also offers 122 Le Thanh Ton, D1 in hosting social events such as weddings 6299 1338 special arrangements such as a Saigon www.grillbar.com.vn and business conferences. Traditional www.thaiexpress.com.vn boat cruise, DJ, traditional Vietnamese Vietnamese cuisine is the specialty folklore music and more. Highway 4 with prices ranging from VND100,000 1163 Binh Quoi, Binh Thanh - VND300,000. The setting is of an vietnamese The menu reflects the ambiance of the elegant banquet hall. Bonbon north and wider Vietnam, although dishes 21 Nguyen Trung Ngan, D1 3T Quan Nuong Offers authentic Vietnamese cuisines as are carefully selected to meet a more 3910 6488 well as a modern global menu. It boasts universal palate. [email protected] With hanging oil lamps and wooden hand-selected steaks and a world-class 101 Vo Van Tan, D3 statues lining the stairs, this venue wine list. The restaurant is designed www.highway4.com Marina Saigon above the Temple Bar has a touch more to be multi-functional, with the ability atmosphere than most of its kind, but to continually change the layout and Hoa Tuc Marina Saigon is one of the leading the otherwise simple décor with bamboo atmosphere for high-end group events, seafood restaurants in Ho Chi Minh tables and chairs are fitting enough. intimate romance or casual dinners. Set in what used to be Saigon’s City. This restaurant provides a The broad barbecue grill menu features Kumho Building, 39 Le Duan, D1 opium refinery, Hoa Tuc serves up luxurious environment with French/ classics of its kind. contemporary Vietnamese cuisine in a Vietnamese fusion cuisine. Top Floor, 29 Ton That Hiep, D1 Bo Ne Le Hong Parisian, art-deco atmosphere. 172 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D3 3821 1631 74 Hai Ba Trung, D1 3930 2379 Bo Ne Le Hong is a popular Vietnamese 3825 1676 An Khue Quan restaurant specializing in beefsteak. It www.hoatuc.com Maxim’s Nam An has a rich, diverse menu, and also offer Serving a well-selected series of dishes fresh fruit juices. Hoang Yen Large and lavishly decorated, Maxim’s from both northern and southern 489/27/39 Huynh Van Banh, Phu Nhuan Try some of the country’s delicacies in Nam An restaurant serves Vietnamese regions of Vietnam in an area where a modern yet inviting atmosphere. The cuisine in style. The carved wooden international diners are likely to be in Bo Nong eatery’s various clay pots are flavorful; booths, completed with silk curtains, abundance – and therefore well attuned This performance venue features some feature mam, a delicious fermented are a romantic hideaway for couples or to the foreign palate. a traditional cultural show with . small groups. 92B Le Lai, D1 Vietnamese cuisine. Established by 7-9 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 13-15-17 Dong Khoi, D1 Frenchmen Thibault Detraz and Jeremy 148 Hai Ba Trung, D1 An Vietnamese Bistro Gremillet, who aim to bring the French Parkson Hung Vuong, Third Floor, Hung Mitau passion for fusing live entertainment Vuong Plaza, An Duong Vuong, D5 Mitau creates a gathering place for An Restaurant offers exquisite dishes with dining. CR1- 12, 103 Ton Dat Tien, D7 those who love Hue cuisine. The interior from the North, Central, and South of 143 Nguyen Trai, D1 www.hoangyencuisine.com includes memorabilia, statues, bric and Vietnam, served by well-trained waiters www.bo-nong.com brac and golf trophies. and waitresses dressed in traditional Hum 52 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Southern clothing. Bun Sai Gon Hum is a vegetarian restaurant where 3823 0767 71/5-6 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 food are prepared on site from various www.mitauhue.com Banh Xeo 46A This franchise positions itself firmly in fresh beans, nuts, vegetables, flowers, the local market with the slogan 'the bun and fruits. Food are complemented with Nghi Xuan noodles of the Vietnamese people' – special drinks mixed from fresh fruits Although known for a wide range indicating a concerted dedication to the and vegetables. Decorated as a high-class traditional of Vietnamese specialties, the local authenticity of its staples. 2 Thi Sach, D1 Vietnamese mansion, Nghi Xuan is pancake stuffed with herbs and prawns 73 Ly Tu Trong, D1 3823 8920 perfectly fitting for a venue serving the is its tastiest dish. 6276 2609 www.hum-vegetarian.vn finest of Vietnam's classical cuisine – 46A Dinh Cong Trang, D1 www.bunsaigon.com.vn the imperial dishes of Hue. Service is Banh Xeo An La Ghien Khoai Restaurant courteous, fast, and quintessentially Cha Ca La Vong Specializes in dishes from Nha Trang. elegant.

This venue only serves Cha Ca, a 3A Le Quy Don, D3 5/9 Nguyen Sieu, D1 The fare on offer is traditional traditional Hanoian dish. Cha Ca is a salad 3823 0699 Vietnamese, specialising in the Banh www.khoairestaurant.com made out of pieces of fish and spring nghixuanrestaurant.com Xeo filled egg pancake, a favourite with onion stir-fried in a hotpot. Lang Viet foreigners with its light crispy shell and Oi’s Pick 36 Ton That Thiep, D1 Nha Hang Ngon fragrant herbs and meats inside the Lang Viet combines water puppet pancake pocket. theater with Vietnamese northern Cuc Gach Quan Famous restaurant serving easy 74 Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 cuisine. There are two performances This Vietnamese venue serves traditional, Vietnamese cuisine to foreigners www.banhxeoanlaghien.com.vn/en in the evening (5pm and 6:16pm) and country-style foods, a mixture of street last for 45 minutes, with an option and tourists with more than 400 Barbecue Garden food dishes made with fine ingredients of a la carte dining, set menu or traditional dishes. together with a selection of more buffet afterwards. During the day, the 160 Pasteur, D1 contemporary options. The venue features all open-air dining restaurant serves breakfast and lunch, 3827 7131 10 Dang Tat, D1 and the atmosphere is distinctly festival- starting at 10am to 2pm. Their sister www.quananngon.com.vn like, relaxing, and casual, becoming 3848 0144 restaurant, Pho Xua, was once visited by 8am - 10pm Former President Bill Clinton in 2000. congenially boisterous in the evenings. Five Oysters The restaurant specializes in Western- 36 Pham Ngoc Thach, D3 Papaya Restaurant Oi’s Pick Vietnamese fusion dishes such as beef Serves local cuisine with an emphasis 3829 9266 with cheese, 5-spices beef, squid with on seafood and beers starting at www.langvietxua.com A petite, clean, and brightly-coloured satay sauce, and shrimp . VND10,000. Open daily from 9am until Vietnamese restaurant with simple décor 134-136 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D1 late. Lemongrass serving a light, healthy, northern-style 3823 3763 090 30 12123 cuisine. There's no fuss in the layout 135A Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D1 www.facebook.com/FiveOysters The vibe aims at a harmony between here – green walls with black & white 3823 3340 modern styling and the Vietnamese artworks, brown wooden furnishings, and www.barbecuegarden.com Ganh traditional arts, and the dining room with lanterns above every table make for a very its tile floors and wooded wainscoting pleasant atmosphere – and it's casual Beefsteak Nam Son With green suspended lanterns, simple effects a comforting natural environment. without being messy, and refined without This local steak restaurant specialises and elegant furnishings, all touched off 4 Nguyen Thiep, D1 any trace of pretentiousness. in Vietnamese-style iron-plate meat with bamboo baskets of fruit, flowers, 68 Pham Viet Chanh, Binh Thanh dishes rather than the American and reed grass, the atmosphere is just Luong Son 6258 1508 steaks often popular with expats – but as smooth and well-defined as a more [email protected] ats while these two varieties have their modern-styled venue. Exotic beer garden style eatery famous for www.chi-nghia.com differences, the local version of the dish 58/4 Pham Ngoc Thach, D3 its barbecue beef. Luong Son also serves te xp has a fresh, light character and is served 3829 5243 fear factor items such as scorpions, grubs, Pho 2000 with some good, delicate Vietnamese www.nemnuongganh.com ostrich meat and crickets. Pho 2000’s Ben Thanh Market branch sauces. 31 Ly Tu Trong, D1 was famously visited by former US 188 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 Gold Fish 3825 1330 President Bill Clinton in 2000. The chain 3930 3917 www.facebook.com/LuongSonQuan serves up variations on pho as well as www.namsonsteak.com Gold Fish offers a slice of authentic noodle and rice dishes. Vietnam with a genuinely rural cuisine. Nam Phan 4 Phan Chu Trinh, D1 Binh An Village 73 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Nam Phan is a 200 seat restaurant that 3822 2788

Open every day for dining and other www.goldfish.vn is accents Vietnamese cuisine with live 6am - 10pm Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 62 Pho 24 Square One watch with interest – since its humble with a label that displays its calories, Offers authentic Vietnamese and beginnings in 2006 with the rather protein, fat and carbohydrates content. PHO24 is a popular Vietnamese Western cuisine. A wide selection of more unpleasant name Singapore A 544-calorie Cheesy tofu noodle restaurant chain with imported meats is prepared Western Frog , it has risen in strength sandwich costs VND80,000 while 70 outlets across Vietnam and style while the best local and imported to become the most prominent a 281-calorie sets you throughout . seafood is the focal point of traditional representative of the cuisine in the city, back VND50,000.The chicken jumbo 71-73 Dong Khoi, D1 Vietnamese dish. Features an outdoor and its growth has continued to be sandwich comes with a massive 638 3825 7505 terrace and four private dining rooms to remarkable. calories, 59 grams of protein and 62 cater to guests’ needs for special events. 45 Le Anh Xuan, D1 grams of carbohydrates, but only 16 Propaganda Bistro Park Hyatt Saigon, 2 Lam Son Square, D1 3823 8371 grams of fat. Ben also offers meal plans Offers Vietnamese cuisine such as 08 3824 1234 www.lioncityrestaurant.com for those who want to get fit and bulk up. spring rolls and Vietnamese street food 302 Co Bac, D1 with a Western twist. Serves breakfast, Temple Club Little Manila 090 691 2730 lunch and dinner. The restaurant An eatery with indoor and outdoor features hand-painted wall murals. Usually regarded as one of central seating serving your craving for Beirut 21 Han Thuyen, D1 Saigon's most authentically Vietnamese Filipino cuisine such as the famous Offers Lebanese and Mediterranean 3822 9048 venues, this historic and good-looking adobo, pansit (dried noodles), food with belly dancers every night from www.facebook.com/Propaganda-Saigon features classic Indochinese decor, breakfast combinations like Longsilog 8:30pm to 10pm and Latino dancers broadly interpreted as a blend of the old (combination of longanisa (Filipino from 10pm to midnight. Quan Bui Authentic Vietnamese French colonial style with pan-Asian sausage), egg and fried rice), Tosilog 74/13D Hai Ba Trung, D1 Cuisine graces that appeal more to Asian (, egg and fried rice) and more. www.beirut.com.vn Leafy green roof garden, upmarket exoticism than reflect actual Vietnamese Ground Floor, Citiplaza, 230 Nguyen Trai, restaurant with reasonable prices and a styles. With antique furnishings and D1 Black Cat Restaurant wide menu of choices. Open style kitchen ceiling fans, the atmosphere is certainly S2-1 Hung Vuong 2, Phu My Hung, D7 advertises its cleanliness. Designer interior pretty. 5410 0812 Originally envisioned as a fast food with spot lighted pictures and beautiful 29-31 Ton That Thiep, D1 Vietnamese sandwich place, Black Cat cushions give an oriental luxurious 08 3829 9244 Long Monaco Saigon now serves international food feeling – augmented by dishes served on templeclub.com.vn with a focus on burgers, most famously earthenware crockery. Long Monaco operates throughout the its “Big Cheese” featuring 500g of beef. 17a Ngo Van Nam, D1 Thanh Nien Restaurant city under various brand names – this 13 Phan Van Dat, D1 3829 1515 outlet is a standalone restaurant in the 3829 2955 (deliveries: 3602 2241 or 091 400 8835) With its attractive home-style layout, busy Etown office complex in Tan Binh www.blackcatsaigon.com pretty garden for outdoor dining, and district. You'll probably only visit if you're Quan An Ngon warm, yellow-toned interior for the working nearby or visiting on official Chuck’s Quan An Ngon appeals easily to tourists buffet, it's a charming venue for tourists business, but you'll find the restaurant Chuck’s offers American and local people alike in its unique and a familiar favourite for long-timers. concept: presenting the diversity of It's intentionally decorated like a private serves some great Asian business like pancakes, omelets, , fries, Vietnamese cuisine from different regions home, walls decorated with floral lunches. tacos, burgers and hotdogs. in a village market style. The restaurant is artworks, and the garden surrounded Ground Floor, Etown 1 27 Tran Nhat Duat, D1 set in a large new building, which from its by bamboo. 364 Cong Hoa, Tan Binh external yellow appearance is reminiscent 11 Nguyen Van Chiem, D1 www.longmonaco.com.vn Crab Pot of an old European villa; but inside its 3822 5909 Crab Pot is a beer and seafood space is designed as an ancient Hue www.vnnavi.com/restaurants/thanhnien restaurant serving breakfasts, lunches ruong house. western/international and dinners of American, French, 138 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D1 Thang Bom Quan Seafood and Vietnamese cuisines, with 3827 9666 Serves hot pot and special style BBQ. 27 Grill delivery and catering services also. www.quanngon138.com 49 Pho Duc Chinh, D1 27 Grill is an open kitchen run by Danish 65 Pham Ngoc Thach 6, D3 chefs Casper Gustafsen and Camilla Royal Revolving Restaurant Tib Restaurant Bailey and is known for its steaks. It Gartenstadt This fine Vietnamese Hue-style also offers a spectacular view of the city. Gartenstadt serves German cuisine The Royal Revolving Restaurant is a restaurant looks almost like a temple, Opens from 5:30pm - 11pm. including sausage, sauerbraten, and unique restaurant experience. Experience and it's considered one of the city's Rooftop, AB Tower, 76A Le Lai, D1 pork knuckle. Known amongst locals stunning views of the city while you spin premier settings serving imperial cuisine. www.chillsaigon.com and expats for its long teakwood around in the sky. The restaurant offers 187 Hai Ba Trung, D3 bar, Gartenstadt is home to imported more than 50 Hong Kong inspired 3829 7242 Al Fresco’s Schneider Weisse and Krombacher beer, dishes and a bar that serves coffee and www.tibrestaurant.com.vn as well as a large collection of choice cocktails. Offering a mix of Tex-Mex, Italian, and schnapps. Private dining options are 9th Floor, 12D Cach Mang Thang Tam, D1 Tin Nghia Australian food along with cold local & available on the second floor, including 3823 2232 A charming little venue serving imported beers and a wine list featuring balcony seating overlooking scenic vegetarian cuisine. Its quaint Australia’s finest whites along with Dong Khoi Street. Saigon Vegan appearance hides the fact that it was the affordable South American reds. 34 Dong Khoi, D1 first international vegetarian restaurant 16 Nguyen Thi Nghia, D1 3822 3623 Saigon Vegan is located in a casual and in Ho Chi Minh City and an important 3926 0036 inviting space with high ceilings, dark center of the city’s vegetarian culture. www.alfrescosgroup.com Hog’s Breath Café wood tables, and lots of natural light. 9 Tran Hung Dao, D1 8.30am - 11pm Guests can choose from over 100 vegan 3821 2538 An Australian family diner and bar dishes, all of which are either soy or Au Parc concept. Renowned for quality steaks, vegetable based. Vietnam House seafood and other western fare served in an 378/3 Vo Van Tan, D3 It's only fitting that this Mediterranean- informal environment. Smoke-free indoors. 3834 4473 Vietnam House is a high quality styled restored villa with its original tiles, Ground Floor, Bitexco Financial Tower, restaurant specializing in both local old window frames, plush cushions, and 2 Hai Trieu, D1 SH Garden restaurant Vietnamese and international cuisine. opium-themed art collection sits in one www.hogsbreathcafe.com.vn This restaurant is set in a restored of the most gorgeous streets of central Established in the 1930s, the Terrace French colonial house offering stunning Saigon. Au Parc is an unforgettable Jaspas Wine & Grill Oi’s Pick restaurant is located at the corner of views of the street. venue with a décor that manages to two of the oldest boulevards of Saigon, 93-95 Dong Khoi, D1 simultaneously capture the grace of the Jaspas Wine and Grill provides an Nguyen Hue and Le Loi, where romantic 3829 1623 old Colonial architecture and the mood extensive wine list along with many memories of Saigon float around. This www.vietnamhousesaigon.com restaurant offers a variety of delicious of west-Asian exoticism that transfixed “reinvented” Jaspas dishes, new traditional Vietnamese dishes. Europe in the Romantic period. creations, and mouthwatering steaks. 4th floor, 98 Nguyen Hue, D1 (other) asian 23 Han Thuyen, D1 Japas also offers a wide array of 6680 0188 3829 2772 delectable dessert options. shgarden.com.vn Crawfish King 74/7 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Crawfish King serves special menus Bahdja Song Ngu with crawfish, lobster, , JJ’s Brazilian BBQ Restaurant ats American-style chicken wings, oysters, Algerian restaurant serving north African Located along Pham Ngu Lao, Brazilian te xp There are eight different rooms capable fruit beer, sea urchin and more. Offers delights such as , tajines and eatery JJ’s offers a menu emphasizing of seating a total of 350-400 guests, free delivery for customers in D1 and D3. desserts. Unique Mechoui set dinner is authentic Brazilian Churrasco and each warmly-lit with dark wooden 63 Truong Dinh, D1 a popular choice and perfect for groups Western fusion cuisine. The bar furnishings. On a small stage, a 6272 7888 (available with prior notice). offers a great selection of wines and traditional chamber orchestra with ladies www.facebook.com/crawfishking63 87-89-91 Ho Tung Mau, D1 cocktails. Offers Tiger draught for only wearing classical Ao dai costumes 7am - 12am 093 787 2010 (French, Arabic, English, VND20,000 per glass during Happy perform Vietnamese music on genuine Finnish) Hours (8am-8pm daily). old instruments. Lion City 275-277-279 Pham Ngu Lao,D1 70 Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 Ben Style Oi’s Pick 3838 8833

Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A 3832 5017 This is a Singaporean franchise to Every sandwich comes wrapped www.jjbbq.com.vn

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 63 Mogambo Bar & Grill Shri Zest offers diners one of the nicest views Shri offers unparalleled panoramic views in the city. Mogambo is a dark, African-styled of the city. Menu offers a broad range of 5 Ton Duc Thang, D1 restaurant with some the finest US & dishes to suit most tastes with modern 3911 5599 Tex-Mex and exceptional burgers. European styled starters, mains and Zoom Cafe Oi’s Pick 50 Pasteur, D1 desserts as well as a wide selection of 3825 1311 grills and salads. Wine list is consists currently of over 270 bins with selections Zoom cafe serves Tex-Mex and Vietnamese cuisine as well as running a from both the Old and New World, with MZ Wine & Restaurant Vespa tour service from within the café. France, Italy, Spain, Germany and Austria MZ has a wine cellar featuring wines 169A Bui Vien, D1 as well as Australia, New Zealand, South from the Old World to the New World. 3920 3897 Africa, USA, Argentina and Chile all The restaurant serves Asian and 7am - 2am daily Western cuisine with beefsteak and represented. lamb dishes as the most suggested Level 23, Centec Tower, 72-74 Nguyen Thi ones. Piano and violin artists perform Minh Khai, D3 www.shri.vn The List daily from 7:30pm-9:30pm. Special Khoi Thom arrangements like a live band and

decorations are available upon requests. Skewers Khoi Thom - "fragrant smoke" in 56A Bui Thi Xuan,D1 English - is a unique venue, set in An open-air kitchen at the front of the 3925 5258 District 2 a bright, colourful al fresco decor restaurant and a small cigar lounge inspired by renowned architect www.m-zing.com upstairs set off the atmosphere and mark Ricardo Legoretta. A long way from Bakeries Mexico, Chef Alejandro Torres's Pacharan - Tapas & Bodega this venue as one with a unique presence in Saigon. The purely Mediterranean menu blends "Cocina cuisine is appropriately authentic. Potosina" and timeless The city’s best-known Spanish Offers custom made cakes, pies, tarts, 9A Thai Van Lung, D1 Mexican classics. restaurant with a sports bar on the brownies and cupcakes. It welcomes 29 Ngo Thoi Nhiem, D3 www.skewers-restaurant.com ground floor, two floors of dining space, visitors to an open kitchen where they www.khoithom.com and an open rooftop deck for cocktails Subway can watch and be a part of what makes and live music. Serving tapas, , and its sweets special. Provides catering for special occasions. an extensive Iberian wine list. La Fenetre Soleil Subway is now in Vietnam, offering AVA Residences, 40/4 Nguyen Van, D2 97 Hai Ba Trung, D1 its internationally-renowned range of La Fenetre Soleil, literally means ‘window 3519 3167 subs sandwiches and cookies. World to the sun’, showcases a fusion of Old Parkview travelers can expect the same high World fittings such as exposed bricks, Voelker Located within New World Saigon quality of ingredients regardless of French bakery selling fresh breads, antique furniture and chandeliers with Hotel, Parkview is a sophisticated what nation they are visiting. pastries and chocolate New World elements such as fur cushions restaurant with a view of the adjacent 121 Ho Tung Mau, D1 39 Thao Dien, D2 and mosaic tiled and glass tables. Serves 23 September Park. Their buffets feature 3914 4118 6296 0066 a range of cocktails, imported beer, coffee both Asian and international favorites voelker-vietnam.com and smoothies together with a Japanese- along with local and imported fish, The Elbow Room Vietnamese fusion menu. oysters, prawns, and snails. BARS 4 Ly Tu Trong, D1 Every Sunday, the brunch buffet offers The Elbow Room on Pasteur is an a fine fare including rotisserie and steak American-style bistro with a long bar, McSorley’s La Habana specialties, with an ice bar serving up exposed brickwork, white walls, and Recently opened Irish pub with a sushi and sashimi. whirring ceiling fans – making for a swimming pool and outdoor patio. Offering authentic Spanish cuisine and New World Saigon Hotel casual, contemporary space with an Serves pub grub with events and theme a wide choice of tapas, as well as Cuban 76 Le Lai Street, D1 international vibe. More of a diner than a nights happening regularly. cocktails, La Habana is a den of Cuban- 3822 8888 restaurant, Elbow shoots at a cool, relaxed 4 Thao Dien, D2 Spanish inspired architecture located on [email protected] atmosphere, pleasantly decorating its 3519 4659 inner-city Cao Ba Quat. www.saigon.newworldhotels.com warmly-lit walls with evocative black & www.mcsorleys.vn 6 Cao Ba Quat, D1 white photos and subtle lighting. www.lahabana-saigon.com Pasha 52 Pasteur, D1 Papagayo Saigon www.elbowroom.com.vn A resort-style design and French Ly Club Serving Turkish and Mediterranean Mediterranean food are the make-up of cuisine, the kitchen is headed by Chef The Hungry Pig this newly opened hangout. 18 Tran Ngoc Dien, D2 Often used as a venue for gatherings, Ismet with over 30 years of experience A sandwich bar that takes bacon very networking meetings, and events where an in similar restaurants. seriously, The Hungry Pig is a place Buddha Bar air of wealth and sophistication is useful, Ly 25 Dong Du, D1 where you can find bacon, wrapped in One of the long standing bars in the Club is a sure bet for making an impression fresh-baked and baguettes. www.pasha.com.vn area, it has a pool table, darts, big screen on a date or business lunch. Built into a 144 Cong Quynh, D1 tvs along with cheap beers and bar food. traditional French villa with wide elliptical Quán Ut Ut 7 Thao Dien, D2 arches, the atmosphere of naked opulence The Legends Bar & Grill Quán Ut Ut is Saigon’s newest 3744 2080 persists throughout the property. restaurant hotspot. Specialties include A drinking and dining destination in 143 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 American BBQ, cashew-smoked pork Saigon’s backpackers’ area offering cafeS www.lyclub.vn ribs and burgers alongside fresh draft Tex-Mex specialities like nachos, fajitas, and imported beer. Open daily from burritos, among others, soup, seafood, Agnes Cafe - Dalat Coffee & Flower Margherita 4pm til midnight. kebabs, salads, burgers and sandwiches, Shop steaks, chicken dishes, and more. Wide 168 Vo Van Kiet, D1 At Agnes Cafe they offer fresh coffee, selection of drinks complement the food. For some, Margherita doubles as an www.quanutut.com smoothies and juices along with a 236 Bui Vien, D1 unofficial expat rendezvous, partly a result 3914 4500 delicious breakfast and lunch menu. of its agreeable prices and sumptuous Warda This quaint and cozy cafe is a perfect Western-style pizzas and foods. Reflections place to meet up with friends or just

175/1 Pham Ngu Lao, D1 Reflections Restaurant is a fine dining relax to get away from the bustling Warda is a Middle-Eastern style bar and restaurant with a menu that draws traffic outside. They offer free delivery. restaurant headed by a renowned Syrian Market 39 inspiration from every corner of the 11A-B Thao Dien, D2 chef. Guests can enjoy authentic middle- Market 39 showcases seven interactive globe. It holds events showcasing eastern cuisine indoors and outdoors live show kitchens, featuring a la carte Shalom Coffee Michelin-star Chefs, wine pairing dinners while enjoying an almond cigar or shisha. all-day dining and an extensive buffet Shalom Coffee is available for all your and other culinary luminaries. 71/7 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 selection served daily during breakfast, Level 3, Caravelle Hotel, 19-23 Lam Son coffee and chocolate needs, warm snacks, cold refreshments, breakfasts and lunch and dinner Squre, D1 Xu Restaurant Lounge Ground floor, InterContinental Asiana lunches. 53 Vo Truong Toan, D2 Saigon Saffron Oi’s Pick The venue is well-known for its pork www.coffeeshalom.com Corner of Hai Ba Trung & Le Duan The first thing that will strike you when wantons, , seared beef crostinis, 3520 9099 you enter Saffron is the terracotta pots. bo luc lac diced beef and 'Xu-style' RESTAURANTS www.intercontinental.com/saigon Located 50 meters from Ciao Bella, a chicken rice. Xu is an elegant venue that ats

popular Italian restaurant on Dung Du, works as a restaurant or a high-class bar FRENCH te xp May Restaurant and Bar this restaurant offers Mediterranean for the upper echelons. May offers a wide range of international food, some with a distinct Asian 71-75 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Le Bacoulos dishes and wines, both by the bottle and influence added for further www.xusaigon.com Le Bacoulos is a French restaurant, bar by the glass. Enjoy their Happy Hour uniqueness. Guests are welcomed with and lounge that serves French cuisine, bar specials from 3-7pm daily. The second complimentary Prosecco, fresh baked Zest Bistro & Cafe food like burgers, fish and chips alongside floor provides venue for events or private bread served with garlic, olive tapenade A casual restaurant featuring an vegetarian options like spinach soup parties. and . American, French and fusion menu. and Greek salad. There’s also a garden to 19-21 Dong Khoi, D1 51 Hai Ba TruNg, D1 Located across from the waterfront, just unwind in with a glass of wine or enjoy a

6291 3686 382 48358 minutes away from the Bach Dang pier, game of pool. Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 64 13 Tong Huu Dinh, D2 using a considerable variety of tastes the carafe. The space is a large open- the largest ice-cream chain in the world 3519 4058 and spices prepared by Thai chefs. plan room with an attached garden and with flavors such as Baseball Nut and www.bacoulos.com Generally speaking, the cuisine leans play area for kids. Holds regular movie Lunar Cheesecake. more towards being authentic in taste screenings. 105 Ton Dat Tien, D7 Gastro’home than serving the more internationalised 32 Tran Ngoc Dien, D2 www.baskinrobbins.vn New delicatessen shop offering versions of Thai cuisine available 35194532 western-fusion French food by French elsewhere. www.snap.com.vn Bud’s chef Stephane Courtin. Visit the shop or 55 Thao Dien, D2; 3744 5453 Bringing the taste of American ice try their catering service. www.baanthai-anphu.com The Deck cream to Vietnam, Bud’s Ice Cream has 100 Xuan Thuy, D2. 6281 9830 nine stores in Ho Chi Minh City. Apart Jasmine Thai Located on the banks of the Saigon from a variety of delicious ice cream La Villa Oi’s Pick River, this restaurant offers great flavors, Bud’s also offers a wide range Expect here variations on dishes you'll international and Vietnamese fare. of Western and Vietnamese food. This Colonial-style villa set in a quietly find throughout the Thai culinary 38 Nguyen U Di, D2 SD - 04 Panorama Residential Complex, D7 gentrified district 2 street is a cache of tradition with features more common www.thedecksaigon.com www.budsicecream.com.vn luxury with its beautiful poolside garden to those restaurants serving in Western and cosy, scenic white-toned dining room nations. Vino Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf area. Dine outside or in, on an off-the-cuff 85 Quoc Huong, D2 They offer professional advice on The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf serves menu prepared by the French chef, based 3519 0038 selecting and tasting wines. The some of the best coffee and tea from on the best market ingredients available outdoor terrace area is the perfect spot around the world. It also has a full line on the day. VIETNAMESE to sample a new vintage and brunches of baked goods made from high quality 14 Ngo Quang Huy, D2 on the weekends. ingredients, most of which are from 3898 2082 Banian Tree NO.1, Street 2nd, D2 their own proprietary recipes. www.lavilla-restaurant.com.vn A fine dining Vietnamese restaurant. www.vinovietnam.com Ground Floor, Crescent Mall, Ton Dat Tien, D7 *Reviewed in Oi March 2013 Offers a set lunch, set dinner and www.coffeebean.com.vn international breakfast. Trois Gourmands River Garden, 170 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 The List FB Deli Coffee Opened in 2004 and regarded as one of the finest French restaurants in town. Frangipani Hoa Su FB Deli Coffee features a unique black and Owner Gils, a French native, makes his Frangipani Hoa Su offers authentic white design and signature coffee beans own cheeses as well. Vietnamese cuisine with a variety of District 7 imported from Italy. Guests can also enjoy 18 Tong Huu Dinh, D2 dishes from different parts of Vietnam many varieties of homemade cakes, along 3744 4585 ranging from pho, bun bo Hue to mi with Tiramisu, muffins, and sandwiches. All quang. It serves breakfast, lunch and BAKERIES cakes 50% off from 7 to 10pm. Indian dinner. It also has an open space and SE-1 My Khanh 2 Apartments, D7 a VIP air-conditioned room together Dunkin’ Donuts Ashoka which can hold a maximum capacity of This American doughnut and coffee The Fountain Coffee Ice Cream Ashoka is one of the city’s most popular 500 people, making it an ideal venue for franchise offers munchkins, croissants, Known for its Swiss ice cream with all and enduring Indian restaurants with different types of events and functions. donut sandwich and toasted the fixings, Fountain Coffee also serves a reputation for good food with a wide 26 Le Van Mien, D2 sandwiches - along with the popular Western dishes in a spacious lounge area. range of North Indian culinary dishes [email protected] sugar raised, glazed chocolate , SB4-1 My Duc Residential Complex, at a reasonable price. Large space glazed, chocolate coconut, , Nguyen Duc Canh, D7 for private parties,outdoor catering Western/ INTERNATIONAL Boston kreme, Bavarian Kreme, and free home delivery also available. strawberry-filled or chocolate frosted MOF Japanese Sweets & Coffee Special set lunch veg/non-veg from Boathouse Oi’s Pick donuts. Crescent VND90,000 upwards.Promotion (free With a great view of the Saigon River, 59 Nguyen Duc Canh, D7 trip to Cambodia) and discount available this restobar serves imported steak, Sourcing the majority of their dessert for people booking in groups. healthy salads and much more in an Savouré Bakery ingredients from Hokkaido, Japan, MOF 33 Tong Huu Dinh (Street 53), D2 alfresco environment. Offering gourmet cakes and pastries serves up premium desserts and a 3744 4177 40 Lily Road, An Phu Superior with all the fine characteristics of the Japanese restaurant menu. www.ashokavietnam.com Compound, D2; 3744 6790 European gourmet tradition. Customers 101 Ton Dat Tien, D7 www.boathouse.com.vn can choose from a wide array of baked www.mof.com.vn/en ITALIAN goods including cakes, desserts, breads, Blu Bar and Grill cookies, wedding cakes, and moon NYDC Pendolasco – Thao Dien cakes during the season. Established in 1995 in Singapore, NYDC, Blu Bar provides a wide range of Asian Grand View, SD 4-1, Nguyen Duc Canh, D7 The New York Dessert Café, aims to Expect excellent classic Italian cuisine – and Mediterranean specialties for 5412 2469 bring a piece of New York to Southeast wood-fired pizza, spaghetti, and tiramisu – breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with www.savourebakery.com Asia with their popular mudpies and a cooked with a focus on fresh flavours and many unique beverage options. whole range of Western comfort foods. featuring the finest imported ingredients 53 Vo Truong Toan, D2 BARS 107 Ton Dat Tien, D7 from Italy. 3744 4111 36 Tong Huu Dinh, D2 7am - 11pm Peaches S’cottage Restaurant - Café 62532888 A spacious, attractive restobar with Inspired by the mysterious wooden www.pendolasco.vn Blue Crab Oi’s Pick comfortable, lounge-style seating and a house in the Hansel and Gretl story, Blue Crab offers delicious seafood bar area, this watering hole mixes three S’cottage serves up home-style meals Sarpino’s Pizzeria - prawns, scallops and lobster, crab, beers on tap and a large screen for live in a spacious, fairy-tale inspired space. oysters, scallops and many more for sports with a pan-Asian curry menu. SB-02 My Duc Residential Complex, Sarpino’s Pizzeria is a famous pizza rock-bottom prices. All of the seafood S57-1 Sky Garden 2, D7 Nguyen Duc Canh, D7 brand from Canada with three is sourced from the same supplier 5411 1186 branches around Ho Chi Minh City that as a number of high-end hotels and Ruby Soho specializes in pizza, pasta and rice. restaurants in the city, ensuring the A popular district 7 spot with excellent CHINESE 43 Thao Dien, D2. 3744 2132 food is fresh and high quality. For and cheap range of cocktails, good meat-lovers there’s also a wide range food and great music! Listen to the likes Huong Vien Hunanese Restaurant JAPANESE of dishes that include and of Jimi Hendrix, The Ramones or Beck chicken wings. They offer weekly while downing an ice cold one. Serving China’s little-known spiciest Tama River-Japanese Restaurant specials as well. S52-1 Sky Garden 2, D7 cuisine, the dishes of China’s reddest Bottles of sake fill shelves along the 49 Quoc Huong, D2 province and the preferred taste wall behind the sushi bar, and unique 3744 2008 Sala Beer of Chairman Mao, Huong Vien is Japanese paintings add a nice visual www.bluecrabsaigon.com Enjoy Asian and European dishes at well-decorated although a bit on the touch. Since opening four months ago, Sala Beer and choose and enjoy more pricey side, with dishes averaging the restaurant has attracted a diverse Mekong Merchant than 50 famous beer brands from VND180,000 . clientele, from locals to expats. Set in a colonial house within an around the world. S59-S61, Sky Garden 2 Apartments, D7 14E1 Thao Dien, D2 open-air courtyard surrounding, this Ground floor White House Hotel 3744 6782 restaurant serves delicious pizza, R2-25 Bui Bang Doan, Hung Phuoc 1, D7 Ming Dynasty sandwiches, smoothies with an Ming Dynasty serves authentic Chinese Chiisana Hashi extensive wine list. The Tavern food in a setting reminiscent of an old ats Serves authentic Japanese cuisine 23 Thao Dien, D2; 3744 4713 The Tavern is a Western pub & Chinese palace. Specialties include dim te xp including sashimi, sushi, , restaurant where patrons can play sum, shark fin and and dishes sukiyaki and shabu shabu. Snap Cafe darts & pool, watch football or enjoy from Quang Dong. River Garden, 170 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 reasonably priced food and drinks. 23 Nguyen Khac Vien, D7 6683 5308 By day, Snap Cafe is a community- R2-24 Hung Gia 3, Bui Bang Doan, D7 centered, family-friendly cafe and INDIAN THAI restaurant. By night, guests can enjoy CAFES live music, sports on the big screen, quiz Ashoka Baan Thai nights, pool, foosball, and more. Baskin Robbins Ashoka is a small chain of slightly more Serves international cafe fare, great With more than 7000 branches in more upscale Indian restaurants serving both

Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A Baan Thai serves authentic Thai cuisine food, icy-cold draught beer and wine by than 50 countries, Baskin Robbins is Northern and Southern Indian cuisine

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 65 including curries, naan and tandoris. with the edges softened for a global heart of Phu My Hung. Relaxing outdoor An Phu Supermarket S9-1 Block R13, Bui Bang Doan, D7 palate unused to the extremes of Thai saloon featuring inexpensive Spanish Large supermarket stocking a wide 5410 1989 style cooking. Averaging from 40,000 tapas and small plates from gourmet range well-known international brands VND to 200,000 VND per dish, its price ingredients. Affordable selection of of dry goods along with fresh groceries, Bollywood can't be beat for the same quality and Spanish & French wines. frozen meat and fish, fresh fruit and Complete North & South Indian deliciousness. 137 SB-02 Khu My Phat, Nguyen Duc vegetables, cheese, wine, toiletries and Cuisine. Special & Tandoori 105 Ton Dat Tien, D7 Canh, D7 more Dishes. Parties, Events & catering 5412 4641, 3pm - midnight 43 Thao Dien, D2 service available, Daily Lunch tiffin and VIETNAMESE www.facebook.com/elcaminovietnam Set menus. Classic Fine Foods Free Delivery (All Phu My Hung) Co Ba Vung Tau El Gaucho Supplier of international brand foodstuff 22131481 - 22450096 Co Ba Vung Tau is a chain of traditional El Gaucho Argentinian Steakhouse is like Illy, Valrhona, Bonne Maman along 0938069433 Vietnamese restaurants serving up an international chain of restaurants with fresh vegetables, dairy, and meat. Hotline: 0906357442(English) their famous banh khot amongst serving authentic Argentinian cuisine No. 17, Street 12, D2 [email protected] an extensive menu of affordable in a space reflecting modern yet rustic www.classicfinefoods.com facebook: bollywoodvietnamindiancuisine Vietnamese food. decor, giving it an inviting ambiance and (for complete menu) R1-72 Hung Gia 1, Bui Bang Doan, D7 genuine atmosphere. Le Cochon D’or 5410 2027 Spice India Unit CR1-12, The Crescent, D7 LeCochon D’or shop sells European 3825 1879 and International meat that include ham, Spice India offers a wide range of Com Tam Ba Son www.elgaucho.com.vn sausages, pate, terrine, and smoked dishes that cater to any pallette. Enjoy Com Tam Ba Son, Ba Son offers specialties. A taste of home, because your curry with a side of Bollywood. authentic Vietnamese broken rice Harry Casual you and your taste buds deserve it! S6-1 Bui Bang Doan, Hung Vuong 3, D7 (BBQ) and hu tieu sadec. The 35 year A sports bar, with pool tables, dart Customizes service available including 093 841 6551 old recipes are handed down for more boards and satellite sport. There is also door-to-door delivery. www.namaste-india.com.vn than 3 generations. It serves breakfast, live music and a wide food and drink 64 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 lunch and dinner. menu to choose from. 3829 3856 ITALIAN SB10-1 Nguyen Luong Bang, Nam Khang, R1/49, Hung Gia 3, Tan Phong Ward, D7 8am – 7pm Phu My Hung, Q7 La Cucina 5413 3122 Le Taj Metro

Le Taj offers French cuisine and features Wholesale suppliers of foodstuff, office La Cucina has opened on Crescent ASIAN a luxury atmosphere of black and white supplies, furniture, clothes and more. Promenade in Phu My Hung, with design. Besides a wide variety of menu Entry is reserved for business owners an open-plan kitchen that can Cham Charm choices, Le Taj brings you to the ultimate only but foreigners can obtain a one- accommodate 180 diners. Enjoy luxury appetite garnished with 24k gold day pass by showing their passports. top-end dining featuring the best of Charm is more like a museum than a leaf. Le Taj also impresses its guests Residential An Phu, An Khanh Ward 2 Italian cuisine and a wide selection of dining venue, filled with the artefacts and with a large wine cellar featuring 150 imported seafood, prepared from the sculpture of the Champa people and types of international wine that adds to Veggy’s freshest ingredients, in a relaxed, rustic with gorgeous artworks and colourful the dining and entertainment variety. atmosphere. hangings on the walls. The upstairs area is A specialized grocery store carrying 06 Phan Van Chuong, D7 Reviewed in Oi April 2013 a wide-open terrace with plenty of tables imported products, Veggy’s offers 090 535 0221 a wide range of international food Block 07-08 CR1-07, 103 Ton Dat Tien, D7 for a more relaxing atmosphere. The 5413 7932 cuisine is pan-Asian. imported from abroad and fresh Scott & Binh’s Restaurant Oi’s Pick 2 Phan Van Chuong, D7 produce grown in Vietnam. Sarpino’s This unassuming little bistro is making S54-1 Sky Garden 2, Pham Van Nghi, D7 big waves with visitors to the city and WESTERN/INTERNATIONAL resident expats alike. With a menu replete Sarpino’s Pizzeria serves authentic with tasty sandwiches, burgers, pasta, and wine & liquor Italian pizzas as well as other Italian Berru Oi’s Pick various other international dishes, this is dishes such as oven-baked pasta, Berru is a family-run Turkish restaurant an ideal guilty hideaway from Vietnamese baked rice, wraps and salad, all at offering a variety of Turkish specialties Bacchus Corner cuisine for just one meal at least. reasonable prices. on the menu including kebabs, , Bachhus imports from most of the 15-17 Cao Trieu Phat, D7 3SI 12-1 Grandview, Nguyen Cao Nam, D7 mezzes and soups. This is one of the world’s wine regions and supplies wholesale and retail customers. It www.sarpinos.vn few halal restaurants that imports all of VIVA! Tapas Bar & Grill their halal meat. encourages wine tasting in its Pasteur Specializes in tapas dishes like Salt & Pepper Italian Restaurant SC 3-1 Nguyen Luong Bang, Nam Khang, store using the unique Enomatic Albondigas (meatballs in tomato Located in the modern confines of The Phu My Hung, D7 system, and staff are skilled in advising Crescent, this contemporary-styled sauce) and Gambas pil-pil (spicy chilli on wine matches with food. Italian restaurant and pizzeria has an Boomarang Bistro Saigon shrimp), priced individually at less than 158D Pasteur, D1 open kitchen and an outdoor terrace Located in The Crescent by the VND50,000 per plate. The restaurant is area. Serving up a range of pan-Italian Crescent lake, the spacious Boomarang furnished in an eclectic style, from the Beer Plaza cuisine, the menu includes a selection Bistro Saigon serves Australian modern blue glass and stainless steel Beer Plaza has an extensive range of salads, pastas, main courses, pizzas and other Western food in the most bar, to the traditional wine barrels that of international beers in stock. and desserts, all at affordable prices. pedestrian friendly part of town. serve as tables. Connoisseurs will be pleased to find all 103 Ton Dat Tien, D7 107 Ton Dat Tien, D7 R4-28 Hung Gia 4, Tan Phong, Phu My of their favorite varieties of beer along 5412 4848 3841 3883 Hung, D7 with unique glassware. www.saltpepper.com.vn www.boomarang.com.vn 5410 6721 94-96 Le Lai, D1

JAPANESE Britz Bistro Boutique Cellar A brainchild of Brett Taylor-Holmes supermarkets All about wine, lots and lots of Osaka Ramen and Robert Easson and specializes in wine. Priding itself in being the sole This sleek, open-kitchen contemporary ‘British food with a twist’. Menu includes 100% distributors of premium wineries around eatery serves up pasta, soups, gourmet burgers, pies, 100% Alimentation.Generale.De.Qualite the world. starting from VND78,000. There are curries, baguettes, drinks and more. is the latest high-end grocery store to 11 Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 also set menus, individual dishes and a Opens daily except Mondays. grace the streets of An phu. With a rustic range of smaller, appetizing sides. 70 So 7, Phu My Hung, D7 charm 100% provides customers with Shop Thai Duong SD04, LO H29-2, My Phat Residential 3785 3373 100% safe, natural and local products all Beer, wine, & spirits importers. Complex, D7 [email protected] sourced and manufactured in Vietnam. Previously known as Tan Mai. The shop only offers products that reach 54 Ham Nghi, D1 THAI Deutsches Eck / German Corner international food safety requirements The six month old restaurant is fast and runs food events at the store. All The Warehouse Nathalie's Phu My Hung becoming known for its sausage, products are available to order online at A premium wine importer, distributor, beer, and their Schweins Haxe or pork www.100percent.vn.com. and retailer supplying wines from Nathalie's Phu My Hung is situated in an knuckles (served with white cabbage 26b Thao Dien, D2 all over the world, the Warehouse ideal location on a central corner in the and mashed potatoes). A number of also offers spirits, wine accessories, district 7 high-profile metropolitan area. German beer to select from including Annam Gourmet glassware and refrigeration to Serving delicious Thai cuisine in charming Bitburger, Koestritzer Black Beer, An upscale deli and grocery chain complement their customers’ ats

and romantic surroundings, the restaurant Benediktiner Weisse, HB-Hofbrau offering gourmet groceries, cheese, choices. te xp has two floors with a unified, simple decor Weisse, Schwarzbrau Exquisit, and organic products, gluten -free products, 15/5 Le Thanh Ton, D1 and warm colourful tones throughout. Schwarzbrau Weisse. fruit and vegetables, gourmet deli, wine S9 Hung Vuong 3 Apartments, D7 A001 Nguyen Van Linh St., Phu My Hung, and other beverages. All locations, in Vinifera 5410 0822 D7 District 1, 2 and 7, have a coffee lounge Established in 2002, Vinifera is one www.nathaliesrestaurant.com 54106695 that serves breakfast, lunch, drinks and of the most reliable wine distribution early dinner. companies in Vietnam.Offering Thai Express- Crescent Plaza El Camino 41A Thao Dien street. D2. 3744 2630 prestigious wines from around the Thai Express's interpretation of Thai SB2-1 My Khanh 4,Nguyen Duc Canh, D7 world at a a great value. food exhibits the best of the cuisine but A small bar & restaurant situated in the 16-18 Hai Ba Trung, D1 15C7 Thi Sach, D1 Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 66 Travel & Leisure Image by MEAGAN ALBIN

Steinway Factory Queens, New York GREAT ESCAPES: queens, new york The Queens of New York Founded over 350 years ago, Astoria is one of New York City's most historic and diverse neighborhoods Text BY kendra granniss image by sk y image Hell's Gate Bridge

Flashing neon lights and giant on the corner. Someone in an apartment on at outdoor cafes chatting in their own billboards that assault the eyes, theater 38th Street practices his saxophone every language with a smoking pipe in one hand marquees that trump the latest Broadway day at 6pm as I walk home from work. and a newspaper in the other, and teenagers hits and a cacophony of taxi horns, shouting Independently-owned shops, bodegas, and sitting on the steps of their brownstones or hawkers and excited tourists – this is Times restaurants that serve some of the best playing on the streets, enjoying the summer Square and what most people picture when food in New York City dot the area. I can break from school. they think of New York City. And it’s also satisfy any good craving without going far; where most people choose to spend a lot of on the streets vendors sell everything from A Historic Walk their time while visiting the City That Never and halal food to Italian ices and Don’t let this quaint neighborhood fool you: Sleeps. However, the ‘real’ New York City - a sliced mango. there is plenty to do in Astoria. Explore melting pot of different cultures, food and art Astoria is a true example of a melting pot. the area around , - is far from the several blocks that surround Its population mainly comprises Greeks, but where shows such as Orange Is the New 42nd Street. also has influence from other cultures such Black and Sesame Street are filmed. The My home, and my favorite little piece of as Asians, South Americans and Italians. studio was opened in 1920 by the Famous the real New York, is Astoria. Because of the Second World War, Astoria Players-Lasky Corporation, and shortly Astoria (located in Queens, one of the five was initially made up of Italians. After after, the first two Marx Brothers films boroughs that make up New York City) is a 1965, Greek residents quickly started to were made there. Next to the studios, take quiet neighborhood 20 minutes from Times inhabit the area. Traditional neighborhoods a journey through the history of film at Square heading northeast on the subway. As include Dominican, Indian, Ecuadorian, the Museum of the Moving Image (www. I exit the station there are no skyscrapers in Korean, Romanian, Chinese, Filipino and movingimage.us). Throughout the year, sight, instead the streets are lined with family Columbian immigrants. Many of them came the museum has many unique films and brownstones. I spot parents walking their to Astoria because this community offered exhibitions. The exhibition currently children to the public playground or buying a low cost of living. In the summer, I often running through January 2015 is What’s them soft serve ice cream from the truck pass by groups of Greek men congregating Up, Doc? The Animation Art of Chuck Jones

68 “Given the choice, I would stay in the calm streets of my neighborhood, Astoria, and enjoy a delicious meal with friendly people ov sk y and a fantastic view of the city.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Arthur Ashe Stadium, New York World's Fair Unisphere In Flushing Meadows

k s by L e o na r d Zhu image Park, Mural art in Astoria section in Queens

about the man who created Bugs Bunny and garden is a traditional Greek restaurant that the space was a garbage dumping ground. Daffy Duck. actually has locals leaving their other four In The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald Strolling towards the river, boroughs (and if you know New Yorkers described the area as a “valley of ashes”. But sits nestled in the northwest corner of the that is a hard feat to accomplish) to dine at. those ashes evolved into a beautiful green borough between the Triborough Bridge Taverna Kyclades (www.tavernakyclades. space embedded with history. The 1939 and the Hell's Gate Bridge. The view from com) is a cash-only place that takes no and 1964 World’s Fairs were held here. The this part of Astoria is my favorite - across reservations, but the food is worth the long Unisphere and several other structures built the East River the skyscrapers of Manhattan wait to get seated. I will walk a mile from my for the fairs still stand today. look like toys. During the warmer months, house just for their appetizers. The thought of While there, don't be surprised if you it is not uncommon to hear bands playing their stuffed grape leaves and spinach pie are suddenly find that you're in the center of on the bandstand in the center of the green. enough to make me salivate. an excited crowd. Sports fans often have to Astorians bring their blankets and have After a hearty meal at Taverna Kyclades, make their way through Flushing Meadows- picnics, or set up lawn chairs by the water to I like to walk by one of Astoria’s historic Corona Park because it is home to the USTA watch the barges crawl by. buildings - the Steinway & Sons piano Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, Past the bandstand, up a grassy hill, is factory, built in the late 1800s, and still in use currently where the US Open is held, and to the historic Astoria public pool. Originally today. Steinway pianos are handmade and the Mets' Citi Field. You can join them, or you built for qualifying events for the Summer take almost a year each to build, comprising can take a stroll along the lake and stop by Olympics in 1936 and 1964 by Robert Moses more than 12,000 parts. They are considered the Queens Museum, the New York Hall of (who played a large role in shaping the the best in the world. The factory sits only a Science or the Queens Wildlife Center. physical environment of New York State), it few blocks away from the Steinway Mansion, Perhaps after a refreshing break from is now the oldest and largest public pool in which was purchased in 1870 by the downtown Manhattan, you may be ready to New York City. Steinway family and used as their summer go back to the hustle and bustle. If not, you Astoria is also home to the oldest beer home for 50 years. are welcome to stay to explore other parts of garden in the city. After a long walk through If you're in need of a break and a few Queens. Given the choice, I would stay in the the park, stop in at Bohemian Hall & Beer more beers, stop in at SingleCut Beersmiths calm streets of my neighborhood, Astoria, Garden (www.bohemianhall.com) for an ice- (www.singlecutbeer.com). Take a free and enjoy a delicious meal with friendly cold beer. The beer garden, built in 1910, is 15-minute tour of the brewery before people and a fantastic view of the city. owned by the Bohemian Citizens' Benevolent enjoying a pint in their taproom. All of their Society - a society formed in 1892 made up beers are brewed locally and named after Bio: Kendra Granniss is a travel writer of people of Czech and Slovak descent. At their favorite musicians. currently based in Astoria, New York. She is night, the long wooden tables are filled with Only a short subway ride away, just taking a hiatus from the city of her dreams the young and old, natives and newcomers outside of Astoria, is Flushing Meadows- starting next year to explore the world. Visit mingling together. Corona Park, the second largest park in New kendratheescapologist.com to read more And a stone’s throw away from the beer York City. Before its reincarnation as a park, about her travels.

69 LIFE'S A TRIP

Travel Hacking 101: Credit Cards Having visited nearly 60 countries as a travel writer and award-winning photographer, James Pham Tips for cheap (or free!) travel blogs about his adventures at FlyIcarusFly.com

Who doesn’t want to travel for free advantage of credit card promotions of person accumulating hundreds of (or at least very cheaply)? Welcome to ― basically a bonus for opening up an thousands or even a million miles or the world of travel hacking, a worldwide account and meeting a minimum spend more a year, you won’t flinch at a fee community of people dedicated to without ever having to travel anywhere. of a few hundred dollars for a card that maximizing the value of every resource First of all, this works mainly for US typically comes with other perks as well, (be it time or money) with the goal of residents (and to a much lesser extent, for instance airline lounge membership getting the best flight, hotel room, rental Canadians, Brits and Australians). This and free checked bags. car or upgrade legally possible. While is simply due to the huge number of Travel hackers take this one step some in the community object to the banks competing for your business. further by opening up multiple cards. word “hacking” because it implies doing How it works is banks will buy frequent I’ve seen people open up one each for something shady or illegal, it’s become flier points from airlines and use them a personal Visa and MasterCard and a common enough term for working the as incentives to open up a credit card. then another two for ‘business’ use. system. If you’ve never travel hacked Sign up, spend, say USD3,000 in the first To get around the condition that you before, prepare to have your mind blown three months and bam! 50,000 free miles, can’t already have a rewards card with at how creative some people can get in enough for two free domestic tickets. that same bank, some will open up the name of free travel. Pretty simple, right? The best offer applications in four different browser I’ve seen is somewhere around 100,000 tabs (or use different browsers all The Credit Card Game frequent flyer points for a USD10,000 together), pre-fill them out and then click Far and away the fastest and easiest spend, but with an annual fee of USD450. “submit” all at the same time so that the way to rack up travel points is by taking However, chances are if you’re the type system doesn’t flag that you’ve already

70 TRAVEL Column

applied for a credit card. Don’t own a business? No problem. Just enter your “While the credit card route is the social security number instead of a tax fastest way to rack up miles, it ID number. Meet the spend limit for all four cards and within a few months, obviously isn’t for everyone. And some that’s 200,000 miles in your account, enough for an around the world ticket of the methods required to maximize or two. (And if you find a better offer within 60 days of opening your card, your rewards, while not quite illegal, remember to call and ask the bank to match the bonus.) may cross the ethical line for some” Travel reward cards aren’t always points, though. My Marriott card comes with no foreign transaction fees, free Silver Elite benefits (like free internet and priority late checkout) and offers one free night per year. It does have an annual fee of USD65, but when I saw my beautiful room on the 34th floor of the brand new Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit last month in Bangkok, it certainly felt worth the fee and then some. The Churn Basically credit card churning is opening a card, collecting the enrollment or activation bonus, closing the card, and then reapplying for the same card. Lather, rinse, repeat. This is best for people with very good credit scores (as your rating takes a hit every time you apply for / close a card) and for people who manage their money well (i.e. can keep track of multiple cards and who don’t carry a balance from month to month, as paying interest on a credit card violates the spirit of travel hacking). Churning requires a fine balance of knowing when to repeat the cycle. Back in the day, one bank was famous for allowing new applications once every 60 days. At one point, I was probably juggling 7-10 different active credit cards. Nowadays, banks have made churning more difficult by increasing the amount of time required between applications, anywhere from 90 days to 18 months. Fortunately, the close-knit community of travel hackers but decided it felt a bit too shady for me. including mileage and mattress runs and often posts their own experiences of This loophole has long since been closed, fat finger fares. how long it took them to get a specific so nowadays, manufactured spending can card approved, providing real-time data mean using your credit card to buy store In the meantime, check out these sites for others. gift cards then purchasing something for some more travel hacking tips. and selecting the option to receive cash Manufactured Spending back using your gift / debit card. US ● www.flyertalk.com So, now that you’ve got four brand new residents can also use Amazon Payments ● www.thepointsguy.com credit cards, you’ll need to meet the ― basically paying a friend into his / ● www.millionmilesecrets.com minimum spending amount to reap your her Amazon account (which counts as a ● www.boardingarea.com rewards. The problem is most people purchase if you say you’re paying them can’t spend that much within the time for goods or services), then have them Just remember to do a lot of reading limit without buying things they don’t transfer the money to their bank account, before you post anything, as these need or want. Enter “manufactured withdraw it and give it back to you. communities are mainly made up of spending,” described by some as a legal While the credit card route is people who take travel hacking very way to launder money. One example was the fastest way to rack up miles, it seriously and devote hours and hours using your credit card to buy US coins obviously isn’t for everyone. And some to keeping up with the latest deals from the US Mint (for face value, and at of the methods required to maximize and ‘tricks.’ They have their own lingo the time, counted as a purchase, not as your rewards, while not quite illegal, and typically have little patience for a cash advance) and then depositing the may cross the ethical line for some. wide-eyed newbies who jump into the coins into your bank account to repay the Next month, I’ll talk about some fray uninformed. Enjoy, but consider credit card bill. I actually did this once, more ‘benign’ ways of travel hacking yourself warned! POSTCARDS FROM VIETNAM

A Dyeing Art Bridget March is a professional artist and author of A Week in Hoi An. Currently she is the artist in residence at Sapa The making of H’mong batik Rooms Hotel and Art Cafe in Sapa. Bridget is working on a project called Art for Community that will provide a sustainable income for the school in the poorest district in Sapa. She is also offering art classes and sketching tours in her Sapa studio until mid September. For more of Bridget’s work including news of her upcoming book visit bridgetmarch.co.uk. GET YOUR MESSAGE ACROSS

IS YOUR BRAND IDENTITY DRIFTING OUT TO SEA? t i on BY B ri d g et M a r c h Metro Solutions is a team of foreign and Vietnamese specialists assisting foreign i llustr a companies in presenting a compelling and professional image to local and/or international consumers. With a proven track record for international-quality professional Up in the misty mountains of the dyeing involved in making one skirt. elements of their lives. Stylized symbols Lao Cai district in northern Vietnam, First the women prepare the land to sow of mountains, houses, family, fences, communications, Metro Solutions delivers complete media packages for businesses and H'mong women in the Sapa area have with hemp seeds and separate plots are leaf fronds, seeds, snails and freshwater individuals across Asia and beyond. perfected a technique for making deep, sown with Indigo plants from which crabs make up most of their designs. A rich, blue hemp textiles decorated they extract the gorgeous blue dye. Six three to four meter length skirt of fabric with intricate designs. These fabrics months later they harvest the hemp represents weeks of work. have been produced for generations plants. It is the fibers of the bark on When the entire length has been * Incisive PR copy and the first time you see them, they these long, straight stems that is stripped decorated with wax, it is time to dye the are fascinating for their unusual and spun into yarn for weaving. The cloth. The dye is prepared by soaking * Successful online marketing campaigns dimensions, color and tiny repeating H'mong women carry hanks of hemp indigo stems and leaves in wooden vats * High-response social media packages geometric patterns. which they strip and twist all day long. of water. The sap leeches out of the * Lucid and engaging copywriting work These narrow lengths of material As you trek through the beautiful plant turning the water deep turquoise are handcrafted by women and girls to villages of the Muong Hoa valley, you and petrol blue. The liquid ferments and METRO * Media-savvy blogs and online articles turn into panels for their pleated skirts. can see simple wooden looms through exposure to air turns it to the deep blue, * Error-free print publishing Traditionally, depending on their means, doorways or in some of the craft once known as Blue Gold that was used as * Promotional eBooks for businesses a mother would give her daughter one workshops. They weave the hemp yarn the original coloring for denim jeans. Each SOLUTIONS * Personal publishing projects or more skirts as a wedding gift. One into narrow strips of honey beige fabric length of fabric is dipped, dyed and dried of these skirts would even be kept and which is then washed many times to 15 times to achieve the deepest blues. * Ghostwriting in all styles worn at the girl's funeral. Some H'mong make it soft and then pressed to provide Finally, the fabric is boiled in water * Gorgeous photographic assignments wear their skirts every day and some, a smooth surface for 'printing' with to remove the wax. The dye cannot like the Black H'mong, save them for beeswax. penetrate wax so the resulting fabric is ceremonies and feasts. In Loa Chai, there is a batik workshop deep blue with white patterning. Some It takes months to make one length of in a traditional pole house where you are trying to preserve this craft but I fear www.metrosolutions.asia hemp batik. The price charged by local can watch women applying the hot wax it may not survive more than another women doesn't begin to reflect the hours to 'print' designs onto the hemp. The generation. It may, literally, be a dying of cultivation, weaving, printing and motifs they use represent some of the art and craft. Contact: Kate Tu 091 800 7160 l 08 3943 4223

72 GET YOUR MESSAGE ACROSS

IS YOUR BRAND IDENTITY DRIFTING OUT TO SEA?

Metro Solutions is a team of foreign and Vietnamese specialists assisting foreign companies in presenting a compelling and professional image to local and/or international consumers. With a proven track record for international-quality professional communications, Metro Solutions delivers complete media packages for businesses and individuals across Asia and beyond.

* Incisive PR copy * Successful online marketing campaigns * High-response social media packages * Lucid and engaging copywriting work METRO * Media-savvy blogs and online articles * Error-free print publishing SOLUTIONS * Promotional eBooks for businesses * Personal publishing projects * Ghostwriting in all styles * Gorgeous photographic assignments www.metrosolutions.asia

Contact: Kate Tu 091 800 7160 l 08 3943 4223

73 The List

Atexpats is Ho Chi Minh City's first truly Travel & Leisure comprehensive insider's guide for foreign residents

Ibis Hotel Saigon South graceful colonial properties, and historic River, and providing a unique culinary hotels The 3-star Ibis Hotel Saigon South is places to stay, it is perhaps most experience with many options for fine located in front of Saigon Exhibition and famous as the location where much of dining. HO CHI MINH CITY Convention Centre and only 15 minutes Graham Greene’s The Quiet American 2A-4A Ton Duc Thang, D 1 from the city centre. It features 140 was written in room 214. 3823 3333 TWO STAR rooms with free Wifi internet access, a 132-134 Dong Khoi, D 1 www.legendsaigon.com restaurant/bar and 3 meeting rooms. 3829 9201 Bali Hotel There is a free Ibis shuttle available to www.continentalsaigon.com Majestic Saigon Ideally-located for attendees to and from the hotel to major corporate any exhibitions held at the Saigon offices and the city centre. Norfolk Hotel One of HCMC’s oldest and most Exhibition and Convention Centre, Bali 73 Hoang Van Thai, D7 characteristic hotels, the Majestic on Boutique is flash and modern in style - www.ibis.com Chic, warm exterior with boutique the Saigon River with its grand French with a little touch of the plush thrown in charms within, this property is an ideal architecture is just a few steps away for good measure. Sunland Hotels escape for business travellers from the from Saigon’s premiere attractions. 39 - 41 Hung Phuoc Villas, D 7 Located about 35 minutes from Tan plasticity of chain hotels. 01 Dong Khoi, D 1 54104747 Son Nhat Airport, Sunland is a three star 117 Le Thanh Ton, D 1 3829 5517 hotel with 90 rooms and suites. The 3829 3415 www.majesticsaigon.com.vn Cat Huy Hotel hotel also comprise a Sky Bar and Sun www.norfolkhotel.com.vn Cat Huy is the best-kept secret of Coffee Lounge. Moevenpick Hotel Saigon the backpacker district, located in a 302-304 Vo Van Kiet, D1 Novotel Saigon Centre peaceful and very local-looking alley 9922 3833 An international hotel chain with Swiss close to the downtown area of Ho Chi www.sunlandhotel.vn One of HCMC’s newest hotels, Novotel roots, this comfortable hotel caters to Minh City, but culturally part of deep is located on busy Hai Ba Trung St, just both businesspeople and families with suburban Saigon. Tan Hai Long Hotel & Spa within walking distance of downtown fine dining options, a fitness centre, and 353/28, Pham Ngu Lao, D 1 Three-star Tan Hai Long Hotel offers attractions. It’s everything you’d expect multiple conference rooms. 39208717 106 rooms and suites, all boasting a from the international brand with 253 Nguyen Van Troi Apartments, Phu view of the city and Ben Thanh Market. 24-seven guest services and a broad Nhuan THREE STAR Its conference room can accommodate dining offer. 3844 9222 up to 110 people with modern facilities. 167 Hai Ba Trung, D 1 www.moevenpick-hotels.com EMM Hotel Saigon It also houses two dining venues, the 3822 4866 The 56 air-conditioned guestrooms La Terrasse Restaurant and L’emotion www.novotel.com New World Saigon Hotel at EMM Hotel Saigon include laptop- Lounge Bar & Coffee. Oi’s Pick compatible safes and minibars. 14-16 Le Lai, D1 Park Royal Saigon Hotel One of the most impressive business Complimentary wireless and wired www.tanhailonghotel.com.vn hotels in Ho Chi Minh City, with high-speed Internet access and in-room 3827 2738 Park Royal Saigon Hotel is an ideally stunning views and 5 star amenities. refrigerators are provided. 32-inch LED placed conference hotel which caters 533 luxury rooms and suites offering TVs are equipped with premium cable FOUR STAR to all MICE needs. The hotel offers a the perfect ambience for concentrated channels. All accommodations provide wide array of banquet services and can work and undisturbed relaxation. desks, safes, and direct-dial phones. Hotel Continental Saigon accommodate 30 to 300 guests. 76 Le Lai, D 1 157 Pasteur, D3 309B-311 Nguyen Van Troi, Tan Binh 3822 8888 01663221322 One of Saigon’s oldest hotels, most www.parkroyalhotels.com [email protected] www.saigon.newworldhotels.com FIVE STAR Nikko Saigon Caravelle Hotel One of the city’s newest Part of the city’s modern history since accommodation jewels, this lavish hotel 1959, few properties in Saigon are quite is designed to make the maximum as iconic. A major center for foreign impression of austere Japanese-style correspondents during the war, it has class from the lobby upwards. This is emerged as a plush and vibrant luxury one of the most luxurious hotels in hotel in the present era. HCMC, with classic, precise and elegant Caravelle Hotel is one of the city’s decor. classiest icons and represents a 235 Nguyen Van Cu, D 1 true slice of Saigon’s history while 3925 7777 remaining one of its most luxurious www.hotelnikkosaigon.com.vn places to stay. 19 Lam Son Square, D 1 Park Hyatt Saigon 3823 4999 www.caravellehotel.com Without a doubt the city’s most luxurious hotel, Park Hyatt Saigon Equatorial Ho Chi Minh City features French colonial inspired rooms, two award-winning restaurants, An international hotel located where the an outdoor pool and a stylish borders of the city’s four main districts contemporary bar. The exterior is the meet. The city’s major commercial and result of meticulous research into the entertainment area is only an 8-minute colonial architecture of the region. drive away. 2 Lam Son Square, D 1 242 Tran Binh Trong, D 5 3824 1234 38397777 www.saigon.park.hyatt.com www.equatorial.com/hcm Pullman InterContinental Asiana Saigon Oi’s Pick The 306-room hotel features a Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh contemporary design, a wide range of City, the InterContinental Asiana technological facilities, four bars and Saigon is dedicated to providing restaurants and five meeting venues. local, authentic, and enriching travel Offers signature services including experiences. Decorated in tasteful Welcomer, optimal connectivity with the oriental flair, the hotel is dedicated to Connectivity by Pullman concept (free representing the charms of Asia and high-speed wifi throughout the hotel, evokes the mystique of this beautiful Quadriga’s Personal Media Network continent and its cultures. Right next to mobile application), the Co-Meeting Saigon’s key landmarks, this hotel is offer for business event and functions

ideally placed for high-class travellers and Fit and Spa Lounge by Pullman. ats and groups seeking a high standard of 148 Tran Hung Dao, D1 accommodation. Full MICE areas and te xp facilities are on-site. Renaissance Riverside Hotel Corner Hai Ba Trung & Le Duan, D1 3520 9999 A five-star hotel located in the heart of [email protected] Saigon’s business and entertainment www.intercontinental.com/saigon district. The hotel's 336 rooms and suites offer an incredible view of the Lotte Legend Hotel Saigon Saigon River as well as over the city. Each guest room is designed and Classic hotel offering 5 star amenities furnished with discerning business

along with a scenic view of the Saigon and leisure travelers in mind. Choose Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A

74 a deluxe room or suite with large desk Blue Moon Hotel & Spa HALONG BAY HUE and ample lighting, in-room coffee and tea service, high speed internet, safe, Located in the heart of breathtaking Dalat, Novotel Halong Bay Ana Mandara Hue well-stocked mini-bar as well as the jack the Blue Moon Resort & Spa is designed bag (connectivity kit). to complement the natural beauty of the A glimpse into contemporary Vietnam Located a scenic 15km drive from 8-15 Ton Duc Thang, D1 "City of Eternal Spring.” Built opposite with echoes of the country’s intricate central Hue, this is spacious resort with 3822 0033 the popular and tranquil Xuan Huong past through its elegant interior décor. the largest villas and rooms in the area. www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/sgnbr- Lake, Blue Moon is centrally located and Sturdy polished stone, glass and The property includes private pool villas, renaissance-riverside-hotel-saigon convenient to Dalat's eating, shopping marble stand against the delicate beach villas, duplex and deluxe rooms Rex Hotel Saigon and entertainment spots.Much more Asian textures of silk, wickerwork and in a wide range of styles and decor than just a comfortable night’s sleep, carved wood. With sweeping windows designed with complete and modern Blue Moon Resort & Spa invites you to and large mirrors, the hotel captures Rex Hotel has consistently won awards facilities. experience true hospitality. panoramic views of Halong Bay and its An Hai Village, Thuan An Town, Hue Phu for being one of the best hotels in 4 Phan Boi Chau, Dalat 67, Vietnam spectacular seascapes at every turn. Vang Asia. Impeccable dining options, great www.bluemoonhotel.com.vn/bluemoon2 Ha Long Road, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City location, and 5 star amenities make this [email protected] recently refurbished hotel a preferred Dalat Edensee Lake Resort & Spa La Residence Hotel & Spa destination for travellers with generous TUAN CHAU RESORT budgets. Dalat Edensee Lake Resort & Spa This former French Governor’s residence dates to 1930 and is a 141, Nguyen Hue, Ben Nghe, D 1 is perched on an idyllic location Tuan Chau Resort is constructed in the 38292185 masterpiece of art deco design. Its overlooking Tuyen Lam lake and gently style of classical French and modern www.rexhotelvietnam.com incredible location overlooking the undulating hills. It has four categories Vietnamese architecture. This is the of rooms, including VIP villas, all with Citadel and the Perfume River brings ideal place to find white sands, blue Saigon Domaine Luxury Residences stunningly furnished rooms, spacious this 122-room hotel a total and serene Oi’s Pick balconies offering sweeping mountain ocean, and the rejuvenative energy of tranquillity. The hotel features a 40m the Vietnamese tropical sun. High-class getaway hotel located and/or lake view, and subtle finishing outdoor salt swimming pool at river Tuan Chau Island, Ha Long City out of the city centre on exotic Thanh touches. height giving the illusion of merging Da Island, allowing guests to escape Tuyen Lam Lake, Zone VII.2, Dalat HANOI into the Perfume River. Ideal for from the chaos of the city life while (063) 383 1515 executive retreats and exotic incentives remaining close to the action. www.dalatedensee.com Hilton Hanoi Opera programmes. More hotel than apartment complex, 5 Le Loi, Hue The Domaine’s private residences are Dalat Green City Hotel Oi’s Pick classic and luxurious, making the most Budget hotel in the center of Dalat. Five This landmark of Hanoi was inspired NHA TRANG of the natural surroundings. minutes from most major attractions by the famous Opera House located in Dalat. Newly refurbished. Beautiful nearby. A hotel of great beauty and 1057 Binh Quoi, Binh Thanh Evason Ana Mandara mountain and city views from the rooftop. luxury, the Hilton stands in the city’s 3556 1145 The exclusive location affords city- www.saigondomaine.com Features free WIFI, TV, bar in all fashionable and elegant French rooms. Coffee shop downstairs. Airport Quarter, and is within close range of centre access to Nha Trang’s only beachfront resort. It is surrounded Sheraton Saigon Hotel And Towers pickup by private car. Motorbike rental. the charming Old Quarter and bustling Tour information. Laundry. Computers in Business District. by private tropical gardens, offering Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh lobby for public use. 1 Le Thanh Tong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi simplicity, serenity and refinement City vibrant business and entertainment 172 Phan Dinh Phung, Dalat together with spectacular views of Nha district, Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers (063) 3827 999 Intercontinental Westlake Trang Bay. Unforgettable incentive is a 5 star haven of convenience, www.dalatgreencityhotel.com experience. connecting guests with colleagues and Superbly situated on the serene waters Beachside Tran Phu Boulevard, Nha Trang friends. Dalat Train Villa & Cafe Oi’s Pick of Hanoi’s West Lake and adjacent 88 Dong Khoi, D 1 Located near the Dalat Train Station, the to the famous 800-year-old Golden Mia Nha Trang 3827 2828 Dalat Train Villa is for short or long staying Lotus (Kim Lien) Pagoda. Conveniently Every one of the 50 rooms has a sea [email protected] guests. The villa is a restored 2-story located and yet able to offer a retreat view and each has its own private French colonial-era villa. Next to the villa from the hustle and bustle of downtown veranda, which offers the discerning Sofitel Saigon Plaza Hotel is a French train car, which has been Hanoi, the combination of spacious guest the option of experiencing a renovated into a bar/cafe/restaurant. luxurious accommodations, facilities, beach getaway in ultimate privacy. That The Sofitel Saigon Plaza is located Romantic venue. From the lake, take first and attentive Vietnamese hospitality has helped Mia Resort Nha Trang to gain in the city center, in the heart of the left after Dalat Train Station. make this the perfect place to stay numerous accolades including Finalist business district and close to Notre 1 Quang Trung St, Ward 9, Villa #3 for both the corporate and leisure of Best New Boutique Hotel In The Dame Cathedral and Reunification traveler. World; Runner up of Best Budget Hotel- Sofitel Dalat Palace Palace. 275 elegant rooms and 11 suites, 1a Nghi Tam Tay Ho, Hanoi The Smith Hotel Awards 2013; and the a swimming pool, and a fitness center. Certificate of Excellence 2012, 2013 and 17 Le Duan, D 1 Hotel Sofitel Dalat Palace is one of the most beautiful and amongst the few Sheraton Hanoi 2014 from TripAdvisor. 3824 1555 Bai Dong, Cam Hai Dong, Cam Lam [email protected] remaining historical hotels in Southeast Asia. Built in 1922 and meticulously Perfectly located by the shores of the www.mianhatrang.com www.sofitel.com/gb/hotel-2077-sofitel- largest lake in Hanoi and surrounded saigon-plaza/index.shtml restored in 1995 to its original grandeur, the Sofitel Dalat Palace offers by a beautifully landscaped garden Six Senses Ninh Van Bay Windsor Plaza individualized service in the finest and courtyard, the hotel provides the tradition of Vietnamese hospitality. perfect balance between tranquillity and The resort is one of Asia’s most 12 Tran Phu, Dalat convenience. exclusive and intimate beach escapes, Located in the heritage area of old 06 3382 5444 K5 Nghi Tam, 11 Xuan Dieu, Tay Ho, Hanoi Cholon, the Windsor offers authentic sitting on dramatic Ninh Van Bay, [email protected] Vietnamese and Chinese hospitality The Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi with its impressive rock formations with a mix of commercial, cultural, and overlooking the South China Sea, white DANANG Oi’s Pick sand beach and towering mountains retail experiences - and they put on a Features include 364 rooms and fine buffet. behind. Furama Resort Danang suites, excellent French cuisine at Le Ninh Van, Khanh Hoa 18 An Duong Vuong, D 5 Beaulieu, Vietnamese specialities at www.windsorplazahotel.com The Furama Resort enjoys a stunning Spices Garden, and Angelina - Hanoi's Sheraton Nha Trang beachfront location on one of most ""avant garde"" Italian Restaurant Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa offers CON DAO ISLAND Vietnam’s finest beaches, fringed by & Lounge. Seven function rooms, a ten categories of accommodation – natural pines and coconut palms. Two swimming pool, fitness centre and the Six Senses Con Dao four-storey wings overlook the ocean from spacious, deluxe rooms to 70m2 Le Spa du Metropole are also available executive suites and a huge presidential on one side and a freshwater swimming in the hotel. True to the Six Senses philosophy suite. With exemplary conference lagoon and manicured tropical gardens 15 Ngo Quyen, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi of selecting remote (but accessible) facilities, this is the number-one MICE on the others. [email protected] destinations in areas of outstanding Truong Sa, Ngu Hanh Son, Danang resort in the region. natural beauty, Con Dao is an HOI AN 26-28 Tran Phu, Nha Trang untouched and breathtakingly beautiful Fusion Maia 05 8388 0000 area. Con Dao has been built with the The Nam Hai very lightest ecological footprint, with It is the first all-pool villa- style resort PHAN THIET villas set up along a mile of sandy A stunning all-villa resort located on the in the destination and offers 87 pool pristine Ha My Beach featuring 60 one- beach, sheltered by the green forested suites, spa villas, and beach villas Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa hills behind and with stunning vistas bedroom retreats as well as 40 privately- each with modern, open-plan living owned two-to-five bedroom residences The new face of the former l’Anmien, of the deep blue sea and the curve of and private courtyard with swimming each with a private infinity pool. this resort offers an exclusive haven of the bay. pool. Customize-your-stay options and luxury and relaxation in a spectacular Dat Doc Beach, Con Dao, Con Son breakfast available at multiple locations Hamlet 1 Dien Duong Village, Dien Ban, Quang Nam beachfront location right in the heart of are a few of the surprising offers in Mui Ne. The only property in the Mui Ne DALAT store. district with full conferencing facilities Truong Sa, Ngu Hanh Son, Danang Boutique Hoi An Resort Oi’s Pick Ana Mandara Villas Dalat and a range of exclusive villas – and it has an impressive wine cellar. ats Pullman Danang Beach Resort Boutique Hoi An Resort offers 82 Ana Mandara Villas Dalat comprises rooms and villas, with all rooms facing Mui Ne te xp seventeen restored French-style villas Located on the stunning white sands the sea with private balconies. Other from the 1920's and 1930's, preserving of Bac My An beach, the friendly and facilities include spa with 3 treatment Muine Bay Resort the original design, décor and charm, is modern Pullman Danang Beach Resort rooms and 5 massage pavilions, fully- Located in the Mui Ne Bay and and set in the cool climate of the rural is an oasis of fun. It has 187 guest equipped gym, restaurant, lobby lounge overlooking the Hon Lao pristine island highlands of Central Vietnam. Striking rooms and cottages and offers warm and pool bar and conference facilities of blue sea, Muine Bay Resort includes views of the surrounding town and and genuine Vietnamese service. The accommodating 80 guests for dinner 103 rooms in 4-stars standard of which 32 countryside abound from all areas of resort is perfect for a family holiday or a functions and 130 guests for cocktail bungalows designed and inspired by the the gently sloping hillside property. romantic beach getaway parties. Cham Tower. Le Lai, Phuong 5, Dalat Vo Nguyen Giap, Khue My, Ngu Hanh Son Group 6, Block Tan Thinh, Ward Cam An, Khu pho 14, Mui Ne Ward , Phan Thiet www.anamandara-resort.com (0) 511 395 8888 Hoi An City www.muinebayresort.com

Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A (0) 63 3555 888 [email protected] www.boutiquehoianresort.com 0622220222

75 Veranda sports paddle fans, butter- theatres and VIP room. and high-class Cantonese restaurant. yellow exteriors, whitewashed louvers, Level 10, 60A Truong Son, Tan Binh 17-19-21, Ly Tu Trong, D 1 and tropical gardens recalling a colonial plantation. Freestanding deluxe villas Galaxy Somerset Ho Chi Minh City are notable for their sea-facing porches, Vietnamese cinema showing Designed with families in mind, it spacious bathrooms, and cathedral international and domestic films. provides relocating executives the ceilings. 116 Nguyen Du, D1 space and security to build a warm Tran Hung Dao, Duong Dong Beach and comfortable home. Friendly staff Ho Chi Minh Conservatory Of Music are always on hand to help with local Paris Beach Resort Oi’s Pick One of three conservatories in knowledge. You can join in a wide Owned and managed by a friendly and Vietnam, offering world class musical range of social, cultural and lifestyle hospitable French-Vietnamese woman education and performances. activities, especially designed to help and her French husband, the resort is Concerts at the local Ho Chi Minh City you integrate into the local culture. located about a 15-minute taxi ride from Music School. 8A Nguyen Binh Khiem, D1 Novela Muine the airport. It has an outdoor swimming 112 Nguyen Du, D1 3822 8899 Resort & Spa pool, a private beachfront, recreation room, www.somerset.com/vietnam A 150-meter bicycles and a restaurant serving local and IDECAF Drama Theatre beach resort that French food. Each room or bungalow has IDECAF is a theater holding French Somerset Chancellor Court offers luxurious air conditioning, a mini bar, cable TV and cultural exchanges as well as offering Each of these 172 spacious serviced free Wi-Fi. They also offer tours around courses in French. accommodations, apartments in District 1 is fully- the island. 31 Thai Van Lung, D1 furnished with an open kitchen concept, countless modern facilities and Cua Lap, Duong To, Phu Quoc amenities with attentive services. A contemporary western style décor, and Saigon Opera House a large balcony. private and unique space in the heart QUY NHON The Municipal Theater is a thriving of resort, Novela restaurant serves 21-23 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D 1 performance centre with regular 38229197 a daily breakfast, lunch, dinner and Life Wellness Resort Quy Nhon musical and cultural shows - any other banquet with Asian and A hide-away style spa and beach predominantly of the classical, high- Somerset Vista Ho Chi Minh City brow, and top-dollar variety. European cuisine. With two floors, destination set in 13.5 hectares of It has an extensive array of modern private mountainous land and beach. 7 Lam Son Square, D1 guests can enjoy wining and dining facilities and provides convenient and view the beautiful beach and The tranquillity, splendid views, Cham- inspired architecture and surroundings access to a hypermarket, international sand hill. serviced apartments schools, a medical clinic, retail outlets 96A Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Ham Tien are so far unmatched in Vietnam. . Ghenh Rang, Bai Dai Beach, Quy Nhon, and offices. Mui Ne, Phan Thiet 628C Hanoi Highway, D2 www.novelaresort.vn Binh Dinh Diamond Island Luxury Residences Diamond Island Luxury Residences 6255 9900 (62) 374 3456 Bai Tram Resort and Spa offers 68 fully-furnished apartments, www.somerset.com/vietnam Bai Tram is based on holistic ideals and ranging from two- to four-bedroom the search for environmental balance units with private balconies providing The Landmark Princess d’Annam embodying the trend towards seeing panoramic views of the stunning The Landmark features serviced ourselves, the natural world, and the surroundings. Each apartment comes apartments, offices, luxury dining, sports The two Empress Suites are the man-made environment as one. with a fully-equipped kitchen, en-suite clubs, swimming pool at the rooftop pinnacle of luxury accommodation in Hoa Loi, Xuan Canh, Song Cau, Phu Yen bathrooms, separate work and living of the building with great views of the Vietnam – they are mini millionaire’s areas. Each lavish space features plush Saigon River. It offers one bedroom, two mansions in themselves, fully-equipped, VUNG TAU interiors, modern amenities, elegant bedroom and three bedroom units for bright and spacious, and possessing of furnishings and carefully chosen rent. Amenities offered include wireless the same ethereal design quality that The Grand-Ho Tram Strip trimmings and fixtures, creating a broadband Internet access, 100 percent pervades this whole resort. Set in the The Grand - Ho Tram Strip is Vietnam's luxurious harmony of comfort and power backup, room service, maid remote Ke Ga Bay, wordlessly beautiful. first largest integrated resort and tranquility that will have you relaxed and service and laundry, 24-hour reception Hon Lan, Binh Thuan ultimately will include an 1,100-room recharged, and functioning at peak and airport shuttle service. 06 2368 2222 five-star hotel, a world-class casino, performance. 5B Ton Duc Thang, D1 restaurants, high-tech meeting space, No 01 – Street No.104-BTT, Quarter 3, Binh www.thelandmarkvietnam.com The Cliff Resort and Residences an exclusive VIP area, as well as Trung Tay Ward, D2 Offers 128 rooms equipped with a myriad a variety of beach-front recreation 096 829 3388 / 3742 5678 of amenities such as 3D smart TV, safe activities. The first 541-room tower of www.the-ascott.com travel agencies and mini bar as well as private bathroom. this development opened in July 2013 It boasts an extensive lap pool, a kid’s pool with its casino including 90 live tables InterContinental Asiana Saigon Asiana Travel Mate and pool bar as well as submerged on and 614 electronic game positions. The Residences Offering tours to magnificent scenic deck swimming pool chairs. Its restaurant second 559-room tower is on track to It’s a 31-floor tower with 260 rooms; the areas in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, serves a selection of local seafood open in 2015. Residences offers superb panoramic Indonesia, and India - the firm has specialties and Western cuisine. Phuoc Thuan Commune, Xuyen Moc views of downtown area and is part of strong purchasing power in these Zone 5, Phu Hai Ward, Phan Thiet District the Kumho Asiana Plaza - the city’s regions, allowing it to offer heavily www.thecliffresort-binhthuan.com finest integrated complex featuring discounted rates. www.thegrandhotramstrip.com commercial, hotel, residential and 92-96 Nguyen Hue, D1 The Sailing Beach Resort cinemas & theaters a diverse choice of wining and Offers a contemporary setting in sensual dining outlets. They will also benefit BeenInAsia.com tropical harmony that befits its bay host. from the preferred amenities at the Online travel in Southeast Asia. Offers All 192 rooms, with spacious private InterContinental Asiana Saigon next you selection of best hotels and great balconies affording stunning ocean views, door. tours. Create your own trip or we can are scattered across tropical vegetation, Corner of Le Van Huu & Nguyen Du tailor make your itinerary. ponds and rests steps from an endless 3520 8888 www.beeninasia.com beach. 107 Ho Xuan Huong, Phan Thiet Buffalo Tours WindFlower Beach Boutique Hotel A premium travel agency that helps travelers customize their itinerary and Located in the resort capital of Vietnam destination packages. From corporate – Mui Ne Bay, WindFlower Beach to small tour packages available. Boutique Hotel offers an intimate setting for guests to enjoy a getaway 81 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 on the beach to its fullest. The hotel is A O Show www.buffalotours.com.vn home to 24 cozy deluxe rooms with A O Show is a unique Exotissimo Travel services and sophistication that are blend of bamboo expected from a beach boutique hotel. Exotissimo Travel offers tours to cirque, acrobatic acts, 76 Huynh Thuc Khang, Mui Ne Vietnam, the region and the whole wide (Vietnamese) (06) 2374 3969 / (English) and theatrical visual world ! Local and regional tours 090 291 3969 drama. It depicts the charming beauty for family and visitors are quick and www.windflowermuine.com of Southern Vietnamese lives in easy to arrange, from standard to villages & cities, where the richness of higher-end versions. Less common PHU QUOC ISLAND its culture remains despite inevitable Jasmine Court requests are tailor-built for you by urbanization. Live music which echoes Located on a peaceful and beautiful friendly online operators and/or the Chen Sea Resort & Spa of rural work songs, scenic and lighting side street off Nguyen Van Troi pleasant District 2 location office. design makes the A O Show, which is Boulevard, only 5 minutes from the A District 1 presence will re-open soon. Located in a quiet bay, this resort performed at the 115-year-old historic Tan Son Nhat International Airport 41 Thao Dien, D2 allows guests to enjoy the peace and Saigon Opera House, worth seeing and 15 minutes to the city centre, www.exotissimo.com [email protected] natural beauty of Phu Quoc while also when you visit Ho Chi Minh. this boutique property with only 12 enjoying the exclusive atmosphere that 7 Cong Truong Lam Son, D1 apartments is comprised of one and Inside Asia Travel the location suggests and the resort two-bedroom suites of various sizes. [email protected] Inside Asia Travel is a boutique luxury offers. www.aoshowsaigon.com All apartments are designed in a fresh Bai Xep, Phu Quoc travel provider of tailor made travel contemporary style and finished in a arrangements for English speaking pleasing neutral colour scheme. With Saigon Phu Quoc Resort expats and travelers through Southeast Located on a hill of coconut palm trees, Ben Thanh Theatre personalized service, our warm and Asia. Guests enjoy highly personalized, ats Saigon Phu Quoc is a beautiful, quiet Once the cultural center of District 1 attentive staff will make your stay bespoke travel arrangements suited to seaside resort with plenty of sunshine. when it was built in 1995, this is a good with us a pleasant and enjoyable individual tastes and budget. te xp Just 10 minutes from the airport, the resort air-conditioned theater for Vietnamese experience. www.insideasiatravel.com is an ideal haven for relaxing, fishing, shows & cultural activities that can 307/29 Nguyen Van Troi, Tan Binh 3844 1005 (Ext: 221) trekking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. accommodate over 1000 people. 08 3844 6639 - 092 669 9033 62 Tran Hung Dao, Phu Quoc 6 Mac Dinh Chi, D1 www.jasminecourt.com.vn Saigon River Tour 07 7384 6999 Established in 1998, Saigon River Tour CT Plaza Megastar provides speedboat services and La Veranda This theater complex offers close Norfolk Mansion speedboat tours (ecotourism, Cu Chi proximity to shops for shoppers and A comfortable serviced luxury Tunnels, Mekong Delta) from Bach The most distinguished of Phu Quoc many other attractions. Large cinema apartment in the city center, the Norfolk Dang Pier. Island's hotels and guesthouses, La complex on the 7th floor with 3D features an outdoor pool, gym & sauna, 10b Ton Duc Thang, D1 Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A

76 Living

IMAGE BY neil featherstone

77 FASHION ACCESSORIES

Making Waves

Inspired by the natural beauty of the blue sea and Nha Trang, Viet Khanh Phu brings together a new Spring/Summer 2015 collection entitled The Aquamarine. Each product, made from ostrich skin, was designed drawing ideas from ocean waves, sun rays and the people living in the coastal town. With “timeless style, luxury materials and genuine craftsmanship” as its motto, Viet Khanh Phu aims to bring the highest quality product and customer service to the local and international market.

Viet Khanh Phu’s showrooms: Ho Chi Minh City (14 Pham Hong Thai, D1; 3824 1466) and Nha Trang (70 Tran Phu; 058 352 5345) Or visit www.vietkhanhphu.khatoco.com

78 79 FEATURE

The White Stuff Tackling years of coffee stain Text by Michael Arnold Images by ngoc tran

I have to confess to being a big-time coffee can cost around a third of what a clinic there weren’t any undiscovered cavities drinker. I started out much younger than I would charge overseas for the same thing. that shouldn’t come into contact with should have, and I indulged far more often I found that in Ho Chi Minh City I could the bleaching agent, and then gave me an than was probably good for me. I’ve found restore my teeth back to their teenage hue initial polish to fully expose the surface living in Vietnam – where more coffee is at a reputable dentist’s without seriously of my teeth. I was laid back, fitted with a produced than anywhere else on the planet affecting my café latte budget, and so I went mouthpiece, and then the real work began. – to be one permanent caffeine buzz, and I ahead and booked a procedure. The procedure was conducted in don’t go a day without a visit or five to the There are a good number of methods three parts, each 20 minutes in duration. coffee pot. for achieving whiter teeth, most of which My gums and lips were applied with a The casualty has been my teeth. You can’t require multiple treatments and religious protective jelly, and then the hydrogen down that much coffee without your tooth maintenance regimes. At Dr. Do Dinh Hung’s peroxide gel was smeared all over the enamel taking on an unpleasant shift to HD Dental Center (www.drhung01.com) – surfaces of my teeth where the espresso the yellow spectrum – and the frustrating recently relocated to palatial new premises had done its damage. As with most dental thing is, it doesn’t brush off. No amount on Cong Quynh – the most effective (and gels and pastes nowadays, the taste was of toothpaste will remove the microscopic certainly the fastest) procedure available is light and pleasant – faintly minty. grinds from those tiny cracks and ridges, and the Brite Smile teeth bleaching system, which What I hadn’t expected was that for most the acidity in the coffee itself can contribute takes about two hours and allows you to of the procedure I’d be lying undisturbed to a gradual wearing away of the bright outer leave the clinic with a significantly pearlier while a specially-designed blue-light lamp – layer, allowing the lemon-colored dentin grin than you had when you arrived. looking not unlike a miniature sunbed – was underneath to shine unpleasantly through. While soaking your teeth in hydrogen positioned in front of my mouth to activate The upside to ruining my smile in peroxide may sound a tad extreme, the the gel and accelerate the oxidation process Vietnam is that I’m ideally located to fix process is actually fairly gentle and that would be removing the stain. Most the problem. High-quality, international- optimized to reduce any discomfort. My people don’t exactly look forward to visits to standard dental care is quite affordable here, dentist, Dr. Tuan Anh, gave my teeth a the dentist, but in this case, lying there with and superior teeth-whitening procedures thorough visual once-over first to ensure my protective goggles on and the warm blue

80 light shining on my teeth, the experience was mercifully comfortable. My only regret “Most people don’t exactly look forward to was that I didn’t bring any entertainment visits to the dentist, but in this case, lying along with me – an hour can seem a long time, even if it is broken up periodically by there with my protective goggles on and the dentist coming over to swab the gel off, carrying with it the stain of cappuccinos the warm blue light shining on my teeth, the past. If you’re thinking of having your teeth whitened, my best advice is to make sure you experience was mercifully comfortable.” take a pair of headphones along with you: without the benefit of music, I just let myself drift off to sleep. Sixty minutes later, the difference was obvious. Dr. Tuan Anh showed me a rack of artificial teeth dyed with the different enamel colors that occur in patients – according to the grading method, I’d moved from a slightly muddied A3 right up to a healthy A1 – about the lightest shade that teeth can be without looking artificial. I can’t say that the procedure was unpleasant, although I did experience some mild pangs of sensitivity here and there during the bleaching process and for a short while afterwards. Patients are each presented with a tube of a rather tasty ointment to alleviate this problem. In fact, the only major issue I had was with the post-treatment care leaflet I was handed as I left, which explained that until the ‘protein pellicle layer’ over my tooth enamel reformed – a process that takes about a day – my teeth would be particularly sensitive to restaining. For 24 hours I needed to avoid eating or drinking anything that might discolor them again, including – Dr. Do Dinh Hung drumroll – coffee.

81 my life as...

My life as… a railway crossing guard Interviewed by Colleen Thuy Tien Ngo, Josh Mayhew, Mai Lan and Mai Quang Huy Image by Neil Featherstone

My name is Ky and I’m a railroad worker to go ‘catch’ the train using lights and flags about my job, but since I’ve been here for on the Ha-Hai line (Hanoi – Hai Phong). I’m to get the conductor’s attention… it can be decades, I’m just trying to hang on and finish 50 now and I’ve been working this job for quite dangerous. Sometimes the conductors out my final years [laughs]. The railway 20 years. I was originally an army man, but stop at the wrong place which results in industry’s still State-owned so us workers are then I retired and worked building railroads arguments then we have to write up a considered “State people” but we’re so poor. before changing to my current job. My report and submit it to our superiors. The highest our salaries can get is a little over main duties are to close the barriers at the The most tiring thing about this job is VND2 million. My family has a house here crossing when the train comes, or to alert the way the trains don’t come on schedule. and both my kids are grown and in college the train to stop in case there’s a traffic jam We’ve only got about 10 minutes' notice now; we mainly live on the money my wife or an accident at the crossing. My group, before the train gets here, so we’ve got to earns with her little shop at the market. What which has responsibility for the crossings stay at the crossing for the whole shift. The about people who have to rent a place to live? from Bach Mai Hospital to Linh Dam Lake, day shifts are a bit better because at night How are they supposed to live? Me and my has more than 100 workers. My team at 12 hours without any sleep can be long co-workers have also started selling prepaid this crossing has seven members in total. A and exhausting, not to mention it’s more mobile phone cards to earn a little extra cash. normal shift, which lasts 12 hours, requires dangerous at night. But if you’re working outside the city, that’s two of us to be working at once. No one appreciates our work. We’re just not an option. That’s why the industry lacks In general, when we’re at the crossing, trying to keep people safe, but even so, workers… we don’t even want our children we’re responsible for everything. If people always complain when we close the to work here. I’ve got about five years left there’s an accident, we’re partially liable. barriers. We get insulted on a daily basis and before retirement and I haven’t thought of Fortunately, there aren’t that many sometimes fights even break out, but there’s anything to do after. I’m pretty sure that I accidents. The government tried replacing really nothing you can do about it. To do wouldn’t continue working here no matter us once with an automatic barrier-closing this kind of work, you’ve got to be gentle how high a salary they offered me. It could system but it failed because people would and know how to sweet talk. If you’ve got kill you at any moment! [Laughs] always try to cross the tracks while the a bad temper, even if you’re right, it will barriers were closing, and then there’d be take a very long time for the police to come Additional editing by Gerard Sasges traffic jams. Speaking of traffic jams, it’s and solve your problems. I once had an Excerpted from It's a Living: much easier to work in the city where all we incident with some people but some locals Work and Life in Vietnam have to do when there’s a traffic jam is to intervened pretty quickly and nothing really Today, available in paperback call the train conductor on the phone. When happened. That was a long time ago. on Amazon or as an e-book on you’re out in the countryside, you’ve got Honestly, I don’t find anything interesting iTunes (scan code).

82 HOME INTERIOR DESIGN Column

Power Lines As an interior and furniture designer for Austin Home The effects vertical and horizontal Interiors, McNeill Shiner is always looking for new ways to mix styles and influences to create spaces that are lines have on the home uplifting, comfortable and very personal.

As an element of interior design, manmade achievements. A space with more playful, even young. line can appear in many forms: as part high ceilings and a strong element Diagonal lines embody a sense of of the architecture of a space, edges of of vertical line will produce a feeling movement, change, or excitement - a furniture and other elements of a room, of awe or smallness - think of an staircase, a jagged cliff, the sun’s rays. or perhaps in patterns in fabric or tile. impressive cathedral or monument. Despite the limited color palette, the Line also occurs in the empty spaces Vertical lines can represent strength kitchen (pictured right) is full of energy between objects, such as placement of and dignity, as in columns supporting and movement. The most obvious art on a wall, or pendant lights hung a building, but they also draw your feature is the pattern running across from a ceiling. As with other elements eye upwards, toward the sky. Just the backsplash and all the way up to of design, line will often impact us as horizontal lines visually expand the ceiling. The movement is vertical, in ways we aren’t quite conscious of. horizontal space, vertical lines can but in sharp, diagonal shapes. That When you know a little bit about how accentuate the height of a room. In the vertical movement is balanced by the these elements affect your perception bedroom example above, the drapery is long counter and open shelving, which of space, you can begin to see how they hung very high, nearly to the ceiling, draw your eye outward. There’s a little work in your own home. and just skims the floor. The very relief from the sharp shapes in curved, Horizontal and vertical lines can strong, straight lines are a perfect mismatched pendants, but did you both produce a sense of awe and contrast to the horizontal stripes, and notice the placement? The designer of spaciousness, but in different ways. With keep the space feeling airy. this space cleverly mimicked the zigzag horizontal lines, it’s there in the name The bedroom could be a little static wallpaper by installing the pendant - where sky meets earth, as far as the and traditional with only straight lines, lights at alternating heights. eye can see. Even within the confines of so the contemporary curved settee in Just like with color, the best way four walls, horizontal lines generate a the corner is really a stroke of genius. of training your eye to recognize the feeling of connectedness with the earth, Curvy lines can be the easiest for our function of line in a space is to observe of being calm and grounded. They can eyes to process, because they occur interiors that have been well designed. also add a sense of that spaciousness frequently in nature and in the human Next time you’re in a restaurant, try to interiors. In the bedroom example body. The sinuous lines of terraced rice to identify the designer’s aim in using (pictured left), wide tonal stripes serve paddies in Sapa are a beautiful example different types of line for visual impact. to visually push the walls out further. of this effect; following the curves of Where is your eye drawn? How is the The large scale of the stripes and subtle the mountains they’re carved into, space balanced in terms of static and color choice keeps the overall look from the paddies draw your eye slowly and dynamic line? With just a little bit of feeling too overwhelming. effortlessly through space. Soft, flowing understanding of how these elements While horizontal lines are closely lines in your interiors will produce a work together, you’ll be making associated with nature and the earth, similar feeling. Wind those curves into adjustments to your own space in no strong vertical lines better recall tighter loops, however, and the effect is time.

83 HIGHER LEARNING

Adrian Watts is the Deputy Headmaster and Director of Academic Studies at the International School of Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC)

Child's Play Why it’s important for children to have enough free play at a young age

During my 20 years of international communication as essential for the 21st and to manage their own impulses. When school administration, one of the changes century work place. While at the same deprived of the opportunities provided I have noticed is the move by both time neuroscientists, psychologists through free play these characteristics do schools and parents to reduce free play and anthropologists are identifying the not develop as effectively. time for children and replace it with importance that free play has on brain Researchers and psychologists have more academic activities. This is best structure in the early years of life and discovered that between the ages of demonstrated by the increasing obsession how this enhances the development of three and five, children should develop of parents to fill children’s free time out these much needed qualities. the capacity to self-regulate. This is of school with structured activities. When As teachers of Early Years have always regarded as a critical part of brain I refer to free play, I am referring to play known, how a child learns to play in development in what scientists call that is self-controlled and self-directed. the sandpit informs how they choose to "executive functioning.” This will later It is interesting that the OECD, communicate and collaborate as they have a huge impact on learning outcomes Microsoft’s Partnership for Learning and grow older. In free play when young and employability. What they discovered the Partnership for 21st Century Skills children are with their peers, the resultant at the University of Colorado is there is have all found the business world is environment influences the development a strong correlation between free play finding it increasingly difficult to recruit of social competence, strengthens social and executive functioning that further employees skilled in critical thinking, bonds, builds emotional maturity, develops correlates closely with success at school critical problem solving and collaborative thinking and reasoning skills and assists and in life in general. teamwork. These organizations clearly with physical health. Young children learn identify the key skills of collaboration, from each other how to share, how to Learning to Control Fear knowledge construction, problem engage in reciprocal interactions, to take the At the University of Lethbridge in solving, innovation, self-regulation and needs and desires of others into account, Canada, research has shown connections

84 EDUCATION Column between neurons in the prefrontal cortex, age children and the decline in time children to develop the flexibility needed which plays a critical role in regulating allowed for free play. to adapt to changing circumstances and emotions, making plans and solving Play is also a means by which environment; an ability that comes in problems, are changed through free play. children learn to control fear. You may handy when life becomes unpredictable Thus leading researchers to conclude that have noticed that when allowed to as an adult. To be comfortable with free play is vital for building pro-social do so, young children naturally test uncertainty, one must remain fluid, brains - social brains that know how to themselves by climbing, jumping and receptive and creative and the best way interact with others in positive ways and rough and tumbling because the slight to have developed these qualities is help prepare us for life. These findings risks involved are outweighed by the through play. are further supported by US government gains. Through such activities children Unfortunately for a plethora of reasons, longitudinal research demonstrating robust are teaching themselves about levels of both real and imagined, children today contributions of early pro-social behavior fear they can tolerate without panicking. are given far less time or opportunity to children's developmental success in They are learning to control their bodies to engage in free play at both home and academic and social domains. They found in the face of fear, an ability that may one school. Children are rarely given the pro-social interaction developed in play has day save their lives. freedom to direct their own activities, a strong, positive impact on later academic At MIT they have discovered a clear leading to a persistent rise in children achievement and social preferences. correlation between play, innovation and feeling that they have no control over It also appears from these studies that free creativity. Qualities such as idealism, their lives, which as noted earlier is play is a means of teaching children they experimentation and wonder - are vital bringing problems later in childhood. As are not helpless. In play away from adults, ingredients for innovation - have been Peter Gray discusses in his TED Talk, "the children do have control and can practice shown to develop early in our lives most important skills children must learn asserting it. In free play children learn to through free play, which is all about in order to live happy, productive, moral make decisions, solve their own problems, exploring the possible. In modern times lives are skills which cannot be taught. create and abide by rules and get along of rapid change, exploring the possible They are skills learned and practiced by with others as equals. In his book Resilience is an essential skill. Free play allows children through play." in Children and Teens, Kenneth Ginsburg from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia clearly identifies the importance of play as an integral part of building resilience. He explains when children play they make mistakes and have to learn from them to avoid the same outcome repeating itself. From his observations and studies he has found play enables young children to create multiple scenarios and outcomes and deal with unexpected variables not the same as in the traditional school environment. Ginsburg has shown play is vital for normal cognitive, social and emotional development. Play helps reduce stress and increases well-being. He has also shown the absence of play leads to maladaptive behavior which helps explain the positive correlation existing between increased anxiety and depression in school

85 The List

Atexpats is Ho Chi Minh City's first truly Education comprehensive insider's guide for foreign residents

Middle and High School (286 Lanh Binh of Education and Training in Vietnam French Ministry of Education. education Thang, D11) and the Department of Education and 234 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 www.apu.edu.vn Training in Ho Chi Minh City to accept 3519 1521 SCHOOLS [children] both Vietnamese nationals and expat www.creche-ecole-francaises- Australian International School (AIS) nationals. The school’s language of internationales-hochiminh.com The Australian International School is instruction is English. an IB World School with three world No 86, Road 23, D7 class campuses in District 2, HCMC, www.cis.edu.vn offering an international education from kindergarten to senior school with the Canada Vietnam Kindergarten IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), According to the average age of each Cambridge Secondary Programme class as well as the physiology and (including IGCSE) and IB Diploma psychology of each age, CVK has Programme (DP). deployed a curriculum that ensures the Xi Campus (Kindergarten) balance between study and playtime, 190 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 Vietnamese and English learning. Thao Dien Campus (Kindergarten & Street 23, Tan Phu, D7 Primary School) 5412 3028 APSC Compound www.cvk.edu.vn European 36 Thao Dien, D2 International ABC International Thu Thiem Campus (Kindergarten, Primary, School (ABCIS) CreativeKids School HCMC Middle & Senior School) CreativeKids preschool program is The European International School Ho Inspected and judged East-West Highway, D2 Chi Minh City (EIS) offers a supportive an outstanding school tailored based on Singapore and New 3742 4040 and challenging academic education by British Government Zealand preschool program. Offers from Early Years to Grade 12 (K-12) www.aisvietnam.com Inspectors (October special curriculum including after school an. EIS promotes inter-cultural 2013), the ABCIS is one of the few English and Mandarin class, for kids understanding and respect, not as an alternative to a sense of national schools worldwide awarded this whose English is their second language, identity, but as an essential part of Department for Education rating. and parent’s English conversation life in the 21st century. Its motto is Progress of students puts the ABCIS course, for adults who need to converse “Educating Global Citizens”. among the top 8% of schools in the Thao Dien Campus world. Providing education for 2-18 in English in daily situations. 730 F-G-K Le Van Mien year olds in a supportive and friendly No 216, Lo H7, My Hung, Phu My Hung Street environment, it delivers a culturally New City Center, D7 Thao Dien, D2 adapted version of the British 5412 1306 www.eishcmc.com National Curriculum supported by www.creativekids.edu.my Cambridge & AQA IGCSE and AS/A levels. Students are prepared for Fosco International School Universities in the UK, USA, Australia, Caters to pre-school children from 18 Korea and Canada. Enquiries and Admissions months to 4 years and elementary Tel: 5431 1833/34/35/36 students from 5 to 12 years. It offers Email: [email protected] enrolment opportunities to both local www.theabcis.com and expat children providing childcare services, comprehensive pre-school British and kindergarten programs and an American International School International internationally aligned elementary Founded in 2006, American School (BIS) school curriculum. International School (ΛIS) is a private, Inspected and 40 Ba Huyen Than Quan, D3 approved by the British Government, Deutsche Schule coeducational, university-preparatory 3930 5930 BIS provides a British style curriculum Ho Chi Minh City www.fis.edu.vn school for students from preschool to for an international student body International grade 12. The language of instruction from pre-school to Year 13. The German School Global Indian International School is English. The school offers school is staffed by British qualified Deutsche Schule (IGS) offers a German curriculum Offers Central Board of Secondary standard American curriculum with a and trained teachers with recent UK experience. Fully accredited by the from Early Years to Grade 12 which Education (CBSE), and the Global complement of performing arts, visual is approved and supported by the Council of International Schools and a Montessori Plus Program. The school’s arts, music and sport programs. German government. IGS is staffed member of FOBISIA, BIS is the largest Nine Gems model is a proprietary Elementary School (102C Nguyen Van by native German, Vietnamese and international school in Vietnam. English speakers who have many tool to achieve a balance between Cu, D1) An Phu Primary Campus years of teaching experience. We academics and experience, mental and Middle School (35 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh 225 Nguyen Van Huong Street, D2 offer a link between Vietnamese physical development, fine arts and Thanh) 3744 4551 and German culture, an international [email protected] program with German standards and performing arts, language skills and High School (781/C1-C2 Le Hong Phong, the immersion of German culture into An Phu Secondary Campus creativity, personality development, everyday life. D10) ethics and entrepreneurship. 246 Nguyen Van Huong Street, D2 12, Vo Truong Toan, 3744 2335 An Phu 172 Nguyen Van Thu, D1 APU International School [email protected] 08 37 44 63 44 www.globalindianschool.org Operating since 2004, APU Tu Xuong Primary Campus [email protected] International School is a private 43-45 Tu Xuong Street, D3 www.igs-hcmc.de Horizon International Bilingual School ats 3932 0210 coeducational international school Offers curriculum for kindergarten, [email protected] te xp enrolling students from Kindergarten www.bisvietnam.com primary, secondary and high school. to Grade 12. Instruction is conducted Ecole Antonia Classes are taught in English and in English, but there is an English A kindergarten and primary school Vietnamese. Offers scholarships for Language Development (ELD) program Canadian International School with pre-school classes designed in children who achieve excellence in available to students who require it. It Now in its fifth year of operation accordance with the guidelines of the school. is currently a member of the College with a student population of 700 French government and primary classes 6 - 6A - 8, Street 44, D2 Board, and is an official SAT testing site. students in grades K-12, CIS- VN has taught following the French model 5402 2482

Elementary (501 Lac Long Quan, D11) received approval from the Ministry based on the official guidelines of the www.hibs.vn Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A

86 Little Angels International Preschool Schools of North America 214 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 www.stamfordgrammar.com Offers nursery and kindergarten classes Offers a dual curriculum - instructing and provides full-time or part-time students in a Vietnamese program Vietnam Australia International childcare and kindergarten services for directed by the Vietnam Ministry of School (VAS) children 4 months through 5 years. Education and Training (MOET) in tandem with an American program Established in 2004 and licensed by 159/12 Hoang Van Thu, Phu Nhuan aligned with the State of California. the Vietnamese government, VAS is 3844 3719 Students graduate after accumulating offering educational services to some www.little-angels.edu.vn 248 credits which is equivalent to high 4,500 students from K through 12 at 6 Montessori International School of school graduates in the US. campuses in Ho Chi Minh City. Street 5A, Trung Son Residential Quarter, www.vas.edu.vn Vietnam Binh Chanh The school seeks to enable all its 402 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D3 Vstar School pupils to achieve their fullest potential www.sna.edu.vn Vstar School provides education from The International by providing them with a nurturing Grades 1-12 in a spacious 30,000m2 School Ho Chi Minh City and stimulating environment, and by Saigon South International School (ISHCMC) environment including a sports field and being sensitive and responsive to Founded in 1997, Saigon South The most established swimming pool. their individual needs. Their curriculum International School seeks to school in Ho Chi Minh accommodate an increasing need Him Lam Residential Complex, Nguyen is designed based on Montessori City is celebrating 20 for American education for both local Huu Tho, D7 methodology and practice, and is years of success in 2013. ISHCMC residents and expatriate families. is the only school in HCMC with enhanced with a variety of programs. SSIS enrolls over 850 students in full accreditation to teach all three 42/1 Ngo Quang Huy, D2 Early Childhood – Grade 12 from over IB programs to students from 2 to 3744 2639 thirty-three countries in a spacious six- 18. ISHCMC is fully accredited by www.montessori.edu.vn hectare, well-equipped campus. both the Council of International 78 Nguyen Duc Canh, D7 Schools (CIS) and the New England Noah's Club www.ssis.edu.vn Association of School and Colleges Providing high quality care & education (NEASC), two of the most prestigious for kids aged 1-6 in District 2 . Various international accreditation creative & fun programs, beautiful organisations. ISHCMC has 975 outdoor space with a warm family students from over 50 different feeling and more. The American nationalities enjoying No3, Duong so 4, Nguyen U Di, D2 School recently upgraded 3744 4709 of Vietnam The American facilities. [email protected] 28 Vo Truong Toan, D2 School of Vietnam (TAS) is a young school www.ishcmc.com that has been granted candidacy by the Western Association of Schools Saigon Star and Colleges (WASC), representing International School Saigon Pearl 20 nationalities. TAS provides an International American-based curriculum with ISSP is an elementary school for School rigorous performance standards children 2 to 11 years of age. Offers Saigon Star is a student focused and a variety of academic offerings an academically rigorous American international primary school including Advanced Placement offering high quality first class curriculum. The school has several courses, university credit courses provision. Specializing in the British through our partnership with smartboards, projectors and an National Curriculum, all of the class Missouri State University, and an independent IT suite that allows teachers hold international teaching Intensive ESL Program for English students the opportunity to interact with qualification. In the early years Language Learners. program, a Montessori specialist works technology to enhance learning. Renaissance 177A, 172-180 Nguyen Van Huong st., closely with the main class teachers Thao Dien ward, D2, HCMC 92 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh Thanh International to ensure a high rate of progress. The www.theamericanschool.edu.vn 082227788 School Saigon school also provides specialists for 08 3519 2223 , 08 3519 2224 www.issp.edu.vn Renaissance is an International children requiring extra [email protected] British school providing an inclusive support with ESL. Residential Area No.5, Kids Club Saigon curriculum based upon the British Thanh My Loi Ward, D2 Early childhood centers in Phu My curriculum complemented by the 3742 STAR / 3742 7827 SCHOOLS [ADULT] Hung offering creative play-based International Primary Curriculum www.saigonstarschool.edu.vn programs for children ages 2 to 5. and International Baccalaureate. Kent International College Known for unique facilities, experienced The school has made a conscious The first Australian vocational college staff, high-quality learning resources, decision to limit numbers and keep Singapore International School at in Vietnam to receive approval from the and small class sizes class sizes small to ensure each Saigon South Ministry of Education and Training to 79/7 Pham Thai Buong, D7 student is offered an education Commenced operations in August teach Australian Advanced Diplomas 27/3 Ha Huy Tap, D7 tailored to meet his or her individual 2008, The Singapore International in business, marketing and information learning needs. It is a family school 5412 5944 School at Saigon South (SIS @ SS) is technology in Vietnam. providing a stimulating and secure www.kidsclubsaigon.com a purpose-built international school 148-150 Nguyen Dinh Chinh, Phu Nhuan learning environment with first-class campus that has a capacity of 625 219 - 221 Xo Viet Nghe Tinh, Binh Thanh facilities including a 350-seat theatre, Kinderworld International students. It operates classes from www.kent.edu.vn Kindergarten swimming pool, mini-pool, play-areas, kindergarten to senior high school. gymnasium, IT labs, music and drama No 29, Road 3, Trung Son Residential Area, KinderWorld International Kindergarten PSB International College rooms, science labs and Binh Chanh PSB College is an Internationally- has been in operation since November an all-weather pitch. www.saigonsouth.sis.edu.vn Recognized Singaporean Institution 2006 and offers both international and 74 Nguyen Thi Thap, D7 specializing in business programs local kindergarten services for children 3773 3171 ext 120/121/122 Smartkids aged 1.5 to 5.5 years old. www.renaissance.edu.vn Focuses on the holistic development ranging from Business Administration The Manor Building, 91 Nguyen Huu Canh, of the child and combines Montessori, & Marketing, Accounting & Finance, to Binh Thanh Steiner and Reggio Emilia philosophies Hospitality & Tourism Management. 3514 3036 into its program. Also offers childcare 144-146-148 Le Lai, D1 [email protected] Saigon Mandarin English for young children until 6 years old. www.psbcollege.edu.vn Kindergarten 1172 Thao Dien Compound, D2 L’atelier For children aged 5 months to 6 years 3744 6076 RMIT ats Classes include spelling and grammar old. The learning environment is highly www.smartkidsinfo.com RMIT University Vietnam is an Asian te xp tuition after school, monitoring for the interactive and play-based, where every Stamford Grammar - SLC campus of Melbourne-based University French education program, preparing child is encouraged to reach out and Kindergarten RMIT, Australia’s biggest tertiary for official tests (DEFL, DAFL, TFL, IB), relate to people around him or her, education. Offers programs from Provides comprehensive and holistic going through learning stages: playing and Vietnamese lessons, including education for infants from 4 months business and management to design extra-curricular activities during the and exploring, active learning and to kindergarten students of 6 years and micro engineering, and boasts a holidays. creating and thinking critically. old. Each class is conducted by one wide range of extra-curricular activities. 33/19 Quoc Huong, D2 133 Nguyen Trai, D5 qualified native English teacher and two 702 Nguyen Van Linh, D7 3744 6844 38 38 11 23 qualified local teachers. 21 Pham Ngoc Thach, D3

Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A www.latelier-anphu.com www.smek.edu.vn 4bis Phung Khac Khoan, D1 www.rmit.edu.vn

87 The List

Atexpats is Ho Chi Minh City's first truly Health & Beauty comprehensive insider's guide for foreign residents ladieswear class, belly dancing, Zumba and outdoor Saigon River Club eyelid surgery and Botox injections are boot camp. Located in Ruby Tower at the Saigon also available. Riverside Residence, Nguyen Luong Pearl, Saigon River Club is equipped 5th floor Crescent Plaza, 105 Ton Dat Anupa Eco Boutique Oi’s Pick Bang, D7 with the very latest in fitness Tien, D7 The boutique has been converted into [email protected] technology. It has a fully-equipped 08 5413 6758 an eco-boutique which houses the 7am - 9pm (Weekdays) and sauna and steam room and a large www.americaneyecentervn.com complete Anupa leather collections 7:30am - 7pm (Saturdays) outdoor pool with jacuzzi. and semi precious jewelry as well as Ruby Tower, 92 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh Animal Rescue & Care up-and-coming eco designers both California WOW Thanh Abandoned and wild cats and dogs can locally and internationally such as ready The first and largest international be adopted or fostered from their online to wear mens linen shirts, ladies cotton fitness company to open in Vietnam. Star Fitness Bitexco database. ARC also organizes several dresses, chicken leg watch straps, Provides world class fitness services Located in The Manor Tower, this gym animal welfare education and low-cost bamboo glasses and scarves with and products in a state-of-the art 5-star is not only a fitness center it includes spaying campaigns. pendants. fitness and entertainment facility. other specialized classes such as yoga, 9 Dong Du, D1 126 Hong Bang, D5 31-44 Thao Dien, D2 belly dancing, kick boxing, zumba, body www.arcpets.com www.anupa.net / facebook: anupaluxury 28-30-32 Le Lai, D1 toning, and so on. 5 Nguyen Tat Thanh, D4 Gaya Level 1, 91 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh Thanh An Phu International Clinic 3514 0255 A high-end shop that sells cocktail and Christina Eberlin Yoga Teacher An international standard clinic party dresses by French-Cambodian Christina graduated from Virajati 300hr Spa InterContinental & Healthclub with a full range of specialist and designer Romyda Keth. Gaya has yoga teacher training in Thailand. She modern medical equipment with a Guests will have access to a 20-meter specializes in home interior products. is offering private yoga classes and dedicated team of professors, doctors, outdoor lap pool complete with a 1 Nguyen Van Trang, D1 group classes. For more information experienced nurses. sundeck, a 160-square meter spacious you can reach her at 251A Luong Dinh Cua, D2 fitness centre with the latest generation Kelly Bui [email protected] cardio and resistance equipment, plus a 6660 6602 Launched in April 2010, the shop sells or 093 849 2461 personal program of fitness classes. www.dakhoaanphu.com the most recent collections by the 3rd Floor, InterContinental Asiana Saigon brand. The collections shown on the Cyril And You Family Medical Practice website are the same as those in-store. French physical instructor Cyril Corner of Hai Ba Trung & Le Duan, D1 [email protected] With a nationwide operational advantage, B1-24, Vincom Center, 70-72 Le Thanh specializes in sports conditioning, 8am – 9:30pm they provide international standard Ton, D1 resistance training and senior training medical services in a safe, professional along with designing a personal fitness The Health Club and welcoming environment. Valenciani Thao Dien, Oi’s Pick program to fit your needs. 95 Thao Dien, D2 Highly respected Vietnamese designer D2; 094 777 1326 The Landmark Health Club is located on 3744 2000 whose collections are featured in ELLE www.cyril-and-you.com the 15th and 16th floors of The Landmark www.vietnammedicalpractice.com Vietnam and Vogue Vietnam. serviced apartments, and offers a fully [email protected] 23 Ly Tu Truong, D1 equipped gym, rooftop swimming pool, 3821 2788 and a squash court. It also features 8am-6pm Monday-Friday, 8am-2pm 090 785 5788 male and female changing facilities and Saturday saunas. 5B Ton Duc Thang, D1 Australian Clinic & Pathology menswear [email protected] Diagnostics The Australian Clinic, Pathology & Anna Vo Fashion Boutique The Crescent Wellness Club Diagnostics (ACPD) is comprised of a A popular designer currently in Saigon, Overlooking The Crescent complex’s medical outpatient clinic and associated Anna Vo produces seasonal collections lagoon, this multi-purpose and pathology laboratory. The clinic hosts inspired by her time in Europe and organically designed fitness and highly trained and experienced medical Vietnam as well as aiming to be both GETFIT GYM & YOGA wellness centre offers an array of specialists. Founded in 2010, GetFit Gym & Yoga beautiful and functional. The boutique modern facilities including a state-of- 273 - 275 Ly Thai To, D10 also carries pieces from her mother is a high-end fitness and yoga center the-art gym, group fitness classes, yoga Thuy Nga’s collections as well as high that's 2,500 sqm . They provide sessions, a squash court, swimming Columbia Asia Saigon Clinic top brand equipments, modern pool, steam bath and nutrition bar. quality imported accessories. Each Beautiful international clinic a short facilities, professional trainers and a 3rd Floor, Crescent Plaza, collection includes both menswear and distance from the cathedral, with womenswear. variety of classes to help members 105 Ton Dat Tien, D7 successfully reach their goals and exemplary standards of healthcare for 23 Dong Khoi, D1 enhance their lives. X-Rock Climbing walk-in patients. Bonjour Third Floor, H3 apartment, With two locations in the city, this wall 8 Alexandre De Rhodes, D1 384 Hoang Dieu, D4 A fashion boutique at the Vo Van Tan/ in An Phu stands at 26 meters. The 6261 6168 Centre Medical International Cao Thang T-intersection providing an center offers nine levels from beginners www.getfit.vn exhaustive range of one-off fashion to hardcore. Centre Medical International was created pieces and accessories with both a 503A Nguyen Duy Trinh, D2 in 1992 by Pr Alain Carpentier and Dr modern and vintage feel. Prices are www.xrockclimbing.com Duong Quang Trung, director of the affordable for both men and women K1 Fitness & Fight Factory health service of HCMC. In the heart and come in a range of sizes to suit A well-known brand name founded by Yoga Club of the city, just near the Notre-Dame most customers. a group of professional kickboxers and Yogo fitness center for both men and Cathedral, French and Vietnamese 446 Vo Van Tan, D3 now present in France and Southeast women doctors provide high quality medical Asia, including Montpellier and Phnom 18 Street Number 2, D2 service in 12 specialties: General Penh as well as here in Saigon. and tropical medicine, Cardiology, gyms 14 Duong 38, Nguyen Thi Thap, D7 Gynecology, Traditional oriental medicine, clinics Ophthalmology, Speech and language Ais Sports Complex Nicky's Zumba® Fitness Studio therapy, Osteopathic, medicine, Pediatrics, Open to the public, the center has a They offer Zumba®Fitness, Yoga, Cross American Chiropractic Clinic Psychiatry, Psychology, Psychomotor 25m swimming pool, basketball court Fit, Pilates Personal Fitness, Nurtition American Chiropractic Clinic is a Therapy, and Dietetics. All our profits are and an astroturf play area. Inquire about Advice and Hip hop kids, Aerobic kids, chiropractic, physiotherapy, and foot dedicated to the Heart Institute which special packages. ZumbAtomic®. care clinic in the Heart of Saigon. We helps deprived Vietnamese children to APSC Compound, 36 Thao Dien, D2 Available at: Panorama-Fitness (206 Tran are staffed by American and French- pay their cardiac surgery. www.aissportscentre.com Van Tra, D7), Fit & Fun Club (Sky Garden 2, trained Chiropractic Physicians and 1 Han Thuyen, D1 D7), Cyril&you (49a Xa Lo Ha Noi, D2), and Vietnamese Physical Therapists. 3827 2366 Amaryska Kamionko 161-161A Hai Ba Trung, D3 Sommerset (8 Nguyen Binh Khiem, D1). www.cmi-vietnam.com Private fitness trainer, assisting in full 093 406 0735 or 6680 7226 www.acc.vn body workouts, toning & strength [email protected] David Shepherd Chiropractic Clinic ats

training for females. Sessions often at www.zumba-saigon.com American Eye Center te xp clients’ homes or at their designated Provides eye care services to adults DSCC provides Chiropractic care gyms. Nutrifort Fitness and children by an American Board for patients using state of the art personalfitnessathome.blogspot.com Aiming to be the voice of health and certified ophthalmologist with 17 years physiotherapy equipment imported Body By Jovie fitness in Vietnam, Nutrifort provides of experience. The American standard from USA. DSCC is managed and Body By Jovie is a boutique personal clientele with proper tools and teaching facility is equipped with state of the art operated by American doctors who use training center and yoga studio, catering methods to keep the mind and body equipments for the early detection and modern and advanced technologies to individuals demanding diversity, fit and healthy. Clients also learn about treatment of important eye conditions techniques to ensure safe, gentle, and challenge and results. It specializes in one nutrition to nourish and maintain their such as Lasik, Cataract surgeries to effective treatment. on one session and also offer a full range health. Presbyopia, Glaucoma and Diabetic eye 41 Noi Khu, Hung Gia 3, D7 of classes such as yoga, TRX suspension 2B1 Chu Manh Trinh, D1 disease. Cosmetic procedures such as www.saigonchiropractic.com Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A

88 Diag Center International Saigon Smile to meet the Hotel-Hospital international Situated in Ho Chi Minh City, Diag dental With a group of experienced doctors standard in HCMC since the year 2000. Center International is a diagnostic and professional staff trained to do 63 Bui Thi Xuan, D1 testing center, which consists of a team teeth cleaning, dental work and other Traditional Medicine Hospital of thirty Vietnamese staff, and operates teeth enhancing procedures. 96 Tran Nao, D2 This hospital is a major medical centre under French medical biologists and practising the essence of that millennia- assisted by a group of Vietnamese 6674 4255 8am to 8pm old exploration into the rhythms of the medical technicians trained in France. human body and its connection to the 146 An Binh, D5 Saint Paul natural world which firmly belongs to Saint Paul has facilities all over Ho Chi this region. Family Medical Practice 179 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 With a nationwide operational advantage, Minh City, and with the slogan “slight, Dr. Hung & Associates Dental Center exact, and painless,” the doctors at they provide international standard A centrally located Saint Paul aim to please even the most Tu Du Hospital medical services in a safe, professional dental center that uses fastidious patients. Tu Du is a large state hospital and welcoming environment. the latest modern 50 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 specializing in maternity, women, and 95 Thao Dien, D2 equipment with a team 3835 6159 children’s diseases, family planning, and www.vietnammedicalpractice.com of skilled specialists. many other areas. Highly experienced [email protected] Services include cosmetic, implant, Smile Dental Center doctors and staff provide affordable 8am-6pm Monday-Friday, 8am-2pm braces, prosthodontics, pedodontics Quality dental care with whitening, care. Saturday and more. Expect high quality service cleaning, and orthodontic services. 284 Cong Quynh, D1 at a reasonable price. Japanese equipment and techniques. Vu Anh International Hospital - Hanh Phuc International Women & Building 244A Cong Quynh, D1 173 Ton Dat Tien, D7 Obstetrics Children’s Hospital 08 3925 7526 5413 6635 Hanh Phuc International Hospital aims 08 3925 7527 Luxurious hospital facility offering modern care in a comfortable setting. to be the leading private healthcare [email protected] Starlight Dental Clinic The hotel also provides 12 VIP rooms provider for women and children in www.drhung01.com Award-winning quality care and for patients seeking 5 star medical personal service in clean premises, Vietnam. Designed and managed up to services featuring garden access and offering general dentistry, whitening Singaporean standards, the 260-bed 2000 Dental Clinic Trung Tam Implant designer furniture. and cosmetic surgery, implants, Hanh Phuc Hospital aims to provide Established in 1999, 2000 Dental 15-16 Phan Van Tri, Go Vap orthodontics, pediatric, and preventive a comprehensive range of quality Clinic now has 65 dentists serving dentistry. healthcare services to women and 3 locations offering the full range of children with a personalized touch and dental care, including surgery, implants 2 Bis Cong Truong Quoc Te, D3 nails in a warm and friendly atmosphere. and extractions. 3822 6222 2nd floor Saigon Trade Centre, 125 Le Thi Rieng, D1 Westcoast International Dental Clinic Classic Nails 37 Ton Duc Thang, D1 Located near Ben Thanh Market, Classic Dang Luu Dental Centre Large, international team of dentists Nails is a professional salon with staff who Institute of Traditional Medicine Dang Luu Dental Centre offers the and support staff from Canada, are trained and experienced in designing Australia, Japan, France, Italy, Thailand, Established in 1975, the Institute full range of dental services, including complicated pattern. The salon only uses and Vietnam. The clinic regularly hosts of Traditional Medicine is a holistic implants, crown and bridges and teeth materials from reputable companies and whitening. Orthodontic services are also visiting dentists from many other always update with the latest colors. They research and teaching hospital. Patients countries. are treated using traditional medicines, provided. Some of the dentists have also have sofas with a massage function been foreign-trained. 27 Nguyen Trung Truc, D1 and adjustable posture for the customer’s some of which are produced by the 3825 7485 institute itself. Some doctors speak 34 Phan Dang Luu, Binh Thanh comfortable and relaxation. 4 Phan Boi Chau, D1 English and/or French, and acupuncture Digital Dental Clinic lessons are on offer. hospitals 3825 7047 Digital Dental Care draws on well- 9am - 8pm 273-275 Nguyen Van Troi, Phu Nhuan known Korean consistency in service standards and precision equipment to Cao Thang Eye Hospital Fame Nails International SOS Medical Care offer a truly world-class service in the The CT International Eye Hospital is one A place for your nail care near Ben Located in the city center, the clinic Phu My Hung area. of the few dedicated, comprehensive eye Thanh Market. Besides classic manicure is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a R4-35 Ton Dat Tien, D7 institutes in the country. Internationally and pedicure, it also offers deluxe spa year providing routine and emergency recognized staff diagnose and treat the manicure and pedicure, nail art and healthcare services as well as on-site Elite Dental Group entire spectrum of conditions of the eye, enhancement, and services including laboratory and radiology services. Elite Dental is an international and including complex problems such as waxing, facial, eyebrow shaping and eye Languages spoken include Japanese, well-equipped clinic that provides diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachments, lashes extension. Korean and French, among others. a wide range of dental services macular degeneration, glaucoma, and 18 Pham Hong Thai, D1 167A Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 including general dentistry, cosmetic cataracts. www.famenails.com 3829 8551 dentistry, Implant, pediatric dentistry 135B Tran Binh Trong, D5 and orthodontics. Luxury design and Kelly Pang Saigon Acupuncture their dental experts will bring you an Cho Ray Hospital Nail salon established in 2004 as a Practitioner Christopher Booth, M.S., extremely comfortable experience. Cho Ray Hospital is the largest small nail salon in Phu Nhuan, Kelly L.Ac., is now accepting new patients. 57A Tran Quoc Thao, D3 healthcare service in Vietnam, providing Pang has gradually become known as full priority service for expatriates, with Chris treats the following conditions a training center and professional nail a staff including 696 doctors and 1350 with acupuncture: Chronic and European Dental Clinic care facility throughout Vietnam. nurses. Acute Pain, Neurological Disorders, Offering state of the art technology, 214C Nguyen Trai, D1 competitive pricing, and supreme 201B Nguyen Chi Thanh, D5 Gynecological Disorders, Emotional & OPI Nail Spa Nguyen Hue Psychological Disorders, among others. quality, this dentistry is truly dedicated to their patients. Columbia Asia International Hospital Providing a full range of official products 161 Hai Ba Trung, D3 17-17A Le Van Mien, D2 - Gia Dinh and services of the OPI brand. [email protected] www.europeandentalclinic-asia.com Skilled and experienced doctors 103 Nguyen Hue, D1 www.facebook.com/saigonacupuncture offer exceptional medical care at German International Dentistry affordable prices with the latest in Stamford Skin Centre German International Dentistry offers medical technology. Patients benefit spas The Stamford Skin Centre has grown excellent consultation services from from advanced medical diagnostics, to include qualified specialists who experienced, international dentists so treatment and personal care. An Nam Spa treat general diseases of the skin such that you can make informed decisions 1 No Trang Long, Binh Thanh Housed in a beautiful nine-story as acne, eczema and other forms of about your dental care. building with different areas for dermatitis, rosacea, psoriasis, and skin 1489 Nguyen Van Linh, D7 DialAsie International Hospital men and women, guests can enjoy cancers. A specialist centre in kidney treatment a panoramic view of Saigon while 99 Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 Grand Dentistry for the expat community, DialAsie is a calming their senses in a relaxing 08 3925 1990 or 0908 453 338 Grand Dentistry is an upscale dental fairly well-reputed international hospital sanctuary. www.stamfordskin.com office located in the ground floor of of nephrology & dialysis, offering 26-28 Dong Du, D1 Sunwah tower on Nguyen Hue street. medical consultancy in renal diseases, Victoria Health Care International It is noted for being very tourist/expat haemodialysis, and paraclinical Dermal Essentials Clinic friendly. This dentistry features English examinations. Dermalogica, a Los Angeles-based Victoria Healthcare offers the highest speaking staff and expatriate dentists. 253 Dien Bien Phu, D3 company, is a revolutionary skin standard of healthcare, based on Ground Floor Sun Wah Tower, FV Hospital treatment system. Call Dermalogica’s American and European practices, and 115 Nguyen Hue, D1 therapists for a complimentary Face FV Hospital is a Vietnam’s only offering compassionate and efficient Mapping consultation. Minh Khai Dental Clinic internationally accredited healthcare 108 Pasteur, D1 ats service with the greatest respect for the French/American/Swiss managed facility. A wholly foreign-owned general patient.

te xp clinic with well-maintained international- hospital offering a wide range of Eden Spa 79 Dien Bien Phu, D1 standard equipment. medical and surgical services under one Extremely central, Eden is located 199 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Nguyen Cu roof, equipped to care for patients from in a quiet niche off Nguyen Hue in Vietnam Family Medical Practice Trinh, D1 consultation and diagnosis through to the commercial center. Owing to its International clinic located in the Manor the completion of treatment. expertise in skincare and first-class complex, within easy reach of high- Naomi Dental Clinic 6 Nguyen Luong Bang, D7 relaxing atmosphere, Eden has the rollers living around the Saigon Pearl A full service dental clinic under the gumption to claim a number-one spot area. The sister clinic is located beneath direction of Japanese dentist Dr. Saigon International Maternity in the discerning Japanese market. Diamond Plaza. Nakashima Mikio. Hospital J.S.C. 19-25 Nguyen Hue, D1 Ground Floor, 91 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh R4-45 Hung Phuoc 4, D7 A private-owned hospital specialising 3821 3815

Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A Thanh 5410 3937 in maternity, this was the first hospital 097 810 6868

89 Flamingo Spa La Cochinchine Spa care haven with a plethora of high-end 16-18 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Flamingo Spa is an authentic Thai spa imported creams, lotions, and serums. where all ingredients used are imported Located in the Rex Hotel, this luxury 54 Dong Du, D1 Zest Massage from Thailand. Guests arrive in a clean spa and fitness centre combined Famous for its fish pedicures, Zest, located in the outer western region and friendly atmosphere for an optimal with a swimming pool and bar has a of District One, serves up some fairly relaxing experience. Men, women and particular style that is a combination of dynamic Thai massage. couples are welcome, and they offer a Vietnamese, French, Cham, Hindu, and 60 Bui Thi Xuan, D1 wide range of massages along with a Asian cultures. Luxury spa and gym sauna, jacuzzi facilities & VIP rooms. located at the Rex hotel. 13B Le Thanh Ton, D1 6F, Rex Hotel, 141 Nguyen Hue, D1 home & furnishings 3822 1074 3825 1812 091 243 9601 La Maison de L’Apothiquaire AA Deco Company [email protected] AA Interiors provides high-quality Open 10:30 am to close 11:30pm This unique spa is situated in an artfully-designed villa and offers fabrication and fit-out services for Glow guests many therapeutic body and hotels, residences, spas, and so on skin treatments. The luxurious villa SiLK Waxworks throughout the city. Also sells many A boutique day spa located in the heart also provides a yoga studio, enclosed Located right in the well-known furniture brands. of the city. In this relaxing, peaceful garden, and many exclusive skin care heart of District 2, SiLK 219 Nguyen Van Thu, D1 atmosphere, guests can enjoy a full products. is a concept boutique that specializes range of massage/treatment options. 64A Truong Dinh, D3 only in waxing services for both AkzoNobel Decorative Center Kim Do Hotel, 129A Nguyen Hue, D1 100 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 men and women. Their waxperts are Dulux Paints specialist with attractive 1st floor, 103 Ton Dat Tien, Tan Phu, D7 trained in hygiene, speed and quality central-city showroom/store. Huong Sen Spa to clear a path of silky, smooth and 91-93 Nguyen Hue, D1 Located in a charming old French villa, sleek adventures for your hoochie 3915 3491 Huong Sen Spa is a natural green oasis and coochie. Owing to its expertise in with skin, face, and body treatment waxing, SiLK are your go-to for high- Authentique services. grade hair removal. An interior decorating shop featuring 21S Nguyen Van Troi, Ward 12, Phu Nhuan 88 Xuan Thuy, Thao Dien Ward, D2 Vietnamese traditional styles with a http://www.silkwaxworks.com small showroom in the busiest area of Golden Lotus Foot Massage Club 08 3519 1588 the city, Sauna 71/1 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Fully equipped massage establishment 3823 8811 with pool, steam room, and hydraulic Spa InterContinental massage located in trendy Thai Van Spa InterContinental is a Canada Home Deco Company Lung street. Various salt scrubs, and contemporary spa that has two Established by an expat Canadian high end beauty products imported Maison Mikio Boutique Salon double and five single treatment couple in 2003, Canada Home Deco direct from Korea are available. rooms, each with a private bathroom, specializes in distributing high-quality District 7’s Premium Boutique Salon. a foot reflexology area, and luxurious blankets, pillows, bedspreads, and 15 Thai Van Lung, D1 Two floors providing full beauty 3822 1515 changing and shower rooms. cushions. services nestled in a quiet residential Combining the fresh, local traditional 158 Hai Ba Trung, D1 area in Phu My Hung’s Garden Plaza herbs and plants, an ambient lighting, Indochine Spa 2 Complex. Equipped with a café, Catherine Denoual Nestled in the heart of Saigon, Indochine soft scents and soothing sounds with nail bar, 2 VIP rooms, and a spacious the best of international brands, Spa Supplies blankets, pillows, mattresses, spa will bring you back to an ancient time massage room - this boutique salon is InterContinental offers guests the tablecloths, cushions, and other luxury with peaceful melodies and aromatic like no other in Ho Chi Minh City. professional spa expertise and a truly linens to reputable hotels, spas, resorts, scents. With our skillful therapists, Natural Garden Plaza 2 Complex sensory experience. and individual consumers. products with French formulation and 8 Tôn Dât Tiên, Quân 7 3rd Floor, InterContinental Asiana Saigon 15C Thi Sach, D1 high class cleanness environment, 5412 4773 Corner Hai Ba Trung & Le Duan, D1 Indochine spa provides your senses with 3520 9999 Gomo natural energy. Indulge yourself for a [email protected] Typical of the large furniture unique and amazing experience. MiMi Clinic & Spa 8am – 9:30pm warehouses in North America and 69 Thu Khoa Huan st., D. 1, HCM Prestige Spa for celebrities holding Europe, Gomo sells contemporary items 3827 7188 frequent beauty events – and therefore The Body Shop for your home and office. [email protected] one of the best-known local brands in A global manufacturer and retailer of 7/30B, Road 13, Binh Hoa www.indochine-spa.com.vn medical aesthetics for over 10 years in naturally-inspired, ethically-produced Thuan An Town, Binh Duong Open: 10:00-22:00 HCMC. beauty and cosmetics products. The (0650) 376 5115 32 Dong Khoi, D1 Body Shop offers many kinds of www.gomo.com.vn Jasmine Spa 090 387 6666 skincare products, makeup accessories, Experienced staff utilize exotic hair & body care products, perfume, and Lam Bui Natural Home Goods skincare products to comfort guests Miu Miu bath milk. Founded in 2004 by a team of in this cozy urban sanctuary, which Spa with an elegant and charming 87 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 intrepid entrepreneurs, Lam Bui has has a large, loyal following décor, offering facials, body Natural Home Goods is a large, that swears by its friendly and massages, and manicures. Pervaded The Prime – Spa For Men well-stocked home goods store with professional service. by exotic oils and aromas, the staff American skin treatments for men specialty old-style furnishings and 45 Ton That Thiep, D1 provide counsel on unique skin-care from top brands such as Dermalogica decor items. products from Thailand and around and Lab Series. Equipped with Unit 16-17, 2nd Floor, Saigon Centre, 65 the world in English, Vietnamese, imported machines from Europe. Le Loi, D1 and Japanese. The spa has five therapy services, 3914 3553 4 Chu Manh Trinh, D1 including basic skin care, professional 6659 3609 skin care, intensive therapy, eye Mosaique Decoration therapy, body therapy – and a Prime Mosaique Decoration takes all the Moc Huong Spa special service package. unique beauty and craftsmanship of Moc Huong Spa 192 Le Lai, D1 Vietnam and adapts it to contemporary is supported home décor. Mosaique offers unique by top-ranking Tri Siam lighting design, decorative embroidery, professional Well-respected salon on the edge of silk quilts, and other home accessories. physiotherapists town, offering manicures & styling. Ground Floor, Saigon Centre, Kyoto Spa, Hair & Gel Nails Salon who combine Eastern with Western 76C Hai Ba Trung, D1 65 Le Loi, D1 Body massage techniques resulting a full body Foot massage wellness. Reasonably priced with a Xuan Spa Premium Housewares Hair cut women and men wide range of services that include One of the most luxurious spas in Ho Providing high quality kitchenware and 32 Dong Du, Ben Nghe Ward, D1 manicure, pedicure, facial, both body Chi Minh City, Xuan is located inside accessories, Premium Housewares (Spa & Hair Salon) and for your complete well being. the five-star Park Hyatt hotel. Services presents its products in more than 70 8A/4D1 Thai Van Lung, 9C Ton Duc Thang, D1 include packages such as Urban Retreat countries worldwide. Ben Nghe Ward, D1 (Spa) 3911 7118 Package, Apricot blossom – Mai, 77 Pasteur, D1 0902 983 089 Bamboo, and more. [email protected] Nano Nature Spa 2 Lam Son Square, D1 Red Door Décor www.spakyotohcmc.com.vn The spa is a partner of many different A well-known furniture store in Ho Chi cosmetics corporations based in Yuri Minh City offering products such as Korean Style Sauna France and the US. Modern facilities are A full-range Korean beauty salon in the interior/exterior decorations, artwork, Sauna and massage that serves mostly airy with advanced equipment in the Lotte complex, with a chief focus on handicrafts, glass ceramics, garments, Japanese and Korean men - some of industry. beautiful hair styling. and textile materials. ats the more discerning expat clients. For a

140 - 142 Pasteur D1 3rd floor, Lotte Mart, 469 Nguyen Huu 31A Le Thanh Ton, D1 te xp delicate touch. 3822 4130 - 382204132 Tho, D7 15 Thai Van Lung, D1 097 219 6969 3775 2990; 093 481 8085 Vscential Vscential sells aromatic French lavender L’Apothiquaire - Saigon South Saigon Spa Yves Rocher Botanical Beauty Spa bouquets, fresh flowers, silk flowers, and This Japanese/French style spa is an Recommended inexpensive spa A famous international botanical handmade flowers. With 45 different exclusive distributor of organic French treatments with a full spa menu. cosmetic brand with a full range of types of essential oils available, there’s a skin care products, and other exclusive 1st Floor, 47 Dong Khoi, D1 products, The Botanical Beauty Spa scent for everyone. products from around the world. Center combines the expertise of its Vscential 1st floor, 103 Ton Dat Tien, Tan Phu, D7 Sense Spa beauticians with the efficacy of Yves 238B Pasteur, D3

5413 6638 Sense Spa is a massage, skin, and body Rocher treatments. www.vscential.com Li st i n g s C op y r ig ht ©2014 A

90 Business & Tech

IMAGE PROVIDED BY ETHNOTEK

91 business feature

Survival Gear Ethnotek’s mission to keep culture alive, one bag at a time Text by James Pham IMAGES PROVIDED BY ETHNOTEK

Trekking far off the beaten path that he appreciated the craftsmanship end bag company. However, the idea amongst the solitude of the hills of Sapa, of the Hmong villages he encountered. for creating bags using local fabrics was bag designer Jake Orak found himself “Seeing tribes in their natural environment, rekindled when he spotted a shop selling in a different world, in more ways than just existing, was incredible,” says Jake. African textiles while cycling in downtown one, far from his suburban upbringing in “Some didn't even use money, just trade. LA. He recognized, though, that the idea Minnesota (USA). By that 2007 trip, Jake I witnessed thriving communities, people of working directly with individuals in was already onto his second career, after with their hands dyed blue from indigo, remote villages was simply not compatible a stint at industrial design for 3M. “There wearing their traditional dress… I felt with the large quantity sourcing required were extremely smart people there; I was incredibly privileged to experience this and by a big company. “At the end of the day, it having lunch with thermodynamic experts, I wanted everyone I knew to know about was just creating junk that's produced in a mechanical engineers and chemists. But it, that something like this still exists on factory with no real meaning. It’s a product it was too big a company for a budding earth. I felt a sense of responsibility wash without a soul,” he says of the mainstream designer. I wanted something more over me.” bag industry. “I wanted to create something ‘lifestyle,’ a bit more me,” he recalls. He Suppressing his first impulse to quit more meaningful while sustaining myself, then took on a job as a design intern in his job and join an NGO somewhere, he a product that does some good in the Saigon for an international bag company, thought: “I’m a bag designer. Let’s be world, but at the same time be practical. working his way up to junior designer. proactive and design something!” Jake Something that improves people’s lives not “I didn’t know anything about bags,” he remembers sitting down after a long trek just because of social good, but because it’s confesses. “I thought it was going to be in Bac Ha and writing in his journal about functional. It had to have a tech side and easy. After all, it's just fabric!” But having how inspired he felt, thinking how many not just be a hippy dippy slouchy bag.” access to the sample room, where he could other places there were like this in the just hand over a sketch to be mocked world with basic human diversity and Tribal Customers up was exhilarating. “I learned so much, tradition still intact. “It's gotta be rare and I Jake started sourcing textiles in 2010 and doing 50 things a day, managing whole want to help protect it,” he wrote. launched Ethnotek (www.ethnotekbags.com) collections, from sketches on a napkin all But then, as it often happens, life went in 2011. Trips involve a lot of research, the way to freight on board and into retail.” on. Jake moved to Los Angeles to become attested to by ethnic textile books and It was through the eyes of a bag designer the senior designer for another high- a stack of Lonely Planets in his office.

92 “We take on a lot of risk to help the artisans and not exploit them in any way. They produce what they want at the pace they’re able to.”

“There’s usually only one tiny blurb on villagers have an export license and are people are trying to get by on agriculture where to get textiles,” he laments. “You can tech savvy, being able to use email, receive or by conforming. I feel a sense of urgency only do so much research. In the end, you wire transfers and understand shipping when I visit the villages,” he says. just have to parachute in and ask someone methods. Respecting fair trade standards His work has seen results, though. He who’ll usually first take you to a souvenir also means asking about working hours, still gets goose bumps when talking about shop. It’s only when I explain that I want to where the artisans live and how far they a village in India where Ethnotek started meet the family who made this and order have to commute (in the case of collective out collaborating with a single family of from them every three months forever, that weaving centers). four, weaving three months out of the they’ll say: ‘Oh! So you want to go to my Jake now sources textiles from Vietnam, year. Ethnotek’s success has now allowed cousin's house!’” Indonesia, Ghana, Guatemala and India. A them to engage six looms in two villages Jake then spends two to three weeks small factory in Vietnam turns these fabrics weaving eight to 10 months out of the with these families to gain their trust. “It's into “threads,” interchangeable covers for year. The goal for every village they work a business-to-business relationship. It's backpacks and messenger bags, and a range with is to provide year-round sustainable not a charity,” he says. “These people don’t of chic travel accessories (think travel employment. “We pay 50 percent up front want handouts. They want you to buy wallets and iPad covers). His Vietnamese to artisans so they don’t have to fund raw the things they create. They don't want to textiles are embroidered by Red Hmong, materials and production themselves,” he leave their home to get a job in a factory. Black Hmong and Flower Hmong villages says of the company’s humane business They want to stay at home and work from in northern Vietnam and on looms in the model. “We take on a lot of risk to help home. That keeps the kids in the village Cham communities near Phan Rang. This the artisans and not exploit them in any and it passes on the knowledge.” The time month, he’s visiting the K’Ho minority way. They produce what they want at the spent in the villages also allows Jake to tribes outside of Dalat. “That’s the story pace they’re able to. For example, if you work through a detailed protocol of finding for all ethnic minorities here in Vietnam. go beyond the Sapa Sunday Market, you’ll out more about the artisan’s process, They’re either being pushed out or put on see that embroidering fabric is what a lot everything from whether the dyes used display. Ethnocide faces the biggest threat of Hmong people are doing in their free are natural or synthetic, where the cotton here because there's no support. It’s really time ― when it's raining or in between comes from, where the dye is disposed and important for us to restore demand, to harvests… It’s a passive sourcing model what motifs mean. He also needs to be sure bring business to these places where the because we're taking what they want to

93 GEAR REVIEW

I really wanted to like Ethnotek’s Acaat Messenger. But inspiring backstory aside, the pragmatist in me needed to know whether the bag was worth the price point and wouldn’t be confused for something Sapa-inspired that I could pick up on Bui Vien. In a word, yes and yes. As a travel writer, at minimum I carry an iPad with keyboard case and a DSLR (sometimes with more than one lens) everywhere I go. On longer trips, a laptop comes along. The problem with most messenger bags for me is that the body of the bag is too slim, with little give on the sides, which makes for a very awkward fit considering the bulkiness of the camera. The Acaat Messenger not only has a padded sleeve for a laptop (with an unexpected textile finish and a fuzzy poly-tricot lining), there’s also a second sleeve that fits a tablet. The generous 20-liter body is large enough to house a camera and a couple of lenses with plenty of room to spare without being unwieldy to carry. There are also four slip pockets for accessories as well as a zippered pocket for documents. If you’re not using the luggage trolley pass-through on the back, zip it up and it becomes another large pocket. The ‘tech’ side of Ethnotek comes through with some geek features, like removable bumper inserts (to snugly fit a 13” laptop) and a stabilizer strap, so you can cinch the bag close to your body, handy for

S BY N GO C T R AN IMAGE running through airports or when riding a Jake Orak bike, true messenger-style.

Small touches are also well thought out, do, not pushing them to do anything. Once struggle worthwhile. This is a personal, like the extra loop to hang your bag up and they understand my intentions are pure emotional business.” off the ground, or the compression straps and I'm there to help them spread the story While owning your own business and on the bottom of the bag that double as a place to roll up your jacket or a yoga mat. about their culture to a wider audience getting to design and travel for a living is Another gripe of mine is narrow straps that which translates into more business for a dream job for almost anyone, in the end, bite into your shoulders when the bag is them, they get really excited.” it’s about the survival of these unique, fully loaded. Thankfully, Ethnotek’s bag has With only two salaried employees beautiful people spread across three a wide padded strap while judicious use of (including Jake), Ethnotek has come a long continents. “It’s like the Latin language Velcro makes everything easily accessible, including the ability to change out your way from its humble beginnings. Just two going extinct, but here, you see things thread (the textile flap on the front of the weeks after launching, REI, a US-based disappearing in front of your eyes. In Cham bag). While the bag itself is solid (made outdoor retail company with more than villages, every house has two looms ― one in Vietnam of 840-denier water-resistant 130 stores, called to say they wanted to for the older generation and one for the ballistic nylon) and comes with some really carry Ethnotek products. The Ethnotek younger generation to learn. Sadly, I’ve nice features, its uniqueness springs from “fulfillment center” is no longer Jake’s seen a lot of these looms collecting dust the interchangeable threads. I bought an extra one (more muted and not out of place mom’s basement. And the ETK “tribe” and moved out of the house and into the at business meetings) and love that I can as Jake calls his customers, is growing yard. Helping to preserve these cultures by carry a tangible piece of Vietnam with me stronger by the day. “Tribe implies a sense applying it to a product is more sustainable, wherever I travel. My one reservation with of community around the mission and like buying coffee beans directly from the the bag is actually with the handmade the product. People feel ownership on a person that grows it, rather than donating textile covers wearing out with use, but at deeper level than just buying a bag and something where someone will take a cut USD29-39 for a new cover, it’s a small price to pay to basically reinvent your bag. going away. When people send in their and pass it on to someone else who’ll also photos with them and their bag on social take a cut before eventually getting to the Acaat Messenger Bag media, I get stoked, super happy. That's person it’s supposed to.” Retail: USD139-169 instant gratification, seeing someone I Much more than a hippy dippy, (depending on the textile) don't even know, just loving their bag. In Kumbaya startup, the story behind In Vietnam, email: jake@ethnotekbags. a sense, they become cultural consultants, Ethnotek is just as compelling as the one com for an Oi Reader discount helping to spread the message. That's of the villages it’s helping to save, the extremely rewarding and makes all the ultimate in ‘survival’ gear.

94 LEGAL EASE legal Column

Dear Hadrien and Marijn,

I am a Canadian citizen who has been living and working in Vietnam for the last six years. My Vietnamese girlfriend and I are thinking about getting married and staying in Vietnam permanently.

Reading your columns every month, I understand A member of the Paris Bar, Hadrien Wolff has been practicing law in Vietnam for more than seven years, that doing business in Vietnam and things like currently as a partner of Audier & Partners based at its HCMC office. Having gained extensive legal experience access to real estate are often much easier for in the Netherlands and Cambodia, Marijn Sprokkereef is an associate at the Hanoi office of the same firm.Audier Vietnamese citizens than for foreigners. Thinking & Partners is an international law firm with presence in Vietnam, Myanmar and Mongolia, providing advice to about our future in Vietnam, I would like to know foreign investors on a broad range of legal issues. how a foreigner like me could possibly become a Vietnamese citizen. What are the requirements and will I be able to keep my Canadian citizenship? one of the exempted categories will additionally need to submit documents proving that they satisfy the requirements of the period and place of their residency, on their capability to make a living here and on their Vietnamese language skills. On the other hand, foreigners claiming to fall within one of the three exempted categories will need to prove that they satisfy the relevant condition, for example in your case by including a marriage certificate to their application file (or a photocopy of your Vietnamese Medal of Honor, if applicable). Last but not least, if you apply for Vietnamese citizenship you must have a Vietnamese name, which you can choose yourself and which should be noted in your application file. Write back to us if you need any inspiration! We suggest Binh (in an obvious attempt to expand the population of Mr. Binh in Vietnam). If you already made a decision to nationals being a spouse, a natural parent Following submission, your application marry a Vietnamese citizen and live here or natural offspring of a Vietnamese file will go through various State permanently, becoming a Vietnamese citizen; (ii) foreigners having made authorities for verification and review citizen does not seem such an eccentric meritorious contributions to Vietnam’s before it will be handed over to the idea as there are indeed a lot of advantages national construction and defense; and Ministry of Justice. Provided that your in gaining Vietnamese citizenship when (iii) foreign nationals whose acquisition of application file is complete and that all living in Vietnam, notably in the domains Vietnamese citizenship would be helpful requirements are satisfied, it will be sent that you refer to. to the State of Vietnam. to the Prime Minister and it will finally The Law on Vietnamese Nationality of If you want to apply for Vietnamese end up on the desk of the President of 2008 sets a general rule whereby a foreign citizenship, you will need to submit an Vietnam for his final decision. national residing permanently in Vietnam application and forms to the Department Regarding your question about dual may acquire Vietnamese citizenship if he of Justice of the province or city where citizenship, the main rule under the or she: (i) has resided in Vietnam for five you reside. The paperwork consists of Law on Vietnamese Nationality is that years or more; (ii) is capable of making the following documents: (i) a standard foreigners applying for Vietnamese a living in Vietnam; (iii) understands the application form; (ii) a copy of your birth citizenship must give up their then- Vietnamese language well enough to certificate, passport or a valid substitute current citizenship. However, if you integrate into the Vietnamese community; document; (iii) a curriculum vitae made fall within one of the three exempted (iv) has full civil capacity to act; and (v) in a standard format as issued by the categories that we mentioned before, and obeys the laws of Vietnam and respects its Ministry of Justice; and (iv) recent judicial only with the approval of the President traditions, customs and practices. records. The application fee is VND3 of Vietnam, dual citizenship is possible, There are three categories of million and the procedure should take, at provided of course that the country of foreigners who need only satisfy the least in theory, just under four months to your current citizenship also allows for it. last two requirements to validly apply be completed. Best of luck to you and your future for Vietnamese citizenship: (i) foreign Foreign nationals not falling within wife!

95 The List

Atexpats is Ho Chi Minh City's first truly Business & Tech comprehensive insider's guide for foreign residents China Consulate Myanmar Consulate and global personal accident. banks 39 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 50 Sam Son, Tan Binh 21st Floor, 115 Nguyen Hue, D1 3829 5009 5449 2425 Asia Commercial Bank www.vn.china-embassy.org/eng/ www.gmas.com.vn AIG Vietnam 442 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D3 Mon-Fri: 8.30am - 11am Mon-Fri: 9am - 12pm; 2pm - 5pm; Sat: 9am AIG’s presence in Vietnam dates 39290999 - 12pm back to the 1920s, although modern China Consulate - Commercial Office operations began back in 2005. They Bank of China 39 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 New Zealand Consulate offer a wide range of personal and 19th Floor, 115 Nguyen Hue, D1 3823 1142 235 Dong Khoi, D1 commercial insurance products. 3821 9949 [email protected] 3822 6907 9th Floor, Saigon Center, 65 Le Loi, D1 www.hochiminh.mofcom.gov.cn Mon - Fri: 8.30am - 11.30am; 1.00pm - Citibank 5.00pm Baoviet Insurance Corporation 15/F Sun Wah Tower, 115 Nguyen Hue, D1 Cuba Consulate BaoViet is now the leading financial 3824 2267 45 Phung Khac Khoan, D1 Nordcham insurance group in Vietnam with more 094 801 6318 3829 7350 12A Floor, Bitexco Building, 19-25 Nguyen than 145 branches across 63 provinces. Mon-Fri: 8am - 11.30am; 1.30pm - 4.30pm Hue, D1 23-25 Thai Van Lung, D1 Commonwealth Bank 3821 5423 BHNT Great Eastern 65 Nguyen Du, D1 Denmark Consulate www.nordcham.com 3824 1525 115 Nguyen Hue, D1 Life assurance & financial plans for 012 1861 8695 3821 9373 Consulate customers of various age groups. 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97 Faces & Places

Battle of The Year Tick Tock

A day-long festival of hip hop and breakdance performances with Luxury watch retailer Tan Tan Watch hosted an event at Saigon singers Suboi, Wowy, Kimmese and JustaTee taking the stage. Tax Center to showcase the latest Citizen timepiece. IMAGEs bY Louis-Philippe Belanger IMAGEs bY NGOC TRAN

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