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Rebel With a Cause Johnny Tri Nguyen Talks MMA, Hollywood and Being Shirtless 2013 PAGE 22

Giving Thanks Time for Stuffed Turkey and Pumpkin Pie PAGE 44

Treasure Island Is Siargao Island the Next Boracay? PAGE 66

Just Desserts

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rebel WITh A CAuse Johnny Tri Nguyen Talks MMA, Hollywood and Being Shirtless vIeTnAm november 2013 PAGe 22

GIvInG ThAnKs Time for Stuffed Turkey and Pumpkin Pie PAGe 44

TreAsure IslAnD Is Siargao Island the Next Boracay? Everywhere you go PAGe 66

Director Xuan Tran Just Desserts Business Consultant robert stockdill Nhà XuÂt BAN thANh NiêN 1 [email protected] 093 253 4090 This Month’s Cover Managing Editor Christine Van Image: Loc Nguyen [email protected] Model: Vu Ngoc Phuong Trinh Stylist: Fi Fi Hoang Deputy Editor James Pham Venue: Ciao Bella, D1 [email protected]

Creative Director Paolo Maling [email protected]

Graphic Artist HIEN NGUYEN [email protected]

Staff Photographers Loc Nguyen Ngoc Tran

Publication Manager Hang Phan [email protected] 097 430 9710 Special thanks to Ciao Bella, Tony Fox, and Chef John Tran (pictured) for creating the mouthwatering dessert Pope's Pillow, featured on the cover.

For advertising please contact: Julian Ajello [email protected] 093 700 9910

NGAN NGUYEN ƠI VIỆT NAM [email protected] 090 279 7951 NHÀ XUẤT BẢN THANH NIÊN Chịu trách nhiệm xuất bản: Đoàn Minh Tuấn Jimmy van der Kloet Biên tập: Nguyễn Giang - Quang Hùng [email protected] 094 877 9219 Thực hiện liên kết xuất bản: Metro Advertising Co.,Ltd Tran ha 231-233 Lê Thánh Tôn, Phường Bến Thành, [email protected] Quận 1 094 612 0026 In lần thứ chín, số lượng 6000 cuốn, khổ 21cm x 29,7cm Đăng ký KHXB: 1110-2013/CXB/4 -52/TN QĐXB số: 366/QĐ-TN/CN

General Chế bản và in tại nhà in Lê Quang Lộc [email protected] Nộp lưu chiểu tháng 9/2013 Inquiries [email protected] Website: www.oivietnam.com

4 5 Contents

TRAVEL & LEISURE Treasure Island Hidden within the Philippines is an island that’s waiting to be discovered

FEA66TURES P10 datebook P22 Rebel With a Cause P31 Footloose With these events, you'll never have to be Johnny Tri Nguyen discusses MMA, Hollywood and A French expat’s dancing feet brings her bored again his upcoming comedy movie to Vietnam

P14 troi oi P26 Waterworld P44 Giving Thanks Find out why a one-year-old, cigarettes and crime Drawing an artistic eye over the cargo barges in the Our Thanksgiving guide on where to find the best made our noteworthy numbers this month Saigon River dinners for the

P16 the bulletin P28 Fish a la Cart P68 Lanka Love Check out the latest promotions and openings this Combining fish and chips with Vietnam’s streetside Exploring what the many layers the island-nation of month eating culture Sri Lanka has to offer

6 Cover story JUST DESSERTS From curious looking Vietnamese che to the more refined strawberry and chili cake, discover where to satisfy your sweet tooth in HCMC

34 7 WINE & DINE Restaurant Reviews Succulent seafood at Blue Crab, mouthwatering Mediterranean fare at Skewers and tempting tapas at El Camino are this month’s highlights

46 P90 Fit to a T P51 Flavor of the Month P82 Higher Learning The founder of Gingko T-shirts speaks about copycats The best wines to stash in your house for special Advice on how to choose the right university in the US and fair trade occasions after your child graduates from high school

P92 Foundation of Hope P70 Life's a Trip P94 Legal Ease Microfinancing as a means to breaking the cycle Destinations centered around a hobby, interest or How adoptions work in Vietnam of poverty theme columns P95 Money Talks P71 Postcards from Vietnam Doubling down on your money P32 Join the Club Finding inspiration in the big blue sky To be a member all you need is passion and a camera P80 The Syllabus P33 Saigon Mythbusters Raising a creative student begins at home with the Hairy moles, long pinky nails and chopstick etiquette parents explained

8 ISSUE NO. 9 Editor’s NOVEMBER 2013 Note How Sweet It Is I can't believe we're almost at When we asked him his secret, he told us Thanksgiving. Soon, lights will with a huge grin that he washed it with be up and little kids will be paraded around laundry detergent every day! dressed like baby Santas and then, before This month, we're featuring the Dairu you know it, Abba's Happy New Year will Foundation, one of the many organizations be played on an endless loop. Where did the here in Vietnam doing really great work, time go this year? helping those who need that little bit extra to Whether you celebrate Turkey Day or not, better their lives. the concept of stopping to consider what we As each holiday season rolls around, one have to be thankful for is universal. Here at of the things I miss most is having family Oi, we start every month with a clean slate, nearby. While the reality of our family putting the entire magazine together from dinners is probably more fiasco than fiesta, scratch. Our team pitches ideas, our readers where everyone tries to talk over each other, write in with suggestions and we reach out voicing radically different opinions on just to our wide network of writers from around about everything. I genuinely miss those the globe. I'm ecstatic to say that what comes times now that it's not so easy to simply meet together is just as exciting for me to read as I up for family dinners. hope it is for you. Despite this being my tenth But something about a beautifully laid out Thanksgiving here in Vietnam, through our table with turkey and all the trimmings seems talented writers and photographers, I still to bring back all the great memories of family, discover new reasons to love this country on with all its lovable quirks and maddening a daily basis. For that, I am thankful. idiosyncrasies. Our roundup of Thanksgiving I'm thankful as well for artists like Barbara meals around town ensures you won't be Anchisi in this month's Waterworld. I love without a taste of home come November 28. how she conveys peace and beauty in her And no great meal would be complete pieces, especially considering her choice of without a spectacular dessert. Boy, am I themes are anything but. Her multimedia thankful for desserts! While I don't really projects are so spectacularly different from have a huge sweet tooth, I enjoy the reality that she inspires me to find beauty in occasional indulgence. As a kid in Brooklyn, the mundane. the sweetest sound in the world was I'm thankful for our travel writers spread the music played from the Mister Softee far across the globe who bring the world to ice cream truck as it came up the block. my feet. Stephanie Raley writes about the Needless to say, the desserts featured in our beautiful island of Sri Lanka in Lanka Love. I cover series this month are slightly more visited the country in 2009 after the civil war sophisticated and worldly than those of my ended. At the time, there were still military youth. From ingredients that normally aren't checkpoints in Colombo, which was a bit associated with dessert (think beans and disconcerting, but once we got out of the city seaweed, beetroot and water chestnuts) to the the country was simply amazing. decadent and sinful, we've tried to include a I'm thankful for the resilient spirit of the little bit of something for everyone. Vietnamese people who always strive to As always, I love hearing from you, our make the best of every situation, along with readers. Which of our featured desserts the generosity of those who are able to help this month is your favorite? And which when you simply can't do it on your own. charities or personalities would you like My first couple of years in Vietnam, I helped to see featured in Oi? Email me with your out with some translation work for an Aussie thoughts at [email protected] friend who founded a microfinancing charity or leave comments on our website or our in the Mekong region. Instead of loaning Facebook page. out cash, she would buy cows using donated No matter where you hail from, I hope this funds and ‘loan’ them to families who needed season finds you with much to be thankful this program the most. Once the cow had a for, living in this beautifully chaotic country calf, the calf would then be ‘loaned’ out to we now call home. another farmer, continuing the cycle. From time to time, she would check to make sure the cows hadn't been sold off and that they were healthy. I remember one farmer who Christine Van was so proud of how clean his cow was. Managing Editor

9 Datebook Fill up your calendar with these exciting events

november 2 What: Zombie Walk Where: Red Bar, 70 Ngo Duc Ke, D1; Starts at 6pm About: Wake Up Saigon, the group that promotes play in public spaces, is hosting another zombie walk this year. The group will begin at Red Bar before heading out to terrorize the masses downtown, followed by a party at the final destination. There will be make-up artists on hand to assist, for a fee, those who need help. The event is free. Contact: For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ events/424965724280417/ or the Wake Up Saigon page www.facebook. com/WakeUpSaigon

november 9

What: Art Market Where: VinGallery, 6 Le Van Mien, D2; 10am - 4pm About: An opportunity to see great work and meet artists, and also to buy paintings, drawings and limited edition prints, photography, handmade jewelry, fashion, accessories and more. Kids will have a chance to enjoy interactive games, face painting, paper craft, drawing with still life and jewelry making. Contact: Email [email protected] or call 090 772 9846 for more info november 9

What: Gala Where: Sheraton Saigon Hotel, 88 Dong Khoi, D1 About: Diwali – The Festival of Lights - is an Indian festival celebrated to spread the spirit of kindness and share the joy. The event will feature Bollywood music, dance performances, Indian cuisine from the royal pavilions of northern and southern states and various other stalls featuring western and Asian cuisines. Tickets for Diwali are available at InCham head office, Saigon Indian, Ashoka, Tandoor and Baba’s Kitchen. Tickets cost VND600,000 and VND300,000 for InCham members and their children respectively, for non-members VND700,000 and VND350,000. Contact: Call 3824 5671 or 3838 6661 for more info and tickets

november 9

What: Celebrating Talent Where: VinGallery, 6 Le Van Mien, D2; 10am - 11am About: This is a great opportunity to celebrate the artistic talent of the community and to raise money for charity at the same time. Students of VinSpace Art Studio will be displaying their work in an exhibition. All proceeds from the auction will go to charity. Contact: Email [email protected] or call 090 772 9846 for more info

10 november 10

What: Traditional Handicraft Bazaar Where: Renaissance Riverside Hotel, 8 – 15 Ton Duc Thang, D1 About: Artists from tribal groups of Black Lolo, Coined and Red Dao, Nung, White and Flower Mong presenting art and culture from Craftbelt – Cao Bang will be the highlights of this event. The men and women artisans who are behind the traditional handicraft products will be there to show the diverse steps of production: spinning, weaving, hand-embroidering and creating pattern with beeswax. Organized by DECEN, Mystère Boutique Saigon and HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation, this event is an occasion for both Vietnamese and foreigners to experience an in-depth discovery of the northern ethnic minorities’ culture and support a good cause. Contact: Access www.decen.org or email [email protected] or call 3858111 for further info

november 14-18

What: Helene Kling’s Exhibition Where: Exhibition House, 92 Le Thanh Ton, D1 About: French artist Helene Kling will showcase her new collection called “Rêve de Fer,” literally translated as “Dreams of Iron” which embodies a tough beauty concept. The new collection uses recycled waste materials including corrugated iron and cardboard. It takes the concept of “Poubelle Plus Belle” (“Most beautiful rubbish” or “Best rubbish”). Imagery of women and the place of women in different societies is an emphasis of her latest collection. Contact: Email [email protected] or call 090 395 5780 for more info

11 november 16, 17

What: Anusara Yoga and Yoga Therapeutics Where: Yoga Meditation Centre, 335/31 Dien Bien Phu, D3; 8am - 5pm About: Under the tutorage of Anusara yoga instructor Jonas Westring, these four workshops are designed to bring balance and bliss, as well as to gain a better understanding on the biomechanical functions of our bodies and how yoga can help with injuries and conditions. The workshops will include the following topics: The Gateway to Energy, System Balancing: Twists, Forward Bends & Yoga Breathing, Heart Opening: Sequential Backbends, and Therapeutic Touch: Hands-on Techniques. Early bird rate costs USD40 per workshop, USD75 for two, USD100 for three and USD120 for all four. Contact: Email [email protected] or call 0126 662 6467 to register

november 22, 24

What: Yoga Retreat Where: Nutrifort Fitness, Diamond Island, Thu Thiem, D2 About: This yoga retreat features Elonne Stockton teaching traditional Ashtanga asana and pranayama (breathing techniques). Ashtanga asana (physical posture) is characterized by breath-synchronized movement or vinyasa, which de-stresses and detoxifies the body and brings body, mind and soul into alignment. Pranayama (breathing techniques) channels the mind through breath control. Apart from its therapeutic benefits, pranayama brings about clarity of mind and improved concentration and focus as a path to meditation. Stockton will teach how to practice “Yoga for Life,” drawing from ancient yoga teachings to provide practical tools to help overcome daily stress and achieve healthy living. Contact: Email [email protected] or [email protected] or call 093 307 7991 for more info

november 23 november 22 - 1 What: The Consular Club of HCMC’s 20th International Charity Bazaar What: Holland 2013 Where: White Palace Convention Centre, 194 Hoang Van Thu, Phu Where: 23/9 Park Nhuan; 9:30am – 2pm About: The area surrounding Ben Thanh Market will transform into a About: This year’s event will continue in the tradition of past bazaars quaint Dutch village with Dutch-style houses, a 3D photo zone and the – selling goods and foods from all over the world for a good cause. In delights of Dutch cuisine. Visitors will also have the chance to learn more addition, visitors can also purchase tickets in the popular Grand Raffle. about traditional and modern Dutch culture, technology and innovation Raffle tickets are available for VND50,000 each, and prizes include airline within the theme of trade and sustainability, and can find out more about tickets, resort stays, spa packages, and much more. Santa Claus will be the opportunities the Dutch business community in Vietnam has to offer. there to breathe the festive atmosphere of Christmas into the event and to The Dutch Business Association Vietnam will offer networking have his photo taken with children and adults alike. events for entrepreneurs and professionals to enhance their connections Proceeds will be redistributed to help those less fortunate in the throughout the business community in Vietnam and expand Dutch community. Projects supported by the Consular Club through funds businesses’ visibility in the Vietnamese market. Additionally, delegations generated from the International Charity Bazaar range from scholarships, from the Netherlands will be in attendance to attend business seminars to medical care, providing water wells, building bridges, schools and on water management and horticulture. more. Entry tickets cost VND100,000 for adults, and children under 10 Contact: Visit www.holland-village.org for more info accompanied by an adult can enter free of charge. Contact: Email [email protected] or visit www. consularclub.com november 24 What: 17th Annual Terry Fox Run november 30 Where: Crescent Area, Phu My Hung, D7 About: A non-competitive charity event held in commemoration of What: Charity Bazaar Canadian cancer activist Terry Fox to raise money for cancer research. Where: The Deck, 30 Nguyen U Di, D2, 10am – 4pm Companies, schools, communities, families and individuals are invited About: A biennial bazaar started in 2006, this one will feature over 45 to join on the 5km run, walk, wheel or ride. The Canadian Consulate vendors offering locally and regionally sourced and produced items, General, Canadian Chamber of Commerce, Canadian International and stands from selected local retailers, too. All proceeds will benefit School and the HCMC Union of Friendship Organizations organize this VinaCapital Foundation's Heart Beat Vietnam program, which funds year’s event. crucial heart surgery for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Contact: Email [email protected] or call 3824 3754 for more info Contact: Call 3744 6632 for more info

december 5

What: UNICEF ZEROawards Where: Intercontinental Asiana Saigon, corner of Le Duan and Hai Ba Trung, D1 About: This is a VIP black-tie fundraising event that brings together the most respected and influential individuals in Vietnam, catalyzing substantial, sustainable investments in Vietnamese children. UNICEF ZEROawards is an initiative of “Believe in ZERO,” a global campaign launched in Vietnam, that aims to reduce the number of preventable child deaths to zero, the number of exploited or abused children to zero, the number of children deprived of clean water and denied access to school to zero. Contact: Tickets for the event are available at www.unicef.org/vietnam/zeroawards or call Tam at 3821 9413

12 13 Troi Oi The country by numbers

crimes have been committed so far this year, according to a report by the HCMC police department, an increase of 144 cases year on year. The police have infiltrated 687 criminal gangs and5,109 have arrested 1,629 criminals in total. The police say they are stepping up the fight against organized crime. All heads of local Vietnamese were arrested in The Philippines police precincts will face strict penalties if there are organized after being found in the ocean with a haul gangs operating in their districts. of protected sea turtles. The fishermen were caught off the western Philippine island of Palawan, in waters near the East Sea where authorities13 say foreign poaching of endangered or protected species has become a major problem. Sea turtles are protected under Philippine law and catching them is punishable by at least 12 years in jail. In recent years, the Philippine authorities have frequently caught foreigners, often Chinese, catching or buying sea turtles in the waters off Palawan. In November last year, in the same area where the Vietnamese were caught, the Philippine navy recovered more than 100 sea turtles from poachers. The turtles were frozen and packed tightly in the cargo hold of the fishing vessel. Turtles are used in traditional medicines and are served as a delicacy in many Asian countries. 4,174,000,000 packs of cigarettes were consumed in Vietnam in 2012, cited a report released by the Vietnam Tobacco Association. The shocking figure was released at a conference intended to implement a national program to combat smuggled and contraband cigarettes in Hanoi. Vietnam’s cigarette consumption has been on the rise since 2010. Cigarette consumption recorded in 2010 and 2011 was 3.986 billion packs and 4.131 billion packs respectively. Smuggled cigarettes are another headache for authorities, the association added. Last year some 900 million cigarette packs were illegally brought into Vietnam, accounting for 21.6 percent of the domestic cigarette consumption in 2012.

14 is the richest child in Vietnam 1 YEAR following the wishes of his OLD tycoon father, Huynh Uy Dung, who has passed on his fortune (worth thousands of billions of dong) to his son. Huynh announced he Vietnam Airlines (VNA) plane wheel was discovered missing after is giving his entire business - including the aircraft landed in Danang Airport last month. Le Truong Giang, a Binh Duong-based resort, two the spokesman of the national flag carrier, said this was the first industrial parks and three residential incident of its kind to happen and an investigation is underway. areas - to his son Huynh Hang Huu. The aircraft took off from Cat Bi Airport in the northern city The child has also officially become of Hai Phong at 12:45pm and landed in Danang at 2:15pm on chairman of the board of directors of 1 schedule. After all 41 passengers and crew had left the aircraft, Dai Nam Joint Stock Co, which currently airport technicians carried out a routine examination and found the has more than 2,000 workers. aircraft’s front shaft had been broken at one side, resulting in the loss. Explaining his decision, Dung said Lai Xuan Thanh, head of the Civil Aviation Administration of Vietnam, said such an he has spent more than 50 years incident is classified as serious as it poses a threat to flight safety, and it was fortunate working hard and feels it is now the that it did not cause any serious damage. The agency has assigned staff to search for right time for him to take a break as he the lost wheel in both Cat Bi and Danang airports but they have failed to find it. If the has finally found the meaning of life in wheel fell from the sky and caused any damage to anyone or any property, VNA must be his son. responsible for paying compensation, he added.

15 The Bulletin Promotions and News in HCMC...

Baba’s Kitchen in D2 Baba’s Kitchen has opened its second location in An Phu (49D Xa Lo Hanoi, D2) and is a truly fabulous Indian eatery that has the traditional taste of home with a warm and friendly ambiance. Baba’s Kitchen understand the need for authentic Indian fare and with many years of experience in catering and food service and a beloved first location on 164 Bui Vien, D1, the owners are skillful at making delicious and creative Indian food. The quality of food, the delightful atmosphere and the excellent service that Baba’s Kitchen provides are renowned. The food you find at both locations is exactly like the food cooked in the homes of Northern and Southern India. Using , authentic Indian spices, and other fresh ingredients allows the food to remain nourishing, light, and filling. With a wide selection of food there are choices for everyone.

Visit, www.babaskitchen.in for their full menu and delivery es b y ada m Y ou n g Im ag

16 Airline Promotion To commemorate its 80th anniversary, Air France Vietnam (www. airfrance.com) has overhauled its ticketing office on Dong Khoi, and in conjunction with its re-opening, the airline is offering promotions until December 20. For every flight ticket purchased, customers will receive a small gift such as a passport holder, luggage tag or air pillow. In addition, they will be invited to join the lucky draw running throughout the period, with prizes including: one business class round trip ticket from Ho Chi Minh City to Paris or Amsterdam (1st prize), one economy class round trip ticket from Ho Chi Minh City to Paris or Amsterdam (2nd prize), one Longchamp bag and two discount vouchers of VND5 million (3rd prize) and many other prizes.

17 Weekend Escape Package InterContinental Asiana Saigon is running an IHG Weekend Offer, starting from VND3,300,000 per deluxe room per night (accommodation only). Daily buffet breakfast can be purchased in advance at VND487,000 per person per day. And on Sundays, it offers brunches from VND980,000 per person. This offer is valid for weekend stays until December 31 only with a minimum two-night stay and subject to availability. Located right in the center of Saigon, InterContinental Asiana Saigon is the home away from home for families who would like to explore Saigon or simply enjoy a short weekend escape. Its amenities include deluxe rooms, outdoor lap pool with sundeck and 24-hour fitness center. Food aficionados can choose among three restaurants, from Vietnamese cuisine to traditional and home-style Italian cuisine. For further information and reservations, email marcom1@icasianasaigon. com or call 3520 9999.

Luxe Homewares For those who appreciate a good sleep and to rest their weary head on luxe linen with a Vietnamese twist, Very Ngon Homeware has added hand-printed pillowcases to its range. Featuring its signature French antique postcard images, the pillowcase range includes local Saigon icons such as Dong Khoi Street, Notre Dam Cathedral and a new image of the Saigon Opera House and Hotel Continental. Along with small decorative pillows and four new cushion cover designs being launched at upcoming bazaars, they have you covered if a luxurious rest in bed takes your fancy. Very Ngon has also created iPad covers and new tea towel designs while the previously popular oven mitt will make a comeback with options for both left and right hands to satisfy European purveyors. For more information, email Lise Nguyen-Owen or Nguyen Thi Minh Hieu at [email protected].

18 Crawfish King A new place for food lovers, Crawfish King opens on 63 Truong Dinh, D1. It serves crawfish, lobster, mantis shrimp, American-style chicken wings, oysters, fruit beer, sea urchin and more. To give customers a chance to enjoy meals for low prices, Crawfish King allows customers to participate in an appreciation program named “Great Food, Surprisingly Low Price.” One can enjoy crawfish for VND499,000/kg on Mondays (Crawfish Day) or raw oysters for VND10,000/oyster on Wednesdays (Oyster Day). Sea urchin fans will definitely want to visit the restaurant on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays (Sea Urchin Days), when prices of dishes made from sea urchin range from VND39,000 to VND129,000. While chicken wings are offered for VND6,000 on Tuesdays (Chicken Wings Day). Happy Hours special (1pm – 5pm) offers 50 percent off drinks or get free six raw oysters per 1kg of crawfish or one food combo. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ crawfishking63

19 Fitness Challenge For those who want to stay fit, lean and fabulous,Body By Jovie offers a six-week “Finish the Year Strong” challenge at 20 percent off. The challenge, which includes complimentary nutritional guideline, fitness assessment and body measurements, will begin November 11 and will end December 20. The winner of this challenge will receive a one-month pass to the gym and a yoga pass worth VND3,125,000. Unlimited access to classes including Yoga, TRX Suspension, Outdoor Boot camp, and Zumba, and High Intensity Interval Training are offered to those who will attend a minimum of four days a week. Located at Riverside Residence on Nguyen Luong Bang, D7, Body By Jovie is an urban boutique gym and yoga studio, catering to individuals demanding diversity, challenge and results. When signing up for this challenge, mention “Oi Vietnam Magazine” and receive a complimentary 2-day pass for a friend. Email [email protected] or visit either Facebook: bodybyjoviegym or www.bodybyjovie.com for more info

20 Room With a View Victoria Hotels & Resorts (www.victoriahotels.) opened a stunning, brand new 26-room property on Nui Sam Mountain (Chau Doc) in October. The resort focuses on health and wellness, taking advantage of its prime location, affording 180 degree views over the lush green fields below. While only 10 minutes from the town of Chau Doc, the Nui Sam Lodge is designed for those wanting to get away from it all. The brand, under the Thien Minh Group, the largest integrated privately-owned travel and hospitality group in Vietnam, recently unveiled ambitious plans which include taking over operations of the Victoria Xiengthong Palace in Luang Prabang, Laos, remodeled from the last residence of the Laos Royal Family, and operating luxury day and overnight cruises in the Mekong Delta. Scenic flights to Ha Long Bay are also in the works for summer 2014.

21 SPORTS

Rebel with a Cause Johnny Tri Nguyen talks MMA in Vietnam, his banned movie Chinatown and why he's always the bad guy Text by James Pham

Hearing Johnny Tri Nguyen talk about When you can't find a resolution for his grandfather, the "White Crane of Ca something, it's very frustrating. Producing is Mau," so named for his long sleeved shirts the same. Now that I've written quite a few to hide metal arm and shin guards, it's hard scripts that are ready to be produced, I'd like to separate fact from fiction. The story to stick with acting and action directing. For sounds a lot like a Hong Kong movie script one movie that's a lot of work already. and involves a grudge fight on a sampan, Cambodian hitmen practicing black magic, a How come you always play the villain? jerry-rigged flame thrower, and a debilitating "one finger to the eye" finishing move. JTN: In Vietnam, the bad guy is always the But that shouldn't come as much of a white guy. But in the States, good guys are surprise, coming from a Hollywood stuntman always the white guys. So whenever they turned Vietnamese movie actor/producer/ wanted an Asian gangster, or a North Korean director/writer. His body of work includes soldier, they called me. [laughs] stunts done in TV shows and films such as Mortal Kombat, Spider-Man and Jarhead. He's You were making a name for yourself in starred in a number of Vietnamese films and Hollywood. Why come back to Vietnam? foreign language films, and most notably had a part in the Hollywood action flickCradle JTN: I came back in 2000 for the first time as 2 the Grave, with a fight scene opposite Jet a cameraman for an independent Vietnamese Li. Leaving Vietnam at the age of 9, Johnny film and got the chance to travel in Vietnam. and his family landed in Beaumont, Texas ("It I loved the weather, the humidity, and the was too cold for my mom") before settling in beautiful, cinematic scenery. Vietnam is full California. A devotee of martial arts, Johnny's of life. first break came when a friend called about a In 2004, I was hired to do a movie in TV series looking for martial artists. So began Thailand, playing the lead villain in a Thai his career in the movie industry. movie. It was really close to Vietnam and I We're at Johnny's dojo, Lien Phong always wanted to shoot a movie here. Back in ("Connecting Winds", the style of martial arts 2000, there was no movie industry in Vietnam originated by his grandfather), a peaceful at all. But in 2005, it was kind of starting and shaded oasis in District 7 which contrasts I wanted to tell a Vietnamese story. So we with the raw, explosive action that takes place wrote a script called The Rebel and got my here. The rhythmic thwap thwap of two dozen brother to direct it. It was a big success, but jump ropes from the nearby training area not in terms of the box office. I think we made provides the soundtrack for the interview. 20 prints for the whole country. But people Clad in a tight fitting training shirt that shows who saw it, loved it. It made us proud of our off a body most 20-year-olds would envy, work so I stayed and kept on working. Johnny talks to Oi about his full circle journey in life and the movie business. Your most recent movie, Chinatown, was famously banned here this summer after In your career, you've done it all - failing to pass the censorship board on stuntman/actor/writer/producer. Which do multiple occasions. What happened? you prefer? JTN: As a filmmaker, you don't want anyone JTN: As a stuntman, I loved doing things that to touch your materials. I'm sure Leonardo were illegal to do outside of movies - shoot da Vinci didn't want someone telling him guns, fight, drive fast, jump from crazy places. to draw in the eyebrows on the Mona Lisa. You can make as much as the actors, except With Bui Doi Cho Lon (Chinatown), we had for the famous ones. But it was missing a a director's cut which we absolutely loved. creative element, so I took acting classes So it was really a shock when we got the and got a few small roles, mostly where they paperwork saying we had to change the needed an actor who could also do action. movie. Even with the first notice, we knew Writing is something of a love/hate it was going to be a movie that wasn't our relationship with me. Sometimes when you vision. We made quite a few changes and shot create something good, it's really satisfying. more scenes. We had to somehow put police e b y n go c tr an Im ag

22 23 in the movie. But it wasn't a police story! This you drive a lot, put a lot in. If not, cut down. I the competitors. MMA in the UFC [Ultimate was a gangster movie. But it wasn't enough. don't want to walk around like a male model Fighting Championship] is bloody mainly with a six pack all the time. Dieting is not fun. because of elbows, so we put Muay Thai What are you working on now? Life is about fun, it's about enjoying things. elbow guards on. In 10 fights, there was no blood. I don't think Vietnam is quite ready for JTN: We just finished shooting a comedy with Tell me about last weekend's MMA (mixed the full UFC experience, especially if it might myself and the number one comedic actor in martial arts) competition, Meeting of the lead to a negative response which wouldn't Vietnam called Teo Em. I have a feeling it's Warriors. be good for the sport right now. It can still be going to be really funny, a road trip comedy exciting without the blood, though. n g e d b y l i en p ho es p ro vid Im ag that hasn't been done in Vietnam. JTN: I was one of the organizers and fight team leader. I wanted to have a Were you too pretty for the UFC? So, not another action movie? competition where our guys from the Lien Phong dojo could participate. I feel MMA JTN: I retired from competing when I was 26, JTN: We're not crazy enough to do another is really watchable and enjoyable because when the UFC just started getting popular. I action movie after our last one was banned! of its diversity. Anyone with a martial arts was doing stuntwork and making good money. You can't really ban a comedy. I hope! background can join and it's unexpected, full If there was no stuntwork, and the UFC had [laughs] of drama. gotten popular earlier, who knows? But there When we started Lien Phong last year, no are a lot of handsome UFC guys, come on! Okay. We have to talk about the body. Every one around town was really doing MMA. I other Google image of you is shirtless. wanted to get more people involved, more What does Lien Phong mean to you? What's your workout regimen like? MMA gyms and clubs to grow the sport. So I partnered with Saigon Sports Club and JTN: I have a big apartment in the city, but JTN: [laughs] It's quite normal! I just train we picked about 20 guys with the most I usually stay in a puny room here at the with my fight team. I don't just stand there experience to compete. dojo. That's fine by me. There are about 10-12 and point. That's the best way to know when people living here, most of them my fight they're tired, when to pick up the pace. It's Some people say MMA is too violent. What team. All these guys want to train and get an intense workout. I also do weights once or do you say to that? good. That was me when I was young. My twice a week. body's not the same conditioning-wise but JTN: It can be, under certain rule systems. mentally I love the competition and that feeds Do you diet? It can be borderline sport and combat when my spirit. It's a happy place for me. you allow anything. We don't want it to be JTN: No! I eat anything. I just had a big giant that way. We kept the rule system to pro For more info on Lien Phong, visit www. pizza yesterday. Your body is like gas tank. If am/amateur level with safety in mind for lienphong.vn

24 NOT ALL BIG IDEAS COME FROM BIG AGENCIES

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25 ART

layers. Instead of getting new canvases, artists used to paint on top of previous paintings, according to the different styles of the period. We once removed a very gross Waterworld Baroque painting and discovered an amazing landscape from the 15th century. Time alters Artist Barbara Anchisi draws inspiration colors, pigments, and varnish, but to be able from her new life in Vietnam to bring it back is incredible." Her restoration work has taken her to many regions in Italy, the US, Austria, Text by James Pham Portrait by Quinn Ryan Mattingly Pakistan and . "I didn't know I Illustrations by Barbara Anchisi would travel so much in my life. Perhaps archeology would've been better for me!" she says with a laugh. Ensconced in her sunny third floor my new life," she says) has been inextricably But even during those years of meticulous studio directly on the Saigon River, Italian linked to her love of art. restoration, Barbara's creative spirit shone artist Barbara Anchisi is perfectly happy Born in Turin, Barbara attended high through. "You have to be really respectful. watching the world float by. It's no surprise school in Florence and fell in love with You can't interpret [the painting]. Although then that boats and barges inspired her latest both the city and her craft. "I knew I had sometimes we did add a little petal on a collection, Cargo, a series of mixed media to live there and painting was going to bouquet for fun," she confesses. prints, photos and paint. "It's not just boats be my domain." Armed with a diploma in that carry something - what appeals to me Fashion and Theater Design and a diploma Another World With Children are tiny boats tugging huge containers. They in Painting Conservation, she started out Another influence on Barbara's art has carry animals, flowers, children... the boat restoring masterpieces under the supervision been her work with children. In Shanghai, is the life. I wanted to use [this collection] of prominent restorer Edo Masini, Head of she volunteered as an art teacher because to show that the whole city goes into the the Restoration Department at the Fortezza her children's school didn't have any art boats. It's amazing how much water links da Basso. programs. Here in Saigon, she currently everything here. The water itself is so alive." For her, restoration is "a way to pay respect conducts art projects at the Pho Cap The journey that brought Barbara to Saigon to an artist's work. What's fascinating is School for street children, some who a little more than one year ago with her to try to get back to the spirit of the artist have developmental problems including husband and son ("I'm still putting bricks into - what's underneath all the bad paint, bad Asperger's Syndrome.

26 "What strikes me is the perfume of the streets. Even with the heat that we have, there are no bad smells... unless you're in a fish market! But otherwise, there are lots of good, positive smells coming from fruits and flowers. Well done HCMC!"

"I discovered that being around children Experimentation and a keen sense of spatial where there's almost an absence of religion. takes you into another world. Their mind is relations are key, as a separate carving plate There's nothing much left besides money." so pure, their instinct still fresh, they're not is required for each of four or five ink colors. Barbara also draws inspiration from the afraid of color combinations. At the very The subject matter comes from a collection little things that are part of her new home. small [Pho Cap] school, we did abstract art of photographs, from which Barbara creates "What strikes me is the perfume of the streets. for the first month to free their minds. If stencils on a transparency placed directly on Even with the heat that we have, there are no you've never seen art or only very traditional her computer screen. These images are later bad smells... unless you're in a fish market! art, it can be very limiting, just copying. photocopied and meticulously hand painted, But otherwise, there are lots of good, positive I wanted them to use colors to represent cut out and then reassembled onto the prints smells coming from fruits and flowers. Well themselves, not just through their true of the barges. The result is a stunning series done HCMC!" she says with a flourish. "And features. So for instance, I didn't let them of vibrant, exquisitely detailed multimedia the orchids - you see them everywhere. You use black for their hair. I wanted them to see prints which incorporate elements of see little jungles on tiny balconies. I also see things from a different perspective. You can Vietnamese life such as religion, community butterflies in the fields when I walk my dog. ask them 'Why did you draw it that way?' and and the ubiquitous motorbike. "In China, They cluster together, fly in communities, like they'll tell you. They're opening your mind. there are lots of motorbikes and lots of cars. HCMC where the idea of life is community, They have a different point of view. I found it You're often stuck in traffic because of the car. one on top of each other, really living very inspiring for my own work. The funny Here cars are stuck because of motorbikes. together. In my print, you can see one thing is that in the studio, it's mainly you and Motorbikes are freedom," she says. butterfly is trying, and one has escaped." the painting, but in the chaos of 20 children in One of her works depicts a barge laden If you're looking to buy one of Barbara's the room, painting can be extremely exciting." with religious icons. "Everything is alive originals, you may be too late. "I make work Back in her District 2 studio, anchored here. You see Buddha there, the Virgin here. and then sell it and then it's over. I like the idea by a printing press brought over from her It's not just from the temple. I was struck that my things are going to be around the world time in China, and littered with tempera by the mélange of religions in the Mekong in someone's house. I haven't thought much paints, photographs, carving tools and rolls Delta. There might be an image of the Virgin about commercializing by making postcards of Chinese paper, each work from Barbara's Mary but with incense in front of it. Religion and pillowcases. These are unique things - Cargo series starts off with creating prints is really part of the life here. The soul of the when they're gone, they're gone. In China and of the barges made from plates carved out people is much stronger. It's so different from Vietnam, people always copy things, but my of plastic board using wood carving tools. China [where Barbara lived prior to Vietnam], work won't be so easy to copy."

27 EXPAT LIFE Fish a la Cart Taking fish and chips to the streets Text by NPD Khanh Images by Loc Nguyen

Meet JJ’s Fish and Chips (38B Tran Hung but when you really want chunky chips... Dao, D1), the self-proclaimed first-ever The fish was quite nice, but we got french authentic fish and chips streetside food fries. So I thought, well, nobody's doing it cart in HCMC. JJ is short for Jamie, the here so maybe I should do it. I thought about Englishman who missed his home country’s opening up a street food place where I'd sell national dish way too much to let a lack of for maybe three or four hours a day. That’s business experience stop him from making how the idea came alive.” it the star of his business, and Jackie, Jamie’s Sounds simple? Bigger things have Chinese-Vietnamese partner in life, business, started out with ideas far simpler than that. and cooking. Besides, its star entree is hardly the only “I had the idea nearly a year ago,” explains thing that Jamie claims is unique about his Jamie. “A couple of months after my move stall. Open from 6pm every night on the from England to Vietnam, I went looking for corner of Tran Hung Dao and De Tham fish and chips. I was missing it badly. I went in the backpacker area, JJ’s is a humble into English restaurants and places where yellow-painted food stand with a couple of they serve fish and chips, but every time I collapsible chairs and tables in front for a was served french fries. French fries are okay quickly removable dining area in case the

28 cops come by. According to the owners, “The fish has to be fresh. The cooking has people are wary of putting into their mouth,” the rough-and-tumble presentation is both to be fresh. Everything must be kept clean adds Jackie. a return to the classic form of the English and contained,” says Jackie, who deals with While the decision in the business dish and a conscious business decision. much of the preparation and upkeep of the model and price has given JJ’s significant Back in England, fish and chips is a no-frills stall. He also hand selects the fish every day. popularity with customers very early on, food usually served in mobile chip vans as Instead of the unavailable English cod, they it has also put them in a place with few takeaways or stand up dining. use top grade sea bass. operational choices, a fact that JJ’s previous “We played with ideas but we thought landlady used against them. we should stick to how people like to eat it “"During our hunt for a street-front here. Here in Vietnam, people like to eat on place to rent and store the cart overnight, the streets, like bowls of noodles and such. whenever we mentioned our food being a Locals, tourists and expats. If we had a fish "We don’t want Western dish, they’d quote us outrageous and chip restaurant, the price would come prices,” says Jamie. The problems did not up more than a hundred thousand dong for to be the kind of stop even when we agreed on a price. “We a portion and that’s not a price most people street food that started noticing missing oil, gas, even the would like. We wanted to introduce this as cleaning gel. We started marking how a kind of culture to the people here and we people are wary much we actually used since we figured wanted as many people to be able to enjoy we couldn’t be using that much. When we it, so we thought we shouldn’t go with the of putting into confronted her, she admitted it, but even restaurant option,” says Jamie. when we tried communicating and being their mouth” understanding, things just didn’t improve. A Good Marriage Because we didn’t have much of a choice, However, serving it on the street does not she felt she could push us around. So we mean serving low quality, and Jamie and “We don’t do pre-cooks. We only start the stopped. We said that’s enough, we’re not Jackie are adamant to prove that their food cooking once an order is made. It takes more stupid, and moved.” is not junk food made with questionable time and we’ve had customers complaining It took a month and a half for JJ’s to ingredients in unhygienic conditions. Their about the time. I told them that this was to find its second home and things have been concept for JJ’s Fish and Chips is to marry ensure the food comes out fresh and hot. A looking up. “It was difficult,” says Jamie. “But restaurant quality and taste with street food couple of people have had problems but we we didn’t let it bring us down, we didn’t let convenience and energy. don’t want to be the kind of street food that it stop our passion for fish and chips.”

29 DANCE

Footloose Find out how Linh Rateau’s journey from France to Vietnam resulted in the creation of one of the city’s most popular dance centers Text by NPD Khanh ImageS by Loc Nguyen

Looking at the current Dancenter in District 2 - the villa, the spacious dance studios, the well-lit rooms and clean white walls, the star-studded list of instructors and the whopping 600 students on its roll call - it’s hard to imagine that all this success started out with just a backpack and a few hundred dollars. Meet Linh Rateau, the founder and central figure to this expat rags-to-riches tale. Twelve years ago she boarded a plane to Vietnam with nothing but a backpack, one address to rent a room, a few hundred dollars and the contact details of some of her dad’s friends still living in Vietnam. She spoke fluent French, a little English and not a word of Vietnamese. That was not her first time in Vietnam, however. Being a child of French and Vietnamese blood but never having been born or raised in Vietnam, Linh was understandably curious about her Vietnamese father’s country and culture. In 1997 at 19 going on 20, leaving beautiful Paris for a vacation in dusty Saigon was a huge culture shock. “Vietnam was not like in the pictures. There were poor people and homeless kids on the street. I was young then and hadn’t seen a lot of the world,” she says. “Despite the difficult condition of life, people have a good will to move forward. I could feel that. There was a positive energy to move forward. They have a lot of hope in the future. Paris is a beautiful city with lots of things to do but the energy feels down. People walk fast on the streets. Nobody looks at each other. It’s very individualistic. Here you don’t need to know anyone to strike up a conversation. This I like very much. The contact with each other. The will not to look at the past but to look to the future.” Once her three-month vacation ended, she had just one objective: to return to Vietnam. Step by Step Dancing is in Linh’s blood. Her mother is a professional dancer and the owner of a dance school in suburban Paris. Linh herself started her dancing education at the age of three, but, despite that she wasn’t exactly pirouetting all the way to success. “Dancers are not considered seriously, in Vietnam most of all. The life of a dancer is short. You dance with your body. After a certain age your body no longer answers you as it did when you were 20. It’s not like with actors, musicians or painters where your art matures as you age. Thirty-five years old is the limit. After that the body gets tired. The career of dancers is short. This is true everywhere.”

30 When she returned to Vietnam, Linh started volunteering her time at the 15 May School, a government school for street children where she taught dance. Eventually those contacts led her to a job as a dance instructor for a Saigon-based “Dancers are not considered seriously, in French school. From there, requests for private dance lessons began pouring in, so in response Vietnam most of all. The life of a dancer is Linh formed a small dance class inside the Labor Culture Palace. This was the predecessor to short. You dance with your body. After a Dancenter. certain age your body no longer answers In 2007, Dancenter was officially founded in an unairconditioned garage in Binh Thanh you as it did when you were 20" District. The charter members included Linh and four others - a dance instructor, two office assistants and the security guard - all of whom still work there today. The five shared a single computer and a broom closet sized office. Linh and her team’s hard work paid off. Now seven years after opening, the center is a resounding success. The initial team of five has long since grown past 20 and the first 100 students are now 600. Classes here start from 8:45am to 10pm, ranging from 60 to 90 minutes each. The first half of the class is a music-pumping workout that aims to build the physicality required of dancers. The second half, by contrast, is where the instructor works with every student to develop his or her technique and understanding of a specific dance style. The center boasts 10 dancing specialties ranging from timelessly classic ballet to young and trendy break dancing. In a country where any dance other than ballet is still seen as frivolous add-ons to other performances, and where dancers are still seen as stage props to singers and not artists in their own right, Dancenter brings much-needed attention to the unique artistry of each dance style and for this it has become far more than just a dance school. For more info, visit dancentervn.com

31 JOIN THE CLUB A Fixed Focus People coming together to share information, experience, and knowledge in all aspects of photography

For Chien, the Vice President of the Doan Cong Tinh, Vu Ba, and Trieu Hung, style and shooting techniques between Senior Photography Club, photography is a along with other members who have held the young and the old, he replies: “The life-long pursuit. As a teenager he tried to high ranks in the government. Membership differences surely exist, yet sometimes pursue it as a career but harsh conditions is granted to those who meet a few simple are not so obvious as the old folks with during the American War and family requirements. One should be 60 years compounding life experiences bring calmer obligations forced him to abandon it for a of age or above, although the age limit and more philosophical perspectives into more financially stable job. Now in his golden has been lowered somewhat to allow for their photos. And we are more patient too. years and retired, with resources and family those serious about photography. Another “Like a fisherman calmly and patiently support, he’s able to reignite his first love. condition is that all potential members waiting for his fish, senior photographers The HCMC Senior Photography Club should have some knowledge or experience can spend days at a scene just to get a right is a special chapter of the Ho Chi Minh on the topic. At the moment, the club shoot with the right light and structure. I Photography Association (HOPA, www. comprises of only Vietnamese men but am really amazed at the photos the club hopa.vn) with more than 30 senior and also welcomes female and expats as more members produce, not only by the sheer experienced photographers as permanent perspectives about photography can then beauty, but more so by the emotions which members. Founded by Trinh Dinh be shared. is clearly the heart and soul of all the Thu in 1999 as a platform for retired photos,” adds Chien. professional photographers and aspiring With Age Comes Patience The club holds its monthly meetings ones to gather and share experiences, I met Chien one morning at HOPA’s office on the 19th where photos of the month the club has grown strongly in terms of where the club was having its annual are brought in for member critique. Chien prestige and recognition thanks to the photo exhibition in conjunction with their says he’s happy to mentor and pass down club’s participation in major national and Hanoi branch. Passing by each photo, he any knowledge he has to those who regional photography competitions. proudly and passionately explains the share his same passion. Email him at Some of the members are renowned war meaning and angle behind each shot. [email protected]. – Clara photojournalists such as Trinh Dinh Thu, When asked if he saw any differences in Phuoc Nguyen

32 saigon mythbusters

THE MYTH: Is it true that there are right and wrong ways to use your chopsticks at the dining table?

While this is true, some of the 2) When setting down your a fresh pair. customs are no longer practiced chopsticks, never stick them in the city. The following is a list into your food. If you stick 4) Never point chopsticks at of things you should never do them upright in the food, it will someone, especially at your with chopsticks in the presence of represent your tombstone because elders, or even worse speaking Vietnamese people: this is how food is offered to the with a mouthful of rice. It is dead. Death equals bad. If you impolite. 1) Never use them to drum on the must set them down, set them table, never separate chopsticks down on the table or sideways on 5) Don't stick your finger out with one hand. You should never your bowl. when using chopsticks. do this because the locals believe that everything that is good 3) If for some reason you can't use 6) Never attempt to pass food comes in twos. If you separate one of the chopsticks from your from chopstick to chopstick as the chopsticks, you'll disturb the pair or it has dropped, don't get a this is how unburnt bones are "peace." single replacement chopstick; get moved to the urn at a cremation.

THE MYTH: Why do some Vietnamese men grow long hairs out of moles and long pinky nails? Is it true it’s a sign of luck and wealth?

Myths exist in various cultures to define it that hairy moles are a sign of good luck. do manual labor. No doubt there's some truth good versus evil, bad luck versus good luck, The longer the measly strands of hair are, the to this. Now they grow out the pinky nail as prosperity versus poverty. Asian cultures luckier you are. So, whatever you do, don’t a sign of culture, breeding and wealth. A bit in particular focus on physical traits as an pluck them. of browsing on the internet turns up photos indicator of a person’s future. For example, According to a lunar fortune calendar, hair of ornate fingernail protectors worn by ladies large earlobes tend to signify wealth, a wide indicates the mole is alive and, therefore, of the imperial court. nose signifies future prosperity. But perhaps a “good” mole. So, until the luck of a hairy The Vietnamese also believe that if the the most curious of these facial feng shui mole can be disproved, the myth will little finger (including the nail) reaches past trends is the hairy mole. continue and Asian men around the world the last knuckle joint on the ring finger, If you spot a Vietnamese man sporting a will continue to groom their most prized you’ll be rich and intelligent. Generally, hairy mole, you’d better assume he’s hitting physical trait. though, you’ll see men using it for general the jackpot, scoring with the women, and In the old dynastic days, long fingernails scratching and ear cleaning. - Christine Van living on top of the world. Why? Legend has were a sign you were rich and didn't have to

33 Just Desserts As part of Oi’s food coverage this month, we surveyed the city for the finest desserts, from strawberry and chili cake in District 2 to decadent morsels of luxury Japanese sweets in District 1 and shaved ice piled high with fresh fruit and coconut in District 5, we’re proving that life in HCMC is undoubtedly sweet. Whether as an antidote to the sweltering heat or a quick pick-me-up any time of the day, these desserts will definitely leave you craving for more.

Images by Ngoc Tran

34 Decadent Dumplings Japan’s famous luxury sweet will satiate any sugar cravings

Text by Lottie Delamain

In the space of two years, Mochi Sweets (77 Hai Ba Trung, D1) has not just arrived in Vietnam but is fast taking over the sweet snack scene with 14 stores already open and more on the way. Mochi is a type of traditional sweet Japanese cake made from mochigome, short-grain japonica . It is pounded into a paste, mixed with water and molded into a sticky, chewy dumpling. Traditionally they are filled with red beans and served as a treat on Japanese New Year. However, in their latest incarnation, they’ve been adapted and upgraded to cater to a more diverse audience. The red beans have been replaced with fruit sorbets and ice cream and are served all day long - as a mid-morning snack, a post lunch treat, or as popcorn replacements at the movies. The chain boasts an impressive range of flavors, from blueberry and classic green tea, to the rare sakura (cherry blossom). The latest additions are orange mousse, durian, and coconut and all are presented ice cold on a paper napkin. For the novice mochi taster, it’s an unusual texture – smooth, cold, chewy dough, surrounding a dollop of delicious ice cream. Undeniably sweet but strangely moreish, they are a pleasant surprise on the tongue. Beyond the more familiar flavors, the sakura was delicious – a delicate floral mouthful with hints of cinnamon. For the less adventurous, you can’t go wrong with mango, and the blueberry is also popular (priced between VND24,000 – VND28,000 per piece). They are gaining a cult following among locals who have been ordering them by the dozen. I have seen them turn up at everything from baby showers to birthdays in the office. Perfectly formed, suitably sweet and now available on almost every street corner, could the Mochi cake be the one to finally bring an end to the cupcake era? Perhaps.

35 The Couture Cake Maker Delicious art that’s edible from top to bottom

Text by Lottie Delamain

Shirley started baking as a small kid growing up in the In her kitchen drawer, scalpels and sculpting tools sit alongside Philippines. Her parents ran a Spanish restaurant and so for Shirley, more familiar kit such as food coloring and sugar paste. The key to food has always had a starring role in her life. After leaving school, decorating a cake is, of course, the icing. Generally, Shirley works she did a brief stint at a bank but soon realized she was in the wrong with two types of icing – fondant, which she makes from scratch business. When she started bringing in the results of her weekend from marshmallows – and gum paste, more elastic and stronger, and baking frenzies to the office it wasn’t long before people were making used for creating intricate detail such as hair or flowers. orders for birthdays and other special occasions. Shortly after, coffee Shirley likes everything on her cakes to be edible, so she starts shops in the area were also placing requests and that was when she with a Rice Krispie cake mix to make the body. Then she rolls out made the leap. Her dad was hugely supportive and helped her set up fondant and molds it around the figure. For the finishing touches she her first bakery, Pastry Passion, in Manila. And since then, it has been sculpts tiny eyes or flowers out of the gum paste before sticking them one sugar-coated adventure after another. on with a sugar-syrup solution. Shirley’s sweet tooth then took her to New York where she If you can’t think of an occasion to order a spectacular cake, trained with Cheryl Klienman and catered for well-connected New Shirley also makes some mean macaroons (the salted caramel flavor Yorkers, as well as the high-flying corporate world. Since having her are absurdly good) and a big selection of cupcakes and other more first child however, she has slowed down the pace to focus on her traditional puddings. passion, which is creating custom cakes, great towers of confection Order online by emailing [email protected], follow personalized and decorated in such detail they might be mistaken for her on Instagram at shirleyyangacakes or on Facebook at Shirley art installations. Yanga Cake Design.

36 37 Crème de la Crème Silky smooth manna

Text by james Pham

On the list of the 49 most fattening foods as determined by a New Zealand university, cream sits at #11, not quite as fattening as corn chips and condensed milk, but more so than donuts and fried food. While it may be high energy but essentially bereft of nutritional benefits, like almost everything that's bad for you, it is sinfully delicious in all its forms. For those not counting calories, Dine Viva (195 Dien Bien Phu, D3), the newly opened French/Italian restaurant from chef and owner Vinh That Ton, unabashedly serves up two heavenly creamy desserts. After heading up notable kitchens including Bobby Chinn (Hanoi), Shri and An Lam Saigon River, Dine Viva is Chef Vinh's first restaurant of his own. In spite of his cooking success, Vinh says he’s actually an accidental chef. Born in Vietnam, Vinh left for Australia at the age of nine. After attending high school in California, he went back to Australia looking for work. "A friend gave me an ad in the paper to apply for a job. It turned out to be an ad for a cooking course but I thought I might as well try. Later on, when my father was working in a laundry store, he happened to wash a chef's uniform. He asked the chef if he needed any help." And so began an apprenticeship at one of Australia's top restaurants. When Vinh first revisited Vietnam as an adult, he immediately knew that he wanted to come back regularly. Family connections made the country feel like home, including its comfort food. Vinh still remembers the flan that his grandmother and mother used to make. "When I first learned how to make it, it brought me straight back to when I was a kid. All Vietnamese kids have it." Vinh's version of crème caramel, though, has improved on the original. "When I grew up, I tasted flan from the store, and it wasn't the same. It wasn't as good as I remembered. The Vietnamese way, you can only taste the egg custard and the flour. In ours, the caramel goes all the way through," he says of the much darker colored flan which is mixed with caramel before baking in a water bath as opposed to the Vietnamese version which is generally steamed. The Dine Viva crème caramel is also served with fresh orange segments, candied orange rind and dried sweet potato slivers, all garnished with finely sliced mint. "A lot of Vietnamese restaurants serve it with coffee or crushed ice which overpowers the light smoothness of the crème caramel," he says. "The aroma of orange rind goes really well with the flan. It cuts through the richness." While the basic ingredients which go into crème caramel are simple, Vinh says the secret is in "how you take care of it while you're cooking it. If you overcook it, it becomes hard. Undercooked? Then it's runny inside. The timing has to be almost perfect to get the consistency right." Set in a villa owned by superstar singer Hong Nhung, Dine Viva is a full-service restaurant with a small but bold menu. The restaurant's most popular dessert so far has been the panna cotta (Italian for "cooked cream"), a simple creation made by simmering cream, milk and sugar with gelatin, and letting it cool until it sets as a wobbly, silky, sinfully soft pudding. Chef Vinh's version pairs it with a raspberry sauce, fresh raspberries from Dalat and a passion fruit gelatin. "It's easy to eat. The girls love it," says Vinh. "Some customers just come in for the panna cotta. The only thing is they're afraid it's too rich and creamy. It's a guilty pleasure," adds Vinh who is rail thin despite proclaiming that all he eats is cream, cheese, bread and chocolate, "basically anything fattening". Vinh's baby daughter, Viva, seems to approve of the dessert served at her namesake eatery. "At eight months, she's already showing food appreciation. She loves cheesy things. When we first introduced her to Panna Cotta, she really went for it!"

38 Sweet Surprise Unorthodox pairings to create uniquely divine cakes

Text by james Pham

Some matches are made in heaven. Brad and Angelina. Pizza and beer. Gin and tonic. But strawberries and chili? Chocolate and beetroot? More like pairs joined in culinary hell. But David Campbell, owner of Villa Royale Treasures (8 Dang Huu Pho, D2), a brand new antiques store-cum-tearoom set on a quiet, leafy lane in An Phu, somehow makes it work. While the tearoom serves up the requisite banana, carrot and chocolate cakes, David likes to experiment with unexpected flavor combinations. Trained as a cook turned restaurant owner in Queensland, David's passion is creating desserts. "They get the most amount of gratification from people. As well as the usual cakes, I like to throw into the mix something that's a little bit different." Of his Strawberry, White Chocolate and Chili Tort, he admits that while it "sounds like it's going to be hot and spicy like a Mexican dish, the strawberries inside the sponge cake are macerated with sugar and chili from Sapa, which are hotter but smoother than regular chilies. I think chili brings out the flavors. Even Lindt has got chili in chocolate, so it's becoming mainstream. It's just a really nice combination, not hot as in burning but with a nice aftertaste of chili." David's tort is three layers of sponge cake, each topped with a strawberry chili filling and iced with white chocolate buttercream, a decadent celebration of all that is good in this world. David's tips for frosting the perfect cake? "Ice it roughly and then put it in the fridge, taking it out half an hour later after it sets. You'll have a better chance of getting it smooth. A sponge cake will tear and rip apart. But later on, come in with a hot knife and it smoothes around quite nicely." For the strawberry filling, "the trick is to have a lot of overripe strawberries and lots of sugar, hot, not to the point of toffee but sticky. Wait till it cools down to room temperature and then add the chili." Substitutions include using Dalat strawberries ("but you have to wait until they're almost overripe to have any flavor to them") or even cheating with strawberry jam ("as long as it's chunky"). Inside Villa Royale Treasures, style is as important as substance. Cakes are enjoyed around the dining room table, surrounded by possessions collected from every corner of the globe, from ornate Mongolian saddles to vintage suitcases from Melbourne to East Timorese wedding necklaces, each hand-picked by David on his travels as Global Director of Sales for the Raffles hotel group. "I know each of these pieces intimately because I've lived with them," he says. That authenticity extends to his love for cooking. "My baking philosophy is: If I won't eat it myself, I won't cook it. I'm not a big one for pastries; they take too much time to make and are almost as good bought from a shop. But these kinds of cakes, you can really taste something about them that's homemade. You can taste how authentic they are." Another surprising combination from David's kitchen is found in his Red Velvet Beetroot Mud Cake with Chocolate Ganache. "Beetroot is very accessible to the Vietnamese, but [in four years] I haven't seen it in anything here, especially not in desserts. There's a lot of beetroot in my mud cake, nearly 350g. You can taste it, but it's very subtle." Indeed, the beetroot, which is baked like a potato before being pureed, lends substance and consistency to the cake, but the taste may not be readily identifiable to the unwitting. "The body of the flavor of the beetroot, along with chocolate, flour and eggs - it's got a real nice marriage of flavors. It's not something you'd eat every day but at least it's one of your food groups out of the way!" laughs David. If only it were that gratifying to eat your vegetables.

39 The Other Che The weird and wacky world of Vietnamese desserts

Text by MICHAEL ARNOLD

Coming up with a global definition for the whole spectrum of sweetened breakfast cereal, but beware – the initially addictive coconut traditional Vietnamese desserts is certainly problematic. The collective cream will rapidly diminish in appeal past the second glass. term che (pronounced “jeah”) covers a broad range of what you might At the other end of the scale, che bap and che khoai mon are far think of as sweet soups or porridges, served either warm or ice-cold. simpler dishes. Small servings of warm gelatinous rice sweetened It’s the unexpected delicacy of the flavors that strikes most first-timers with coconut milk and blended with corn and taro respectively, these – beans and seaweed aren’t instinctive choices for internationally- less exotic che are pleasantly filling and particularly welcomed on an popular desserts, but with a little Vietnamese culinary wizardry, the empty stomach. This sweetened gruel has been an afternoon staple in combinations work. the southern region for a very long time, often made with tapioca and You could trek around Saigon for a week and still fail to sample sometimes sharpened up with a little grapefruit flower oil and roasted every variety of che on sale at the many specialty stores in town. There sesame. are some more or less standard desserts, however, that you really wouldn’t want to miss out on while you’re here. Family Thais The eponymous dish at Che My (119 Nguyen Thai Hoc, D1) is One of the more dynamic aspects of having such a loosely-defined probably what most people think of when they go out for che. Served national culinary tradition is its ability to draw in other influences and like a sundae in a tall glass, this variety of the traditional che ba mau turn out brand new forms. This has happened in the case ofche Thai, dessert is an icy blend of colored fruit jellies, thinly-sliced jackfruit, now one of the most popular variations on the dessert and the result of hunks of preserved coconut, green beans, white broad beans, and an enthusiastic Vietnamese take on a relatively similar dish originating palmyra – all layered like a in a cup with a mild pink syrup, in Thailand called tap tim krop. Che Thai Y Phuong (380-384 Nguyen sweet coconut milk, and shaved ice. The star ingredient is a cubed red Tri Phuong, D10) was such a hit when it began rolling out classic iced jelly enveloping slivers of crunchy water chestnut. Che my is not quite che with durian several years ago – it was the firstche Thai store in the a soup, nor is it a drink; it’s less sugary than your average bowl of city – that copycats now seem to have taken over the whole street.

40 Che Thai is essentially all about the durian, although those not overly local Vietnamese Chinese family, Nha Den – a tiny blue shophouse fond of the fruit will be pleased to know that it doesn’t entirely overpower squashed in between pajama shops off the Soai Kinh Lam intersection the recipe, which is otherwise very similar to che my above except with on Tran Hung Dao – serves a hybrid che channeling the influences of more colorful chunks of jelly. The result is a rainbow of a dessert that any Cantonese cooking and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Open late from kindergarten-age kid would throw tantrums to be allowed to try. 4pm, the venue’s signature dish is sam bo luong, a cocktail of herbs, A rather more austere dish at Che Thai Y Phuong is more of a beans, and grains best served freezing cold. Known outside of Vietnam mouthful to order – che dau hu sau rieng sua tuoi is a far milder variety as qing bu liang, the original dish was indeed a purely medicinal of iced che, with fresh milk replacing the coconut cream. Served here soup that was picked up for its cooling properties as a popular night in a beer mug, this ivory-colored dessert still has its hunk of durian, snack in the sweltering Hong Kong summers, entering but the fruit is offset by a thick disk of soft, olive-greenkhuc bach (a from there. Nha Den’s version is no less refreshing in its icy, sweet very slightly sweetened gelatin-based substance not unlike tofu). This transparent syrup serviced with lychees and their juice; the soup itself is an old matron of a dish in contrast with the vibrant, silky-stockinged looks like it’s been scooped out of a fishbowl with its fans of white che Thai, and it has an appeal that’s very hard to place – fans will find seaweed and bobbing chunks of lotus root and red dates. a comforting graininess or mealiness in the drink that makes it seem A rather more challenging che is the hot ga chung, a thick gelatinous healthier to consume than all the colored jellies otherwise on offer. sweet paste served in a ceramic bowl engulfing a raw egg and a dash of coconut milk. You’re supposed to stir it through as soon as it’s Fine China served, but to do so is to commit yourself – the slightly salty gushing Deep within one of Chinatown’s most exotic suburban locations yolk gives the dish a hint of meatiness that makes for an awkward (set amongst the silk markets and behind the most ancient temple transition between sweet and omelette-y, whereas the paste on its own in Cholon) lies one of the oldest che venues in the city. Unchanged seems more familiar and is quite pleasant. It’s no wonder this dish is for a good 70 years and passed down through four generations of a often touted as a cure for constipation. Magic Beans Healthy and cheap, soy delights to please the palate

Text by Lottie Delamain

Soybeans have long been touted as the latest super food, hailed for their ability to fight cancer, lower cholesterol and improve memory. And while they’re easy to grow and cheap to buy, it’s a wonder why we don’t eat more of them. Phung wants to change all that. Having loved and longed-for all the delicious soy recipes she’d tried abroad, Phung, who owns The Bean Store (399 Vo Van Tan, D3), wanted to bring them back to her native Vietnam. Although Vietnamese cuisine does incorporate soy into some of its puddings, to the uninitiated, the ladies selling it out of nondescript vats on the side of the road are an intimidating prospect. The Bean Store has created a more appealing option. At the west end of Vo Van Tan, wedged among rolls of shops on the busy street, the café is a hidden haven. Phung’s design background and personality are evident in the cutesy contemporary layout - pared back pine furniture, Polaroid photo collages and a laid-back vibe. As the first restaurant to specialize in soybeans, the menu champions all things soy – soybean pudding and bean are the most popular. Both are based on a soy milk jelly, made by mixing soy milk with a natural gelatin. The puddings are then mixed with various flavors (matcha, pandan leaf, chocolate or vanilla) and poured into molds and chilled to create a kaleidoscope of individual mini-desserts (VND35,000). The bean curd puddings use the same soy base, but are then paired with a host of different extras from lotus and longan (the Bean Curd Lolo Mix), pomelo, mango and watermelon (the Bean Curd LA Mix, VND49,000) to the more traditional hot ginger syrup. Alongside the puddings, they serve every imaginable soy shake and smoothie as well as a selection of lesser-known Japanese savory snacks – more culinary relics from Phung’s travels. It hasn’t been totally plain sailing for The Bean Store – compared to what you buy on the street, the prices are a bit more expensive, and culturally soy has a reputation for being unhealthy for men. However, 18 months in, it has overcome critics, spawned a host of copycats and there’s even talk of a second store opening in the future. For those unfamiliar with soy, this is the perfect introduction. And if you’re still not convinced, they do a great lunch deal too.

42 WineIMAGE BY ngoc tran & Dine

Skewers

43 THANKSGIVING SPECIAL

Giving Thanks Before you grab that turkey leg, learn how the Pilgrims and the Native Americans celebrated the first Thanksgiving together

Well after autumn settles in across the The pilgrims were not prepared for the harsh devil in things they found strange,” Geoffrey US, Americans of almost all stripes anticipate winters of what is now New England. They says. “When their new neighbors brought the Thanksgiving holiday with joy. Families nearly starved because they couldn’t farm in them lobster, they shunned it for the red color, and friends come together, food is prepared their new environment, were terrible hunters, believing it was the work of Satan.” Despite an in gluttonous amounts, and football - the and the muskets they brought with them were amicable beginning, the relationship between American version - is watched and played with all but useless. “Wild turkeys were very agile the colonials and the natives gradually got extra oomph. and they flew, it would have been impossible to worse over the next decade as the Europeans It holds a special place in American culture hit them with a musket,” Geoffrey explains. expanded farther and farther into native for its history and its role as herald of the The pilgrims had to scrape by on small game territories until fighting broke out. To this day holiday season. Thanksgiving is not a unique like squirrels and rabbits, or fish and eels, things the Native Americans view Thanksgiving with holiday, however. It’s an incarnation of harvest simple enough for a child to catch by scooping sadness, mourning the nation they lost. festivals that are celebrated around the globe. them up or trapping them. Thanks to nearby The story of Thanksgiving lived on, albeit What sets it apart from others, however, is the tribes, like the Narragansett who brought obscurely, through the ensuing centuries in unique history associated with it. The story them corn, grains, meats, and other food, they written records. It wasn’t until the end of the most children learn about is the familiar landing survived though that first winter. 19th century and beginning of the 20th that at Plymouth Rock by the Pilgrims in 1620 and But adjustment to new neighbors wasn’t Thanksgiving evolved into what we know how they befriended the native Americans and always so easy. The pilgrims rarely took baths today. Turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie, etc., shared the first Thanksgiving in 1621, replete or washed their clothes. Furthermore, the became the ‘traditional’ feast. Then it was with all manner of foodstuffs indigenous to their settlers kept their livestock alongside them in packaged, polished, and sold to the masses as new home, including the famous wild turkeys. their homes for fear of losing them. The reeking a great American holiday. “Thanksgiving is However, the true history behind this most odor that resulted was not only offensive to the a great holiday and well worth celebrating,” beloved holiday diverges from the official natives, but it often drove the game out of the exclaims Geoffrey. “We just need to remember story. According to Geoffrey Deetz, whose area, which forced the native people to have to that most American history was written by the father, James Deetz, was a Harvard professor move right along with it. Their religious fervor wealthy, privileged European men, and this and the foremost expert on Thanksgiving, the was also an impediment on occasion. means we have to alter our perspective.” holiday started out as more of a mercy mission. “Being puritans, the pilgrims often saw the – Julian Ajello e d b y ne w wor ld sa igo n e p ro vid Im ag

44 THE ULTIMATE Gobble Gobble THANKSGIVING Thanksgiving is on the fourth Thursday of FOOD GUIDE November and this year it falls on the 28th. Here is a list of places that have created special menus to help you celebrate it with friends and family

Black Cat Restaurant Nineteen, Caravelle Hotel 13 Pham Van Dat, D1 19-23 Lam Son Square, D1 Black Cat is doing an all-you-can-eat family style dinner on Gourmet specialties and popular Thanksgiving treats, enhanced by a free November 28th and 29th. It will deviate from a normal buffet style flow of red, white and rose wines. The appetizer corner will have French arrangement where guests order what they want and how much they cheeses, imported cold cuts, hand-rolled sushi and freshly baked bread want from the menu and the kitchen will make it fresh for table. The and soft rolls, while a live seafood station will serve just-caught fish and family style is to provide fresher, hotter food with less waste. There shellfish fresh or cooked to your liking. A carving station offers unlimited will be a free flow of cranberry sangria, draft beer, and limeade. There helpings of stuffed US turkey together with sauces, and diners have their will be special promotions on house California wines. This year, the pick of a wide selection of international mains, roasted and barbecued Thanksgiving special will only be available dine-in only, no deliveries. meats, salads, soups, and desserts - including traditional pumpkin pie and Begins at 5pm until late. Prepaid reservations are recommended. the Caravelle’s signature cream caramel. Cost: Adults - USD29, kids under 12 - USD12, kids under six - USD5, Cost: VND1,013,000++ per person. Call 3823 4999 kids under two eat for free. Riverside Cafe, Renaissance Riverside Hotel Saigon Dine Viva 8-15 Ton Duc Thang, D1 95 Dien Bien Phu, D3 Renaissance has a buffet dinner prepared with all the trimmings - Turkey Dine Viva is featuring a set menu for Thanksgiving with all your with giblet gravy along with your all time Thanksgiving favorites: favorites, with a twist. Start off with a pumpkin and orange soup, pineapple-glazed ham with maraschino cherries, glazed sweet potatoes followed by a starter of roasted beef tenderloin with braised with curried onions, oyster soup, mashed potato, pumpkin pie and many mushroom and onion cream sauce. The main course is a ballotine of more. turkey roasted with potato and sage pudding, zucchini flower and Cost: VND990,000++ per person including house wine, cranberry sauce. Finish off the meal with a flourless chocolate and beer, sodas and holiday cocktails; kids under six eat for free. pumpkin jelly cake. Call 3822 0033 or visit www.renaissance-saigon.com Cost: VND950,000 ++ per person including a complimentary cranberry cocktail per set menu. Call 8327 2018 Square One, Park Hyatt Saigon 2 Lam Son Square, D1 Elbow Room and Skewers Enjoy a feast for the eyes and palate with a truffle pea soup, followed 52 Pasteur, D1 and 9 Thai Van Lung, D1 respectively by roast turkey, homemade stuffing, macaroni and cheese, cranberry On November 28th and 29th starting from 6pm, an individual set sauce and more. Completing the meal is a pumpkin tart with maple ice menu will be available and includes clam chowder, garden salad, cream and vanilla Chantilly cream. Available for lunch and dinner on turkey with corn, mash potatoes, stuffing, gravy, bread, and cranberry Thanksgiving Day. sauce, along with a slice of pumpkin walnut pie to finish off the meal. Cost: VND950,000++ per person. Call 3520 2359 Cost: VND580,000 for the set or VND350,000 for an a la carte turkey plate, VND100,000 per slice of pumpkin pie, or VND100,000 per slice of key lime pie. Villa Royale 8 Dang Huu Pho, D2 Villa Royale is offering holiday themed cupcakes in the spirit of InterContinental Asiana Saigon Thanksgiving. An assortment of flavors will be available from November 39 Le Duan, D1 26 until December 1st (unless otherwise sold out) including: Pumpkin Instead of slaving away in the kitchen, let their skillful culinary team spice with a maple syrup cream cheese frosting; apple cinnamon with lend you a hand in creating a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner for you a caramel cream cheese frosting; vanilla butter pecan with vanilla and your family with their popular and mouthwatering “turkey take- buttercream frosting and sprinkled with pecans; and classic carrot with a away.” Their 7 to 9kg delicious whole turkey comes with traditional cream cheese frosting and topped with toasted coconut sprinkles. cranberry and gravy sauces. You also have a choice of the following Cost: VND60,000 per cupcake. Call 3744 4897 for advance purchase - stuffing: pork and cornbread, or apple and cranberry; side dishes: roasted potatoes (2kgs) or mashed potatoes (2kgs) together with two kinds of vegetable. Cost: Priced at VND3,900,000++. Call 3520 9999 or email dine@ icasianasaigon.com. All orders must be placed at least two days in advance.

Parkview, New World Saigon Hotel 76 Le Lai, D1 Indulge in a selection of seasonal favorites for Thanksgiving Dinner such as roast turkey with homemade stuffing, cranberry sauce and gravy or honey-glazed ham with sage and mustard sauce. Complemented by their popular seafood buffet. Cost: VND1,100,000++ per person including free flow of sparkling wine, house wine, draft beer and soft drinks. Or celebrate in the comfort of your own home by ordering their turkey, ham or imported roast beef rib-eye dinner. Priced from VND2,478,000 including one bottle of red or white wine. Call 3822 8888 or email [email protected]

45 RESTAURANT REVIEW Opa! Take your taste buds on a Mediterranean fling Text by Michael Arnold Images by Ngoc Tran

With food, it’s always the familiar that wins over the exotic, and in the food industry, it’s dependability that keeps a restaurateur in business. While trendy Thai Van Lung has transformed unrecognizably since Tristan Ngo founded his fancy Mediterranean eatery Skewers (9 Thai Van Lung, D1) here 13 years ago, the restaurant itself has remained pleasingly consistent. After all these years, the kitchen staff still haven’t moved on (a record number of them have now married each other) and the menu has only expanded without dropping off any old favorites. “Have a dish today, come back a month later and it’s the same,” says Tristan, who emphatically runs Skewers as a ‘family thing.’ “With a lot of us older restaurants, the staff have stayed with us right through. That’s part of the secret of being able to stick around.” Don’t be fooled by the classy décor – this is a venue to be concertedly comfortable in. You can wear a suit and tie if you want, but turn up in shorts and a polo shirt and you’ll be seated, and no one will care. “It’s not like a fine dining place, although it may feel like it,” says Tristan. “We just make it so it’s warm, it’s comfortable. The kids are very welcome in our place too, because we aim at families.” Skewers’ cuisine is as close to the genuine article as you can get. “I try to keep the traditions,” Tristan explains. “French people come to the restaurant and call me the Greek guy. I don’t believe in fusion cuisine. That’s too confusing. Fusion is like you don’t know what you want to do.” Tristan trained in Mediterranean-style cooking back in the States, and traveled in the region after graduation. “To me, Mediterranean is a simple food. It’s all about freshness; it’s not complicated, not like French or Italian or Spanish. Mediterranean food is essentially based on fresh products, and Vietnam has a lot of them. Fresh vegetables. We’ve got eggplant, cucumbers, and fresh tomatoes. There’s plenty of seafood here. With those basic ingredients, you can start to put together the cuisine. We serve a lot of Greek food, but the menu is all over the Mediterranean, Lebanese, North Africa, the islands, you name it.” The Meal We start our meal with a mixed dips platter (VND250,000), a generous heap of pita bread with a selection of pureed spreads. The hummus is very smooth and very good, but I find myself partial to the southern

46 “This is something I like to do. Just seeing people. Food, it’s all about bringing people together. You serve food how you want to be served yourself. That’s what it’s all about”

French-style tapenade with its salty, coarse- textured crushed capers and olives. The roasted eggplants in the baba ghanoush lend a pleasant smokiness to that particular dip. We’re also treated to the chef’s favorite goat cheese tart (VND150,000), a homemade recipe with a balsamic olive oil base. More or less a savory Hellenic cheesecake, the goat’s cheese is blended with feta and cream cheese to balance the flavors and add cohesion to each slice. We take our mains from the grill – the tender meat cooked on the massive skewers that lend the restaurant its name (and on that note, don’t make the mistake of many first-timers: Skewers does not specialize in shish kebabs). I go for the saffron-marinated chicken skewers with sauce (VND300,000), which is a massive helping equivalent to three chicken breasts. The meat is exceedingly consistent and pleasingly soft; the grassy tang of the saffron is apparent as each bite touches the palate, but does not persist long enough to overpower the natural flavor of the poultry. Use thetzatziki dip to vary the spiciness to your taste. Our second main, the grilled salmon fillet with nicoise salad, curry mayonnaise sauce and micro mix (VND380,000) is perfectly cooked – seared crunchy on the skin and full, unadulterated freshness within, warm and separating easily on the tongue. The beans and asparagus in the salad lend a firm quality to each mouthful, and this is an easy dish to finish despite the generosity of the serving. Take Skewers meals with wine – the cuisine more or less demands it. “Wine goes with pretty much everything we have on the menu,” says Tristan. “We have a serious wine list here, because I like wine. Restaurant-wise, I’d say we’re in the top five in terms of range, and we’ve been officially recognized for it. I put a lot of consideration into what we included, and we’ve managed to participate in a lot wine events because of that.” After so many years, Tristan’s still satisfied with the business. “I’m happy with it,” he assures us. “This is something I like to do. Just seeing people. Food, it’s all about bringing people together. You serve food how you want to be served yourself. That’s what it’s all about.”

47 RESTAURANT REVIEW

As the blackboard menu at El Camino (137 SB-02 Nguyen Duc Canh, D7) says, these are tapas “just like mama used to make.” Francis Aliu has been serving Barcelona-style tapas from his new restaurant in District 7 for just two months, yet he is already drawing a loyal local following - as well as attracting those prepared to make the journey from Districts 1 or 2 to satisfy their craving for Spanish food. Francis is Spanish and grew up on the culture of late night dining on small plates of nourishing, tasty food. His philosophy is simple: serving affordable, authentic Spanish food with the additional twist of a few dishes One Bite borrowed from other cuisines. “I want to make tapas as accessible as they are in Spain, not high end or high priced,” he explains. “I can’t get the prices any lower because I use a lot of Spanish ingredients.” There are 26 tapas dishes on the main menu, none priced at more than VND55,000, along with two platter at a Time options at VND95,000. El Camino is located on the fast-changing tree-lined boulevard A taste of Spanish home cooking of eateries and cafes in the heart of Phu My Hung. It’s a compact with a twist in Phu My Hung restaurant elegantly adorned with bright colored art and furnishings inside. But from our observation, most diners prefer to chill outside on large comfy sofas on the broad pavement, sipping cool, fruity Sangrias Text by Robert Stockdill Images by Loc Nguyen (available in white or red versions) and watching the eclectic mix of the local expat community amble by. This street feels a long way from Vietnam with its wide pavements, trees, al fresco eating and global brands mixing with local entrepreneurs. It’s a fitting environment for a tapas eatery.

48 Our Meal we tried seven or eight recipes. We just kept tapas dishes. El Camino’s Queso Manchego Tapas without red wine or Sangria just trying different ingredients until we got it (VND49,000) is served thinly sliced with aren’t the real deal, so we eagerly ordered a right.” ciabatta bread drizzled with a mix of tomato, bottle of Marques de Caceres Crianza Rioja Chorizo Frito (VND55,000) was served in olive oil and salt. 2009 (VND490,000), a smooth Spanish red meaty chunks in a pool of olive oil. It tasted The final dish in our banquet wasPatatas we recalled fondly from Australian Spanish smoky and deliciously oily and moorish, Bravas (VND29,000) tossed in a garlic aioli by restaurants. And it was served non-chilled, just soft on the tongue with a hint of tang in the request. The menu haspatatas bravas served how we like it. aftertaste. TheGambas al ajillo (VND45,000) hot with a tomato sauce or cold with garlic Francis is very proud of his cannelloni - prawns with garlic - were lightly cooked, aioli, but the chef was happy to mix the offer (Canelones con béchamel at VND49,000) - tender, juicy, and deliciously garlicky, served to indulge our garlic craving, served with hot the only non-tapas dish we ordered (a mini with a sprinkling of herbs. potatoes. The garlic was very strong - just like hamburger, Hamburgueses mini at VND55,000, Croquetas (VDN49,000) are potato croquettes how the Europeans love it. is another option). made with Serrano ham, salmon and shrimp. We were way too full after this European “It’s not really a tapas dish but I wanted to The flavor was delicate, the balance of different feast to indulge in desserts, but at the time of add it to the menu as my mother cooked it in meats complementing each other in the soft writing El Camino was augmenting its plate of Barcelona when I was a kid,” he says. potato. fresh fruits with a traditional Creme Catalina The cannelloni was full of soft, warm meat Francesco urged us to try his Jamon Serrano and a selection of Bellany ice creams. and creamy béchamel sauce. If you close your (VND55,000), which he is particularly proud El Camino is exactly what it sets out eyes you can imagine yourself in the kitchen of to have sourced from Spain. “It’s hard to find to be: an authentic tapas experience with a Spanish farmhouse on a cold winter’s night, good Serrano ham for a good price, but my accessible pricing, a relaxed al fresco seated around a family table before a coal range. supplier is very good and the quality of the pavement dining area and cheerful, attentive Yes, this is just how mama would have made it. meat is very, very good.” We were glad for the staff. If you live in Phu My Hung and you’re “It’s not just the taste but the texture,” recommendation - it was wafer thin, soft and partial to Spanish food, it’s an ideal spot Francis explained after our meal. “I delicately flavored, slightly salty on the palate. to chill and graze. It’s also well worth the remembered the taste and the feeling and Manchego cheese is another of my favorite journey if you live further afield.

49 RESTAURANT REVIEW

Crustacean Cravings Fresh delicious seafood without having to travel to the coast Text by Lottie Delamain Images by Loc Nguyen

Blue Crab (49 Quoc Huong, D2) is coming lipped mussels, to crab wontons and For carnivores there are plenty of delicious up to its two year anniversary and has had bacon-wrapped scallops. There’s also a grilled and BBQ meats, including goat breast consistently good reviews since it first opened freestyle menu which Alex calls the “chicken which was excellent (VND45,000/100g) and for in January 2012. Its mission is high quality at McNugget philosophy” – you choose the fish the more adventurous the local classic, duck low cost and it is an unwavering commitment and then pick any sauce you want (salt and tongue (VND50,000/100g). The crown, however, to this philosophy that has earned it a loyal pepper, garlic butter, or tamarind) and Van goes to the triple honey-dipped short ribs that following. will whip up a feast just as you like it. were marinated, basted and glazed in honey Blue Crab is not your usual Thao Dien But the real show stopper, the chef’s special, making for a sticky, finger-licking mouthful eatery. Located on Quoc Huong, at the is the seafood mariniere (VND195,000). Based (VND30,000/piece). distinctly more Vietnamese end of An Phu, on the French classic moules mariniere (also All the seafood is sourced from the same it has a local homespun feel. Diners are there available for VND175,000), but with the addition venues that supply the city’s top hotels and for the food, not for luxury furnishings. The of fish, langoustines and giant prawns, it is a restaurants, but served up at half the price. So menu, designed by owners Alex and Van, is steaming bowl of garlicky Gallic goodness - as how do they do it? “That’s a closely-guarded also a homegrown mix of local Vietnamese good as any you’d get in France. Served with secret,” says Alex. He later reveals that they cut dishes and European classics. Alex grew up in chunks of warm French baguette to mop up the costs elsewhere. They moved out of their house Paris and Los Angeles (US) before moving back juices, this holy trinity of French food - garlic, down the road to live above the restaurant to to Vietnam, and his wife Van spent time in shallots and white wine - is hard to beat. ensure they could keep the prices down. To Canada before romance persuaded her to ditch For a more Vietnamese seafood feast, further demonstrate this, Thursdays they have everything and join Alex in Vietnam. Blue we also tried the banh canh, an udon soup oyster night where you can scoop up a dozen Crab is their first restaurant together, and is with juicy pieces of crab meat, prawns and for VND120,000 - only VND10,000 a piece. very much an expression of their personalities. pork in an aromatic broth (VND70,000). With so much on offer it is little wonder Van heads up the kitchen (Van was a champion And the seafood mien (noodle) with lobster, they are beginning to outgrow the premises cookery competition winner as a kid) while langoustines, crab and scallops was as and are looking to move to somewhere bigger Alex meets and greets out front, and it’s a delicious as it was indulgent – bok choy, bean next year. But for the time being, they will combo that seems to be working. sprouts and peanuts tangled up in a mound be where they always have been, serving The surf and turf choices are endless of stir-fried elastic strands of glass noodles up their take on French-Vietnamese seafood – there’s everything from lobster to and topped with mountains of fresh seafood classics, at prices that could make a regular langoustines, BBQ duck tongue and green (VND110,000). out of anyone.

50 FLAVOR OF THE MONTH FOOD Column

Home is Where Michael Kloster grew up in the vineyard country west of Fresno, California. He has over 20 years of marketing, hospitality, and food and beverage experience. He is the Wine Is currently Senior Sales Executive for Magnum Wine Cellars. How to start a basic wine collection He can be contacted at [email protected]

Light, Fruity Red The keys to which red wine you want to stock are personal preference and flexibility. For me, the key is to find something that can go nicely with roasted chicken, just as easily as a burger or a lamb chop (or the stereotypical delivery pizza). You have a few choices out there. Look for a fruity Pinot Noir, or even a reasonably priced Chianti. Chianti (made predominantly from the Sangiovese grape) is light and earthy enough sip with some chicken sautéed with mushrooms, yet perfectly acceptable to enjoy with a slab of red meat. These lighter reds are also nice with many types of local food, try one with some beef la lot if you don’t believe me. Sparkling The sky’s the limit here. The market is full of sparklers. Most notably Champagne. Please be sure to buy your Champagne from a reputable stockiest (a good idea with all wines as they are not often faked here, but easily spoiled). A modest non- vintage Champagne from a prominent As we edge towards the holidays, I’ve it’s always summer. Rosé is also quite house will set you back under USD100. been pressed by more than a few private food friendly, especially with local style But, if you’re on more of a budget, there clients about what they should be stocking seafood. If you prefer wine on the sweeter are plenty of options. In my fridge is up on to imbibe during the festive season. side, there are plenty of sweeter and off- a bottle of Prosecco from Italy. This This is an opportune time to stock up on dry roses out there. Among them is the particular one is dry, but they come in a few party essentials, and wine is no popular White Zinfandel from California, other, sweeter styles. Some are even pink, exception. But the question I seem to be a sometimes sweet rosé version made from if you’re feeling more festive. The Aussies asking myself more and more these days the Zinfandel grape. The rosé in my fridge like theirs red: sparkling Shiraz adds a bit is, “What about the rest of the year?” What is from Northern Italy, and just as good all of fun to almost any informal, or formal, should you keep around for a surprise by itself as it is paired with some yummy gathering. Sparklers are also great with celebration, a dismal day at the office, or fresh spring rolls. many types of food. something to wash down a delivery pizza? In my home I always have on hand at Dry White Bells and Whistles least one of each: a dry rose, a dry white, The hip dry white wine right now is In addition to the standard selections a light, fruity red, and a sparkler. Changes Sauvignon Blanc. Generally the citrusy- already outlined, you can outfit your in my personal taste, and the addition of a minerality and high acidity of a Sauvignon personal cellar with other things that fit wife, have increased the selection a little. Blanc makes it a great choice for an aperitif your taste. My wife likes off dry (read When you consider the suggested collection or with simply prepared seafood (especially slightly sweet) Rieslings, so we always below, keep in mind your personal taste and one with some fresh lime or other acidic have one of these around. How about situation, and then adjust accordingly. accompaniment). I like a nice Sauvignon a port or a nice sherry? I am partial to Blanc with fish and chips. An extra reason Rioja (a Spanish wine made from mostly Rosé to keep a dry white wine on hand is that Tempranillo and Garancha) with a few Rosé gets a bit of a bad rap: “Rosé is for you need it for so many basic recipes (like slices of manchego cheese. But, no matter women.” “Rosé is for novice drinkers.” pasta with clams, sautéed mushrooms, etc). what bells and whistles you choose to add Phooey. A nice, crisp rose is just what A richer white (like an oaked Chardonnay) to your cellar, keeping a small supply of the doctor ordered on a hot summer’s can leave an unpleasant taste when it hard working wines on hand will round afternoon. And let’s face it, where we live, reduces in the pan. out almost any occasion. Cheers!

51 52 The List

Atexpats is Ho Chi Minh City's first truly comprehensive insider's guide for foreign residents - website launching 2013

Wine &128A H ai Ba DineTrung, D1 with table soccer and an upstairs floor for bakeries 3829 6552 bars private functions. Opens late night. kinhdobakery.vn 58 Huynh Thuc Khang, D1 Bread Talk 6am - 10.30pm Allez Boo 3915 3826 With a mission to revitalize the once-stale [email protected] business of bread, Singaporean BreadTalk La Doree A popular bar in Saigon featuring tropical now has outlets throughout Asia and Providing patrons with over 50 varieties of bamboo decor, multiple levels and a DJ cakes, along with a rich sandwich menu Boudoir Lounge has established itself in several HCMC spinning funky beats. This unique bar from luxurious French-designed premises. locations. A brand partnership with Gloria offers a wide range of beers, shakes, Designed to look like a lived-in yet Jeans has seen a wide range of bakery La Doree is the best place in town for spirits cocktails and food throughout macaroons. immaculately styled Parisien home with goods available in the cafés, with both the day. plush leather sofas, silk cushions and brands sharing the premises at this 216 Ly Tu Trong, D1 187 Pham Ngu Lao, D1 3822 1718 velvet armchairs, Boudoir Lounge serves location. 6291 5424 up everything from afternoon tea to 106 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D3 www.ladoree.com [email protected] evening cocktails along with signature 3930 3181 7am - 9.30pm 24 hours dishes for any occasion from informal Brodard Bakery L’amour Bakery & Cafe Bernie’s Bar & Grill meals and business lunches to gourmet More than just another bakery, L’amour canapés accompanying evening drinks. is the perfect place for those whom are Brodard Bakery has been operating in An Irish bar and restaurant serving Ground floor, Saigon Sofitel Plaza looking for respite from busy HCMC. Saigon for over 30 years. It provides finely international cuisine like pizza, burgers, 17 Le Duan, D1 This patisserie offers a large selection of crafted cakes for all occasions in addition pasta and more. Celebrates happy hour 3824 1555 European cake and pastry, fresh juice and to ice cream, pastries, chocolate and tarts. from 5 to 7pm, and frequently provides coffee. You will also find pastas, salads, 95 Nguyen Hue, D1 live music. and sandwiches, ideal for lunch time. Brotzeit German Bier Bar & 3821 2416 19 Thai Van Lung, D1 Open from 6am – 10:30pm Restaurant 6am - 10pm 24 Hai Ba Trung D1 3822 1720 The HCMC venue is in the flashy Kumho Cakewalk Cupcakes Blue Gecko complex on the edge of the central Nhu Lan Bakery One of the most famous and prestigious district, and features a wide 24-meter Small boutique cupcake shop offers local brands of bakeries in the city, Nhu Blue Gecko provides a classic bar restaurant frontage on the mezzanine cupcakes with panache. Traditional Lan Bakery supplies bakery products, experience complete with a pool table, level and a contemporary and chic setting cupcakes as well as new, creative flavors cakes, bread, ham, sausage, poultry, darts board, cold beer and friendly staff. with German-inspired wooden benches are sure to satisfy everyone who is roasted pork, and dried foods. Guests can watch live sports and relax in and a long wooden bar counter. Serving compelled to bend to the will of their 50 Ham Nghi, D1 the comfortable ambience of the bar. authentic Bavarian cuisines and premium sweet tooth. 3829 2970 31 Ly Tu Trong, D1 beers. 84 Nguyen Cong Tru, D1 www.nhulan.vn 3824 3483 39 Le Duan, D1 6295 9087 4am - 12am [email protected] 9822 4206 10am - 9pm www.bluegeckosaigon.com brotzeit.co/kumholink Pacey Cupcakes 4.30pm - 12am Givral This cozy little bakery features elegant The cakes and tradition of this unique Chilli Pub Saigon Oi’s Pick décor and offers 12 kinds of cupcakes cake shop have captivated generations Bootleg DJ Café daily, located near the cathedral in a hip, of Vietnamese customers. With many A fun place to unwind, with cold drinks, modern setting. Modern, moody, and minimalist cafe bar outlets throughout the city, this particular good music (customers can choose the 53G Nguyen Du, D1 with reasonable prices by day, chic lounge store was reopened in 2010 on its original music) friendly staff, light pub food, weekly 3823 3223 with DJs playing by night. Has a limited site at Vincom A, built on the old Eden quiz night (Mondays), darts and televised [email protected] menu of sandwiches and other health- complex. sport. Try a challenge shot from the big www.paceycupcakes.com conscious Italian fare. 171 Dong Khoi, D1 Chilli on the bartop. 9am - 10pm 9 Le Thanh Ton, D1 3822 8659 090 760 9202 104 Ho Tung Mau, D1 www.saigongivral.com Pat’a Chou [email protected] 09 8376 3372 6am - 10pm French-style bakery with charming décor. [email protected] Specializing in baguettes, fresh croissants Boston Sports Bar 4pm-4am Gourmand Shop of various varieties, small quiches, and

cakes for every occasion. Located in the heart of the backpacker Chu Bar A traditional delicatessen shop featuring 74B Hai Ba Trung, D1 freshly baked baguettes, croissants, area, Boston Sports Bar is open 24 hours 3824 8179 and provides guests with a modern At this beautiful, laid back venue, tourists chocolate breads, charcuteries, pastries, 5am - 10pm finest macaroons and other French bar-going experience. The bar boasts a and locals alike can sit around Chu’s large delicacies prepared daily. Special products pool table, live sports on LCD TVs, and oval bar or on luxurious padded benches. Savouré Bakery western food. It has a full cocktail menu as well as a imported from France are also available Shops have a wide selection of cookies, 28/4 Bui Vien, D1 short menu of snacks and sandwiches. such as French oysters, Damman Freres sweet and savory breads and cakes 6656 6338 158 Dong Khoi, D1 luxury tea, and a range of authentic including cashew chocolate, taro and products. orange. Custom cakes can be ordered for 3822 3907 Ground floor, Sofitel Saigon Plaza weddings and holidays. Broma Saigon Bar 7am - Midnight

17 Le Duan, D1 Unit E3, 1st Floor, Saigon Tax Trade Centre, Famously known for 'not being a bar' 3824 1555 135 Nguyen Hue, D1 Cloud 9 Rooftop Lounge Broma is one of Ho Chi Minh City's most 3914 3773 popular hangouts with prices ranging Harvest Baking www.savourebakery.com Located near Turtle Lake, this stunning bar from VND30,000 - VND500,000. Broma offers panoramic views of Saigon. Guests Harvest Baking offers a delivery-based Schneider’s Cafe & Tea Corner is a more upscale option for those wishing can peruse an extensive international bakery service with a charitable focus, The bakers at Schneider’s offer fresh, to escape the cheap drinks in The Pham. wine list or choose from an array of teaching young Vietnamese hopefuls healthy, delicious breads, cakes, and 41 Nguyen Hue, D.1 creative cocktails and international beers. how to bake delicious breads and cakes 3823 6838 pastries, introducing Ho Chi Minh City to Level 6&7, Hai Nam Building, 2 Bis Cong through their food training program. [email protected] eight centuries of German baking tradition. Truong Quoc, D3 30 Lam Son, Tan Binh 27 Han Thuyen, D1 090 944 5544 t s 3547 0577 2229 6910 Carmen Bar harvestbaking.net www.schneiders-finest.com Carmen Bar features a small cavern-like 7am - 5pm Monday-Saturday 9.30am - 9pm entrance with rough rock walls decorated Eon51 with ambient lighting. With an exclusive Eon51 includes a fine dining restaurant, a Kinh Do Bakery Tous Les Jours range of drinks and cocktails, guests champagne lounge, a cigar bar and a heli can relax while enjoying tunes from an pad cocktail Kinh Do Bakery makes reasonably priced A Korean owned French-style bakery excellent Flamenco band. bar. Spread on three levels, Eon51 is a baked goods to-go, such as cakes and franchise serving fresh baked bread and 8 Ly Tu Trong, D1 destination for bespoke private and cupcakes, tarts, sandwiches, Vietnamese popular pastries, all baked on-site. 3829 7699 corporate events in Saigon. “banh bao”, Western-style hamburgers 180 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Levels 51-52, Bitexco Financial Tower, 2 and mini-pizzas and gelatin-based 3823 8302 Charm Bar Hai Trieu, D1 expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013 desserts. 6am - 11pm Unassuming expat bar in the central city 6291 8751

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 53 www.eon51.com 59 Dong Du, D1 3pm - 1am block, offering friendly bar service. Live 7am - 2am 3823 3122 sport on screen, including English Premier O’Brien’s Oi’s Pick League. Game On Le Pub Two-storey Irish-themed bar & restaurant 113 Ho Tung Mau, D1 Opened in July, Game On is Saigon’s furnished to high standard. O’Brien’s 6278 2349 newest and biggest sports bar that serves In a brawny Australian snub to the effete promotes a relaxed, comfortable 4pm - 2am breakfast, lunch and dinner. The bar also vestiges of French Colonialism that atmosphere. Known for its excellent food has an extensive drink menu that includes pervade in Saigon, Le Pub is a hearty menu, this is a fun place to socialize while Slate coffees, juices, beers, wines, vodkas and Oz-styled pub proudly located in a small shooting pool, playing darts, or chatting more. Besides being a good place to alleyway between Pham Ngu Lao and Bui with the friendly staff. Slate takes its name from the dark grey watch games, Game On also boasts a Vien st, Opposite the Chua Au lac arch, 74/A3 Hai Ba Trung, D1 slate tiling that covers the floor of the function room for corporate meetings or where it is a magnet for backpackers and 3829 3198 entire establishment. A modern, relaxing private parties. blokey expats. The manager and staff are www.irish-barsaigon.com spot for an after-dinner drink with an 115 Ho Tung Mau, D1 friendly enough too, I suppose. extensive martini list and delicious BBQ 6251 9898 175/22 Pham Ngu Lao, D1 Phatty’s menu. A tad difficult to find above a BMW [email protected] 3837 7679 A sports bar offering a selection of ice- dealership, but accessible from the hotel it 8am till late www.lepub.org cold local and imported beers as well as a is worth the effort. complete range of tasty pub food. Central 3rd Floor, Moevenpick Hotel, 253 Nguyen features are the TVs, connected to an Van Troi, Phu Nhuan Ginger 60 Lindo 3844 9222 extensive sports channel network. 5pm - 11pm A low-key expat bar with an extensive Cozy sports bar with big screen TVs and 46-48 Ton That Thiep, D1 drink menu and live music in a friendly restaurant quality meals. The Sunday atmosphere. afternoon “Sausage Sizzle” and other Purple Jade Spotted Cow 60 Ton That Thiep, D1 weeknight events make this an appealing Purple Jade is a stylish and chic venue Hearty breakfasts, great pub grub, cheap 093 772 1011 venue for expats any day of the week. with exceptional world class cocktails by drinks and the latest sport on TV make 149 Ton That Dam, D1 the city’s award-winning bartender along this an appealing destination for tourists Go2 3915 3149 with snacks to melt away the bustle of of all budgets. Located in the heart of the the city. backpacker district. Go2 is a popular nightspot in the Long Phi First floor- InterContinental Asiana Saigon 111 Bui Vien, D1 backpackers area. This two level bar offers One of the staples in the backpacker Corner of Hai Ba Trung & Le Duan 3920 7670 dancing, shisha, and a streetside view district, Long Phi is a no-frills bar that 3520 9099 [email protected] with comfortable seating. The bar also doubles as a cheap diner serving some www.intercontinental.com/saigon 11am - 12pm has a pool table and extensive western fairly decent French and European cuisine. food menu. 207 Bui Vien, D1 Storm P 187 De Tham, D1 3837 2704 Storm P restaurant and bar is named after 3836 9575 6pm to very late, Tuesday - Sunday the famous Danish cartoonist Robert Storm Petersen, and it’s the only Danish Hard Rock Café Lush restaurant in Vietnam. Another of Saigon's more infamous night 5B Nguyen Sieu, D1 Memorabilia from Hard Rock’s iconic venues, this have-to-go/love-to-hate 3827 4738 collection adorns the walls of Hard Rock club is still as popular as ever, attracting a www.stormp.vn Café Ho Chi Minh City and there is live pumping Vietnamese and foreign crowd 10am - late music most nights. Located in the Kumho on a nightly basis – if the reports from Plaza complex. local events websites are to be believed. Vasco’s 39 Le Duan, D1 Lush has a highly distinctive, modern look, 6291 7595 with different areas catering to different Stylish bar, restaurant and cocktail lounge www.hardrockcafe.vn needs, including a VIP space with plush in a converted colonial style house. 11.30am - 2am couches for chatting with hot new friends. European and Asian fare downstairs 2 Ly Tu Trong, D1 RED Bar with extensive wine list and cocktails. DJs Heaven Bar Saigon www.lush.com.vn RED offers one of the longest Happy perform upstairs at night. Hours in Saigon, from 9am - 9pm, 74/7D Hai Ba Trung, D1 Standing out from other nightclubs, M52 Bar with live music available from Monday 3824 2888 Heaven Bar impresses their guests with - Saturday. This multi-level bar has www.vascosgroup.com nice decor in tone of red and blue, a broad A bar catering primarily to foreigners. a non-smoking floor and a function range of sparkling drinks, Ladies’ night, Offers a simple setting for a night of room along with a top quality pool Wine Embassy table and soft-tip dart machines. A awesome DJ at weekend, and many drinking in the company of friends. For those looking to relax and enjoy a menu of Eastern and Western dishes glass of wine after work, Wine Embassy is exciting events for expats. 34 Ton That Thiep, D1 also includes wood-fire pizzas. 8 Le Quy Don, D3 3821 0151 the perfect place with wine specialists and 70-72 Ng Duc Ke, District 1 an interactive menu to help you pair your 090 534 3316 5pm - 12am 2229 7017 wine with crafted food. www.barsaigonheaven.com 13 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 5pm - 2am Oi’s Pick Miss Saigon Ryan’s Pub 'Banter Bar' @ Stella 3824 7827

www.wineembassy.com.vn Recently opened, this quaint and cozy bar Occupying the top floor of Stella, this new Ice Blue 4pm till late offers great service and delicious cocktails bar has an outdoor terrace along with a A small, atmospheric, emphatically for those looking to quench their thirst pool table and dart boards indoors. Happy 11am - late English-style pub, Ice Blue is a popular after work. Beers start at VND30,000 hour drinks are also available. meeting place for Ho Chi Minh City’s and cocktails start at VND55,000 with First Floor, 119 - 121 Bui Vien, D1 cafés expats with reasonably priced drinks, happy hour from 6pm – 8pm where beers 090 000 0042 ABC Bakery & Cafe friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere. cost VND20,000. Open from 6pm to [email protected] ABC Bakery & Cafe has over 30 different Great place to play darts. midnight. kinds of baked goods such as baguettes, 54 Dong Khoi, D1 8A/1C1 Thai Van Lung, D1 Saigon Saigon Bar danishes, 3822 2664 whole cakes, sliced cakes and even pizza. 3pm - 1am MTV In wartime Saigon, the rooftop of the Together with its range of baked items, it is Caravelle hotel was one of the most also has Western and Vietnamese coffee Kim’s Tavern A large Vietnamese cafe in D3 spread popular drinking holes in the city for and juices. over two levels with space for quiet foreign journalists and expat embassy 223 - 225 Pham Ngu Lao, D1 An expat bar on the edge of the romantic chat or larger group meets. staff – and it remains one of the most www.abcbnc.com downtown shopping district renowned for Serves a broad range of coffees and sought-out casual tourist attractions in friendly, attractive staff, cold beer, and a chilled drinks. the city today. Panoramic views of Saigon Achaya Cafe relaxed ‘local pub’ environment. 65 Vo Van Tan, D3 can still be obtained on the garden terrace 20 Huynh Thuc Khang, D1 3930 2597 despite all the construction, and efforts Achaya Cafe have two floors providing a 090 777 5141 [email protected] have been made to preserve the original nice atmosphere for meeting, relaxation or party. The menu is extensive with drinks 4pm - 1am www.mtvcafe.com.vn character of the venue with its multiple

and Western, Japanese, Vietnamese t s 7am - 11pm ceiling fans, subdued decor, and quietly food from sandwiches, spaghetties, Oi’s Pick Last Call romantic atmosphere with oil candles on pizzas, steak and special Japanese sweet Number Five Bar the table tops. desserts. A fine hole-in-the-wall cocktail bar in the Number Five Bar has become notorious 19 Lam Son Square, D1 90 Le Loi, D1 centre of town opposite the Sheraton for its “all you can drink” draught tiger beer 3823 4999 093 897 2050 Hotel, Last Call is a 70's themed lounge offer. Attractive waitresses are always www.caravellehotel.com/en/1/15/325/ 11am - 10:30pm with a permanent neon glow. Now one enthusiastic contestants on the billiards products.aspx of the most popular expat/hip local late table. Aisha Lounge evening bars, with a small deck from 44 Pasteur, D1 Saigon Retro Oi’s Pick which to overlook the nightlife set on 3915 3150 Secreted away in a small alleyway on Pasteur, Aisha lounge is a fascinating Dung Du. [email protected] One of the newest expat bars on the expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 54 Turkish-style coffee shop designed with Café Terrace sure to catch the live bands that frequent quality blends in selected hotels and an Arabic architectural theme. The ground the cafe. supermarkets. floor is washed in a Mediterranean blue Cafe Terrace is a popular modern cafe/ 314/2 Dien Bien Phu, D10 Saigon Center, 65 Le Loi, D1 tone, and seating is on plush cushions restaurant in the chic Saigon Center. This 6276 6966 of the kind you'd expect to spend the cozy, dimly lit cafe offers customers a long [email protected] i-Box Cafe evening lounging around on in a haze outdoor terrace with views of the bustling with an exotic pipe. Rather incongruously, pedestrian and traffic scene. A second Elle Cafe iBox cafe is a unique, cafe with aristocratic however, Aisha offers a menu studded cafe is located on the first floor amongst decor. This decorative cafe specializes with various Vietnamese drinks and food fashion stores. Keeping in line with the sense of style that in red wine, Asian dishes and spaghetti. – although the belly dance show does Ground Floor & First Floor, Saigon Centre, comes along with the Elle fashion label They also offer an extensive selection of evoke the spirit of the interior design. 65 Le Loi, D1 brand, the menu and décor of Elle Cafe ice cream creations. 63/1 Pasteur, D1 sets it apart from the competition. 135 Hai Ba Trung, D1 6660 9040 Ground Floor, Bitexco Financial Tower, 45 3825 6718 [email protected] Cafe Vuon Kieng Ngo Duc Ke, D1 www.aishalounge.com Cafe Vuon Kieng is a quiet, casual cafe 6291 8766 ID Café near the banks of the Saigon River, AQ Coffee boasting relaxing views and refreshing Fe Cafe Separated from the bustle of nearby Ben Beautiful café situated in one of the city’s Fe Cafe brings you all kinds of breezes. This riverside cafe offers jasmine Thanh Market by a tiny alleyway, ID is a oldest French mansions, serving coffee scrumptious coffee, along with tea, coffee, ice cream, beer, even cocktails. retro café opening a door to an earlier made with traditionally-roasted coffee Vietnamese food and dessert. It offers 10B Ton Duc Thang, D1 Saigon. beans. breakfast, lunch, dinner and offers delivery 3823 3279 34D Thu Khoa Huan, D1 32 Pham Ngoc Thach, D3 as well. The interior is a mix of alternative 3829 8344 Cake Durian Duiro and fancy, with wooden furniture, soft Imagine Coffee shop 7.30am - 11.30pm backrest pillows and decorative paintings. 26 Ly Tu Trong, D1 A chain of cafes selling durian inspired One of the walls of this rustic cafe is 090 878 3788 Angel-in-us Coffee crepes and buns with prices under literally covered with books. An easy A sophisticated and classy coffee www.facebook.com/fecafe.vn VND100,000. place to get lost for an evening with prices franchise with exemplary attention to 7:30am - 11pm Kiosk in Le Thi Rieng Park, 875 Cach Mang below VND100, 000. detail, Angel-in-us has a pretty angel wing Thang 8, D10 58 Ho Bieu Chanh, Phu Nhuan motif and a quality coffee menu. 093 333 9365 Geisha’s Coffee and Tea House 090 956 0105 145 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 www.banhsaurieng.com www.facebook.com/ImagineCafeShop 3827 8588 Experience a funky, relaxed atmosphere 09 0956 0105 facebook.com/angelinuscoffeevn with a refreshing drinks & delicious snack [email protected] Centrofarms Coffee at Geisha Coffee and Tea House. A retreat This recently opened cafe, located near 8am - 10pm away from the hustle and bustle of the Blue Cafe the airport, sells its own eponymous brand streets of Saigon. of Centrofarm organic roasted beans A sprawling, unique cafe in Go Vap, with 85 Pasteur, D1 Kebab Cafe direct from Dalat with indoor and outdoor indoor-outdoor seating and an attempt to 3829 4004 seating that’s perfect for people watching The healthiest kebab! Featuring an recreate the appeal of rural Dalat. Enjoy www.geishacafe.com excellent homemade white sauce, fresh the shade inside, or sit outside amidst the and getting your daily dose of caffeine. veggies and chicken or pork marinated greenery and watch aircraft taking off from 19 Ut Tich, Tan Binh without oil. The French owner also serves Ton Sat airport. Extensive menu and broad savory and sweet crepes and a home- range of coffees and chilled drinks. Chi’s Cafe made puree. 701-703 Phan Van Tri, Go Vap 538/2/8 Doan Van Bo, D4 3588 6824 Chi’s Café is a restaurant serving 01648 805 915 www.mtvcafe.com.vn both Western and Vietnamese food [email protected] 7am - 11pm in the backpacker area. The menu is extensive, with everything from www.kebab-cafe.com Bobby Brewer’s sandwiches and pizzas to their 10am - 10pm popular baked potatoes with filling. A contemporary cafe in the backpacker 40/31 Bui Vien, D1 Kem My area set over three floors, the cafe 3836 7622 features a large free cinema, a great This quiet ice cream shop is the perfect Hatvala place for families and couples to indulge place for couples. Ciao Cafe their sweet tooth. It offers a fresh release 45 Bui Vien, D1 This tea house, from the heat of Ho Chi Minh City. 3920 4090 An icon in downtown HCMC, Ciao cafe coffee shop and www.bobbybrewers.com features two floors serving simple food, restaurant offers 11 Duong 41, D4 coffee, smoothies and ice cream – and selected, quality 093730 3030 Boulevard Cafe an opulent lounge bar on the top floor. Vietnamese tea and coffee to drink or www.kemmy.vn Antique tiles mix with velvet curtains to buy as leaves and beans. They also 3.30pm - 11pm This Parisian-style cafe has a fine, white and stylish paintings to make this a have a delightful all day casual dining tone and a warm ambiance that attempts memorable chill out environment. area in their stylish bistro. Kesera a look of luxury with its plush sofas and 74-76 Nguyen Hue, D1 44 Nguyen Hue, D1 3824 1534 chandeliers. 40 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 A cozy and friendly café/bar serving 8am - 11pm coffee, beer, wines, freshly- baked 98 Phan Xich Long, Phu Nhuan [email protected] homemade cakes and delicious Cosmo Lounge www.hatvala.com Bukafe - Cafe www.facebook.com/hatvala Western food. Cosmo Lounge is a popular location 26/1 Le Thanh Ton, D1 This quaint cafe offers a Japanese style for stylish and trendy locals and expats keserakesera.com setting with chairs that have you seated alike. Chill out in a bold blue and white Hi-End Coffee on the ground. While offering elegant environment with local and European Kita Coffee drinks and tasty simple dishes, make sure cafe food and a broad selection of coffees Located near the leafy Tao Dan Park, Hi- to catch the live bands. It won't set you and drinks. End Coffee is one of a few venues serving This three- storey establishment provides back much either with inexpensive drinks. 86 Bis Le Thanh Ton, D1 up just as much music as caffeine. patrons with Lavazza coffee along with a 43 Nguyen Huu Cau, D1 3823 5848 126 Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 unique Mediterranean menu. 090 265 2635 3824 1004 39-41 Nguyen Hue, D1 [email protected] Cooku’s Nest Open to 10pm 3914 0683 [email protected] Café Ban Sonate Cooku’s nest has a clean, artsy vibe Gloria Jean's 7.30am - 10pm Cafe Ban Sonate is a peaceful haven, offering drinks and snacks. Australia’s most popular coffee franchise tucked away from the boisterous noise 13 Tu Xuong, D3 now has a solid presence in Ho Chi Kopi Beans of the city. This cafe offers elegant decor 2241 2043 Minh City with multiple locations in the along with indoor and outdoor seating inner city. While the favourite Dong Khoi Kopi Beans Cafe is a favorite among options. Crèperie & Café address has now been given over to a high school kids. It’s a small takeaway 53 Dang Dung, D1 Sony store, new venues in Vincom A and coffee shop with cheap espresso and

t s 3290 6004 Inexpensive Western fare targeted mainly at CMT8 prove this favourite brand with iced coffees. at locals, delivering some fairly decent locals and expats alike is steadily growing 206 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 Caffe Fresco low-cost sandwiches. in Vietnam. 5 Han Thuyen, D1 2 bis Cong Truong Quoc Te, D3 L’amour A new player on the scene currently www.gloriajeanscoffees.com/vn battling for supremacy in the coffee chain DeJa Vu Cafe A stylish bakery and cafe new to Hai market, Fresco offers a wide range of Highlands Coffee Ba Trung, in the city centre, L'amour espresso and local coffees, juices and It is easy to mistake this cafe for specialises in cakes and desserts and smoothies. someone’s home as the tranquil With over 50 cafes in Vietnam, Highlands serves Illy Coffee. Eat in or take away. 121 Le Loi, D1 atmosphere will have you tension free Coffee serves up international and 24 Hai Ba Trung, D1 3821 1009 in no time. The peaceful setting is ideal traditional Vietnamese blends. Coffee 3520 8180 expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013 www.fresco.com.vn for dates or low-key social events. Make lovers can also find Highlands premium www.lamourbakery.com

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 55 L’Anmien Dining Cafe 3822 9992 Stella Restaurant & Cafe Vietnamese street coffee. www.nydc.com.vn 26B-C Le Loi, D1 Linked to the luxurious Mui Ne hotel of Providing authentic Italian and the same name, this internationally-styled Onset Cafe Vietnamese food using fresh imported The Serenata Cafe sidewalk café is a place to relax and enjoy and local premium-quality ingredients. This lounge cafe features live bands the cool air and watch the busy inner-city Where else can you find such good The Serenata Cafe is a peaceful, relaxing and is a good setting for work events traffic from a more refined vantage. coffee/cuisine at such reasonable prices? oasis in a French Colonial house. This cafe or business meetings. With bold interior 76A Le Lai, D1 119-121 Bui Vien, D1 embraces nature with plants, fishponds, furniture it is a popular respite for Ho Chi 38212718 3836 9220 and small fountains, and offers music in Minh residents. www.stellacaffe.com the evenings. LightBox Cafe 319 Ly Thuong Kiet, D11 6D Ngo Thoi Nhiem, D3 6670 7092 3930 7436 [email protected] The Blue Cafe This stunningly designed cafe also doubles as an event and photography A spacious cafe divided into two different Windows studio, so make sure you dress to Paris Deli areas with a lush, outdoor garden seating impress at this location because you A highly fashionable cafe near the A French style cafe serving some of lounge and an air conditioned in-door never know who might snap your picture. cathedral. For many years, this eye- the best pastries in Saigon, this cheerful lounge. The Blue Cafe has live music with They also serve vegetarian cuisine with catching venue has remained a place to spot is a real slice of Parisian life. Many drinks under VND100,000. prices ranging between VND300,000 - see and be seen, often frequented by European drinks and dishes. 701-703 Phan Van Tri, Go Vap VND500,000 the famous, the well-to-do, and the ne’er Ground Floor, Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 3588 6824 179 Hoa Lan, Phu Nhuan do well. 3821 6127 3517 6668 12 Alexandre De Rhodes, D1 The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf 38238408 www.lightbox.vn Passio Coffee to Go Offering over 22 varieties of coffee and Zoom Cafe Oi’s Pick L’Usine Passio Coffee offers its guests fine 20 kinds of tea, The Coffee Bean & Tea L’Usine is a retail, café and gallery Leaf has been serving the best coffees Italian style coffee made from the finest This distinctive Vespa-themed Café has space occupying two locations in the and teas from around the world for more ingredients. Since Passio’s inception in been a popular fixture in D1 for ten years. center of D1. Its retail space is dedicated than 40 years in its cozy, handcrafted oak 2006, this enthusiastic team of coffee Today, the café serves as the place for to Vietnamese designers and more paneled stores. brewers has become recognized by Vespa enthusiasts and tour veterans established brands from abroad as well www.coffeebean.com.vn international coffee drinkers. to swap stories over ice-cold beers and as stocking a wide range of stationary 7am - 11pm 112 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D3 what many claim is the best selection and home ware items. The café in both 39 Le Duan, D1 of mouth-watering burgers, paninis, and locations serves international fare and Ground Floor, Crescent Mall Phuong Cac Cafe baguette sandwiches in town. a range of pastries and the ever popular Ton Dat Tien, D7 169A Bui Vien, D1 Sweet & Sour Cupcakes. With indoor and outdoor lounge areas this 157-159 Nguyen Thai Hoc, D1 3920 3897 151/1 Dong Khoi, D1 cafe is a relaxing respite from the grind 39 Le Duan, D1 70B Le Loi, D1 of Ho Chi Minh City. With live bands and 12-14 Thai Van Lung, D1 www.lusinespace.tumblr.com drinks under VND100,000 it makes for 94 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D3 chinese 9am – 9pm the perfect getaway. 235 Nguyen Van Cu, D1 Bis 213 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 Dragon Court 235 Dong Khoi, D1 Le Tokyo Baum 3932 7484 1-5 Le Duan, D1 Dragon Court is a large restaurant 60-62 Cach Mang Thang 8, D3 Popular Japanese cake cafe with quiet opposite the Opera House in Saigon’s 1-3 Phan Chu Trinh, D1 seating area, specializing in orange cakes. Phúc Minh Coffee bustling District 1. Enjoy Chinese dishes from many regions with dishes like glass 46 Nguyen Van Trang, D1 Phuc Minh coffee is an airy, clean The Library noodles, , and a large dim sum 3926 0388 environment providing a varied menu and The Library provides a welcoming collection. delicious coffee. The staff is attentive and atmosphere for those in search of 11-13 Lam Son Square, D1 May Coffee quick with a friendly approach. Prices start tranquility, comfort and great drinks in the A superb, friendly, and inexpensive little 3827 2566 around VN 25,000 for this simple cafe. heart of Saigon café most notable for its perfect view 51 Hung Phuoc 4, D7 Ground floor – InterContinental Asiana of the Cathedral tower bells and close www.quancafe.vn/phucminh.1 Saigon Dynasty proximity to the post office. Corner of Hai Ba Trung & Le Duan 1 Cong Xa Paris, D1 New World hotel's in-house Chinese Princess and the Pea 3520 9099 3827 7099 restaurant is certainly a venue of fine www.intercontinental.com/saigon www.maycoffee.com A fairytale-themed venue for the contemporary Chinese dining. The chef offers a variety of authentic Cantonese dreamers of Ho Chi Minh City, hidden The Living Room Minhu Coffee away in a tiny alleyway off Pasteur. dishes along with classic dim sum under a high lantern/chandelier-lit ceiling, in a broad Discover it if you can. The Living Room has two floors providing This specialty cafe offers a wood 63/18 Pasteur, D1 dining room decorated in classic Chinese furniture interior setting, which resembles a laid-back atmosphere for meet-ups style. VIP guests can dine in one of four the cabins you would expect to see in the Regina Coffee or after-work relaxation over drinks and semi-private or thee totally private rooms. western North American frontier. Live Western and Vietnamese food. New World Hotel A popular hangout for hip, young 40-42 Dong Du, D1 bands are a regular feature at the cozy Vietnamese around Nguyen Du, serving 76 Le Lai, D1 3822 0377 cafe and prices are inexpensive. western coffee in a vintage, artsy 3822 8888 149/35 Le Thi Rieng, D1 www.saigon.newworldhotels.com environment. Oi’s Pick 3601 9319 84 Nguyen Du, D1 Tram Coffee Hung Ky Mi Gia MTV Cafe A unique romantic cafe experience Retrobite Diner Cafe hidden well off the beaten track, but close Inspired by the concept of 1960s Hung Ky Mi Gia is a famous and long- to District 1 in neighbouring Phu Nhuan Providing a relaxing atmosphere after a Americana, bi-level Retrobite Diner Cafe standing restaurant with more than 13 District. Sip a coffee, juice or beer or hard day’s work with some of the top hits features an interior that includes booths, years of operation. It serves traditional indulge in good cafe food over candlelight out today, MTV cafe is the perfect place to retro egg chairs, jukebox and classic radio Chinese cuisine with authentic dishes unwind with that special someone or just players. The menu is mostly American in a dark, intimate environment hidden such as roasted chicken, duck, and pork. a cup of coffee. food with sandwiches, hamburgers, amongst trees and trickling streams. Relax 20 Le Anh Xuan, D1 65 Vo Van Tan, D3 pastas, steaks, milkshakes, waffles and in an air conditioned room or dine alfresco 3822 2673 3930 2597 more. amongst the greenery. The perfect spot to mtvcafe.com.vn 6 Cong Truong Quoc Te, D3 impress a date with your local knowledge. Kabin 3521 0673 100 Tran Huy Lieu St, Phu Nhuan MZ Coffee [email protected] 2240 5306 Kabin is a Cantonese restaurant A cafe in a colonial villa that was built in 7:30am - 11pm specializing in exotic dishes such as baked the early 20th century. It boasts a broad The Myth Cafe duck tongue, grouper cutlet, and lobster selection of Soho Coffee soup. Located in the five star Renaissance coffee, from fine Vietnamese condensed Escape the daily grind of Ho Chi Minh City Riverside Hotel, this restaurant offers a milk coffee to Italian Lavazza expresso, Two level local cafe chain serving light with a trip into the mystical setting of Myth wide variety of dim sum. cappucinos meals, coffee and local chilled drinks. Cafe. With live bands and prices under Renaissance Riverside Hotel, and lattes as well as wines and beers. 185 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 VND100,000 it's no wonder The Myth 8-15 Ton Duc Thang, D1

56-56 A Bui Thi Xuan, D1 3839 5038 cafe is one of the best around. 3822 0033 t s 39255258 7am - 11pm 176 Dien Bien Phu, D3 www.m-zing.com 3820 9735 Li Bai Chinese Restaurant Starbucks Coffee [email protected] Located in the Sheraton Hotel, Li Bai NYDC offers a selection of over 50 dim sum Has a large, open ground floor space with Trung Nguyen Cafe dishes as well as traditional Chinese and A fun, dynamic and cosmopolitan place ample seating in booths and tables, and a Cantonese specialties. Diners will enjoy for food, desserts, beverages and not smaller space upstairs with views out on One of the most ubiquitous coffee the relaxed, upscale ambiance provided forgetting the company of good friends. the busy Nga 6 Phu Dong roundabout. brands in Vietnam. With a burgeoning by the wood paneling and oriental art. Prices range between VND100,000 - Also has outdoor seating. Expect to pay presence throughout the city, it’s hard Level 2, 88 Dong Khoi, D1 VND300,000. Western prices. to go anywhere without tripping over a 3827 2828

Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan, D1 76 Le Lai, D1 Trung Nguyen café – serving gourmet www.libaisaigon.com expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 56 Ming Court 1st Floor, Norfolk Mansion Bon Appetit 17-19-21, Ly Tu Trong, D1 Since the Nikko Hotel graced the Saigon 3823 2221 A small French-Vietnamese fusion bistro skyline, the venue has managed to set the on Pham Ngoc Thach with a simplistic standard for classy, five-star dining with its Shi-Fu Dim sum charm enhanced by a fine selection of bold grey modern decor and Japanese-style old-style French music. Shifu Dim Sum House is a restaurant efficiency. Ming Court, on the hotel's third 78 Pham Ngoc Thach, D3 specializing in dim sum, with modern floor, is a large Chinese restaurant with all 090 789 8345 Chinese décor and over 68 dim sum dishes. the expected graces of the Orient belonging 139A Nguyen Trai, D1 to the exotic fantasy of the dynastic era. 3925 1111 Bonjour Restaurant 3rd floor, Nikko Saigon Hotel www.dimsumhouse.vn 235 Nguyen Van Cu, D1 Bonjour serves up international dishes with a 3925 7777 French flair. The large menu of main courses Yu Chu feature roast duck, salmon, lamb and steak Yu chu is renowned for the quality and with specialties being ostrich and venison. Ocean Palace presentation of its authentic Cantonese A place for those who love Chinese food. 150/26 Nguyen Trai, D1 and Peking cuisines along with its elegant The large dining room on the ground floor 3926 0699 décor. Watching the chefs prepare La Creperie can accommodate up to 280 diners. Up La Creperie is the first signature dishes such as hand-pulled on the first floor are six private rooms and authentic Brittany French noodle, dim sum and right in Cordon Blue a big ballroom that can host 350 guests. restaurant that serves the kitchen is a prominent dining feature savory galettes, sweet 2 Le Duan Street, D1 A unique French venue decorated with blue here. crepes with tasty seafood and 3911 8822 First floor, InterContinental Asiana Saigon and green shades serving high-quality French the best apple cider in Saigon. Corner of Hai Ba Trung & Le Duan cuisine on the outskirts of the inner city. 17/7 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Seven Wonders (Bay Ky Quan) 3520 9099 38 Mac Dinh Chi, D1 3824 7070 It’s worth traipsing out to D6 for this one. Not www.intercontinental.com/saigon 3822 5216 infosgn@lacreperie. only are the Dim Sum, Peking Duck, and www.cordonblue.vn com.cn pan-China home-style cuisine exemplary, Mon-Sun 11am-11pm but the venue design, with its architectural La Brasserie de Saigon flourishes from the seven wonders of the french world (including the Great Wall, the Taj Alibi Restaurant and Bar Set in a trendy space featuring art La Cuisine Mahal, and the pyramids) makes for a highly nouveau décor and intricate iron distinctive dining experience. Centrally located a stone’s-throw from the spiralstaircases, La brasserie de Saigon This ultra-fine little bistro is an exercise in 12 Duong 26, D6 Opera House in downtown D1, this is a presents authentic French cuisine with minimalism with its twenty seats and bare, 3755 1577 warm, appealing lounge environment with Parisian brasserie service experience. chic-rustic interior of wooden furnishings www.7kyquan.com modest prices. 38 Dong Du, D1 and black & white photographs on 5 Nguyen Sieu, D1 0862913657 whitewashed walls. Its warm lighting t s Shang Palace Restaurant 3825 6257 [email protected] and clean atmosphere belies a certain www.labrasseriedesaigon.com sophistication, however, and the price of The slightly off-centre, high-class Norfolk Au Manoir de Khai 11.30pm - 2.30pm; 6pm - 12am the fare is significantly damaging enough Mansion Hotel on Ly Tu Trong is home to make this a rare treat for those not in to one of Saigon's most well-respected Au Manoir de Khai is an authentic, first La Camargue the restaurant's fabulously wealthy target Chinese restaurants outside of Chinatown. class French restaurant. Guests can enjoy market. Located on the 1st floor, Shang's dark traditional French cuisine in this classic Known for its high food quality, 48 Le Thanh Ton, D1 intricate wooden tables and chairs with 100 year old villa. Their menu is extensive reasonable prices and a fine selection 2229 8882 white linen and deep red carpeting make and features dishes like Kobe beef, foie of wine, the long running La Camargue www.lacuisine.com.vn for an atmosphere of moody opulence; gras, red grouper, and truffle mushrooms. serves up home-style French cuisine in an La Doree there is seating for over 300 guests, and 251 Dien Bien Phu, D3 open plan 1st-floor terrace. La Doree provides its patrons with over expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013 private rooms are available. 3930 3394 74/17 Hai Ba Trung, D1 50 varieties of cakes, as well as a rich

57 sandwich menu. They are located in of the sins of the past. It was here in in a home-made tandoori oven makes Good Morning Vietnam the heart of District 1 in a building with a French Colonial days that opium was Punjabi a popular spot for budget luxurious French design. In addition to manufactured, bringing ruin to the people conscious eaters who crave Indian Italian restaurant with a unique menu sweets and snacks, this eatery also serves of Asia; it is here that a far softer side standbys like spinach naan and chicken including traditional Italian dishes. The coffee, cocktails, and their specialty: green of the French culture now exercises tandoori. restaurant is conveniently located in a tea tiramisu. its influence over present-day Saigon, 40/3 Bui Vien, D1 beautiful old house in the heart of Saigon, 216 Ly Tu Trong, D1 serving modern European cuisine in its 3508 3777 well integrated in the local architecture. 08 3822 1718 tastefully decorated dining area and airy 197 De Tham, D1 www.ladoree.com outdoor patio. 3837 1894 74 Hai Ba Trung, D1 italian www.thegoodmorningvietnam.com La Fourchette 3825 7667 www.therefinerysaigon.com Basilico Restaurant La Hostaria Small and cozy, La Fourchette is a favorite amongst the French expat community. Ty Coz Oi’s Pick Trattoria-style Italian eatery Basilico Designed with an intimate atmosphere The vintage posters and wood paneling specializes in homespun recipes. invoking something like an Italian town, add to the charm of this French eatery An unpretentious venue focused only on Contemporary décor, casual ambience, this venue focuses on traditional ethnic located downtown, a stone’s throw from serving great cuisine. Ty Coz provides a and casual yet attentive Bistro-style Italian cuisine (rather than the ubiquitous the Saigon River. fine balcony view of the cathedral, intimate service makes it a relaxing dinner venue. pizza and pasta), creations of the skillful 9 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 atmosphere, and affordable prices. Ground floor, on the Corner of Nguyen Du & executive chef – straight out of Venice. Le Van Huu, D1 3829 8143 178/4 Pasteur, D1 The place lights up on romantic Thursday 3520 9099 www.lafourchette.com.vn 3822 2457 evenings with candlelight and light music. 6.30am - 10.30pm www.tycozsaigon.com 17B Le Thanh Ton, D1 La Nicoise 3823 1080 Vatel Saigon Restaurant Capricciosa www.lahostaria.com

A small, friendly French bistro with about You'll find the standards here – pizza, a dozen tables, La Nicoise serves up This is a fine, well-managed, and even Oi’s Pick pasta, soups, salads, with a few special Lucca typical French dishes under the watchful luxurious dining venue serving authentic dishes such as calamari and onion in eye of its French-Vietnamese owners. French cuisine in a Franco-Viet design A Brooklyn-style Italian eatery upstairs squid ink sauce. They're all prepared space. There's red carpet along the with an adjoining bar. Downstairs is a 56 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 according to strict Japanese standards, entrance way, gallery-standard art on relaxing cafe offering generous breakfasts, 3821 3056 and the result is actually really good. the walls, and an overall atmosphere of simple cafe fare for lunch and some of the Booth B3-03A, Level B3 refinement and good service. best espresso coffee you’ll find in the city. L'essentiel Vincom Tower, 70 Le Thanh Ton, D1 120 bis Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 88 Ho Tung Mau, D1 3993 9786 08 5404 2220 3915 3692 A recent arrival to the growing ranks of www.capricciosa.com.vn authentic French dining experiences in vatelsaigon.com 8am - 11pm HCMC, L'essentiel offers a quiet intimate Casa Italia dining experience downstairs with space Margherita indian for private functions and alfresco dining Italian owned & run, Casa Italia’s menu Well-reviewed overseas, Margherita is on an upper floor. The menu changes ranges from home-style cooking that Oi’s Pick a familiar place to tourists trawling the weekly, the food is fresh and the wine list Baba’s Kitchen includes steaks, seafood, a large variety nooks of Ho Chi Minh City. This is partly carefully collated. of homemade pastas, jumbo salads, Baba’s Kitchen, also known as the best a result of its agreeable price, sumptuous 98 Ho Tung Mau, D1 appetizers and the best pizzas. Indian restaurant on Bui Vien, is familiar Western-style pizzas, English-speaking 0948 415 646 86 Le Loi, D1 among expats and locals alike, rating staff, and more than average customer 3824 4286 4.5 out of five stars on Trip Advisor. Their service. www.casaitalia.com.vn Le Bordeaux vindaloo is a must try. 175/1 Pham Ngu Lao, D1 164 Bui Vien, D1 Set in a French colonial-style mansion, Le 3837 0760 3838 6661 Bordeaux serves southwestern French www.babaskitchen.in cuisine in a beautiful setting. Known for its Opera Restaurant 11am - 11pm foie gras and large selection of wines, Le Bordeaux is worth the trip to Binh Thanh A contemporary, casual trattoria-style Italian restaurant overlooking the Opera district. Bombay Indian Restaurant Located in D1 near the Ben Thanh Market House, Opera is located within Park Hyatt 72 D2 Street, Binh Thanh area, serving Indian & Halal cuisine. The Saigon specializing in authentic pizza 3899 9831 ambiance is relaxed thanks to Bombay’s baked in a wood-fired oven, pasta and restaurant-lebordeaux.com.vn easy-going, family kitchen vibe. homemade Italian dishes. 11.30am - 1.30pm; 6.30am - 9.30pm 57-59 Ham Nghi, D1 Ciao Bella Oi’s Pick 1st floor Park Hyatt Hotel, 9am - 10.30pm 2 Lam Son Square, D1 Le Bouchon De Saigon Hearty home- 3824 1234 style Italian food www.saigon.park.hyatt.com Red and white checked tablecloths and Ganesh served with flair and excellent service. 6am - 11pm closely set tables make Le bouchon Ganesh serves authentic northern Indian An extensive menu is complemented with daily specials. Arriving guests are de Saigon the place to go for a casual, tandooris & rotis along with the hottest Oi’s Pick classic French bistro experience under greeted with a free glass of Prosecco. Pizza 4P’s curries, dovas, and vada from the southern Diners sit in a cozy setting upstairs A little treasure hidden away at the top the eye of iron chef Vietnam winner region. of an out-of-the-way alley off Le Thanh David Thai. or on the ground floor for people 15B4 Le Thanh Ton, D1 watching. Big groups should book in Ton, this Japanese pizzeria is a major hit 40 Thai Van Lung, D1 8223 0173 advance. with those in the know. Highly attractive www.lebouchondesaigon.com www.ganeshindianrestaurant.com 11 Dong Du, D1 premises and some extraordinary 3822 3329 toppings catering to all tastes make this Le Jardin Indus Indian [email protected] an unmissable pizza experience. Le Jardin is a gorgeous enclosed garden www. saigonrestaurant 8/15 Le Thanh Ton, D1 group.com/ciao space that allows eaters to follow the Indus Indian is a relatively new Indian 012 0789 4444 example of the French colonists a century restaurant in Saigon providing all the www.pizza4ps.com ago and pretend they're actually in Paris. classic Indian favorites. Operated by Whether dining outside under the shaded a dedicated husband/wife duo, this Pomodoro terrace or within the old, warmly-lit villa, restaurant specializes in Halal food. the cuisine, decor, and general mood of 2G Thi Sach, D1 In this family-style, simply-decorated the place is like a Stargate direct to France. 3521 0324 trattoria restaurant with an arched ceiling 31D Thai Van Lung, D1 and an all-brick interior, a fine Italian 3825 8465 Mumtaz menu pleases diners with 12 different pizzas along with pasta dishes, parma L’Olivier With bona-fide Indian owners and chefs, ham with a spicy tomato chutney, and authenticity at Mumtaz is guaranteed. a highly-recommended French onion L’Olivier is a restaurant serving authentic While the service and setting is relatively soup. Ideal option for a simple, reliable,

Da Vinci’s t s Mediterranean cuisines, located on the basic, the food is amongst the best of its Da Vinci’s is an and thoroughly pleasant night out with no 2nd floor of the Hotel Sofitel. type in the city in terms of taste alone. The Italian-American complications. Sofitel Saigon Plaza, 17 Le Duan, D1 brand has a second branch in Da Nang style pizzeria delivery 79 Hai Ba Trung, D1 3824 1555 city if you're ever on holiday and missing offering pizzas, lasagna, spaghetti, 3823 8998 www.sofitel.com your curries. calzones, salads and desserts. www.pomodoro-vietnam.com 226 Bui Vien, D1 Their full menu is online at www. The Refinery Oi’s Pick 3837 1767 davincisvietnam.com. Free delivery to Sarpino’s Pizzeria Districts 1, 3, 4, 5, 7 and Phu My Hung. This Parisian bistro hidden away in its Open 11am - 10pm. Sarpino’s Pizzeria provides authentic The Punjabi Call 083 943 4982 or enclave on Hai Ba Trung is an exceptional Italian pizzas made from gourmet SMS your order to 093 328 4624

venue, making for an elegant reparation Authentic North Indian cuisine prepared ingredients. expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 58 125 Ho Tung Mau, D1 health by providing quality cuisine with 3829 0326 and An specialty dishes like deep fried www.sarpinos.vn natural ingredients. 11am - 2pm, 5.30pm - 10pm chicken with garlic salt sauce An style 30 Thai Van Lung, D1 (VND100,000). 3823 3955 Kabuto Tokyo 15C Le Thanh Ton, D1 japanese www.cam-on.asia www.robata-an.com One of the more exuberant Japanese Dragon Hotpot venues in this city, Kabuto Tokyo on Mac Sakura Vietnamese-Japanese Thi Buoi specialises in both traditional and Restaurant Dragon Hotpot blends fine taste with the fusion fresh Japanese seafood cuisine. healthy ingredients of Japanese cuisine. It's a vibrant venue with its manga murals, Cozy, friendly and modern Japanese Drinks include Japanese favorites along carp lanterns, giant samurai warrior, and restaurant near all of the attractions in the with fine international wines. large aquarium – and in the evening it city center. 122-124 Ho Tung Mau, D1 becomes a respectable upmarket bar. For 99 Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 3825 8842 a quirky beverage there, try a sake served 6291 1036 in a bamboo tube. sakurasaku.vn Achaya Cafe Dragon Noodle 45 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 11am - 2pm; 5pm - 11pm 3822 2351 Achaya A rather small but pretty restaurant with kabuto.com.vn Sumo BBQ Cafe have two floors providing a nice warm tones and a nice series of murals atmosphere for meeting, relaxation depicting old Saigon, Dragon Noodle Sumo BBQ is a rising star amongst or party. The menu is extensive K Cafe focuses on the Japanese staple – ramen Japanese venues in Saigon, offering with drinks and Western, Japanese, K Cafe Sushi is a large Japanese smokeless table BBQ and a unique Vietnamese food from sandwiches, noodle soups – although their version buffet/a la carte concept: get whatever spaghetties, pizzas, steak and special is a little less spicy than is traditionally restaurant; an ideal place to gather for a you want from the menu, as much as Japanese sweet desserts. served, increasing perhaps the business lunch or for a social dinner. 90 Le Loi, D1 international appeal of the dish. There are 74A4 Hai Ba Trung, D1 you like. Free birthday beer specials on 093 897 2050 a total of four soup bases to accompany 38245355 arrangement. 11am - 10:30pm the noodles. www.yakatabune-saigon.com 300 Le Van Sy, Tan Binh 29 Dong Du, D1 11am - 2pm, 5pm - 11pm 3991 4757 Aka Taiyo 3521 0008 sumobbq.com.vn www.ramen.vn Kuru Kuru Shusi 10.30am - 10.30pm Aka Taiyo serves traditional and exotic A Japanese restaurant that features a Japanese cuisine with an extensive menu Dragon Steak rotating conveyor belt for the buffet, Sushi Bar featuring more than 200 dishes. Also offering 50 different selections. It also stocks a surprisingly comprehensive A striking Japanese restaurant tucked offers an a la carte menu. There are plenty of dining spaces – large range of Japanese alcoholic beverages. away off Saigon's central street, Dragon 129 Nguyen Du, D1 and small rooms, floor-level Japanese 74B Hai Ba Trung, D1 steak specialises in thick wagayu cuts www.kurukuru.com.vn dining on tatami mats, private areas, and 3824 4295 and tenderloin that could well have 11am - 2pm and 5pm - 10:30pm the eponymous large sushi bar on the www.akataiyo.com been cut off a beast the size of a dragon. ground level. They're so enormous that the restaurant Kokekokko Pandora 2 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Ajisen Ramen once ran a cheeky competition – guests 3823 8042 who finished one within half an hour Kokekokko is a combination of modern www.sushibar-vn.com One of the more authentic Japanese dined free. style fast food with the essence of ancient venues in the area with ingredients 138 Ton That Dam, D1 Japanese cuisine. The restaurant space is Sushi Dining Aoi

imported from Japan, this restaurant is 3821 0288 designed with high quality materials and Sushi Dining Aoi is one such restaurant, best-known for its tasty “white” soups. The www.steak.vn features youthful and modern dynamic restaurant serves at least 250 traditional subtleties. With prices under VND100,00 where the whole atmosphere of the place evokes the best of the culture. With its dishes. Kokekoko is a must see. Ebisu typical Japanese-style decor – the smooth 120 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D1 4th Floor Pandora, 1/1 Truong Chinh, Tan Phu earthen tones of the wooden furniture and 3822 0522 Ebisu serves neither sushi nor sashimi – 3849 6840 surrounds, the warmth and privacy of the instead, the menu focuses on a range of www.kokekokko.com.vn VIP rooms – it's possible to believe you're wholesome charcoal-grilled meals and Aki Japanese Restaurant in a more elegant realm. on thick, white Japanese udon noodles – La Fenetre Soleil 53-55 Ba Huyen Thanh Quan, D3 A small Japanese restaurant with a cozy made from imported udon powder from 3930 0039 and comfortable atmosphere, Aki serves Australia – and presenting an overall Glass tables with mosaic tiles and wooden www.sushidiningaoi.com over 100 authentic Japanese dishes. rustic cuisine with a variety of good sakes. floors set off large comfy sofas and high 15/9 Le Thanh Ton, D1 35bis Mac Dinh Chi, D1 ceilings, and diners can look out over the 3827 9083 3822 6971 busy Ly Tu Trong though 11 large French Sushi World

[email protected] windows. Its sense of personality attracts A four-storey restaurant in a Japanese- artistically-inclined expats to return often, Baby Spoon ebisu-vn.asia style, the first and second floors feature and many of these profess it as their an open sushi bar, while the upper levels Famous for its extensive favourite hangout in Saigon. Cuisine is Fuji Restaurant contain 15 VIP rooms decorated in a menu (fried rice wrapped inside an Japanese-Vietnamese fusion. traditional Japanese style with tatami egg omelette), Baby Spoon offers 44 Ly Tu Trong, D1 The cuisine is exceptional – fresh seafood matting. contemporary Japanese-Western fusion 3824 5994 and vegetables flown in direct from Japan 28 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 cuisine. Baby Spoon omurice (green bell and Dalat. A preferred venue for those 3911 0147 peppers, bacon, tomato sauce omurice) staying at the hotel, and worth trying if Mus Mus www.sushiworld.com.vn is the house specialty. you're living local. 47 Phan Chu Trinh, D1 Ground Floor, Nikko Hotel Saigon Customers choose a total of twelve Tokyo Deli 235 Nguyen Van Cu, D1 ingredients from the selection on offer, Blanchy Street Oi’s Pick 3830 8123 which are then added to a bowl of boiling Tokyo Deli’s menu consists of a wide broth on the tabletop. Flavours are range of distinctive and delicious meals, Once hidden upstairs at the Blanchy's Hanayuki essentially Japanese seafood. prepared by specialists to create pure Tash bar, Blanchy Street now has its own 117 Vo Van Tan, D3 Japanese flavor. The menu is always location in the courtyard of eateries on A Japanese-style restaurant on Ton 3930 9185 being changed and improved. Hai Ba Trung, offering authentic Japanese Duc Thang with a sushi bar on the [email protected] 240 Le Thanh Ton, D1 food mixed with fusion cuisine and the ground floor and a fine mezzanine www.musmus.net 5404 2244 occasional additional Southeast Asian level, Hanayuki serves more than 200 tokyodeli.com.vn dish. Run by an ex Nobu (London) chef exquisite Japanese dishes with more Osaka Ramen 11am - 11pm with his own signature dishes, it has wide than 30 kinds of sushi and sashimi. appeal. Food is designed to be shared Private, traditional Japanese VIP rooms Traditional Japanese noodle restaurant Uraetei BBQ Restaurant and is backed by an extensive list of are available on the top level. offering traditional Ramen dishes as well t s sakes and wines. 21C Ton Duc Thang, D1 as Japanese/Vietnamese fusion cuisine. Uraetai serves yakiniku grill, a variant 74/3 Hai Ba Trung, D1 3824 2754 67 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D1 of the popular Korean dish bulgogi. 3823 8793 10am - 10pm The restaurant itself is attractively www.blanchystreet.com Inaho Restaurant done, with a nod to feng shui in its * Reviewed by Oi in April 2013 Robata Dining An selective placement of ponds and rocky This unique venue specializes in The restaurant has a downstairs bar and pathways outside. Cam On Restaurant traditional sushi & sashimi as well as hot a second floor with private rooms that 6673 9373 pot dishes. Couples can retreat to the have sunken tables, sliding fusuma doors Cam On specializes in Japanese health upstairs area; it’s far more private than the and tabletop barbecues. Popular with Vicki’s Teppanyaki & BBQ food, with a dedication to helping men downstairs bar. the Japanese expats, the menu serves and women maintain their beauty and up healthy appetizers, rolls, sashimi expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013 4 Chu Manh Trinh, D1 It provides a fusion of Asian cuisines

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 59 with dishes from Japan, Singapore, and extraordinarily spicy chicken is an odd 38251879 www.kohthai.com.vn Vietnam. Their menu is interesting and phenomenon on the HCMC culinary www.elgaucho.asia 11am - 10pm Daily diverse, with many delectable seafood landscape, serving up a version of options. KFC that's actually painful. Lovers of New York Steakhouse Lac Thai

42 Le Anh Xuan, D1 spicy food rejoice. The restaurant itself While situated in a fairly laid-back area, 3823 3232 is clean and modern in design, and Lac Thai is a large, three-floor restaurant there are another 50 Korean dishes New York Steakhouse is definitely in the vickis.com.vn offering a wide range of Thai cuisine upmarket category and serves exclusive 10.30am - 3pm; 5pm - 10pm on offer beyond the signature dish, including some tasty bibimbap mixed American imported beef dishes, with a with signature dishes like Pad Thai, Tom rice dishes. whole range of steaks from rib eye, New Yum Koong, Chicken Satay and many Wainosuke 20 Ho Huan Nghiep, D1 York strip steak, and tenderloin being others. Wainosuke is a Japanese and Italian 3823 9000 popular options. 71/2 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 style restaurant. It serves food such as 9am-11pm 25-27 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D1 3823 7506 pastas, salads and steaks to name a few 3823 7373 9am - 9pm and wine from traditional Japanese to Seoul House [email protected] premium Italian wine. www.steakhouse.com.vn 37 Ho Tung Mau, D1 Mai Thai Seoul House is a well-known two-story 3821 4016 Korean restaurant with a simple, cozy Pho 99 Oi’s Pick Mai Thai is a Thai restaurant offering an www.wainosuke-vn.asia atmosphere. Its menu contains Korean extensive menu with many Thai favorites. favorites like Banchan, hotpots, grilled Not a traditional steakhouse per se, but This two-storey restaurant features Yoshino meat, clay pot mixed rice, and kim chi Pho 99 is known for its excellent filet tofu soup. mignon steaks made out of Cu Chi beef. traditional decorations and friendly The decor is straight out of the set of 33 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Also serves great pho. service. Shogun, with black wood, tatami mats, 3829 4297 139 Nguyen Trai, D1 13 Ton That Thiep, D1 stencilled cherry blossoms and all 7am - 10pm 3925 2791 3821 2920 the trappings of Japanese exoticism 6am - 2.30am 11am - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm – tastefully done. While Ho Chi Minh City is certainly not short of fine steakhouses Samba Brazilian Steakhouse Malee Thai Japanese eateries, this one is particularly impressive. This is certainly Saigon's most visible and A cute, central Thai venue decked 2A-4A Ton Duc Thang, D1 colourful restaurant serving the popular out in royal purple decor, Malee is an 3823 3333 Brazilian buffet style, where enormous skewers of meat are circulated around intimate restaurant serving a wide range Yuki the tables for diners to enjoy as much of of consistently tasty dishes, although as they can. without the full effect of Thai cuisine’s Yukie is a popular Japanese restaurant 10C Thai Van Lung, D1 signature burn. located in the backpacker area of 3822 0079 37 Dong Du, D1 District 1. Offering authentic Japanese www.samba.vnnhahang.com 3829 3029 cuisine at affordable prices. 11am - 2pm; 5pm - 11pm 99 Nguyen Thai Hoc, D1 Au Lac do Brazil Wild Horse Salon 3824 2754 Spice 10am - 2pm; 4pm - 10pm Serving Saigon Cowboy-themed western steakhouse for more than with an impressive exterior on trendy Spice Thai restaurant has been a favorite Thai Van Lung, Wild Horse serves high- 10 years, Au Lac among the locals in Saigon since 2003. korean quality Tex Mex/American cuisine with do Brazil is the very first authentic This multicultural eatery offers Thai food Brazilian Churrascaria in Vietnam, enormous servings. Dae Jang Gum bringing a new dining concept - an 8A/1D1 Thai Van Lung, D1 & seafood in a décor fusing Oriental & All the theatrics of a traditional Korean “All you can eat” Brazilian style BBQ 3825 1901 Mediterranean artifacts. experience are part of the service at Dae where meat is brought to your table 10am - 2pm; 4pm - 11.30pm 27C Le Quy Don, D3 Jang Gum, named after an historic figure, on skewers by a passador and served 3930 7873 but more pertinently after a wildly popular to your heart’s content. They have www.spicevn.com Korean drama focusing on her life – an extensive selection of fine wines thai 11am - 2pm; 5.30pm - 10pm photos from the series appear throughout as well. the venue. From waitresses in hanboks Ho Chi Minh City Coriander to vast plates of kimchi, this is the most Au Lac do Brazil I Thai Express authentic introduction to the cuisine 238 Pasteur, D3 A small Thai joint pleasingly decked Thai Express is the world’s largest Thai available outside of District 7. (08) 3820 7157 out in natural materials with cork walls 1st Floor, Kumho Asiana Plaza Ha Noi and sedge-lined floors. The resulting restaurant chain. Enjoy fantastically 39 Le Duan, D1 Au Lac do Brazil II ambience is nicely authentic, and the authentic Thai cuisine at reasonable 3825 7974 6A Cao Ba Quat, Ba Dinh same goes for the cuisine – try the green prices in a relaxed, contemporary www.daejanggum.vn (04) 3845 5224 shrimp curry, the fried noodles in Thai atmosphere. For Banquet & Catering style, or the squid vermicelli for a taste 8A Le Thanh Ton, D1 Hana Restaurant Call or email of the Gulf of Thailand. The restaurant is 6299 1338 [email protected] also known for its almost embarrassingly www.thaiexpress.com.vn 090 947 8698 Japanese-Korean fusion in the heart of cheap beer. 10.30am - 10pm D1. Hana has contemporary decor with 16 Bui Vien, D1 a private, open feel. Its broad menu www.aulacdobrazil.com 3837 1311 includes both cooked and raw fish in www.facebook.com/aulacdobrazil vietnamese addition to traditional hot pot with fish Golden Elephant eggs, rice and vegetables. 8 Cao Ba Quat, D1 Corso Steakhouse and Bar A cozy and relaxing Thai style 3T Quan Nuong 3829 5588 restaurant, serving an extensive 9am - 10pm Corso Steakhouse and Bar operates collection of Thai specialties including With hanging oil lamps and wooden under an open kitchen concept, bringing noodles, curries, rice, stir-fries, soups, statues lining the stairs, this venue Kimsine together an exciting menu of Asian and and a good range of seafood. above the Temple Bar has a touch more European dishes with a focus on grilling. 34 Hai Ba Trung, D1 atmosphere than most of its kind, but A place to enjoy Korean style dishes Guests can choose from a wide variety of 3822 8554 the otherwise simple décor with bamboo in the city center. Kimsine’s menu is wines and spirits. 11am - 10pm tables and chairs are fitting enough. extensive; offering everything from instant 117 Le Thanh Ton, D1 The broad barbecue grill menu features noodles to chicken’s feet. 3829 5368 Jasmine Thai classics of its kind. 8A/5D2 Thai Van Lung, D1 www.norfolkhotel.com.vn Top Floor, 29 Ton That Hiep, D1 7306 4045 6pm - 11pm A quiet, candle-lit affair complete with 094 467 2281 the ethereal tones of traditional music, 3821 1631 [email protected] Dragon Steak guests can enjoy variations on dishes 10am - 3am prepared in the Thai culinary tradition. An Khue Quan Specializing in generous portions of 85 Quoc Huong, D2 Mi Han Quoc Wagyu cuts; they’re so enormous 35190038 Serving a well-selected series of dishes that the restaurant runs a cheeky 5pm - 9.30pm Tue-Sun from both northern and southern regions This franchise has gained popularity competition - finish one within half an of Vietnam in an area where international in Ho Chi Minh City for having hour, and it’s free. Koh Thai diners are likely to be in abundance – and successfully adapted the spiciness 138 Ton That Dam, D1 therefore well attuned to the foreign t s of Korean cuisine to the local 3821 0288 Stunning Thai-chic decor and unique palate. Vietnamese palate, serving perfectly www.steak.vn Siam cuisine make Koh Thai one 92B Le Lai, D1 balanced noodle dishes. 11am - late of Saigon’s most authentic and 3925 9583 92 Ham Nghi, D1 memorable Thai restaurants. Located 3914 1565 El Gaucho in the Intercontinental complex, Koh www.mihanquocvn.com Thai serves Asian inspired cocktails An Vietnamese Bistro Serves great Argentinean steaks, 8am - 11pm hamburgers and more. A great place in a trendy lounge environment with An Restaurant offers exquisite dishes to entertain clients or friends from chill music. Mr. BBQ – Korean Chicken & Hof overseas. With outlets in Hanoi and 1st floor, 39 Le Duan, D1 from the North, Central, and South of Bangkok too. 3823 4423 Vietnam, served by well-trained waiters This unusual Korean import famous for and waitresses dressed in traditional 5D Nguyen Sieu, D1 091 233 9138 expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 60 Southern clothing. 58/4 Pham Ngoc Thach, D3 its tile floors and wooded wainscoting 68 Pham Viet Chanh, Binh Thanh 71/5-6 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 3829 5243 effects a comforting natural environment. 6258 1508 3825 8275 www.nemnuongganh.com 4 Nguyen Thiep, D1 [email protected] 3822 0496 www.chi-nghia.com Banh Xeo 46A Gold Fish Luong Son Pho 2000 Although known for a wide range of Gold Fish offers a slice of authentic Pho 2000’s Ben Thanh Market branch Vietnamese specialties, the local pancake Vietnam with a genuinely rural cuisine. Exotic beer garden style eatery famous for was famously visited by former US 73 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 stuffed with herbs and prawns is its its barbecue beef. Luong Son also serves President Bill Clinton in 2000. The chain 3822 5229 fear factor items such as scorpions, grubs, serves up variations on pho as well as tastiest dish. www.goldfish.vn 46A Dinh Cong Trang, D1 ostrich meat and crickets. noodle and rice dishes. 3824 1110 31 Ly Tu Trong, D1 4 Phan Chu Trinh, D1 Grillbar - Eatery & Cafe 3822 2788 A new trendy kitchen and cozy restaurant 3825 1330 Banh Xeo An La Ghien with the concept of taking traditional www.facebook.com/LuongSonQuan 6am - 10pm Vietnamese charcoal grilled street food The fare on offer is traditional Vietnamese, and serving it in a New York stylie cafe. Nam Phat Restaurant Pho 24 specialising in the Banh Xeo filled egg 122 Le Thanh Ton, D1 PHO24 is a popular Vietnamese pancake, a favourite with foreigners with 38227 901 A Vietnamese restaurant that specializes noodle restaurant chain with its light crispy shell and fragrant herbs and www.grillbar.com.vn in hosting social events such as weddings and business conferences. Traditional 70 outlets across Vietnam and meats inside the pancake pocket. Vietnamese cuisine is the specialty throughout Southeast Asia. 74 Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 with prices ranging from VND100,000 71-73 Dong Khoi, D1 3833 0534 - VND300,000. The setting is of an 3825 7505 www.banhxeoanlaghien.com.vn/en elegant banquet hall. 21 Nguyen Trung Ngan, D1 Quan Bui Authentic Vietnamese Barbecue Garden 3910 6488 Cuisine [email protected] Leafy green roof garden, upmarket The venue features all open-air dining restaurant with reasonable prices and a and the atmosphere is distinctly festival- Marina Saigon wide menu of choices. Open style kitchen like, relaxing, and casual, becoming advertises its cleanliness. Designer interior congenially boisterous in the evenings. Marina Saigon is one of the leading with spot lighted pictures and beautiful The restaurant specializes in Western- Quan Bui - seafood restaurants in Ho Chi Minh cushions give an oriental luxurious Vietnamese fusion dishes such as beef Authentic City. This restaurant provides a feeling – augmented by dishes served on with cheese, 5-spices beef, squid with Vietnamese luxurious environment with French/ earthenware crockery. satay sauce, and shrimp kebabs. Cuisine Vietnamese fusion cuisine. 17a Ngo Van Nam, D1 135A Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D1 172 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D3 3829 1515 3823 3340 An exciting Vietnamese culinary 3930 2379 (deliveries: 3602 2241 or 091 400 8835) www.barbecuegarden.com experience awaits you in the heart of the old French quarter in Maxim’s Nam An Quan An Ngon downtown Saigon. Reasonably Quan An Ngon appeals easily to tourists Beefsteak Nam Son priced, you will see the open kitchen This local steak restaurant specialises in Large and lavishly decorated, Maxim’s and local people alike in its unique as you come in (chefs working hard Vietnamese-style iron-plate meat dishes concept: presenting the diversity of to thrill your palate with the herbs, Nam An restaurant serves Vietnamese rather than the American steaks often spices and sauces from around the cuisine in style. The carved wooden Vietnamese cuisine from different regions popular with expats – but while these country - definitely no MSG here). booths, completed with silk curtains, in a village market style. The restaurant is two varieties have their differences, the The ambiance is sophisticated are a romantic hideaway for couples or set in a large new building, which from its local version of the dish has a fresh, light and comfortable with small groups. external yellow appearance is reminiscent character and is served with some good, traditional crockery 13-15-17 Dong Khoi, D1 of an old European villa; but inside its delicate Vietnamese sauces. serving as decoration. space is designed as an ancient Hue 188 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 17A Ngo Van Nam, D1 Mitau ruong house. 3930 3917 3828 1515 Mitau creates a gathering place for 138 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D1 www.quanbui.vn www.namsonsteak.com those who love Hue cuisine. The interior 3827 9666 includes memorabilia, statues, bric and www.quanngon138.com Bo Ne Le Hong Highway 4 brac and golf trophies. 7am - 10pm 52 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Bo Ne Le Hong is a popular Vietnamese The menu reflects the ambiance of the 3823 0767 Royal Revolving Restaurant restaurant specializing in beefsteak. It has north and wider Vietnam, although dishes www.mitauhue.com a rich, diverse menu, and also offer fresh are carefully selected to meet a more The Royal Revolving Restaurant is a fruit juices. universal palate. Nghi Xuan unique restaurant experience. Experience 489/27/39 Huynh Van Banh, Phu Nhuan 101 Vo Van Tan, D3 stunning views of the city while you spin 3602 2069 around in the sky. The restaurant offers 3990 5106 Lost down one of the less noticeable www.highway4.com alleyways of the inner city, if you do more than 50 Hong Kong inspired dishes happen to chance upon Nghi Xuan, and a bar that serves coffee and cocktails. Bun Sai Gon the sheer grace of the venue will come 3823 2232 Hoa Tuc as something of a surprise. Decorated This franchise positions itself firmly in Set in what used to be Saigon’s opium as a high-class traditional Vietnamese the local market with the slogan 'the bun Saigon Vegan refinery, Hoa Tuc serves up contemporary mansion, Nghi Xuan is perfectly fitting for noodles of the Vietnamese people' – Vietnamese cuisine in a Parisian, art-deco a venue serving the finest of Vietnam's Saigon Vegan is located in a casual and indicating a concerted dedication to the atmosphere. classical cuisine – the imperial dishes inviting space with high ceilings, dark authenticity of its noodle soup staples. 74 Hai Ba Trung, D1 of Hue. Service is courteous, fast, and wood tables, and lots of natural light. 3825 1676 6276 2609 quintessentially elegant. Guests can choose from over 100 vegan www.bunsaigon.com.vn www.hoatuc.com 5/9 Nguyen Sieu, D1 dishes, all of which are either soy or Hoang Yen 3823 0699 vegetable based. Cha Ca La Vong A venue for those who are looking for nghixuanrestaurant.com 378/3 Vo Van Tan, D3 This venue only serves Cha Ca, a high-quality Vietnamese cuisine. Try 3834 4473 traditional Hanoian dish. Cha Ca is a salad some of the country’s delicacies in a Nha Hang Ngon made out of pieces of fish and spring modern yet inviting atmosphere. The SH Garden restaurant onion stir-fried in a hotpot. eatery’s various clay pots are flavorful; Famous restaurant serving easy 36 Ton That Thiep, D1 some feature mam, a delicious fermented Vietnamese cuisine to foreigners Established in the 1930s, the Terrace 3915 3343 fish paste. While the restaurant’s cuisine and tourists with more than 400 restaurant is located at the corner of is light and healthy overall, those traditional dishes. two of the oldest boulevards of Saigon, Cuc Gach Quan with a penchant for green veggies 160 Pasteur, D1 Nguyen Hue and Le Loi, where romantic This Vietnamese venue serves traditional, should definitely order one of Hoang 3827 7131 memories of Saigon float around. This country-style foods, a mixture of street Yen’s assortment of edible ‘flowers’ – www.quananngon.com.vn restaurant offers a variety of delicious food dishes made with fine ingredients especially the sautéed hoa thien ly. It is 8am - 10pm traditional Vietnamese dishes. together with a selection of more recommended to order a few dishes and 4th floor, 98 Nguyen Hue, D1 share them all. contemporary options. Oi’s Pick 6680 0188 t s 7-9 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 Papaya Restaurant 10 Dang Tat, D1 shgarden.com.vn 148 Hai Ba Trung, D1 3848 0144 A petite, clean, and brightly-coloured Parkson Hung Vuong, Third Floor, Hung Vuong Plaza, An Duong Vuong, D5 Vietnamese restaurant with simple décor Song Ngu Ganh CR1- 12, 103 Ton Dat Tien, D7 serving a light, healthy, northern-style www.hoangyencuisine.com cuisine. There's no fuss in the layout There are eight different rooms capable of With green suspended lanterns, simple here – green walls with black & white seating a total of 350-400 guests, each and elegant furnishings, all touched off Lemongrass artworks, brown wooden furnishings, and warmly-lit with dark wooden furnishings. with bamboo baskets of fruit, flowers, lanterns above every table make for a very On a small stage, a traditional chamber and reed grass, the atmosphere is just The vibe aims at a harmony between pleasant atmosphere – and it's casual orchestra with ladies wearing classical Ao as smooth and well-defined as a more modern styling and the Vietnamese without being messy, and refined without dai costumes perform Vietnamese music traditional arts, and the dining room with any trace of pretentiousness. on genuine old instruments. expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013 modern-styled venue.

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 61 70 Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 city under various brand names – this Vietnamese sandwich place, Black Cat 3832 5017 outlet is a standalone restaurant in the Saigon now serves international food with busy Etown office complex in Tan Binh a focus on burgers, most famously its “Big Temple Club district. You'll probably only visit if you're Cheese” featuring 500g of beef. working nearby or visiting on official 13 Phan Van Dat, D1 Usually regarded as one of central business, but you'll find the restaurant 3829 2955 Saigon's most authentically Vietnamese serves some great Asian business www.blackcatsaigon.com venues, this historic and good-looking lunches. 7am - 11pm features classic Indochinese decor, Ground Floor, Etown 1 broadly interpreted as a blend of the 364 Cong Hoa, Tan Binh old French colonial style with pan- Blu Bar and Grill www.longmonaco.com.vn Asian graces that appeal more to Asian Blu Bar provides a wide range of Asian exoticism than reflect actual Vietnamese and Mediterranean specialties for styles. With antique furnishings and breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with ceiling fans, the atmosphere is certainly western/international many unique beverage options. pretty. 53 Vo Truong Toan, D2 29-31 Ton That Thiep, D1 Al Fresco’s 3744 4111 3829 9244 Khoi Thom Offering a mix of Tex-Mex, Italian, and 7am - 11pm templeclub.com.vn Khoi Thom - "fragrant smoke" in Australian food along with cold local & English - is a unique venue, set in imported beers and a wine list featuring The Burger Corner a bright, colourful al fresco decor Thanh Nien Restaurant Australia’s finest whites along with inspired by renowned architect With its attractive home-style layout, pretty affordable South American reds. Tasty, fresh homemade burgers with a Ricardo Legoretta. A long way from garden for outdoor dining, and warm, 16 Nguyen Thi Nghia, D1 range of ingredients aimed at satiating Mexico, Chef Alejandro Torres's yellow-toned interior for the buffet, it's a 3926 0036 both foreign and local palates. Menu menu blends "Cocina charming venue for tourists and a familiar www.alfrescosgroup.com includes local ‘rice burgers’ and prices are Potosina" and timeless favourite for long-timers. It's intentionally 8.30am - 11pm well below those of international chains. Mexican classics. decorated like a private home, walls 43 Nguyen Hue, D1 29 Ngo Thoi Nhiem, D3 decorated with floral artworks, and the Annam Gourmet 3821 0094 www.khoithom.com garden surrounded by bamboo. An upscale deli and grocery chain offering www.theburgercorner.com.vn 11 Nguyen Van Chiem, D1 gourmet groceries, cheese, organic 3822 5909 products, gluten -free products, fruit and La Habana www.vnnavi.com/restaurants/thanhnien vegetables, gourmet deli, wine and other beverages. All locations, in District 1, 2 Offering authentic Spanish cuisine and Tib Restaurant and 7, have a coffee lounge that serves a wide choice of tapas, as well as Cuban This fine Vietnamese Hue-style restaurant cocktails, La Habana is a den of Cuban- breakfast, lunch, drinks and early dinner. looks almost like a temple, and it's Spanish inspired architecture located on 16-18 Hai Ba Trung, D1 considered one of the city's premier inner-city Cao Ba Quat. 3822 9391 settings serving imperial cuisine. 6 Cao Ba Quat, D1 41A Thao Dien street. D2 187 Hai Ba Trung, D3 3829 5180 3829 7242 3744 2630 www.lahabana-saigon.com www.tibrestaurant.com.vn SB2-1 My Khanh 4,Nguyen Duc Canh, D7 5412 3263 Ly Club Tin Nghia 5412 3264 A charming little venue serving vegetarian www.annam-gourmet.com Often used as a venue for gatherings, cuisine. Its quaint appearance hides networking meetings, and events where an the fact that it was the first international Au Parc air of wealth and sophistication is useful, Ly vegetarian restaurant in Ho Chi Minh Burger Oi Club is a sure bet for making an impression City and an important center of the city’s It's only fitting that this Mediterranean- Burger Oi offers fast on a date or business lunch. Built into a vegetarian culture. styled restored villa with its original tiles, delivery at affordable traditional French villa with wide elliptical 9 Tran Hung Dao, D1 old window frames, plush cushions, and prices. Try their burgers, filet of fish, arches, the atmosphere of naked opulence 3821 2538 opium-themed art collection sits in one BBQ pulled pork, fresh cut curly fries persists throughout the property. and desserts. See their full menu of the most gorgeous streets of central 143 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 online at www.burgeroi.com Saigon. Au Parc is an unforgettable 3930 5588 Vietnam House Call 083 826 5426 or www.lyclub.vn venue with a décor that manages to SMS your order to 093 836 3030 Vietnam House is a high quality simultaneously capture the grace of the restaurant specializing in both local old Colonial architecture and the mood Margherita Vietnamese and international cuisine. of west-Asian exoticism that transfixed This restaurant is set in a restored French Europe in the Romantic period. The Elbow Room For some, Margherita doubles as an colonial house offering stunning views of unofficial expat rendezvous, partly a result 23 Han Thuyen, D1 the street. The Elbow Room on Pasteur is an of its agreeable prices and sumptuous 3829 2772 93-95 Dong Khoi, D1 American-style bistro with a long bar, Western-style pizzas and foods. 3829 1623 exposed brickwork, white walls, and 175/1 Pham Ngu Lao, D1 www.vietnamhousesaigon.com Bahdja whirring ceiling fans – making for a 3837 0760 casual, contemporary space with an Algerian restaurant serving north African international vibe. More of a diner than a Market 39 (other) asian delights such as couscous, tajines and restaurant, Elbow shoots at a cool, relaxed Market 39 showcases seven interactive desserts. Unique Mechoui set dinner is atmosphere, pleasantly decorating its live show kitchens, featuring a la carte Crawfish King a popular choice and perfect for groups warmly-lit walls with evocative black & all-day dining and an extensive buffet Crawfish King serves special menus (available with prior notice). white photos and subtle lighting. selection served daily during breakfast, with crawfish, lobster, mantis shrimp, 87-89-91 Ho Tung Mau, D1 52 Pasteur, D1 lunch and dinner American-style chicken wings, oysters, 093 787 2010 (French, Arabic, English, 3821 4327 Ground floor, InterContinental Asiana fruit beer, sea urchin and more. Offers free Finnish) www.elbowroom.com.vn Saigon delivery for customers in D1 and D3. 0122 763 1261 (English, Russian, Vietnamese) Corner of Hai Ba Trung & Le Duan 63 Truong Dinh, D1 Mon - Fri 11:30 - 2pm Hog’s Breath Café 3520 9099 6272 7888 Mon - Sat 6pm - 11pm www.intercontinental.com/saigon www.facebook.com/crawfishking63 An Australian family diner and bar concept. 7am - 12am Ben Style Oi’s Pick Renowned for quality steaks, seafood and Mogambo Bar & Grill Every sandwich comes wrapped with a other western fare served in an informal Lion City label that displays its calories, protein, fat environment. Smoke-free indoors. Mogambo is a dark, African-styled restaurant with some the finest US & Tex- and carbohydrates content. A 544-calorie Ground Floor, Bitexco Financial Tower, This is a Singaporean franchise to Mex and exceptional burgers. Cheesy tofu meatballs sandwich costs 2 Hai Trieu, D1 watch with interest – since its humble 50 Pasteur, D1 VND80,000 while a 281-calorie Chicken 3915 6066 beginnings in 2006 with the rather salad sets you back VND50,000.The 3825 1311 more unpleasant name Singapore 090 381 8700 chicken jumbo sandwich comes with www.hogsbreathcafe.com.vn

Frog Porridge, it has risen in strength t s a massive 638 calories, 59 grams of Pacharan - Tapas & Bodega to become the most prominent protein and 62 grams of carbohydrates, representative of the cuisine in the city, Jaspas Wine & Grill Oi’s Pick The city’s best-known Spanish restaurant and its growth has continued to be but only 16 grams of fat. Ben also offers with a sports bar on the ground floor, remarkable. meal plans for those who want to get fit Jaspas Wine and Grill provides an extensive two floors of dining space, and an open 45 Le Anh Xuan, D1 and bulk up. wine list along with many “reinvented” rooftop deck for cocktails and live music. 3823 8371 302 Co Bac, D1 Jaspas dishes, new creations, and Serving tapas, paella, and an extensive www.lioncityrestaurant.com 090 691 2730 mouthwatering steaks. Japas also offers a Iberian wine list. wide array of delectable dessert options. 97 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Long Monaco Oi’s Pick Black Cat Restaurant 74/7 Hai Ba Trung, D1 090 724 2757 3827 0931 [email protected]

Long Monaco operates throughout the Originally envisioned as a fast food alfrescosgroup.com 10am - late expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 62 Parkview Restaurant Zest offers diners one of the nicest views gentrified district 2 street is a cache of dishes from different parts of Vietnam in the city. luxury with its beautiful poolside garden ranging from pho, bun bo Hue to mi This restaurant is best known locally for 5 Ton Duc Thang, D1 and cosy, scenic white-toned dining room quang. It serves breakfast, lunch and its seafood buffet, with a wide variety of 3911 5599 area. Dine outside or in, on an off-the-cuff dinner. It also has an open space and international specialties freshly-prepared menu prepared by the French chef, a VIP air-conditioned room together at the live cooking stations. Local and Zoom Cafe Oi’s Pick based on the best market ingredients which can hold a maximum capacity of imported seafood includes oysters and available on the day. Set amongst the 500 people, making it an ideal venue for prawns, molluscs and organic lobsters. Zoom cafe serves Tex-Mex and flowers and with a ring of the lost charm different types of events and functions. 76 Le Lai, D1 Vietnamese cuisine as well as running a of the Colonial era, this is an appealing 26 Le Van Mien, D2 3822 8888 Vespa tour service from within the café. and impressive venue for An Phu's high- [email protected] www.saigon.newworldhotels.com 169A Bui Vien, D1 profile community. 3920 3897 14 Ngo Quang Huy, D2 Western/ INTERNATIONAL Pasha [email protected] 3898 2082 7am - 2am daily www.lavilla-restaurant.com.vn Boathouse Oi’s Pick Serving Turkish and Mediterranean *Reviewed in Oi March 2013 With a great view of the Saigon River, cuisine, the kitchen is headed by Chef this restobar serves imported steak, Ismet with over 30 years of experience in Trois Gourmands healthy salads and much more in an similar restaurants. Opened in 2004 and regarded as one alfresco environment. 25 Dong Du, D1 The List of the finest French restaurants in town. 40 Lily Road, An Phu Superior 6291 3677 Owner Gils, a French native, makes his Compound, D2; 3744 6790 www.pasha.com.vn own cheeses as well. www.boathouse.com.vn 18 Tong Huu Dinh, D2 Skewers 3744 4585 Blue Crab Oi’s Pick District 2 Blue Crab offers delicious seafood An open-air kitchen at the front of the Bakeries ITALIAN - prawns, scallops and lobster, crab, restaurant and a small cigar lounge oysters, scallops and many more for upstairs set off the atmosphere and mark Voelker Pendolasco – Thao Dien rock-bottom prices. All of the seafood this venue as one with a unique presence French bakery selling fresh breads, is sourced from the same supplier in Saigon. The purely Mediterranean pastries and chocolate Expect excellent classic Italian cuisine – as a number of high-end hotels and cuisine is appropriately authentic. 39 Thao Dien, D2 wood-fired pizza, spaghetti, and tiramisu – restaurants in the city, ensuring the food is fresh and high quality. For meat-lovers 9A Thai Van Lung, D1 6296 0066 cooked with a focus on fresh flavours and there’s also a wide range of dishes that 38224798 voelker-vietnam.com featuring the finest imported ingredients include pork ribs and chicken wings. www.skewers-restaurant.com from Italy. They offer weekly specials as well. 36 Tong Huu Dinh, D2 BARS 49 Quoc Huong, D2 Subway 62532888 3744 2008 Mcsorley’s www.pendolasco.vn www.bluecrabsaigon.com Subway is now in Vietnam, offering Recently opened Irish pub with a its internationally-renowned range of swimming pool and outdoor patio. Sarpino’s Pizzeria Mekong Merchant subs sandwiches and cookies. World Serves pub grub with events and theme Set in a colonial house within an travelers can expect the same high nights happening regularly. Sarpino’s Pizzeria is a famous pizza open-air courtyard surrounding, this quality of ingredients regardless of 4 Thao Dien, D2 brand from Canada with three restaurant serves delicious pizza, what nation they are visiting. 3519 4659 branches around Ho Chi Minh City that sandwiches, smoothies with an 121 Ho Tung Mau, D1 www.mcsorleys.vn specializes in pizza, pasta and rice. extensive wine list. 3914 4118 43 Thao Dien, D2. 3744 2132 23 Thao Dien, D2; 3744 4713 Papagayo Saigon Warda A resort-style design and French JAPANESE Snap Cafe Mediterranean food are the make-up of Warda is a Middle-Eastern style bar and this newly opened hangout. Tama River-Japanese Restaurant By day, Snap Cafe is a community- restaurant headed by a renowned Syrian 18 Tran Ngoc Dien, D2 Bottles of sake fill shelves along the centered, family-friendly cafe and chef. Guests can enjoy authentic middle- 6252 1333 wall behind the sushi bar, and unique restaurant. By night, guests can enjoy eastern cuisine indoors and outdoors Japanese paintings add a nice visual live music, sports on the big screen, while enjoying an almond cigar or shisha. Buddha Bar touch. Since opening four months ago, quiz nights, pool, foosball, and more. 71/7 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 One of the long standing bars in the the restaurant has attracted a diverse Serves international cafe fare, great food, icy-cold draught beer and wine by area, it has a pool table, darts, big screen clientele, from locals to expats. the carafe. The space is a large open- tvs along with cheap beers and bar food. 14E1 Thao Dien, D2 plan room with an attached garden and 3744 6782 7 Thao Dien, D2 play area for kids. Holds regular movie 3744 2080 screenings. Chiisana Hashi 32 Tran Ngoc Dien, D2 cafeS Serves authentic Japanese cuisine 35194532 including sashimi, sushi, tempura, www.snap.com.vn Agnes Cafe - Dalat Coffee & Flower sukiyaki and shabu shabu Shop River Garden, 170 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 The Deck At Agnes Cafe they offer fresh coffee, 6683 5308 smoothies and juices along with a Located on the banks of the Saigon delicious breakfast and lunch menu. THAI River, this restaurant offers great This quaint and cozy cafe is a perfect international and Vietnamese fare. place to meet up with friends or just Baan Thai 38 Nguyen U Di, D2 White Forest relax to get away from the bustling www.thedecksaigon.com Set in a modern traffic outside. They offer free delivery. Baan Thai serves authentic Thai cuisine décor, the 11A-B Thao Dien, D2 using a considerable variety of tastes and restaurant serves Vino spices prepared by Thai chefs.Generally They offer professional advice on authentic Italian and French cuisine [email protected] 6281 9772 speaking, the cuisine leans more towards selecting and tasting wines. The accompanied by a good selection of outdoor terrace area is the perfect spot European wines and cocktails. Happy facebook.com/pages/Agnes-Cafe being authentic in taste than serving the more internationalised versions of Thai to sample a new vintage and brunches Hour cocktails from 2pm – 7:30pm on the weekends. where it’s buy one get one free. Order cuisine available elsewhere. Shalom Coffee NO.1, Street 2nd, D2 take-away online at vietnammm.com, Shalom Coffee is available for all your 55 Thao Dien, D2; 3744 5453 www.vinovietnam.com foodpanda.vn, and eat.vn coffee and chocolate needs, warm www.baanthai-anphu.com 14 Bis Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D1 snacks, cold refreshments, breakfasts and 0122 428 5237 lunches. Jasmine Thai www.whiteforest.com.vn 53 Vo Truong Toan, D2 The List 37444111 Expect here variations on dishes you'll Xu Restaurant Lounge www.coffeeshalom.com find throughout the Thai culinary tradition 6:30am - 7pm with features more common to those The venue is well-known for its pork restaurants serving in Western nations. wantons, bun cha, seared beef crostinis, RESTAURANTS 85 Quoc Huong, D2 District 7 bo luc lac diced beef and 'Xu-style' 3519 0038 BAKERIES t s chicken rice. Xu is an elegant venue that FRENCH works as a restaurant or a high-class bar VIETNAMESE Savouré Bakery for the upper echelons. Gastro’home Offering gourmet cakes and pastries with 71-75 Hai Ba Trung, D1 New delicatessen shop offering Banian Tree all the fine characteristics of the European 3824 8468 western-fusion French food by French A fine dining Vietnamese restaurant. gourmet tradition. Customers can choose www.xusaigon.com chef Stephane Courtin. Visit the shop Offers a set lunch, set dinner and from a wide array of baked goods or try their catering service. international breakfast including cakes, desserts, breads, cookies, Zest Bistro & Cafe 100 Xuan Thuy, D2. 6281 9830 River Garden, 170 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 wedding cakes, and moon cakes during A casual restaurant featuring an the season. American, French and fusion menu. La Villa Oi’s Pick Frangipani Hoa Su Grand View, SD 4-1, Nguyen Duc Canh, D7 Located across from the waterfront, just Frangipani Hoa Su offers authentic 5412 2469

expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013 minutes away from the Bach Dang pier, This Colonial-style villa set in a quietly Vietnamese cuisine with a variety of www.savourebakery.com

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 63 BARS 5411 1186 and romantic surroundings, the restaurant and runs food events at the store. All has two floors with a unified, simple decor products are available to order online at Peaches CHINESE and warm colourful tones throughout. www.100percent.vn.com. A spacious, attractive restobar with S9 Hung Vuong 3 Apartments, D7 26b Thao dien, D2 comfortable, lounge-style seating and a Huong Vien Hunanese Restaurant 5410 0822 bar area, this watering hole mixes three www.nathaliesrestaurant.com Annam Gourmet beers on tap and a large screen for live Serving China’s little-known spiciest An upscale deli and grocery chain offering sports with a pan-Asian curry menu. cuisine, the dishes of China’s reddest Thai Express- Crescent Plaza gourmet groceries, cheese, organic S57-1 Sky Garden 2, D7 province and the preferred taste Thai Express's interpretation of Thai products, gluten -free products, fruit and of Chairman Mao, Huong Vien is food exhibits the best of the cuisine but vegetables, gourmet deli, wine and other Ruby Soho well-decorated although a bit on the with the edges softened for a global beverages. All locations, in District 1, 2 A popular district 7 spot with excellent pricey side, with dishes averaging palate unused to the extremes of Thai and 7, have a coffee lounge that serves and cheap range of cocktails, good VND180,000 . style cooking. Averaging from 40,000 breakfast, lunch, drinks and early dinner. food and great music! Listen to the likes S59-S61, Sky Garden 2 Apartments, D7 VND to 200,000 VND per dish, its price 41A Thao Dien street. D2. 3744 2630 of Jimi Hendrix, The Ramones or Beck can't be beat for the same quality and SB2-1 My Khanh 4,Nguyen Duc Canh, D7 while downing an ice cold one. Ming Dynasty deliciousness. 16-18 Hai Ba Trung, D1 S52-1 Sky Garden 2, D7 Ming Dynasty serves authentic Chinese 105 Ton Dat Tien, D7 food in a setting reminiscent of an old An Phu Supermarket The Tavern Chinese palace. Specialties include dim VIETNAMESE Large supermarket stocking a wide The Tavern is a Western pub & sum, shark fin and abalone and dishes range well-known international brands restaurant where patrons can play from Quang Dong. Co Ba Vung Tau of dry goods along with fresh groceries, darts & pool, watch football or enjoy 23 Nguyen Khac Vien, D7 Co Ba Vung Tau is a chain of traditional frozen meat and fish, fresh fruit and reasonably priced food and drinks. Vietnamese restaurants serving up vegetables, cheese, wine, toiletries and R2-24 Hung Gia 3, Bui Bang Doan, D7 INDIAN their famous banh khot amongst more an extensive menu of affordable 43 Thao Dien, D2 CAFES Ashoka Vietnamese food. Ashoka is a small chain of slightly more R1-72 Hung Gia 1, Bui Bang Doan, D7 Classic Fine Foods Baskin Robbins upscale Indian restaurants serving both 5410 2027 Supplier of international brand foodstuff With more than 7000 branches in more Northern and Southern Indian cuisine like Illy, Valrhona, Bonne Maman along than 50 countries, Baskin Robbins is including curries, naan and tandoris. ASIAN with fresh vegetables, dairy, and meat. the largest ice-cream chain in the world S9-1 Block R13, Bui Bang Doan, D7 No. 17, Street 12, D2 with flavors such as Baseball Nut and 5410 1989 Cham Charm www.classicfinefoods.com Lunar Cheesecake. 105 Ton Dat Tien, D7 Spice India Charm is more like a museum than a Metro www.baskinrobbins.vn Spice India offers a wide range of dining venue, filled with the artefacts and Wholesale suppliers of foodstuff, office dishes that cater to any pallette. Enjoy sculpture of the Champa people and supplies, furniture, clothes and more. Bud’s your curry with a side of Bollywood. with gorgeous artworks and colourful Entry is reserved for business owners Bringing the taste of American ice S6-1 Bui Bang Doan, Hung Vuong 3, D7 hangings on the walls. The upstairs area is only but foreigners can obtain a one- cream to Vietnam, Bud’s Ice Cream has 093 841 6551 a wide-open terrace with plenty of tables day pass by showing their passports. nine stores in Ho Chi Minh City. Apart www.namaste-india.com.vn for a more relaxing atmosphere. The Residential An Phu, An Khanh Ward 2 from a variety of delicious ice cream cuisine is pan-Asian. flavors, Bud’s also offers a wide range ITALIAN 2 Phan Van Chuong, D7 Veggy’s of Western and Vietnamese food. A specialized grocery store carrying SD - 04 Panorama Residential Complex, D7 La Cucina WESTERN/INTERNATIONAL imported products, Veggy’s offers www.budsicecream.com.vn a wide range of international food La Cucina has opened on Crescent Boomarang Bistro Saigon imported from abroad and fresh Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Promenade in Phu My Hung, with Located in The Crescent by the produce grown in Vietnam. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf serves an open-plan kitchen that can Crescent lake, the spacious Boomarang S54-1 Sky Garden 2, Pham Van Nghi, D7 some of the best coffee and tea from accommodate 180 diners. Enjoy Bistro Saigon serves Australian around the world. It also has a full line top-end dining featuring the best of and other Western food in the most of baked goods made from high quality Italian cuisine and a wide selection of pedestrian friendly part of town. wine & liquor ingredients, most of which are from imported seafood, prepared from the 107 Ton Dat Tien, D7 their own proprietary recipes. freshest ingredients, in a relaxed, rustic 3841 3883 Bacchus Corner Ground Floor, Crescent Mall, Ton Dat Tien, D7 atmosphere. www.boomarang.com.vn Bachhus imports from most of the www.coffeebean.com.vn Reviewed in Oi April 2013 world’s wine regions and supplies Block 07-08 CR1-07, 103 Ton Dat Tien, D7 Cham Charm wholesale and retail customers. It FB Deli Coffee 5413 7932 Famous for their extensive international encourages wine tasting in its Pasteur nightly buffet featuring 8 types of store using the unique Enomatic FB Deli Coffee features a unique black and Sarpino’s oysters, American Angus beef and system, and staff are skilled in advising white design and signature coffee beans Australian filets, Cham Charm is on wine matches with food. imported from Italy. Guests can also enjoy Sarpino’s Pizzeria serves authentic devoted to Cham arts, culture and 158D Pasteur, D1 many varieties of homemade cakes, along Italian pizzas as well as other Italian cuisine and is tastefully decorated with with Tiramisu, muffins, and sandwiches. All dishes such as oven-baked pasta, Cham artifacts and sculptural works. Beer Plaza cakes 50% off from 7 to 10pm. baked rice, wraps and salad, all at 02 Phan Van Chuong, Phu My Hung New Beer Plaza has an extensive range SE-1 My Khanh 2 Apartments, D7 reasonable prices. Urban, D7 of international beers in stock. 3SI 12-1 Grandview, Nguyen Cao Nam, D7 Connoisseurs will be pleased to find all The Fountain Coffee Ice Cream www.sarpinos.vn El Gaucho of their favorite varieties of beer along Known for its Swiss ice cream with all El Gaucho Argentinian Steakhouse is with unique glassware. the fixings, Fountain Coffee also serves Salt & Pepper Italian Restaurant an international chain of restaurants 94-96 Le Lai, D1 Western dishes in a spacious lounge Located in the modern confines of The serving authentic Argentinian cuisine area. Crescent, this contemporary-styled in a space reflecting modern yet rustic Boutique Cellar SB4-1 My Duc Residential Complex, Italian restaurant and pizzeria has an decor, giving it an inviting ambiance and All about wine, lots and lots of Nguyen Duc Canh, D7 open kitchen and an outdoor terrace genuine atmosphere. wine. Priding itself in being the sole area. Serving up a range of pan-Italian Unit CR1-12, The Crescent, D7 distributors of premium wineries around MOF Japanese Sweets & Coffee cuisine, the menu includes a selection 3825 1879 the world. Crescent of salads, pastas, main courses, pizzas www.elgaucho.com.vn 11 Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 and desserts, all at affordable prices. Sourcing the majority of their dessert 103 Ton Dat Tien, D7 | 5412 4848 Scott & Binh’s Restaurant Oi’s Pick Shop Thai Duong ingredients from Hokkaido, Japan, MOF www.saltpepper.com.vn This unassuming little bistro is making Beer, wine, & spirits importers. serves up premium desserts and a big waves with visitors to the city and Previously known as Tan Mai. Japanese restaurant menu. JAPANESE resident expats alike. With a menu replete 54 Ham Nghi, D1 101 Ton Dat Tien, D7 with tasty sandwiches, burgers, pasta, and www.mof.com.vn/en Osaka Ramen various other international dishes, this is The Warehouse This sleek, open-kitchen contemporary an ideal guilty hideaway from Vietnamese A premium wine importer, distributor, NYDC eatery serves up Japanese noodles cuisine for just one meal at least. and retailer supplying wines from Established in 1995 in Singapore, NYDC, starting from VND78,000. There are 15-17 Cao Trieu Phat, D7 all over the world, the Warehouse The New York Dessert Café, aims to also set menus, individual dishes and a also offers spirits, wine accessories, bring a piece of New York to Southeast range of smaller, appetizing sides. glassware and refrigeration to t s Asia with their popular mudpies and a SD04, LO H29-2, My Phat Residential supermarkets complement their customers’ whole range of Western comfort foods. Complex, D7 choices. 107 Ton Dat Tien, D7 100% 178 Pasteur, D1 THAI 100% Alimentation.Generale.De.Qualite S’cottage Restaurant - Café is the latest high-end grocery store to Vinifera Inspired by the mysterious wooden Nathalie's Phu My Hung grace the streets of An phu. With a rustic Established in 2002, Vinifera is one house in the Hansel and Gretl story, charm 100% provides customers with of the most reliable wine distribution S’cottage serves up home-style meals Nathalie's Phu My Hung is situated in an 100% safe, natural and local products all companies in Vietnam.Offering in a spacious, fairy-tale inspired space. ideal location on a central corner in the sourced and manufactured in Vietnam. prestigious wines from around the SB-02 My Duc Residential Complex, district 7 high-profile metropolitan area. The shop only offers products that reach world at a a great value. Serving delicious Thai cuisine in charming 15C7 Thi Sach, D1 Nguyen Duc Canh, D7 international food safety requirements expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013

LEGEND: Wi-Fi Delivery Credit Card Dendau Privileges Apply 64 TravelImage by Jasper Ribbers & Leisure

Siargao Island

65 GREAT ESCAPES: THE PHILIPPINES

your fear. Just watch it come in, grab your board, and throw yourself forward. The worst that can happen is you catch an awesome wave!" It was the motivation I needed to recalibrate Treasure Island my mental state. My veins coursed with A hidden gem on the border of the Pacific adrenaline as I watched the next wave appear. Once again, my arms and legs were paralyzed Text and images by Jasper Ribbers with anxiety. But strangely enough, despite my heart wrenching fear, I started peddling as fast as I could. It was as if my body had gone on autopilot while my mind merely watched As a full time traveler and travel blogger, point to watch surfers - both locals and in awe. Suddenly, the wave launched me high I'm often asked for nuggets of travel wisdom. travelers - riding the waves, the most famous up into the air. I mustered all my remaining Everyone wants to know what pristine of which is known as 'Cloud 9.' Countless strength to focus on one simple action: destinations exist that haven’t yet been other good surfing spots can be found around standing up. As I pressed the soles of my flooded by the masses, where one can still the island such as Guyam Island, Jacking feet to the top of the board and finally stood enjoy a peaceful visit without the intrusion of Horse, and Tuesday Island. The locals are tall, my body was flooded with excitement. camera wielding tourists and hawkers selling experts in picking the best spots depending What lasted for just a few seconds felt like an souvenirs. The first place that always comes on the weather conditions. eternity. When I finally relented and let myself to mind is a medium sized island in The Located just off Daku Island, the surf fall into the warm tropical water, I felt like I Philippines called Siargao Island. breaks here were the biggest I had ever had won an epic battle. Siargao Island rests in the province encountered. Every time a wave approached Surfing is by no means the only activity that of Surigao del Norte, Mindanao and it's my back stiffened with fear at the mere sight Siargao has to offer. Diving in Siargao is a recent relatively unknown amongst tourists except of the massive water wall. Unfortunately, development, and new dive sites are being for one group - surfers. These thrill-seekers I lacked the requisite confidence and discovered on a regular basis. This offers divers have known about the island and its good determination needed to catch a wave. a unique opportunity to explore uncharted breaks for quite awhile and have managed to Fred, my close friend and surfing mentor, terrain. There are currently 15 designated sites, keep it a guarded secret. dominantly rode wave after wave in the offering a range of diving opportunities for both A few surf competitions are held here violent waters. Sensing my frustration, he beginners as well as experts. every year. A walkway has been constructed pulled me aside to give me a stern talk. The most famous dive site is the Blue in the sea leading to a three-level viewing “Jasper, buddy, you have to just go for it! Cathedral, an underwater rock formation. deck at the end, providing a perfect vantage Don’t think about the size of the wave or Its top consists of a 20-meter-wide hole at a

66 depth of 20 meters. A gentle slope leads down into two caverns, the North and East Caverns, each with their own connection to the surface. The cavern has the feeling and look of an actual cathedral because the sunlight enters from different spots: the top as well as the North and East caverns. Pop Star Almost all of the resorts are near the picturesque town of General Luna. I love spending time in this village because the locals are especially friendly and welcoming. I’ll often grab a quick meal and a beer at one of the many amazing food stalls along the central boulevard. Most serve only grilled meats and fish. My favorite one is Lalay's Barbeque. The grilled chicken at Lalay's is to die for. The seasoning is simple yet tasty, and the meat is always tender. The cook at Lalay will also happily prepare any fish that you buy from the nearby market for a fee. At night, some of the food places transform into makeshift karaoke bars. Here is a piece of very valuable advice: there is no better way to make local friends than by singing famous pop songs with them. The first time I stumbled across one of these music hot Caving In scratched would be almost impossible. This spots, I stepped inside merely to watch the It takes about three hours by boat to arrive at left me with only one option when I reached others sing. I found a table in the corner the nature reserve site of the Sohoton Caves. the exit and that was to jump. Encouraged by and sat down. I tried to enjoy my beer As I entered the confinement of the lagoon the cheering of my fellow tour companions, I without drawing any attention, but I soon through an opening under a rock mountain stretched my arms forward, closed my eyes, and had a gang of folks trying to push me on that is passable only during low tide, I found lunged into the water. What an incredible rush! stage. After much cajoling by the locals, I myself in an enchanted world with calm clear The combination of the friendly locals, gave into the pressure and elected to sing waters, beautiful caves, lush greenery, and the the natural beauty, the relaxing vibe, and American Pie. Although my performance soothing voice of the sea. the wide range of available activities make was far from stellar, the locals cheered with When I first entered the caves, their beauty Siargao Island on of my favorite places on great enthusiasm. Men were giving me overwhelmed me. The walls were smooth and this planet. I wouldn't be surprised if this high-fives and women were winking at me slightly moist, and the water was luminous and island becomes the next Boracay (one of the from afar. For a brief moment, I contemplated transparent. One of the caves features a cliff most heavily visited places by tourists in The abandoning my life of travel and pursuing a jump as an exit. The slippery rocks with sharp Philippines) in the next five to 10 years. Until career as a pop star. It seemed totally doable. edges make the climb a tricky one, but I was then, I will return again and again. But, this dream was quickly dashed when determined nonetheless. As I carefully made Bio: Jasper has been traveling the world my friend's equally bad attempt was met by my ascent, guided by my tour guide's torch, I since 2010, read more of his adventures at similar applause. realized that going back down without getting www.thetravelingdutchman.com

67 GREAT ESCAPES: SRI LANKA Lanka Love Exploring the towns and beaches of the exotic island nation of Sri Lanka Text by Stephanie Raley . c om ES B Y as i ans tr ee t f oo d .wor dp r ess I M AG

68 The teardrop-shaped island of Sri The Portuguese, Dutch and British influence argue that the sun rising from the end of Lanka has a long, colorful history that is is seen around every corner thanks to the the endless sea is the same everywhere, but often overlooked in favor of its more popular narrow streets, quaint windowsills and the one I witnessed here was inexplicably neighbor, India. Think of Sri Lanka as 'India imposing Dutch churches. This is a city that's different. There were also a few early risers light,' the beauty and without absolutely charming, and I dare you not to fall strolling barefoot on the beach, waves the dire poverty, noise and uncleanliness. in love with it. The imposing Galle Fort, built washing water and sand against their feet. While the country is typically seen as a beach first in 1588 by the Portuguese, then extensively It might sound incredible, but a giant destination, it boasts a dizzying array of colonial fortified by the Dutch, watches over this unique turtle, about four feet wide, came out architecture that tells the story of its rich city. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and, to onto the beach. A local pointed out that it integrated past. Since the 16th century, this this day, it is still the largest remaining fortress weighs over 100kgs and is over 200-years- small island has been occupied by the Dutch, in Asia. Brisk onshore winds cut the heat and old. Uncomfortable with the attention and Portuguese and British, and in cities like Galle make wandering and exploring the narrow shutters, the tortoise soon went underwater. these different influences are like patches on a lanes of the 90-acre walled city a pleasure. After a rising sun and a sinking tortoise, the quilt, woven together to tell a single story. Officers prowl the fort night and day, not to third attraction of the morning was snorkeling. Welcome to Galle, a seaside town that offers guard the fort but to deter local teenage couples Just below 100 meters of the ocean I saw giant a lot more than just a beach; it’s an intoxicating from kissing in one of the many secret spaces. colonies of corals, with patches of royal blue juxtaposition of East and West. Apart from the and bright green shimmering with sunlight on capital Columbo, Galle is the second busiest city Good Vibrations their surface. The 90-minute snorkeling session in Sri Lanka. My first impressions of the city But if you prefer to spend your days lazing on was as fatiguing to the body as it was pleasing were that it was dirty, chaotic and cultureless. the beach and your nights relaxing at a beach to the mind. However, a closer look later revealed I was bar, the small town of Hikkaduwa (roughly Surf-wise, Hikkaduwa ranges from wrong. This place was a great surprise on my 17km northwest of Galle) is the perfect absolute beginner on the open sands, to fairly journey; this unblemished coast southeast of destination for that. Once famed as a hippy advanced on the reef break. The waves in suburban Mount Lavinia was picturesque. The hangout, this coastal town is no longer off- November and early December are virtually boom of cheap hotel buildings, tourist lodgings, the-beaten-track and now draws in families empty and steadily grow in size from January even the gaudy luxury complexes I'd been told as well as crowds of backpackers and surfers onwards until the end of the season in April. to expect were all there, but were offset by mile looking to enjoy its laid-back vibe and golden What’s more, the turtles arrive in December upon mile of unspoiled sugar-white beaches swoop of beach. and the sight of an alien head popping out of fringed with cinderblock houses, their walls Hikkaduwa is located on the Galle Road, the water from time to time is thrilling. sprouting wiry growths of bougainvillea. The the very busy thoroughfare connecting the The streets next to the beach are lined with white stupas that marked the coast road at cities of Colombo and Galle. While the dense stalls and stalls of street food. Don't be surprised regular intervals resembled blanched onions. traffic on Galle Road calls for tourists to if your Bombay mix is served in a paper packet Stalls line the streets selling freshly caught be cautious when traveling in and around made from someone’s homework - so charming fish, women in saris glide amongst the crowds Hikkaduwa, it also makes it relatively easy to and so Sri Lankan. The traffic is chaotic and ushering scores of school children dressed in get to and from the town. Regular buses travel cows nonchalantly cross the road causing a crisp white uniforms and ankle socks. between Hikkaduwa and Colombo, Galle and cacophony of beeps from impatient drivers. Locals would cry out, “Oh, Miss beautiful!' as Ambalangoda. Trains, which according to The highlight of my trips to Hikkaduwa I walked along the busy road. The children are Lonely Planet tend to be crowded and slow, was the beautiful sunsets. I spent many just as confident, eagerly stopping me to ask connect Hikkaduwa with towns up and down evenings relaxing at one of the beach bars my name, country and age with big grins across the coast, as well as Colombo, Galle, Matara with a beer watching the surfers catch their faces. and Kandy. Taxis - generally minibuses for the waves as the sun set over the ocean. Galle is a place that's deliciously exotic and up to eight people - are readily available, Fishermen would bring their boats in and typically Sri Lankan. In the green fields of the especially in front of larger hotels. leave beautiful silhouettes against the setting city, local boys gather to play cricket next to Hikkaduwa was the first place I visited in sun. The images of modern day surfers the beach with the sound of waves crashing Sri Lanka and it will always hold a special intertwined with traditional fishermen against the rocks as background music. The city place in my heart. The beach here is one of represented exactly what Sri Lanka is known feels more European than South Asian, mainly the most beautiful tropical beaches I have for – wonderful cultural diversity. Welcome because its center - a jumble of quaint gem ever seen in my life; it's like a postcard. The to Sri Lanka. shops, cafes and guesthouses - sits within the sunrise at Hikkaduwa was enough a reason weather-beaten walls of a Portuguese-built fort. to pull me out of bed at 4:30am. It’s easy to With additional reporting by Christine Van

69 LIFE'S A TRIP TRAVEL Column

Themed

Vacations Having visited nearly 60 countries as a travel writer and award-winning photographer, James Pham blogs Giving your holiday a purpose about his adventures at FlyIcarusFly.com

It used to be that everyone would Caribbean's Barbie Premium Experience, agents can be really useful, not only to dream of that once-in-a-lifetime vacation complete with pink room décor, a “Tiara and custom-assemble elements of your trip, but - a European cruise, a Hawaiian holiday, Teacups” party and a Mermaid Dance class for can sometimes even use inside contacts to a week in Paris. But now that flights girls age 4 to 11. Or the Fred. Olsen Espionage secure once-in-a-lifetime opportunities like have gotten cheaper and people are cruise, hosted by a Cold War specialist. Or if visiting sites which are normally off-limits traveling more, those bucket list holidays 80s boy bands are more your thing, there's (think Nefertari’s Tomb for the budding are prone to losing a bit of their magical always the annual “New Kids on the Block Egyptologist). Table tennis fans might luster. Luxury properties with similar Cruise,” which apparently sold out in about an like to play for an hour against a Chinese amenities start merging together in a hour this year. (Not to worry, there's always Olympic champion and traveling socialites hazy combination of glitzy lobbies, ornate 2014 where organizers promise: "TWO FULL can rub elbows with the glitterati at an dinners and marble bathrooms. days trapped at sea with NKOTB on the ship Indian prince's birthday bash - all truly Enter the themed vacation - a holiday - DAY & NIGHT THEMED DECK PARTIES. unforgettable experiences. built around a hobby, destination or event, MORE FACE TIME.") For me, though, part of the joy of travel the perennial classic being the beach is in the planning which I can get pretty vacation. And while I've been guilty of Feet Firmly on the Ground obsessive over. Themed vacations usually spending an entire week at an all-inclusive For landlubbers in Asia, a themed vacation require more research than the average beach resort with nothing but a limitless could be anything from elephants in holiday, as they tend to have a lot of supply of piña coladas and an armload Thailand (visiting elephant camps from moving parts as well as off-the-beaten-path of trashy paperbacks against a backdrop Chiang Mai in the north down to Koh requirements. For an upcoming trip to of crystal clear Caribbean waters, I can't Chang in the south) to Vietnamese food Tokyo (not my first time), I decided on the really say those types of holidays have been (organizing street food tours or cooking theme of Old and New. It's made planning particularly memorable. classes in each region). all the more fun, as I'm looking into cycling Last week, I made a holiday centered A few years ago, I took a photography- to Tsukuda-Jima, an old fishermen's around one of my great passions - tennis. I centered vacation to Africa. It was the island, and perhaps staying in a ryokan (a spent the entire week at the Thailand Open perfect combination of glamping, animals traditional Japanese inn) as well as checking tennis tournament which was the anchor and photography workshops - three of my out the crazy kids of Harajuku and the for my working vacation, but made sure to favorite activities. And I walked away from geeks of Akihabara. And there may or may hit some great shopping venues (Bangkok's the two month trip with a new skill as a not be a robot restaurant involved. Platinum Mall is still my favorite place for bonus. For your next holiday, why not choose quirky, inexpensive clothes), awesome Thai Because themed holidays are on the rise, a theme and plan around it? It may just food (I'm still partial to street food and keep you can always find travel specialists who be one of the most memorable vacations wondering why Vietnam hasn't adopted the will help plan your perfect holiday. These you've ever had! universally loved grilled meat skewers with sticky rice combo) and a couple of movies in Bangkok's plush theaters. After all, man does not live on tennis alone. The travel industry has really adopted the themed vacation. While Star Trek- and The Sound of Music-inspired itineraries are still popular, updates for the 2000s have included Downton Abbey holidays, complete with visits to Highclere Castle, home of the Crawleys, and the village in Oxfordshire used in the making of the TV series. Themed cruises are also popular, both for on- and off-shore activities, like hitting golf courses at every port to hobnobbing with your favorite celebrities. A themed cruise earlier this year that sounded fun was the Top Chef Cruise - five days with your favorite judges and contestants, amidst quick-fire challenges, cooking demonstrations and private classes. You'd be surprised how niche these themed cruises can be. Take Royal

70 POSTCARDS FROM VIETNAM ART Column

A professional artist and author of A Week in Hoi An, Bridget March specializes in urban landscapes and aims to reveal the Big Sky Vietnam hidden treasures of city life and small town cultures through She walks around all day with her illustrations. Bridget holds drawing classes for beginners and improvers in Saigon. For more of Bridget's work including her head in the clouds her new book, see BrushWithAsia.blogspot.com o n B Y Bri d g e t Ma r c h illu s t r ati

Walking along the thronging streets But walk towards the river and rush of warm wind that heralds heavy of Saigon we are always assaulted by the emerging from the maze of high rise and rain. Moody, malevolent and magical. myriad of sights, sounds and smells of crowded streets the vista begins to open From my top floor studio I can see every street life. The social gatherings spilling and the enormity of Vietnam's amazing aspect of the daily displays from delicately out of cafes, wonderstruck tourists skies is revealed. Take some time to stand misted yellow sunrise through mornings grouped to check maps or take photos, on one of the bridges over the rivers that of sunshine and showers to the end of the food vendors, shoppers, office workers, meander through Saigon and if you are day when strident flares of sunset gather traffic police, shoe repairers and lottery elevated high enough you can see the then shrink back behind purple and orange ticket touts. skies extending into the blue of 50 miles clouds, their last glow soon snuffed out As you walk you must watch every or more. like a candle's flame as it vanishes beyond step on the uneven pavements as you As an artist, I am captivated by skies. I my horizon. mingle with the ebb and flow of the city's love to stand and watch the ever-changing When teaching watercolor painting, young population. As you cross a junction, vista above me. One of my favorite vantage the very first lesson is about skies because the continuous soap opera of chaotic points is Thu Thiem Bridge. From there, this is where a landscape painting usually traffic with its near misses and daring on sunny days, it is blue as far as you can begins. I show students how to create maneuvers, the cries of street sellers, the see. Everywhere twinkles in the sunlight clouds using yellows, browns, violets and backing track of construction trucks and and the river sparkles with diamond lights. red and by pulling paint off the paper the traffic noise all keep you on high alert The wide blue sky is dotted with puffy with tissue, sponges and dry brushes. and fully grounded. Your eyes are always white clouds. People bring their kites to fly Suddenly they can see an exciting sky drawn down. If we dare to look upwards above the open flat acres of the Thu Thiem appear on their paper, which gives their it is to find a street sign, an address above peninsula. As I watch them from the landscapes drama and movement. But, the the door, to wonder at the mass of black bridge my spirits soar just like the kites. most lasting change that results is that cables draped in swags from post to Even on stormy days I love to watch the they begin to pay attention to, and even post down every street or occasionally rain clouds moving across the cityscape. start to watch, what is happening in the to admire the architecture or the huge You can see them coming for miles and big, beautiful Vietnam skies they may rainforest trees that line the avenues. miles always preceded by that powerful previously have never noticed.

71 The List

Atexpats is Ho Chi Minh City's first truly comprehensive Travel & Leisure insider's guide for foreign residents - website launching 2013 Airlines although slightly out-of-the-way. located close to Phu My Hung, FV airlines 37 Ton Duc Thang, D1 Quality, elegant furnishings and modern Hospital and Tam Duc Hospital, guests 3829 2529 amenities. can choose from 20 rooms. Air China www.malaysiaairlines.com 151 Calmette, D 1 R3-84 Hung Phuoc 3, D7 7th Floor, Sun Wah Tower, 115 Nguyen 39144951 5410 5941 Hue, D1 Qantas Airways 3823 3888 186 - 188 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Cat Huy Hotel Catina Saigon www.airchina.com 3910 5373 Cat Huy is the best-kept secret of Hotel Catina Saigon provides 3 star Air France Qatar the backpacker district, located in a accommodation in large, boutique 130 Dong Khoi, D1 Suite 8, GF, Petro Vietnam Tower peaceful and very local-looking alley rooms that include free, high-speed 3829 0981 1-5 Le Duan St., room 4, Floor 8, AB tower, close to the downtown area of Ho Chi internet access and city views. Minh City, but culturally part of deep [email protected] Dist.1, HCMC 109 Dong Khoi, D 1 suburban Saigon. www.airfrance.com.vn 84 8 38273888 38296296 353/28, Pham Ngu Lao, D 1 [email protected] 39208717 Asiana Airlines Working hours: Mon-Fri: 8-17, Sat: 8:30am Ibis Hotel Saigon South 39 Le Duan, D1 - 12:30pm The 3-star Ibis Hotel Saigon South is 3822 2622 Hanoi phone No: 04 39336767 Ken Hotel located in front of Saigon Exhibition and www.ea.flyasiana.com Convention Centre and only 15 minutes A surprisingly well-designed hotel, this from the city centre. It features 140 Singapore Airlines budget establishment looks anything 29 Le Duan, D1 rooms with free Wifi internet access, a Air Asia but from within, although the location in No official office in Vietnam 3823 1588 restaurant/bar and 3 meeting rooms. a side alley off CMT8 is quite deceiving. www.airasia.com www.singaporeair.com There is a free Ibis shuttle available to 285/7 Cach Mang Thang Tam, D 10 Address of sales office: Noibai Airport, and from the hotel to major corporate 0906699371 Terminal 1, International Departure Hall, Thai offices and the city centre. 3rd Floor, Ha Noi 29 Le Duan Blvd, D 1 73 Hoang Van Thai, D7 Website of agent: www.airasia.biz.vn Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Little Saigon Boutique Hotel www.ibis.com Phone: 04.37478953 Phone: (84-8) 3822 3365 A small, value-for-money boutique 95G - Ly Nam De - Phuong Cua Dong - E-mail: reservationsgn@thaiairways. hotel with 18 air-conditioned, non- Tan Hai Long Hotel & Spa- Nguyen An Quan Hoan Kiem - Ha Noi com.vn smoking rooms, Little Saigon Boutique Ninh Tel: (04).37478953 Monday – : 08:00 – 16:30 Hotel is an easy walk to Ben Thanh (excluding holidays) The Tan Hai Long Hotel and Spa offers Market and other D1 sights. Hidden Saturday – Sunday: Closed award winning 3 star service and Cathay Pacific Airlines away in a quiet back alley right in the R502, 5th floor, 72-74 Nguyen Thi Minh stunning views of Ben Thanh Market central area. Khai, Ward 6, D3 and downtown Saigon. 3 star Hotel and Turkish 36 Bis/2 Le Loi, D 1 3822 3203 Sales office in Vietnam spa located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh 35218462 sgn#[email protected] 76 Le Lai St., room 4, Floor 8, AB tower, city with 160 rooms and suites, also www.cathaypacific.com Dist. 1, HCMC THREE STAR providing professional spa services by 84 8 39360360 skillful and experienced staff China Southern [email protected] A&EM Hotel - 8A Thai Van Lung 15-17-19 Nguyen An Ninh, D 1 21-23 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 Working hours: Weekdays: 8am-12pm/ 38272738 3829 6800 13-17; Sat: 8-12, Sun: closed Local accommodation chain that aims FOUR STAR [email protected] at the classy mid-level market; still www.csair.com United Airlines budget, but with a touch of dignity Unit 708, 7th Floor, Sun Wah Tower, 115 about it. Hotel Continental Saigon Emirates Nguyen Hue, D1 8A/1D2 Thai Van Lung, D 1 One of Saigon’s oldest hotels, most 15 Nguyen Hue, 14th Floor, Dist.1, HCMC 3823 4755 38224495 Email: [email protected] www.united.com graceful colonial properties, and historic Phone: 08 39113099 Bizu Boutique Hotel Phu My Hung places to stay, it is perhaps most www.emirates.com/vn Vietnam Airlines The hotel’s 24 guestrooms are all famous as the location where much of 16F Sunwah Tower , 115 Nguyen Hue, D1 designed with guests’ comfort in mind, Graham Greene’s The Quiet American Etihad 3832 0320 featuring wireless Internet access along was written in room 214. etihadairways.com www.vietnamairlines.com.vn with all the basic facilities. Other features 132-134 Dong Khoi, D 1 at the hotel include a restaurant, billiards, 38299201 EVA Airlines Vietjet karaoke, 24hr room service 24hr, an www.continentalsaigon.com 2A-4A Ton Duc Thang, D1 CT Plaza Building 8th Floor, 60 Truong Son elevator, laundry service/dry cleaning and 3822 4488 St., Tan Binh Dist., HCMC meeting facilities. Kimdo Royal City Hotel www.evaair.com 84 8 35471866 / Hotline: 1900 1886 15-17 Cao Trieu Phat, D7 www.vietjetair.com 5411 1008 Nestled in amongst the commercial JAL Japan Airlines [email protected] buildings at the top of District One’s 4F Hotel Nikko Saigon, 235 Nguyen Van Blue Diamond Hotel central business strip, the posh-looking Cu, Nguyen Cu Trinh, D 1 Kimdo is right in the heart of the 3830 6231 hotels A cut above the multiple nearby 2-star administrative, business, shopping, and HO CHI MINH CITY properties, this hotel has been officially entertainment district. Jetstar recognized for its quality décor and 133 Nguyen Hue, D 1 112 Hong Ha, Ward 2, Tan Binh Dist., HCMC TWO STAR service, including high accolades in 38225914 Tel. 08 38450092 international publications. www.kimdohotel.com [email protected] Bali Hotel 48-50 Thu Khoa Huan, D 1 www.jetstar.com 38236167 Liberty Central Hotel Ideally-located for attendees to Korean Air any exhibitions held at the Saigon Bong Sen Hotel Liberty Central has a very prominent Unit 909, Floor 9, Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Exhibition and Convention Centre, Bali brand and is a particularly stylish, eye- t s Duan, D1 Boutique is flash and modern in style - Located in the heart of D 1, The catching property right in the centre of 3824 2878 with a little touch of the plush thrown in Bong Sen Hotel offers luxurious the tourist district. www.korean-air.vn for good measure. accommodation for guests who wish to 179 Le Thanh Ton, D 1 39 - 41 Hung Phuoc Villas, D 7 relax or get a little work done. 38239269 Lufthansa 54104747 117-123 Dong Khoi, D 1 www.libertycentralhotel.com 14th Floor, Bitexco Building, 19-25 Nguyen 38291516 Hue, D1 Calmette Hotel www.bongsenhotel.com Norfolk Hotel 3829 8529 [email protected] Charming hotel on one of the most Boutique Garden Hotel Chic, warm exterior with boutique

www.lufthansa.com attractively-named streets in the city, Newly opened in 2012 and conveniently charms within, this property is an ideal expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013

72 escape for business travellers from the oriental flair, the hotel is dedicated to for being one of the best hotels in the gently sloping hillside property. plasticity of chain hotels. representing the charms of Asia and Asia. Impeccable dining options, great Le Lai, Phuong 5, Dalat 117 Le Thanh Ton, D 1 evokes the mystique of this beautiful location, and 5 star amenities make this 06 3355 5888 38293415 continent and its cultures. Right next to recently refurbished hotel a preferred www.norfolkhotel.com.vn Saigon’s key landmarks, this hotel is destination for travellers with generous BLUE MOON HOTEL & SPA ideally placed for high-class travellers budgets. Novotel Saigon Centre and groups seeking a high standard of 141, Nguyen Hue, Ben Nghe, D 1 Located in the heart of breathtaking Dalat, accommodation. Full MICE areas and 38292185 the Blue Moon Resort & Spa is designed One of HCMC’s newest hotels, Novotel facilities are on-site. www.rexhotelvietnam.com to complement the natural beauty of the is located on busy Hai Ba Trung St, just Corner Hai Ba Trung & Le Duan, D1 "City of Eternal Spring.” Built opposite within walking distance of downtown 3520 9999 Saigon Domaine Luxury Residences the popular and tranquil Xuan Huong attractions. It’s everything you’d expect [email protected] Oi’s Pick Lake, Blue Moon is centrally located and from the international brand with www.intercontinental.com/saigon High-class getaway hotel located convenient to Dalat's eating, shopping 24-seven guest services and a broad out of the city centre on exotic Thanh and entertainment spots.Much more dining offer. Lotte Legend Hotel Saigon Da Island, allowing guests to escape than just a comfortable night’s sleep, 167 Hai Ba Trung, D 1 from the chaos of the city life while Blue Moon Resort & Spa invites you to 38224866 Classic hotel offering 5 star amenities remaining close to the action. experience true hospitality. www.novotel.com along with a scenic view of the Saigon More hotel than apartment complex, 4 Phan Boi Chau, Dalat 67, Vietnam River, and providing a unique culinary The Domaine’s private residences are www.bluemoonhotel.com.vn/bluemoon2 Oscar Saigon Hotel experience with many options for fine classic and luxurious, making the most dining. of the natural surroundings. DALAT GREEN CITY HOTEL French colonial hotel in District 1 2A-4A Ton Duc Thang, D 1 1057 Binh Quoi, Binh Thanh Budget hotel in the center of Dalat. Five offering stunning panoramic views and 38233333 35561145 minutes from most major attractions in 4 star amenities. www.legendsaigon.com www.saigondomaine.com Dalat. Quiet. Newly refurbished. Beautiful 68A Nguyen Hue, D 1 mountain and city views from the rooftop. www.oscar-saigonhotel.com Majestic Saigon Sheraton Saigon Hotel And Towers Features free WIFI, TV, snack bar in all rooms. Coffee shop downstairs. Airport Palace Hotel Saigon One of HCMC’s oldest and most Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh pickup by private car. Motorbike rental. characteristic hotels, the Majestic on City vibrant business and entertainment Tour information. Laundry. Computers in One of the tidier properties of its class the Saigon River with its grand French district, Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers lobby for public use. within the vicinity, with 144 deluxe guest architecture is just a few steps away is a 5 star haven of convenience, 172 Phan Dinh Phung, Dalat rooms of contemporary design well- from Saigon’s premiere attractions. connecting guests with colleagues and (063) 3827 999 equipped with modern facilities. 01 Dong Khoi, D 1 friends. www.dalatgreencityhotel.com 56-66 Nguyen Hue, D 1 38295517 88 Dong Khoi, D 1 www.palacesaigon.com www.majesticsaigon.com.vn 38272828 DALAT TRAIN VILLA & CAFE [email protected] Located near the Dalat Train Station, the Park Royal Saigon Hotel Moevenpick Hotel Saigon Dalat Train Villa is for short or long staying Sofitel Saigon Plaza Hotel guests. The villa is a restored 2-story Park Royal Saigon Hotel is an ideally An international hotel chain with Swiss French colonial-era villa. Next to the villa placed conference hotel which caters roots, this comfortable hotel caters to The Sofitel Saigon Plaza is located is a French train car, which has been to all MICE needs. The hotel offers a both businesspeople and families with in the city center, in the heart of the renovated into a bar/cafe/restaurant. wide array of banquet services and can fine dining options, a fitness centre, and business district and close to Notre Romantic venue. From the lake, take first accommodate 30 to 300 guests. multiple conference rooms. Dame Cathedral and Reunification left after Dalat Train Station. 309B-311 Nguyen Van Troi, Tan Binh 253 Nguyen Van Troi Apartments, Phu Palace. 275 elegant rooms and 11 suites, 1 Quang Trung St, Ward 9, Villa #3 www.parkroyalhotels.com Nhuan a swimming pool, and a fitness center. (063) 381 6365 or 090 334 2442 38449222 17 Le Duan, D 1 www.dalattrainvilla.com Thao Dien Boutique Hotel [email protected] 38241555 www.moevenpick-hotels.com [email protected] Sofitel Dalat Palace Set in a secluded, verdant garden www.sofitel.com/gb/hotel-2077-sofitel- occupying 1.2 hectares along the Saigon New World Saigon Hotel saigon-plaza/index.shtml Hotel Sofitel Dalat Palace is one of the River, Thao Dien village is a tropical Oi’s Pick most beautiful and amongst the few hideaway that’s just 20 minutes from One of the most impressive business Windsor Plaza remaining historical hotels in Southeast the city centre. hotels in Ho Chi Minh City, with Asia. Built in 1922 and meticulously 195 -197 Nguyen Van Huong, D 2 stunning views and 5 star amenities. Located in the heritage area of old restored in 1995 to its original grandeur, 37442222 533 luxury rooms and suites offering Cholon, the Windsor offers authentic the Sofitel Dalat Palace offers www.thaodienvillage.com the perfect ambience for concentrated Vietnamese and Chinese hospitality individualized service in the finest work and undisturbed relaxation. with a mix of commercial, cultural, and tradition of Vietnamese hospitality. FIVE STAR 76 Le Lai, D 1 retail experiences - and they put on a 12 Tran Phu, Dalat 38228888 fine buffet. 06 3382 5444 Caravelle Hotel [email protected] 18 An Duong Vuong, D 5 [email protected] www.saigon.newworldhotels.com www.windsorplazahotel.com Part of the city’s modern history since DANANG 1959, few properties in Saigon are quite Nikko Saigon CON DAO ISLAND as iconic. A major center for foreign Furama Resort Danang correspondents during the war, it has One of the city’s newest Six Senses Con Dao emerged as a plush and vibrant luxury accommodation jewels, this lavish hotel The Furama Resort enjoys a stunning hotel in the present era. is designed to make the maximum True to the Six Senses philosophy beachfront location on one of Caravelle Hotel is one of the city’s impression of austere Japanese-style of selecting remote (but accessible) Vietnam’s finest beaches, fringed by classiest icons and represents a true class from the lobby upwards. This is destinations in areas of outstanding natural pines and coconut palms. Two slice of Saigon’s history while remaining one of the most luxurious hotels in natural beauty, Con Dao is an four-storey wings overlook the ocean one of its most luxurious places to stay. HCMC, with classic, precise and elegant untouched and breathtakingly beautiful on one side and a freshwater swimming 19 Lam Son Square, D 1 decor. area. Con Dao has been built with the lagoon and manicured tropical gardens 38234999 235 Nguyen Van Cu, D 1 very lightest ecological footprint, with on the others. www.caravellehotel.com 39257777 villas set up along a mile of sandy Truong Sa, Ngu Hanh Son, Danang www.hotelnikkosaigon.com.vn beach, sheltered by the green forested 051 1384 7333 Equatorial Ho Chi Minh City hills behind and with stunning vistas Park Hyatt Saigon of the deep blue sea and the curve of Fusion Maia An international hotel located where the the bay. borders of the city’s four main districts Without a doubt the city’s most Dat Doc Beach, Con Dao, Con Son Incorporating the spirit of our time, meet. The city’s major commercial and luxurious hotel, Park Hyatt Saigon 06 4383 1222 Fusion Maia Danang is a unique fusion entertainment area is only an 8-minute features French colonial inspired of resort and spa where spa treatments drive away. rooms, two award-winning restaurants, DALAT are inclusive and a part of daily living in t s 242 Tran Binh Trong, D 5 an outdoor pool and a stylish this beach resort. It is the first all-pool 38397777 contemporary bar. The exterior is the Ana Mandara Villas Dalat villa- style resort in the destination www.equatorial.com/hcm result of meticulous research into the and offers 87 pool suites, spa villas, colonial architecture of the region. Ana Mandara Villas Dalat comprises and beach villas each with modern, InterContinental Asiana Saigon 2 Lam Son Square, D 1 seventeen restored French-style villas open-plan living and private courtyard Oi’s Pick 38241234 from the 1920's and 1930's, preserving with swimming pool. Customize-your- Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh www.saigon.park.hyatt.com the original design, décor and charm, is stay options and breakfast available City, the InterContinental Asiana and set in the cool climate of the rural at multiple locations are a few of the Saigon is dedicated to providing Rex Hotel Saigon highlands of Central Vietnam. Striking surprising offers in store. local, authentic, and enriching travel views of the surrounding town and Truong Sa, Ngu Hanh Son, Danang

expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013 experiences. Decorated in tasteful Rex Hotel has consistently won awards countryside abound from all areas of 051 1396 7999

73 Life Resort Danang 04 3719 9000 130 Minh Mang, Truong An, Hue allows guests to enjoy the peace and 05 4388 5461 natural beauty of Phu Quoc while also Sitting on the Bac My An beachfront The Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi enjoying the exclusive atmosphere only 3km from downtown Danang, Oi’s Pick NHA TRANG that the location suggests and the and 30km from Hoi An. A pair of four- Located at the heart of Hanoi since resort offers. The resort was born from storey hotel blocks house most of the 1901, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Evason Ana Mandara a long and passionate study in order resort's rooms, with villas flanking one has a long history as a luxurious place to be integrated and to respect the side of a long pool corridor splicing for prestigious events and popular The exclusive location affords city- uncontaminated nature of the bay and the middle of the resort. Its proximity rendezvous. Features include 364 centre access to Nha Trang’s only of the coastal zone. to three UNESCO World Heritage sites rooms and suites, excellent French beachfront resort. It is surrounded Bai Xep, Phu Quoc as well as the former colonial French cuisine at Le Beaulieu, Vietnamese by private tropical gardens, offering 07 7399 5895 hill stations at Bach Ma and Ba Na specialities at Spices Garden, and simplicity, serenity and refinement make this ideally placed for incentive Angelina - Hanoi's most ""avant together with spectacular views of Nha Saigon Phu Quoc Resort garde"" Italian Restaurant & Lounge. excursions. Trang Bay. Unforgettable incentive Seven function rooms, a swimming Truong Sa, Ngu Hanh Son, Danang experience. Located on a hill of coconut palm trees, pool, fitness centre and the Le Spa du 051 1395 8888 Beachside Tran Phu Boulevard, Nha Trang Saigon Phu Quoc is a beautiful, quiet Metropole are also available in the hotel. 05 8352 2222 seaside resort with plenty of sunshine. HALONG BAY 15 Ngo Quyen, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi Just 10 minutes from the airport, the resort 04 3826 6919 Six Senses Hideaway Ninh Van Bay is an ideal haven for relaxing, fishing, Novotel Halong Bay [email protected] trekking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The resort is one of Asia’s most 62 Tran Hung Dao, Phu Quoc HOI AN A glimpse into contemporary Vietnam exclusive and intimate beach escapes, 07 7384 6999 with echoes of the country’s intricate sitting on dramatic Ninh Van Bay, [email protected] past through its elegant interior décor. Life Heritage Resort Hoi An with its impressive rock formations Sturdy polished stone, glass and overlooking the South China Sea, white La Veranda Rooms are designed along Japanese marble stand against the delicate sand beach and towering mountains themes, each having a personal porch Asian textures of silk, wickerwork and behind. The most distinguished of Phu Quoc with couches for reading and relaxing. carved wood. With sweeping windows Ninh Van, Khanh Hoa Island's hotels and guesthouses, La Spacious bathrooms feature stand- and large mirrors, the hotel captures 05 8372 8222 Veranda sports paddle fans, butter- alone showers or recessed baths, panoramic views of Halong Bay and its yellow exteriors, whitewashed louvers, and many bathrooms enjoy views spectacular seascapes at every turn. Sheraton Nha Trang and tropical gardens recalling a colonial of a private garden. Ideal for events Ha Long Road, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long plantation. Freestanding deluxe villas where participants will be enjoying the City Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa offers are notable for their sea-facing porches, colourful ancient town area. 03 3384 8108 ten categories of accommodation – spacious bathrooms, and cathedral 1 Pham Hong Thai. Hoi An Town, Quang [email protected] from spacious, deluxe rooms to 70m2 ceilings. Nam executive suites and a huge presidential Tran Hung Dao, Duong Dong Beach, Phu 051 0391 4555 TUAN CHAU RESORT suite. With exemplary conference Quoc facilities, this is the number-one MICE 07 7398 2988

Tuan Chau Resort is constructed in the The Nam Hai resort in the region. style of classical French and modern 26-28 Tran Phu, Nha Trang QUY NHON A stunning all-villa resort located on the Vietnamese architecture. This is the 05 8388 0000 pristine China Beach featuring 60 one- ideal place to find white sands, blue Life Wellness Resort Quy Nhon bedroom retreats as well as 40 privately- PHAN THIET ocean, and the rejuvenative energy of owned two-to-five bedroom residences A hide-away style spa and beach the Vietnamese tropical sun. each with a private infinity pool. Tuan Chau Island, Ha Long City destination set in 13.5 hectares of Hamlet 1 Dien Duong Village, Dien Ban, Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa 03 3384 2999 private mountainous land and beach. Quang Nam The new face of the former l’Anmien, The tranquillity, splendid views, Cham- 051 0394 0000 this resort offers an exclusive haven of inspired architecture and surroundings HANOI [email protected] luxury and relaxation in a spectacular are so far unmatched in Vietnam. This Hilton Hanoi Opera HUE beachfront location right in the heart of resort was awarded Best Wellness Mui Ne. The only property in the Mui Ne Resort in Vietnam in 2005, 2006 and district with full conferencing facilities 2007 by the Vietnam Economic Times. This landmark of Hanoi was inspired Ana Mandara Hue by the famous Opera House located and a range of exclusive villas – and it Ghenh Rang, Bai Dai Beach, Quy Nhon, has an impressive wine cellar. nearby. A hotel of great beauty and The quiet sounds and vistas of the sea Binh Dinh Mui Ne luxury, the Hilton stands in the city’s welcome guests to the first unique 05 6384 0132 06 2374 1888 fashionable and elegant French luxury beach resort with private pool [email protected] [email protected] Quarter, and is within close range of villas in the area. Located a scenic the charming Old Quarter and bustling 15km drive from central Hue, this is Bai Tram Resort and Spa

Business District. spacious resort with the largest villas Princess d’Annam 1 Le Thanh Tong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi and rooms in the area. The property Bai Tram is based on holistic ideals and 04 3933 0500 includes private pool villas, beach villas, The look of the resort is classical, bright, the search for environmental balance duplex and deluxe rooms in a wide and impeccably clean and private. The embodying the trend towards seeing Intercontinental Westlake range of styles and decor designed with two Empress Suites are the pinnacle ourselves, the natural world, and the complete and modern facilities. of luxury accommodation in Vietnam – man-made environment as one. Superbly situated on the serene waters An Hai Village, Thuan An Town, Hue Phu they are mini millionaire’s mansions in Hoa Loi, Xuan Canh, Song Cau, Phu Yen of Hanoi’s West Lake and adjacent Vang themselves, fully-equipped, bright and 05 7372 2563 to the famous 800-year-old Golden 05 4398 3333 spacious, and possessing of the same Lotus (Kim Lien) Pagoda. Conveniently ethereal design quality that pervades VUNG TAU located and yet able to offer a retreat La Residence Hotel & Spa this whole resort. Set in the remote Ke from the hustle and bustle of downtown Ga Bay, wordlessly beautiful. The Grand-Ho Tram Strip Hanoi, the combination of spacious This former French Governor’s Hon Lan, Binh Thuan The Grand - Ho Tram Strip is Vietnam's luxurious accommodations, facilities, residence dates to 1930 and is a 06 2368 2222 first largest integrated resort and and attentive Vietnamese hospitality masterpiece of art deco design. Its [email protected] ultimately will include an 1,100-room make this the perfect place to stay incredible location overlooking the five-star hotel, a world-class casino, for both the corporate and leisure Citadel and the Perfume River brings WindFlower Beach Boutique Hotel restaurants, high-tech meeting space, traveller. this 122-room hotel a total and serene Located in the resort capital of Vietnam an exclusive VIP area, as well as 1a Nghi Tam Tay Ho, Hanoi tranquillity. The hotel features a 40m – Mui Ne Bay, WindFlower Beach a variety of beach-front recreation 04 6270 8888 outdoor salt swimming pool at river Boutique Hotel offers an intimate activities. The first 541-room tower of [email protected] height giving the illusion of merging setting for guests to enjoy a getaway this development opened in July 2013 into the Perfume River. Ideal for on the beach to its fullest. The hotel is with its casino including 90 live tables Sheraton Hanoi executive retreats and exotic incentives home to 24 cozy deluxe rooms with and 614 electronic game positions. The programmes. services and sophistication that are second 559-room tower is on track to Perfectly located by the shores of the 5 Le Loi, Hue expected from a beach boutique hotel. open in 2015. t s largest lake in Hanoi and surrounded 05 4383 7475 76 Huynh Thuc Khang, Mui Ne Phuoc Thuan Commune, Xuyen Moc by a beautifully landscaped garden (Vietnamese) (06) 2374 3969 / (English) District and courtyard, the hotel provides the Pilgrimage Village 090 291 3969 Tel: (64) 3788 888 perfect balance between tranquillity and www.windflowermuine.com www.thegrandhotramstrip.com convenience. Take in panoramic views Pilgrimage Village offers the harmony of Hanoi’s largest lake and enjoy great of a soothing natural environment PHU QUOC ISLAND comforts in the 299 spacious guest and fascinating local culture. Delicious serviced apartments rooms and suites, specially designed meals, sound sleep, and the peaceful Chen Sea Resort & Spa for relaxation. life of the quiet countryside refresh the Avila Serviced Apartment

K5 Nghi Tam, 11 Xuan Dieu, Tay Ho, Hanoi spirit. Located in a quiet bay, this resort These serviced apartments combine expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013

74 an excellent location with luxurious the finest and most contemporary area, offering its tenants commanding The Crescent amenities. residential space in Ho Chi Minh City views of other parts of the city. The Crescent is located along the 20-20bis Thi Sach, D 1 with a premier location in the heart of 149 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D 3 Crescent Lake in the heart of Phu My 35218365 the major business and cultural area 39306466 Hung New City Centre, offering an in District 1. It’s a 31-floor tower with exclusive high-class lifestyle for locals Bella Serviced Apartments 260 rooms; the Residences offers Saigon Pearl Apartment and expats. This area consists of a Affordable, classy apartment living in superb panoramic views of downtown Ho Chi Minh City’s largest five star variety of green parks, restaurants, a tidy alleyway residence styled with area and is part of the Kumho Asiana apartment complex, Saigon Pearl luxury apartments, retail shops and white classical flourishes, Bella offers Plaza - the city’s finest integrated comprises six 37-story residential entertainment venues. good living and proximity to the city complex featuring commercial, hotel, towers located on the banks of the 101 Ton Dat Tien, D7 without succumbing to the lures of the residential and a diverse choice of Saigon River in Binh Than District, expat bubble. Facilities include a small wining and dining outlets. Residents about five minutes by taxi from Villa Song Saigon but well-equipped gym on the top floor will experience an exclusive work- downtown. Pool, gym, supermarket and Colonial-style, boutique apartments and pleasant terraces on front-facing live-play lifestyle concept as well as dining facilities all on site. characterised by solid hardwood apartments. enjoy the exceptional services of a 92 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh Thanh flooring and an outdoor swimming pool 56/4 Nguyen Thong, D3 prestigious international luxury brand. 38219999 ensconced by verdant gardens. 3526 0020 They will also benefit from the preferred 197/2, Nguyen Van Huong, Thao Dien, D2 amenities at the InterContinental Saigon Skygarden 0906099180 Asiana Saigon next door. A 15-storey building located in the Cantavil Daewon Apartment www.villasong.com High-luxury complex with libraries, Corner of Le Van Huu & Nguyen Du Saigonese Little Tokyo on Le Thanh research center, and cultural 3520 8888 Ton, offering 172 international-standard information center on site. Also Serviced Apartments for lease. V-Star Apartment Good proximity to the Saigon River features an outdoor swimming pool. 20 Le Thanh Ton, D 1 Jasmine Court Serviced Apartment and FV International Hospital, as well One of the most luxurious towers in the A boutique property with only 12 38220002 as international schools and the Tan central area. apartments, comprised of one and Thuan export zone. 600A Dien Bien Phu, Binh Thanh two-bedroom suites of various sizes. Saigon View Residences Go O Moi, Phu Thuan, D 7 All apartments are designed in a fresh Saigon View Residences offer a range 37733151 Central Garden Apartment contemporary style and finished in a of Deluxe, Superior, and Executive These luxurious apartments offer pleasing neutral colour scheme. room types in distinctive one and two stunning views of downtown 307/29 Nguyen Van Troi, Tan Binh bedroom apartments. travel agencies Saigon along with western style 38446639 117, Nguyen Cuu Van, Binh Thanh accommodations and excellent 38404966 location. Clean, inner-city luxury Lancaster Serviced Apartments compound close to the Ben Nghe River. Lancaster Serviced Apartments Le Sedona Suites 225 Ben Chuong Duong, D 1 Thanh Ton enjoys a commanding With a fantastic location in District 091 654 2598 / 093 347 6556 position over the nightlife, culture, and 1 and rooms offering all of the business hub of Ho Chi Minh City, comforts of home, this award winning City View offering a sweeping panoramic view serviced apartment complex caters to Located in the prime business and of the city skyline from virtually every businessmen and families alike. residential district, only minutes away window. 65 Le Loi, D 1 by car from downtown area, City View 22 Bis Le Thanh Ton, D 1 38229666 is the perfect place for home and/or 38246666 business in Ho Chi Minh City. Sherwood Residence 12 Mac Dinh Chi, D 1 The Landmark Serviced apartments available for 38221111 The Landmark is a prestigious short or long term bookings, located Exotissimo development of residential in Pasteur, within walking distance Travel Diamond Island Luxury Residences accommodation and office space of downtown Ho Chi Minh City, Exotissimo Travel offers tours to Diamond Island Luxury Residences offers situated in the heart of HCMC. The international schools, shopping centres, Vietnam, the region and the whole 68 fully-furnished apartments, ranging 16-storey complex, located on a prime etc. Pool, sauna, gym, mini-cinema wide world ! Local and regional tours from two- to four-bedroom units with waterfront site, was one of the first of onsite. for family and visitors are quick and private balconies providing panoramic its kind in the city. 127 Pasteur, D 3 easy to arrange, from standard to views of the stunning surroundings. Each 5B Ton Duc Thang, D 1 38232288 higher-end versions. Less common apartment comes with a fully-equipped 38222098 requests are tailor-built for you by friendly online operators and/or the kitchen, en-suite bathrooms, separate Sky Garden pleasant District 2 location office. work and living areas. Each lavish Mai Ha Lan II Serviced Apartments Sky Garden is a huge complex of A District 1 presence will re-open soon. space features plush interiors, modern Mai Ha Lan II offers a sweeping apartments including 42 buildings with 41 Thao Dien, D2 amenities, elegant furnishings and panoramic view of the city skyline more than 3,000 individual apartments 3519 4111 carefully chosen trimmings and fixtures, from virtually every window. It offers set on 10.4 hectares. www.exotissimo.com creating a luxurious harmony of comfort 33 luxurious and graciously furnished Sky Garden, Nguyen Van Linh, D7 [email protected] andtranquility that will have you relaxed apartments with studio and two 5410 1616 and recharged, and functioning at peak bedroom options. performance. 8A/1C Thai Van Lung, D 1 Somerset Ho Chi Minh City Asiana Travel Mate No 01 – Street No.104-BTT, Quarter 3, Binh 62990992 0909868052 Designed with families in mind, it Offering tours to magnificent scenic Trung Tay Ward, D2 provides relocating executives the areas in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, 096 829 3388 / 3742 5678 Norfolk Mansion space and security to build a warm , and India - the firm has www.the-ascott.com A comfortable serviced luxury and comfortable home. Friendly staff strong purchasing power in these apartment in the city center, the Norfolk are always on hand to help with local regions, allowing it to offer heavily Garden Court features an outdoor pool, gym & sauna, knowledge. You can join in a wide discounted rates. Completed in 2009, Garden Court is a and high-class Cantonese restaurant. range of social, cultural and lifestyle 92-96 Nguyen Hue, D1 luxury apartment building located close 17-19-21, Ly Tu Trong, D 1 activities, especially designed to help 3825 1358 to schools, supermarkets and shopping 38226111 you integrate into the local culture. centers and a golf course. 8A Nguyen Binh Khiem, D1 Aquarius Booking Office Garden Court,Ton Dat Tien, D7 Riverside Apts 3822 8899 With access to a global network of Overlooking the Saigon River, the www.somerset.com/vietnam leading travel specialists, Aquarius Glenwood Serviced Apartment compound offers short and long term is a domestic & international air A very modern property, located in leases. Somerset Chancellor Court ticketing agency committed to offering the heart of the expatriate's residential 53 Vo Truong Toan, D2 Each of these 172 spacious serviced low-cost flights, travel insurance, and area, steps away from Int'l schools and www.riverside-apartments.com apartments in District 1 is fully- accommodation. supermarket. furnished with an open kitchen 4th Floor, Yoco Building, 41 Nguyen Thi 248A Nguyen Van Huong, D2 River Garden Apartment concept, contemporary western style Minh Khai, D1 0944 168 568 It is located within a 15-minute drive of décor, and a large balcony. 3823 1905 downtown and provides its occupants 21-23 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D 1 t s Hung Vuong Plaza Apartment with stunning views of the Saigon River 38229197 Amazing Thailand Tourism Office Huong Vuong Plaza apartments above in a resort type of environment. Funded by the Thai tourism board, this the D5 Parkson are comprised of two 170 Nguyen Van Huong, Thao Dien, D2 Somerset Vista Ho Chi Minh City office is loaded up with travel resources 29 floor buildings with many luxurious It has an extensive array of modern and advice for travellers to Thailand, an apartments in bustling Cho Lon. facilities and provides convenient invaluable source of help for travelers 126 Hong Bang, D 5 Saigon Court access to a hypermarket, international on their way to the land of smiles. Since its opening in 1998, Saigon Court schools, a medical clinic, retail outlets Travel resources and advice for InterContinental Asiana Saigon has become well-known amongst the and offices. travelers to Thailand. Residences expatriate community for exceptional 628C Hanoi Highway, D2 5th Floor, Empire Tower, 26-28 Ham InterContinental Asiana Saigon standards of service. This 12 storey 6255 9900 Nghi, D1 6291 3887 expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013 Residences offer discerning residents building is among the highest in the www.somerset.com/vietnam

75 Ben Thanh Tourist Asian region, and they strive to musical and cultural shows - Saigon Cooking Class One of the better-known tour agencies provide quality, time-efficient service predominantly of the classical, high- in the city, Ben Thanh Tourist is 20 for travelers from around the world. brow, and top-dollar variety. Classes can include a market tour to years old and specializes in domestic 18-19-20 Ton Duc Thang, D1 7 Lam Son Square, D1 buy the day's ingredients followed by and foreign travel, MICE, tourist 3823 7152 3825 1563 a hands-on cooking class, organized transportation, and air ticketing. twice a day from Tuesday till Sunday 51 Dong Khoi, D1 The Soul of Vietnam (US$39.50 to 45.50). Team building The Soul of Vietnam showcases 3914 3921 cinemas & theatres programs also available. traditional Vietnamese music shows 090 611 1121 74 Hai Ba Trung, D1 with voice and traditional instruments. The Ballet and Symphony Orchestra 3825 8485 Ho Chi Minh City’s local classical Be sure to check out the three-part Buffalo Tours Legend of the Trung Sisters’ with A premium travel agency that helps music venue with regular programs & accompaniment of stone musical Saigon Swing Cats travelers customize their itinerary and performances. Saigon Swing Cats organizes dance instruments, gongs and two lifelike destination packages. From corporate 212 Nguyen Trai, D1 classes, workshops and events elephants. to small tour packages available. at various venues around HCMC 7 Lam Son Square, D1 81 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Ben Thanh Theatre including restaurants, lounges and Once the cultural center of District 1 2229 9414 3827 9170 dance studios. Dance styles include when it was built in 1995, this is a good www.buffalotours.com.vn the Lindy, Shim Sham and Tranky Doo. air-conditioned theater for Vietnamese social clubs & classes Petrohouse Tower- caffe molinari, shows & cultural activities that can 5 Le Duan, D1 Clé Voyages - Xuan Viet Travel accommodate over 1000 people. Brogolf Bar Wars Xuan Viet Travel has been providing Group of barflies who meet regularly travel services and advice for nearly 6 Mac Dinh Chi, D1 Oi’s 3823 1652 for golf, open to new members. First Vietnam Cookery Centre two decades. Saturday of each month, breakfast, Pick Unit 1105, Harbour View Tower, brunch, and 18 holes with a caddy. A complete cookery center offering 35 Nguyen Hue, D1 CT Plaza Megastar hands-on classes. This culinary This theater complex offers close 46-48 Ton That Thiep, D1 3821 4942 compound introduces visitors to proximity to shops for shoppers and 090 927 3997 Vietnamese cuisine. many other attractions. Large cinema 26 Ly Tu Trong, 4th floor, Ste 45, D1 Fiditour complex on the 7th floor with 3D DanCenter Fiditour offers a wide range of tours to 3827 0349 theatres and VIP room. A professionally run dance studio the southeast Asian region, including 3823 8085 Level 10, 60A Truong Son, Tan Binh with an international teaching team unique cultural trips, adventure trips, 6297 1981 offering over 70 classes per week beach holidays, cruises, and culinary and workshops for kids and adults of VLS Vietnamese Language School trips. all ages and abilities. Kids can start Imparting genuine fluency in 129 Nguyen Hue, D1 Galaxy Vietnamese since 1994, VLS is one Vietnamese cinema showing from age 4 with Dance Intro. Regular 3914 1414 of the city’s best-organised and most international and domestic films. classes offered for kids and teens in Sing & Dance, Jazz, Ballet, Tap, Hip professional training centers devoted 116 Nguyen Du, D1 Ha Nguyen Hop, Break & Acro Dance. Adults to the Vietnamese language, with Specializes in providing tickets for Eva of any age, size and ability are also classes for all levels. Airlines, Qatar Airways, China Airlines, Golden Dragon Water Puppet welcomed. Come and try Ballet, Jazz, 4th floor, CMARD2 Building, Cathay Pacific, American Airlines, Theater Hip Hop, Tap, Contemporary, Belly and Vietnamese water puppet show 45 Dinh Tien Hoang, D1 Singapore Air, Malaysia Airlines, many more. with live Vietnamese traditional 3910 0168 Korean Airlines, Qantas Airways , 53 Nguyen Dang Giai, D2 music, this is an original performing Lufthansa, United Airlines and many 3519 4490 / 3519 4340 art preserved and handed down for other international airlines. www.dancentervn.com nearly a thousand years. Daytime swimming pools 64B3 Xuan Thuy, D2 performances by special arrangement. 6674 9041 55B Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 Dat Nam Friendly Club Great World Pool While it may ring of a bingo 3840 4027 Popular public pool known for its high association, this is a fairly well- Hoi An Express 098 937 9873 (Mr. Lam) standard of cleanliness, this indoor Preferred by many five-star hotels respected venue for entertainment and pool is shallow at both ends and deep in Ho Chi Minh city such as Windsor cultural exchange amongst foreigners in the middle to ensure safety for non- Ho Chi Minh Conservatory Of Music and entrepreneurs - a very casual Plaza Hotel, Duxton Hotel, Legend One of three conservatories in swimmers. networking opportunity. Hotel Saigon, and Equatorial Hotel, Vietnam, offering world class musical 600 Nguyen Pham Tuan, D6 Basement Level, 116 Nguyen Du, D1 this privately owned travel agency education and performances. 3853 7867 5404 3618 offers a wide range of services. Concerts at the local Ho Chi Minh City 94 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Music School. Ky Dong Swimming Pool 3939 0135 Hash House Harriers Great D3 outdoor family pool, ideal for 112 Nguyen Du, D1 Combining beer and running, this 090 803 9699 3822 5841 the kids. long-established club goes to various 40 Ky Dong, D3 out of the city running areas to burn Inside Asia Travel 2241 5322 Hung Vuong Megastar some calories. Departs from the Inside Asia Travel is a boutique This theater complex offers close luxury travel provider of tailor made Caravelle Hotel every Sunday ay 2pm. proximity to shops for shoppers and www.saigonh3.com Lam Son Swimming Club travel arrangements for English many other attractions. Large cinema Olympic-sized swimming pool with speaking expats and travelers complex in the CT Plaza building with designated lanes (one exclusively through Southeast Asia. Guests enjoy International Ladies of Vietnam for women) and a reputation for 3D theatres and VIP room. A women’s group that meets Thursday highly personalized, bespoke travel cleanliness. 126 Hong Bang, D5 mornings for coffee from 10am- noon arrangements suited to individual 242 Tran Binh Trong, D5 3222 0388 at Sherwood Residences- 1st floor tastes and budget. 3835 8028 (127 Pasteur, D3) Cost for coffee and www.insideasiatravel.com IDECAF Drama Theatre snacks is VND130,000. Membership [email protected] IDECAF is a theater holding French is VND700,000 per year. Lan Anh Swimming Club Pool 3844 1005 (Ext: 221) cultural exchanges as well as offering Open to all ladies There are various areas with different courses in French. depths from 1.4m to 2m, suitable Saigon River Tour 31 Thai Van Lung, D1 for adults. Swimming lessons are Established in 1998, Saigon River Tour Latin Street Dance 38295451 Geisha’s was funky enough without available at the club. provides speedboat services and the addition of this new meet-up for 291 Cach Mang Thang Tam, D3 speedboat tours (ecotourism, Cu Chi Le Thanh Theatre Latin fans yearning for something a 3932 5508 Tunnels, Mekong Delta) from Bach Experimental art space for dance and little grittier than salsa. Dang Pier. exhibitions, with regular performances Geisha Tea House, 85 Pasteur, D1 Van Thanh Pool 10b Ton Duc Thang, D1 of leading-edge artistic theatre. A very casual swimming venue 6290 9410 25 Phan Phu Tien, D5 Overland Club favored by younger people and 2242 4622 Overland Club is a 100 percent recreational swimmers. Sinh Cafe foreign-owned Japanese company 48/10 Dien Bien Phu, Binh Thanh Sinh Cafe started out as a coffee Lotte Cinema Diamond that organizes cultural classes 2219 5487 t s shop, but later expanded to cater to Fine cinema complex in one of including pottery (from basic to the needs of tourists and travelers. the most iconic department store intermediate level, as well as painting Yet Kieu Swimming Pool This unique travel agency offers tours buildings in town. Ride up the elevator unglazed pottery) and cooking classes A long-standing swimming club that’s within Vietnam, and also to Laos, to the top floor to catch a flick. (Japanese and Vietnamese). The become the standard for competition, Cambodia, and Thailand. 13th Floor, 34 Le Duan, D1 Overland Club also hosts various clean water, and inexpensive prices, 246-248 De Tham, D1 events. Past events include noodle Yet Kieu is a well-managed complex Saigon Opera House making, soap carving, and kids’ of pools for the family - and it also has Viet Journey No mere historical museum piece, cooking. its own gym. Viet Journey was founded by the Municipal Theater is a thriving 36bis Huynh Khuong Ninh, D1 1 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 dedicated travelers of the southeast performance centre with regular 3820 9734 0839101542 expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013

76 LIMAGEiving BY LOC NGUYEN

Kindermusik

77 EDUCATION FEATURE

Baby School of Rock A German-invented method of teaching preschoolers social skills and languages through music Text by Michael Arnold Images by Loc NguyeN

I have to admit, when I first heard about behavioral platforms that should serve them this is very structured,’ says Tom, Lauralynn’s the Kindermusik center over at the Crescent, well when the time comes to go to school. husband and partner in the business. “Yes it I presumed it was all about musicianship for “I think there’s a strong need among is! It’s not a playgroup. But it’s fun. The child kids. What I imagined was something more children here for the whole scope of doesn’t know it’s structured. But the parent’s Suzuki-style, a group of three-year-olds with Kindermusik,” says Lauralynn. “It isn’t only assessment was correct. It’s very definitive, miniature violins, or a cacophony of pre- music; it encompasses all the aspects of but it works. It flows through transitions.” tweens going wild on their glockenspiels. the child’s development. Every domain of At just 45 minutes per session, this is not a Lauralynn Goetz’s classes, however, aren’t the brain: cognitive, language, movement, daycare center, neither is it a place to drop off really about musicality. They’re very musical emotional, social – they’re all addressed. your toddler while you hit the gym. Parents for sure, but there’s something going on here Especially social skills. So many of the are more or less required to attend with their that’s beyond the music. The children who preschools and international schools here children in the early stages, and it’s as much attend these short, concentrated lessons are require those fundamentals in order for instructional for them as it is for their kids. each exposed to a series of songs, games, children to benefit from what they have to Each family is given access to digital take- and social cues that are designed to capture offer.” home materials online, designed to support their attention just long enough to instill Parents sometimes take a while to the character-building sessions in class. It’s basic educational concepts. The theory goes understand what’s happening. “One of the not all about polite behavior either – one of that this will help them to establish versatile criticisms we had from a parent was, ‘Well, the routines in each lesson involves dimming

78 version of the course ABC Music and Me in schools – and suffering multiple set-up and funding disappointments along the way – the meticulously-designed Kindermusik studio now provides the ideal space for instruction. As the business has grown, it’s kept up with developments in the international program – and this includes a deliberate focus on the system’s ability to support language acquisition, something the couple hopes will encourage more enrollments from local families. Most of the school’s students are currently expat kids, but they’re not all Westerners – while all instruction is in English, cushioned in the international language of music. “Kindermusik instructors have really started to notice the effect the program has on kids learning English,” explains Lauralynn, whose whitepaper Music and Movement and… Foreign Language Acquisition deals exclusively with this subject. “Language acquisition starts with the phonemes, the smallest particle of speech. Little sound bites. They’re very easy for children to learn. They’re not going to be bilingual in a New York minute with this program, but the foundation will make them better English speakers later on.” “The youngest children can learn to speak any language in the world,” adds Tom. “From zero to six months, babies are looking at your eyes, but at around six months to a year, they’re focused on your mouth. They need to know how that mouth works. They want to be able to communicate.” The studio is now branded with the ABC English & Me logo – which, according to Lauralynn’s paper, “naturally evolved from Kindermusik educators’ vast teaching experience in non-English speaking countries around the world. Very young children are the lights and having parents lovingly let them explore so that they know what the not only learning musical skills – listening, support their child, engaging total relaxation limits are.” coordination, rhythm, following a steady beat, techniques that don’t come naturally to singing – but are also acquiring a variety children. Reinforced at home, these exercises Read My Lips of language skills in English: following have profound balancing effects on erratic The Kindermusik system itself is a German instructions, understanding vocabulary, preschooler behavior. invention based on the work of several early speaking interactively, singing, and repeating “Daycare is just that, they’re care centers,” 20th century specialists in education who nursery rhymes and poems.” says Lauralynn. “There’s no one there to teach began to understand how young children In this case, theory does translate into them how to take turns, attentive listening, in their formative years learn through play. practice. Parents from non-English speaking and so on. It takes a long time, and of course Growing from early music and movement households do regularly express their surprise they’re not going to do it right away. You courses – and closely connected with at how much of the language their kids are expect that. But as they’re seen to do it, Eurhythmics and the Montessori Method picking up. You can see it happening before they’re being applauded for it, so there’s not – Kindermusik came to fruition in South your eyes in the class area – those children only emotional development there, but social Carolina in the US, from where the master who’ve settled into the pace and variety of the development too.” curriculum is now licensed worldwide. lessons follow Lauralynn eagerly as she leaps “I see it especially in our Sing & Play class The studio at the Crescent is now the sole about with different props and instruments, [for children aged between one and two],” franchise holder authorized to run the mimicking her deliberately-overemphasized she continues. “For the first year of their life, program in the city, fulfilling the dream that instructions. everything’s theirs. It’s very, very difficult for Lauralynn and Tom have been building here Although she regularly interjects snippets them to start to share. Then I see inWiggle & since they first arrived in 2005 as somewhat of theory into the lessons for the benefit of Grow [two to three years] that they take their jaded expats of more than two decades in the parents, their expectations seem to be time; they have that patience to wait their Hong Kong. far more straightforward. As mother Phan turn.” “We got off the plane, and everybody Thi Thanh Xuan, who has been attending “You can see in the expressions on their was so young,” says Tom. “The Hong Kong Kindermusik through four units now with her faces when you congratulate them for expats, the long-term residents, they’re two-year-old daughter Nguyen Lan Chi, puts having that self-control. They’re so pleased very old. But here, everyone was so young. it: “Kindermusik is an important first step with themselves,” says Tom. “That’s when Babies. So we thought to ourselves, ‘This is in her education and real life, especially for they start to think, ‘Hey, I have control Kindermusik heaven.’ So every holiday, every working and living abroad. It’s fun. She can over this situation, I can do this.’ By setting schoolteacher’s holiday, Tet, Chinese New exercise with her mother, teacher, and friends. the parameters, you’re making those kids Year, summer holiday, we would be coming My daughter has a new knowledge of the stronger. You’re not confining them. They here at least four times a year.” The couple outside world through these lessons.” certainly learn to think outside the box. As now reside here permanently. For more info, visit www.kindermusik- long as it’s a safe environment, you have to After years of teaching the shorter vietnam.com

79 The Syllabus EDUCATION Column

Rainbow Bright For kids to think creatively, parents must help change the education system here Lauralynn Goetz, B.A., M.M.Ed. US, is the director of an early childhood education center in Vietnam

I would like to draw attention to an excerpt children’s potential, to lead them out into means solving problems through an in a recent article in Vietnam News that creativity through providing information. indirect and creative approach, using caught my eye: “Prime Minister Dung Doug Goodkin, author of The ABC’s of reasoning that is not immediately obvious calls for highly creative, brighter teachers. Education, says, “Get rid of those desks and involving ideas that may not be Vietnam should renew its attitude towards in rows, make space for circles and bring obtainable by using only traditional step- education and education management so in round tables that invite group work by-step logic. The child who was unable to it could train teachers with intellectual and discussion.” This thought was in the create an original pattern was the only one skills and creativity.... with an open back of my mind as I taught a class of 4 to in the class attending a government school, education, which has good teaching and 5-year-olds. Using the theme of a rainbow, where the encouragement to improvise learning methods, alongside the growth of the children were given the colors of the doesn’t exist. a learning society, to ensure the necessary spectrum cut into separate crescents. What can parents do to support the conditions for a better education system.” While listening to the lyrics, “Colors of Prime Minister’s call? By getting involved This statement reflects a real need the rainbow, red, orange, yellow, green and with the school’s administrators and in the Vietnamese educational system. blue,” they placed the corresponding colors educators – and that’s the challenge. My The PM said this was necessary to into a rainbow (half-circle) shape. experience has shown that parents in develop the nation so that the best Then after, and still listening to the same Vietnam are all too willing to send their people could actively contribute to the music, the children were asked to make children to government or private schools, country's development. Unfortunately, their own patterns using the crescent pay all the required fees or even extra- my experience inside one of the teachers shaped colors. Most of the children, with a curricular teaching fees, but rarely get colleges here indicates that the teachers are little prompting, began to make serpentine involved. often unwilling to take on the challenge. lines and one child created a smiley face. The parents are the first and most The current education system does not However, one child could not use the important teachers in a child’s life. Until encourage teachers to be open to creative colored pieces to make anything other parents realize that they are the only valid teaching methods. than the original rainbow. She kept looking source of feedback to the educational The function of education is implied in over at the others but was unable to think community, the system will not change. its Latin root ‘educare,’ meaning “to draw ‘outside the box’ of the original shape. Most parents here are products of learning forth; to lead out.” Educare means that ‘Thinking outside (or beyond) the box,’ ‘by rote’ and they themselves find it the first task of teaching is to call forth sometimes referred to as lateral thinking, challenging to think outside the box.

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81 HIGHER LEARNING EDUCATION Column

US Bound Advice to help your child pick the Katie Rigney-Zimmermann B.S, M.B.A, M. Sec. Ed, is director of Admissions and Marketing at Saigon right university after graduation South International School in Phu My Hung.

to speak in person to representatives from different universities. At the fairs your child can look at course guides, ask questions about programs and get a general feel for a variety of schools. Though be aware that university brochures are marketing tools and will, of course, highlight their strengths, so take advantage of the chance to ask representatives about any weaknesses. Representatives should be able to discuss work placement opportunities, internships and alumni associations. Find out how much the school will help with job placements prior to graduation. There are a number of fairs held at hotels in HCMC throughout the year and are usually advertised in local newspapers. Prepare some questions ahead of time, and have somewhere to record each school’s answers. This helps avoid becoming overwhelmed. Research, Research, and Research The internet can be a great tool for researching schools. There are many university directories available online which can give statistical information about different schools. College websites also have a great deal of information There are over 4,000 universities and If you have family members, friends or listed. Most universities today have colleges in the US, so how does a high teachers who have studied overseas, ask Facebook accounts where prospective school senior pick the right one? At times them about where they went, and what students can ask questions. it can be a daunting and overwhelming they thought of their experience. Personal Go ahead and take a look at rankings decision, and keep in mind that not every recommendations are a good insight into but use them as a guideline. Few schools college or even the best college is the ‘right’ particular universities. do everything well so it’s best to research one for your child. which schools are ranked in the subject While one of the best ways to get a feel Know Thyself area your child is interested in. There are for a university is by going there and taking Your child should think about the things some good resources here in Vietnam a personal tour, unfortunately for many they consider most important for a school which can help guide families and students here in Vietnam that might not to have, and locations where they can see students towards the right choice. The be a practical, or financially viable, option. themselves living happily for the next US Department of State sponsors the So here are a few tips that can help narrow four years. It’s often a good idea to make Education USA center which provides down the list. a list of deal-breakers. For example, if students with unbiased, comprehensive your child enjoys group discussions they and current information about educational Family Talk might do better in a smaller school with opportunities at universities and colleges It is important for you and your child to be smaller classes. Alternatively, if they are in the US. Their services are free of on the same page when it comes to college self motivated, larger lecture halls might charge. There are a few other educational choices, especially when it comes to costs be better suited. Also, for those who like centers in Vietnam that will help with the and location. These discussions need to be outdoors sports, campuses in big cities can process for a fee. the start of the college search so that some be crossed off the list. Matching the right university to the parameters are set. Families need to be student is what’s paramount, not the realistic about a student’s abilities, interests, Take Advantage of College Fairs other way around, and this will lead to a available choices, and affordability. College fairs give students the opportunity good education.

82 83 The List

Atexpats is Ho Chi Minh City's first truly comprehensive insider's guide for foreign residents - website launching 2013

EducationHung offering creative play-based Huu Tho, D7 education programs for children ages 2 to 5. Known for unique facilities, experienced Smartkids SCHOOLS [children] staff, high-quality learning resources, An international childcare centre provides and small class sizes kindergarten and pre-school education for ABC International School 79/7 Pham Thai Buong, D7 children between 18 months and six years Providing a caring and nurturing 27/3 Ha Huy Tap, D7 old. A fun and friendly environment, the atmosphere for all its students, the 5412 5944 school focuses on learning through play. ABC International School offers www.kidsclubsaigon.com 1172 Thao Dien Compound, D2 a combination of both British 3744 6076 and international educations and Kindermusik www.smartkidsinfo.com qualifications. The center is a music, movement and Saigon South Campus 1 (Primary & English-language program for children Saigon Star SCHOOLS [ADULT] Secondary) from birth to 7 years. Each lesson International #2, 1E Street, Khu Dan Cu Trung Son, Binh promotes early literacy and English School Saigon Star is a student focused Cetana PSB Intellis International Hung, Binh Chanh language acquisition, social skills and international primary school College 5431 1833 /34/35/36 more. Kindermusik programs aligh with offering high quality first class PSB College offers a suite of [email protected] standards and/or requirements for the provision. Specializing in the British internationally-recognized diploma www.theabcis.com US, UK, UE, TESOL Pre-K and IB Primary National Curriculum, all of the class programs from business, marketing, years. teachers hold international teaching hospitality to finance. Australian International School (AIS) Ground Floor, Crescent Residence2, D7 qualification. In the early years 144-146-148 Le Lai, D1 The Australian International School is an www.kindermusik-vietnam.com program, a Montessori specialist works www.psbcollege.edu.vn IB World School with three world class 090 709 9480 closely with the main class teachers campuses in District 2, HCMC, offering an to ensure a high rate of progress. The RMIT International international education from kindergarten L’atelier school also provides specialists for University Vietnam to senior school with the IB Primary Years Classes include spelling and grammar children requiring extra RMIT Vietnam offers programs from Programme (PYP), Cambridge Secondary tuition after school, monitoring for the support with ESL. business and management to design and Residential Area No.5, Programme (including IGCSE) and IB French education program, preparing micro engineering. Thanh My Loi Ward, D2 Diploma Programme (DP). for official tests (DEFL, DAFL, TFL, IB), 702 Nguyen Van Linh, D7 Xi Campus (Kindergarten) and Vietnamese lessons, including 3742 STAR / 3742 7827 www.saigonstarschool.edu.vn 190 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 extra-curricular activities during the VLS Vietnamese Language School Thao Dien Campus (Kindergarten & holidays. Imparting genuine fluency in Vietnamese Primary School) 33/19 Quoc Huong, D2 Vstar School since 1994, VLS is one of the city’s best- APSC Compound 3744 6844 Vstar School provides education from organised and most professional training 36 Thao Dien, D2 www.latelier-anphu.com Grades 1-12 in a spacious 30,000m2 centers devoted to the Vietnamese Thu Thiem Campus (Kindergarten, Primary, environment including a sports field and language, with classes for all levels. Middle & Senior School) Montessori International School of swimming pool. R4 -28 Hung Phuoc 2, Le Van Thiem, D7 East-West Highway, D2 Vietnam Him Lam Residential Complex, Nguyen 3602 6694 3742 4040 The school seeks to enable all its www.aisvietnam.com pupils to achieve their fullest potential by providing them with a nurturing and stimulating environment, and by being sensitive and responsive to their individual needs. Their curriculum is designed based on Montessori methodology and practice, and is enhanced with a variety of programs. 42/1 Ngo Quang Huy, D2 3744 2639 www.montessori.edu.vn Noah's Club Providing high quality care & education British for kids aged 1-6 in District 2 . Various International creative & fun programs, beautiful School (BIS) outdoor space with a warm family Inspected and feeling and more. approved by the British Government, No3, Duong so 4, Nguyen U Di, D2 BIS provides a British style curriculum 3744 4709 for an international student body [email protected] and is staffed by British qualified and trained teachers. Fully accredited by Renaissance International the Council of International Schools School Saigon and a member of FOBISSEA, BIS is the Opened in 2008, The Renaissance largest international school in Vietnam. International School Saigon offers An Phu Primary Campus programs from Early Years to secondary 225 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 curriculum, founded on the International 3744 4551 British System. The four buildings on An Phu Secondary Campus the school’s one-hectare site include 246 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 a 350-seat auditorium, a computer 3744 2335 resource centre, gymnasium and 25 m Tu Xuong Primary Campus 43-45 Tu Xuong Street, D3 swimming pool. 3932 0210 74 Nguyen Thi Thap, D7 www.bisvietnam.com www.rissaigon.edu.vn Saigon South International School Horizon International Bilingual School Founded in 1997, Saigon South A bilingual school, HIBS opened in International School seeks to 2005 and applies 100 percent of the accommodate an increasing need Vietnamese national curriculum, MOET, for American education for both local as well as providing students with an residents and expatriate families. intensive English program along with SSIS enrolls over 850 students in teaching science and math in English. Early Childhood – Grade 12 from over 6 - 6A - 8, 44 Street, D2 thirty-three countries in a spacious six- hibsvietnam.com hectare, well-equipped campus. 78 Nguyen Duc Canh, D7 Kids Club Saigon 5413 0901 Early childhood centers in Phu My www.ssis.edu.vn

84 The List

Atexpats is Ho Chi Minh City's first truly comprehensive Health & Beauty insider's guide for foreign residents - website launching 2013 11E Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 1st Floor, 65 Le Loi, D1 35 Ly Tu Trong, D1 ladieswear 3910 3877 3914 7464 6276 2730 www.umbrella-fashion.com Anupa Eco Boutique Fit Misa Collection The boutique has been converted into Caters to women in their 20s. Well-known for tailoring bespoke ao Valenciani Oi’s Pick an eco-boutique which houses the 44 Luu Van Lang, D1 dias. Highly respected Vietnamese designer complete Anupa leather collections 67 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 whose collections are featured in ELLE and semi precious jewelry as well as Gaya 3829 4007 Vietnam and Vogue Vietnam. up-and-coming eco designers both A high-end shop that sells cocktail and 098 330 0469 1F/12 Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 locally and internationally such as ready party dresses by French-Cambodian 3821 2788 to wear mens linen shirts, ladies cotton designer Romyda Keth. Gaya has Ngan Private Collection 090 785 5788 dresses, chicken leg watch straps, specializes in home interior products. A collection of multi-brand fashion bamboo glasses and scarves with 1 Nguyen Van Trang, D1 labels created by one of Vietnam’s pendants. 3925 1495 highly recognized fashion designers. menswear 9 Dong Du, D1 Dedicated personal styling consultant www.anupa.net / facebook: anupaluxury Kelly Bui available for those in need of their own Anna Vo Fashion Boutique Launched in April 2010, the shop sells stylist. A popular designer currently in Saigon, Axara Paris - Saigon Center the most recent collections by the 23 Ly Tu Trong, D1 Anna Vo produces seasonal collections Axara may have seduced the whole brand. The collections shown on the 6290 9391 inspired by her time in Europe and world, but its 2010 launch in Vietnam website are the same as those in-store. Vietnam as well as aiming to be both at the Vincom Centre is still making B1-24, Vincom Center, 70-72 Le Thanh Phuong My beautiful and functional. The boutique headway with modern young Ton, D1 A ready-to-wear fashion designer also carries pieces from her mother Vietnamese women entranced by its 3936 9386 currently working from Ho Chi Minh Thuy Nga’s collections as well as high romantic, glamorous designs. City, producing feminine pieces using quality imported accessories. Each 65 Le Loi, D1 Khai Silk high quality fabric such as silk organza collection includes both menswear and 3914 7655 Khai Silk is a favorite among local and lace using expert tailoring and womenswear. celebrities for its high quality tailoring, construction which has earned her 23 Dong Khoi, D1 Banana Shop fabrics and service. frequent coverage in the country’s top 6675 4013 Banana Shop provides everything a 81 Dong Khoi, D1 fashion magazines. girl needs to be noticed in Ho Chi Minh 3822 2856 81 Le Thanh Ton, D1 An Phuoc City. Whether it be undergarments, 09 7271 7788 An Phuoc Garment Manufacturing was shoes, bags, or jewelry, Banana Shop Kiwi Fashion established in 1992 with 50 workers and delivers with unique products from Kiwi offers contemporary designes Shin 40 sewing machines, specializing in Hong Kong and the United States. at an affordable price.It was founded Vintage style ladies fashion, clothes manufacturing for exporting enterprises. 128 Ly Tu Trong, D1 by former Vietnamese model Kim and accessories by local designers. Now it has transformed itself into a 3829 0061 Hong Phung and houses the latest 122 Ly Tu Trong, D1 garment export company featuring fashion trends exclusively designed by 090 935 2369 handmade clothing and shoes. Bebe Josphine Geralda, one of the leading 182 Hai Ba Trung, D1 The shop sells its brand of women’s designers in London. Sifa Fashion clothing and apparel, dresses, 74C-74/1 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Known for selling office wear for Bonjour jumpsuits, shoes and bags. 3824 8214 women. A fashion boutique at the Vo Van Tan/ 1st floor, Saigon center, 65 Le Loi, D1 3822 1191 192 Ly Tu Trong, D1 Cao Thang T-intersection providing an 3914 4011 3825 0618 exhaustive range of one-off fashion La Bella pieces and accessories with both a Cao Vinh Fashion A Vietnamese fashion shop that Song - Valerie Gregori McKenzie modern and vintage feel. Prices are Specializes in formal Western-style carries dresses, skirts, tops and a large French bohemian chic designs that affordable for both men and women shirts, Cao Vinh is distinctive if for selection of bags and purses. caters to sophsiticated women. and come in a range of sizes to suit nothing else than its simple, intriguing 58-87 Pasteur, D1 75 Pasteur, D1 most customers. website allowing customers to specify 3823 0172 3824 6986 446 Vo Van Tan, D3 design elements. 9am - 9pm 69 Pasteur, D1 Sophilita Maschio Shop 3824 5645 Lyn Around A simple Italian fashion brand with Colorful retro men’s fashions, one of the 090 817 9129 This is the Saigon branch of the several branches in Vietnam, Sophilita quirkier fine-quality local fashion stores international high-class fashion label mainly sells office, street, and casual, in the central area. Cashew Lyn Around. It is famous for its girly girl womenswear. 168 Ly Tu Trong, D1 Fashion shop chain with 4 boutiques in and street style. 15C Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 3829 2975 HCMC. Specializes in women clothes 1st Floor, Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 6275 9019 and accessories. Designed by their 3821 6575 Mizada own designers. Familiar brand in HCMC Suite Blanco Since its inception in 2004, Mizada catwalk and Vietnam fashion industry. L’Usine Suite Blanco is a Spanish company has become one of the leading luxury 38 Ly Tu Trong, D1 The central retail space offers famous specialized in the design, production, fashion brands in Vietnam. Mizada 6683 9669 fashion brands from around the world distribution and sale of all types of caters to both women and women with with full rotating stock. accessories and clothing for the products such as T-shirts, jeans, coats, Diva Silk Boutique First Floor, 151 Dong Khoi, D1 modern woman and man looking for scarves, and much more. Diva is all about silk, oriental glamour, 6674 3565 the latest trends at affordable prices. 105 Le Thanh Ton, D1 luxury, and a feminine charm to match. The chain now has 240 shops spread in 6673 4199 The products in this little shop comprise Maison de Bunga 15 different countries including Vietnam. both locally-woven first-grade silk Maison de Bunga is a specialty Vincom Center A, 171 Dong Khoi, D1 San Sciaro Manhattan garments and those imported from women’s clothing store specializing in Fashionable, smart menswear from Thailand. designers with floral motifs, hats, bags, Thuy Design House the Viet Tien Garment Company, 146 Dong Khoi, D1 and other accessories. A popular Vietnamese ready-to-wear specializing in garment manufacture 3822 7153 81 Pasteur, D1 designer creating seasonal collections and trade equipment since the mid 3943 0990 using high quality materials with a 70’s. t s Esprit minimalist design aesthetic. Thuy’s 1st Floor Saigon Tax Trade Center, 135 Hong Kong-based lifestyle apparel Mango friendly boutique carries a range of Nguyen Hue, D1 brand offering affordable casual Mango is a Spanish fashion design shapes and silhouettes that are often 3864 0800 streetwear from a two-story shop in the company with over 2,000 stores worn by the city’s fashion conscious. 090 316 6364 heart of downtown HCMC. around the world. Ho Chi Minh City is 151/6 Dong Khoi, D1 58 Dong Khoi, D1 home to several of its branches. Mango www.facebook.com/thuydesignhouse Veston Huy Hoang 3827 6085 sells fashion clothing for women Men’s tailored fashions, specialising in including dresses, skirts, tops and Umbrella suits. Expect to Pay: $200 and upward Eva Gopa accessories. This fashion label caters to a higher for a suit, fabric included. Obviously, the Office fashion, street-style fashion, and Unit 2F-11, 2nd floor, Icon 68, 2 Hai Trieu, D1 end market with tailored bags to better the quality of fabric, the higher the

expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013 evening dresses for women. 6266 2111 accessories. price. 70% of customers are foreigners.

85 65 Pasteur, D1 Advice and Hip hop kids, Aerobic kids, Family Medical Practice 3822 4609 ZumbAtomic®. clinics With a nationwide operational advantage, 090 865 4988 Available at: Panorama-Fitness (206 Tran they provide international standard Van Tra, D7), Fit & Fun Club (Sky Garden 2, American Chiropractic Clinic medical services in a safe, professional D7), Cyril&you (49a Xa Lo Ha Noi, D2), and American Chiropractic Clinic is a and welcoming environment. Sommerset (8 Nguyen Binh Khiem, D1). chiropractic, physiotherapy, and foot gyms 95 Thao Dien, D2 093 406 0735 or 6680 7226 care clinic in the Heart of Saigon. We 3744 2000 [email protected] are staffed by American and French- Ais Sports Complex www.vietnammedicalpractice.com www.zumba-saigon.com trained Chiropractic Physicians and Open to the public, the center has a [email protected] Vietnamese Physical Therapists. 25m swimming pool, basketball court 8am-6pm Monday-Friday, 8am-2pm 8 Truong Dinh, D3 and an astroturf play area. Inquire about Nutrifort Fitness Saturday special packages. Aiming to be the voice of health and 3930 6667 APSC Compound, 36 Thao Dien, D2 fitness in Vietnam, Nutrifort provides 3744 2549 clientele with proper tools and teaching Animal Rescue & Care Hanh Phuc International Women & www.aissportscentre.com methods to keep the mind and body Abandoned and wild cats and dogs can fit and healthy. Clients also learn about be adopted or fostered from their online Children’s Hospital nutrition to nourish and maintain their database. ARC also organizes several Hanh Phuc International Hospital aims Amaryska Kamionko to be the leading private healthcare Private fitness trainer, assisting in full health. animal welfare education and low-cost 2B1 Chu Manh Trinh, D1 spaying campaigns. provider for women and children in body workouts, toning & strength Vietnam. Designed and managed up to training for females. Sessions often at 3825 8560 31-44 Thao Dien, D2 www.arcpets.com Singaporean standards, the 260-bed clients’ homes or at their designated Hanh Phuc Hospital aims to provide gyms. Rex Health Club This spa was designed for both men a comprehensive range of quality 0902271830 An Phu International Clinic & women, integrating traditional An international standard clinic healthcare services to women and personalfitnessathome.blogspot.com Vietnamese, Indian, and Chinese herbal with a full range of specialist and children with a personalized touch and remedies and techniques. Situated on modern medical equipment with a in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Body By Jovie the rooftop of the Rex Hotel, it features dedicated team of professors, doctors, 2nd floor Saigon Trade Centre, Body By Jovie is a boutique personal two outdoor swimming areas. experienced nurses. 37 Ton Duc Thang, D1 training center and yoga studio, catering 141 Nguyen Hue, D1 251A Luong Dinh Cua, D2 3911 1860 to individuals demanding diversity, 3825 1814 6660 6602 challenge and results. It specializes in one www.dakhoaanphu.com Institute of Traditional Medicine on one session and also offer a full range Saigon River Club Established in 1975, the Institute of classes such as yoga, TRX suspension Located in Ruby Tower at the Saigon Family Medical Practice of Traditional Medicine is a holistic class, belly dancing, Zumba and outdoor Pearl, Saigon River Club is equipped With a nationwide operational advantage, research and teaching hospital. Patients boot camp. with the very latest in fitness they provide international standard are treated using traditional medicines, Riverside Residence, Nguyen Luong technology. It has a fully-equipped medical services in a safe, professional some of which are produced by the Bang, D7 sauna and steam room and a large and welcoming environment. institute itself. Some doctors speak 5417 1946 outdoor pool with jacuzzi. 95 Thao Dien, D2 English and/or French, and acupuncture [email protected] Ruby Tower, 92 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh 3744 2000 lessons are on offer. 7am - 9pm (Weekdays) and Thanh www.vietnammedicalpractice.com 273-275 Nguyen Van Troi, Phu Nhuan 7:30am - 7pm (Saturdays) 3514 9009 [email protected] 3844 5954 8am-6pm Monday-Friday, 8am-2pm California WOW Star Fitness Bitexco Saturday Lotus Clinic The first and largest international Located in The Manor Tower, this gym Lotus Clinic was established in 2007 as fitness company to open in Vietnam. is not only a fitness center it includes Australian Clinic & Pathology the first Japanese medical clinic in Ho Provides world class fitness services other specialized classes such as yoga, Diagnostics Chi Minh City. and products in a state-of-the art 5-star belly dancing, kick boxing, zumba, body The Australian Clinic, Pathology & Lancaster Bldg , 22 Le Thanh Ton, D1 fitness and entertainment facility. toning, and so on. Diagnostics (ACPD) is comprised of a 3827 0000 126 Hong Bang, D5 Level 1, 91 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh Thanh medical outpatient clinic and associated 3222 0299 3514 0255 pathology laboratory. The clinic hosts International SOS Medical Care 28-30-32 Le Lai, D1 highly trained and experienced medical Located in the city center, the clinic 6291 5999 Spa InterContinental & Healthclub specialists. is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a 5 Nguyen Tat Thanh, D4 Guests will have access to a 20-meter 273 - 275 Ly Thai To, D10 year providing routine and emergency 3826 0999 outdoor lap pool complete with a 3834 9941 healthcare services as well as on-site sundeck, a 160-square meter spacious laboratory and radiology services. Christina Eberlin Yoga Teacher fitness centre with the latest generation Center Medical International Languages spoken include Japanese, Center Medical International is an Christina graduated from Virajati 300hr cardio and resistance equipment, plus a Korean and French, among others. outpatient clinic fully-equipped yoga teacher training in Thailand. She personal program of fitness classes. 167A Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 to provide international standard is offering private yoga classes and 3rd Floor, InterContinental Asiana Saigon 3829 8551 group classes. For more information Corner of Hai Ba Trung & Le Duan, D1 comprehensive and specialized medical you can reach her at 3520 9999 services. All physicians are either [email protected] French or Vietnamese. Perfect Skin lab [email protected] More than just a spa, this District 8am – 9:30pm 1 Han Thuyen, D1 or 093 849 2461 1 venue is a genuine skin lab that 3827 2365 caters to each customer’s unique Cyril And You Thien Nga (Swan) Club characteristics and needs. The lab Fitness club that has training equipment French physical instructor Cyril Columbia Asia Saigon Clinic is the latest concept developed by and a 25sqm swimming pool Beautiful international clinic a short specializes in sports conditioning, Dermal Essentials, the elite distributor resistance training and senior training 751 Xuan Thuy, D2 distance from the cathedral, with exemplary standards of healthcare for for Dermalogica, a skin care system along with designing a personal fitness 3899 0012 walk-in patients. researched and developed by The program to fit your needs. Thao Dien, 8 Alexandre De Rhodes, D1 International Dermal Institute in D2; 094 777 1326 The Crescent Wellness Club Overlooking The Crescent complex’s 3823 8454 Vietnam. www.cyril-and-you.com lagoon, this multi-purpose and 1st floor, unit 9-10 Saigon Center, organically designed fitness and David Shepherd Chiropractic Clinic 65 Le Loi, D1 Get Fit Gym wellness centre offers an array of DSCC provides Chiropractic care 3910 0372 Located on the 3rd floor in the H3 modern facilities including a state-of- for patients using state of the art Building, this international-standard, the-art gym, group fitness classes, yoga physiotherapy equipment imported Stamford Skin Center gym offers a steam bath and sauna, sessions, a squash court, swimming from USA. DSCC is managed and The Stamford Skin Centre has grown yoga, kickboxing, rumba, salsa, pool, steam bath and nutrition bar. operated by American doctors who use to include qualified specialists who merengue, cumbia and reggaeton 3rd Floor, Crescent Plaza, modern and advanced technologies treat general diseases of the skin such classes. 105 Ton Dat Tien, D7 techniques to ensure safe, gentle, and as acne, eczema and other forms of 384 Hoang Dieu, D4 5412 1277 effective treatment. dermatitis, rosacea, psoriasis, and skin 6261 6169 41 Noi Khu, Hung Gia 3, D7 cancers. X-Rock Climbing 5410 6242 254 Dien Bien Phu, D3 www.saigonchiropractic.com 3932 1090 K1 Fitness & Fight Factory With two locations in the city, this wall t s A well-known brand name founded by in An Phu stands at 26 meters. The 090 845 3338 a group of professional kickboxers and center offers nine levels from beginners Diag Center International now present in France and Southeast to hardcore. Situated in Ho Chi Minh City, Diag Uc Chau Cosmetic Surgery Asia, including Montpellier and Phnom 503A Nguyen Duy Trinh, D2 Center International is a diagnostic This central clinic performs Penh as well as here in Saigon. www.xrockclimbing.com testing center, which consists of a team straightforward cosmetic treatments, 14 Duong 38, Nguyen Thi Thap, D7 of thirty Vietnamese staff, and operates including enhancing the nose bridge, 091 833 7111 Yoga Club under French medical biologists and breast enlargement, eyelid folds, and Yogo fitness center for both men and assisted by a group of Vietnamese wrinkle removal. Nicky's Zumba® Fitness Studio women medical technicians trained in France. 25 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 They offer Zumba®Fitness, Yoga, Cross 18 Street Number 2, D2 146 An Binh, D5 2212 3396

Fit, Pilates Personal Fitness, Nurtition 3897 6786 3838 1551 2212 3398 expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013

86 Victoria Health Care International Naomi Dental Clinic 253 Dien Bien Phu, D3 103 Nguyen Hue, D1 Clinic A full service dental clinic under the 3930 0828 2211 4956 Victoria Healthcare offers the highest direction of Japanese dentist Dr. standard of healthcare, based on Nakashima Mikio. FV Hospital American and European practices, and R4-45 Hung Phuoc 4, D7 FV Hospital is a Vietnam’s only offering compassionate and efficient 5410 3937 internationally accredited healthcare service with the greatest respect for the facility. A wholly foreign-owned general patient. Saigon Smile hospital offering a wide range of 79 Dien Bien Phu, D1 With a group of experienced doctors medical and surgical services under one and professional staff trained to do roof, equipped to care for patients from Vietnam Family Medical Practice teeth cleaning, dental work and other consultation and diagnosis through to International clinic located in the Manor teeth enhancing procedures. the completion of treatment. complex, within easy reach of high- 96 Tran Nao, D2 6 Nguyen Luong Bang, D7 rollers living around the Saigon Pearl 6674 4255 5411 3334 area. The sister clinic is located beneath 8am to 8pm Diamond Plaza. Saigon International Maternity Ground Floor, 91 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh Saint Paul Hospital J.S.C. Indochine Spa Thanh Saint Paul has facilities all over Ho Chi A private-owned hospital specialising Nestled in 3514 0758 Minh City, and with the slogan “slight, in maternity, this was the first hospital the heart exact, and painless,” the doctors at to meet the Hotel-Hospital international of Saigon, Saint Paul aim to please even the most standard in HCMC since the year 2000. Indochine spa will bring you back to an dental fastidious patients. 63 Bui Thi Xuan, D1 ancient time with peaceful melodies 50 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 3925 3620 and aromatic scents. With our skillful 2000 Dental Clinic Trung Tam Implant 3835 6159 therapists, Natural products with Established in 1999, 2000 Dental Traditional Medicine Hospital French formulation and high class Clinic now has 65 dentists serving This hospital is a major medical centre cleanness environment, Indochine Smile Dental Center spa provides your senses with natural 3 locations offering the full range of Quality dental care with whitening, practising the essence of that millennia- dental care, including surgery, implants energy. Indulge yourself for a unique cleaning, and orthodontic services. old exploration into the rhythms of the and amazing experience. and extractions. Japanese equipment and techniques. human body and its connection to the 125 Le Thi Rieng, D1 69 Thu Khoa Huan st., D. 1, HCM 173 Ton Dat Tien, D7 natural world which firmly belongs to 3827 7188 3925 6501 5413 6635 this region. [email protected]

179 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 www.indochine-spa.com.vn Dang Luu Dental Centre Starlight Dental Clinic 3932 6579 Open: 10:00-22:00 Dang Luu Dental Centre offers the Award-winning quality care and full range of dental services, including personal service in clean premises, implants, crown and bridges and teeth Tu Du Hospital An Nam Spa offering general dentistry, whitening Tu Du is a large state hospital Housed in a beautiful nine-story whitening. Orthodontic services are also and cosmetic surgery, implants, specializing in maternity, women, and building with different areas for provided. Some of the dentists have orthodontics, pediatric, and preventive been foreign-trained. children’s diseases, family planning, and men and women, guests can enjoy dentistry. many other areas. Highly experienced a panoramic view of Saigon while 34 Phan Dang Luu, Binh Thanh 2 Bis Cong Truong Quoc Te, D3 3903 6636 doctors and staff provide affordable calming their senses in a relaxing 3822 6222 care. sanctuary. Digital Dental Clinic 284 Cong Quynh, D1 26-28 Dong Du, D1 Westcoast International Dental Clinic 5404 2829 3825 1250 Digital Dental Care draws on well- Large, international team of dentists known Korean consistency in service and support staff from Canada, standards and precision equipment to Vu Anh International Hospital - Dermal Essentials Australia, Japan, France, Italy, Thailand, Dermalogica, a Los Angeles-based offer a truly world-class service in the and Vietnam. The clinic regularly hosts Obstetrics Phu My Hung area. Luxurious hospital facility offering company, is a revolutionary skin visiting dentists from many other modern care in a comfortable setting. treatment system. Call Dermalogica’s R4-35 Ton Dat Tien, D7 countries. 5412 2276 The hotel also provides 12 VIP rooms therapists for a complimentary Face 27 Nguyen Trung Truc, D1 for patients seeking 5 star medical Mapping consultation. 3825 7485 Elite Dental services featuring garden access and 108 Pasteur, D1 With an atmosphere more reminiscent designer furniture. 3910 2038 of a luxury hotel, this is one of the 15-16 Phan Van Tri, Go Vap largest high-quality dental clinics in hospitals 3989 4989 Eden Spa HCMC, established to answer expat Extremely central, Eden is located demands for superb dental techniques in a quiet niche off Nguyen Hue in and professional staff. Cao Thang Eye Hospital the commercial center. Owing to its The CT International Eye Hospital is one nails 57A Tran Quoc Thao, D3 expertise in skincare and first-class of the few dedicated, comprehensive eye 3933 3737 relaxing atmosphere, Eden has the institutes in the country. Internationally recognized staff diagnose and treat the gumption to claim a number-one spot European Dental Clinic entire spectrum of conditions of the eye, in the discerning Japanese market. Offering state of the art technology, 19-25 Nguyen Hue, D1 competitive pricing, and supreme including complex problems such as diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachments, 3821 3815 quality, this dentistry is truly dedicated 097 810 6868 to their patients. macular degeneration, glaucoma, and 17-17A Le Van Mien, D2 cataracts. 091 874 9204 or 090 955 1916 135B Tran Binh Trong, D5 www.europeandentalclinic-asia.com 090 588 6086 Cho Ray Hospital Classic Nails Cho Ray Hospital is the largest Located near Ben Thanh Market, German International Dentistry healthcare service in Vietnam, providing Classic Nails is a professional salon German International Dentistry offers with staff who are trained and full priority service for expatriates, with excellent consultation services from experienced in designing complicated experienced, international dentists so a staff including 696 doctors and 1350 pattern. The salon only uses materials that you can make informed decisions nurses. from reputable companies and always about your dental care. 201B Nguyen Chi Thanh, D5 update with the latest colors. They Flamingo Spa 1489 Nguyen Van Linh, D7 3855 4137 also have sofas with a massage Flamingo Spa is an 3776 3777 function and adjustable posture for the authentic Thai spa Columbia Asia International Hospital customer’s comfortable and relaxation. where all ingredients Grand Dentistry - Gia Dinh 4 Phan Boi Chau, D1 used are imported Grand Dentistry is an upscale dental Skilled and experienced doctors 3825 7047 from Thailand. Guests 9am - 8pm office located in the ground floor of offer exceptional medical care at arrive in a clean and Sunwah tower on Nguyen Hue street. affordable prices with the latest in friendly atmosphere for an optimal It is noted for being very tourist/expat medical technology. Patients benefit relaxing experience. Men, women and friendly. This dentistry features English from advanced medical diagnostics, Kelly Pang couples are welcome, and they offer a wide range of massages along with a t s speaking staff and expatriate dentists. treatment and personal care. Nail salon established in 2004 as a 1 No Trang Long, Binh Thanh small nail salon in Phu Nhuan, Kelly sauna, jacuzzi facilities & VIP rooms. Ground Floor Sun Wah Tower, 13B Le Thanh Ton, D1 3803 0677 Pang has gradually become known as 115 Nguyen Hue, D1 3822 1074 3821 9446 a training center and professional nail 091 243 9601 DialAsie International Hospital care facility throughout Vietnam. [email protected] Minh Khai Dental Clinic A specialist centre in kidney treatment 214C Nguyen Trai, D1 French/American/Swiss managed for the expat community, DialAsie is a 6291 5477 clinic with well-maintained international- fairly well-reputed international hospital 012 2805 6789 Glow standard equipment. of nephrology & dialysis, offering A boutique day spa located in the heart 199 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Nguyen Cu medical consultancy in renal diseases, OPI Nail Spa Nguyen Hue of the city. In this relaxing, peaceful Trinh, D1 haemodialysis, and paraclinical Providing a full range of official products atmosphere, guests can enjoy a full expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013 3925 3399 examinations. and services of the OPI brand. range of massage/treatment options.

87 Kim Do Hotel, 129A Nguyen Hue, D1 frequent beauty events – and therefore Thann 3823 8368 one of the best-known local brands in Thann provide a range of natural hair home & furnishings medical aesthetics for over 10 years in and skincare products formulated Golden Lotus Foot Massage Club HCMC. from botanicals derived by combining AA Deco Company Sauna 32 Dong Khoi, D1 the art of natural therapy with modern AA Interiors provides high-quality Fully-featured massage establishment 090 387 6666 dermatological science. fabrication and fit-out services for with pool, steam room, and hydraulic Level 2, Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 hotels, residences, spas, and so on massage located in trendy Thai Van Miu Miu 098 362 4497 throughout the city. Also sells many Lung. Various salt scrubs, and high-end Spa with an elegant and charming well-known furniture brands. beauty products imported direct from décor, offering facials, body Thalgo La Beaute Marine 219 Nguyen Van Thu, D1 Korea are available. massages, and manicures. Pervaded Thalgo is on the cutting edge of spa 3823 0940 15 Thai Van Lung, D1 by exotic oils and aromas, the staff treatments, and is renowned for its 3822 1515 provide counsel on unique skin-care products and skilled therapists. AkzoNobel Decorative Center products from Thailand and around 40C Ly Tu Trong, D1 Dulux Paints specialist with attractive HP Oxygen Spa the world in English, Vietnamese, 3824 4990 central-city showroom/store. A safe haven from the dust and smoke and Japanese. 090 360 6366 91-93 Nguyen Hue, D1 of the city offering an array of body/ 4 Chu Manh Trinh, D1 3915 3491 skin treatment options, including 6659 3609 advanced skin care, an eye lightening The Body Shop A global manufacturer and retailer of process, body massages, hair care, and Authentique naturally-inspired, ethically-produced An interior decorating shop featuring foot care. beauty and cosmetics products. The Vietnamese traditional styles with a Ground Floor, Yoco Building, Body Shop offers many kinds of small showroom in the busiest area of 41 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 skincare products, makeup accessories, the city, 3822 1286 hair & body care products, perfume, and 71/1 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 093 800 2322 bath milk. 3823 8811 87 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Huong Sen Spa 3823 5318 Located in a charming old French villa, Canada Home Deco Company Established by an expat Canadian Huong Sen Spa is a natural green oasis couple in 2003, Canada Home Deco with skin, face, and body treatment The Prime – Spa For Men American skin treatments for men services. Moc Huong Spa specializes in distributing high-quality Moc Huong Spa from top brands such as Dermalogica 21S Nguyen Van Troi, Ward 12, Phu Nhuan blankets, pillows, bedspreads, and is supported and Lab Series. Equipped with 3842 2218 cushions. by top-ranking imported machines from Europe. 090 395 1902 158 Hai Ba Trung, D1 professional The spa has five therapy services, physiotherapists 3822 3430 who combine Eastern with Western including basic skin care, professional Jasmine Spa skin care, intensive therapy, eye Experienced staff utilize exotic techniques resulting a full body Catherine Denoual therapy, body therapy – and a Prime skincare products to comfort guests wellness. Reasonably priced with a Supplies blankets, pillows, mattresses, special service package. in this cozy urban sanctuary, which wide range of services that include tablecloths, cushions, and other luxury manicure, pedicure, facial, 192 Le Lai, D1 linens to reputable hotels, spas, resorts, has has a large, loyal following both body and for your 3925 5743 and individual consumers. that swears by its friendly and complete well being. professional service. 9C Ton Duc Thang, D1 15C Thi Sach, D1 45 Ton That Thiep, D1 3911 7118 Tri Siam 3823 9394 Well-respected salon on the edge of 3827 2737 town, offering manicures & styling. Gomo Oasis Salon & Spa 76C Hai Ba Trung, D1 Typical of the large furniture Korean Style Sauna The original Oasis spa & beauty salon, Sauna and massage that serves mostly 3823 2554 warehouses in North America and this venue offers a full range of services Japanese and Korean men - some of Europe, Gomo sells contemporary items at competitive prices. Full hair care, the more discerning expat clients. For a Xuan Spa for your home and office. facial, massage, nail spa, beauty care & delicate touch. One of the most luxurious spas in Ho 7/30B, Road 13, Binh Hoa waxing services. 15 Thai Van Lung, D1 Chi Minh City, Xuan is located inside Thuan An Town, Binh Duong 1st & 2nd Floor, 45 Nguyen Hue, D1 3822 1515 the five-star Park Hyatt hotel. Services (0650) 376 5115 3821 6469 include packages such as Urban Retreat www.gomo.com.vn L’Apothiquaire - Saigon South 090 337 0507 Package, Apricot blossom – Mai, This Japanese/French style spa is an 1st & 2nd Floor, 92 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Bamboo, and more. 3821 6469 2 Lam Son Square, D1 Lam Bui Natural Home Goods exclusive distributor of organic French Founded in 2004 by a team of 090 337 0507 3824 1234 skin care products, and other exclusive intrepid entrepreneurs, Lam Bui products from around the world. Natural Home Goods is a large, 1st floor, 103 Ton Dat Tien, Tan Phu, D7 Saigon Spa Yuan well-stocked home goods store with Recommended inexpensive spa Despite being labeled as a foot 5413 6638 specialty old-style furnishings and treatments with a full spa menu. massage establishment, Yuan actually decor items. 1st Floor, 47 Dong Khoi, D1 has a full range of services. Customers La Cochinchine Spa Unit 16-17, 2nd Floor, Saigon Centre, 65 6650 4806 usually make appointments. Yuan is Le Loi, D1 especially geared towards Japanese Located in the Rex Hotel, this luxury 3914 3553 spa and fitness centre combined with a Sense Spa expats. swimming pool and bar has a particular Sense Spa is a massage, skin, and body 15B8 Le Thanh Ton, D1 care haven with a plethora of high-end 3825 0795 Mosaique Decoration style that is a combination of Vietnamese, Mosaique Decoration takes all the French, Cham, Hindu, and Asian cultures. imported creams, lotions, and serums. 54 Dong Du, D1 unique beauty and craftsmanship of Luxury spa and gym located at the Rex Yuri Vietnam and adapts it to contemporary hotel. 6299 0964 A full-range Korean beauty salon in the Lotte complex, with a chief focus on home décor. Mosaique offers unique 6F, Rex Hotel, 141 Nguyen Hue, D1 lighting design, decorative embroidery, 3825 1812 Spa InterContinental beautiful hair styling. silk quilts, and other home accessories. [email protected] Spa InterContinental is a 3rd floor, Lotte Mart, 469 Nguyen Huu Ground Floor, Saigon Centre, www.lacochinchine-hcm.net contemporary spa that has two Tho, D7 65 Le Loi, D1 12pm-10:30pm double and five single treatment 3775 2990; 093 481 8085 rooms, each with a private bathroom, 3821 7233 La Maison de L’Apothiquaire a foot reflexology area, and luxurious Yves Rocher Botanical Beauty Spa This unique spa is situated in an changing and shower rooms. A famous international botanical Premium Housewares Providing high quality kitchenware and artfully-designed villa and offers Combining the fresh, local traditional cosmetic brand with a full range of accessories, Premium Housewares guests many therapeutic body and herbs and plants, an ambient lighting, products, The Botanical Beauty Spa presents its products in more than 70 skin treatments. The luxurious villa soft scents and soothing sounds Center combines the expertise of its also provides a yoga studio, enclosed with the best of international brands, beauticians with the efficacy of Yves countries worldwide. garden, and many exclusive skin care Spa InterContinental offers guests Rocher treatments. 77 Pasteur, D1 t s products. the professional spa expertise and a 16-18 Hai Ba Trung, D1 3824 7504 64A Truong Dinh, D3 truly sensory experience. Guests will 3824 8782 3932 5181 experience a quintessentially way of Red Door Décor 100 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 relaxing in which beauty treatments Zest Massage A well-known furniture store in Ho Chi 3822 2158 feature world renowned products. Famous for its fish pedicures, Zest, Minh City offering products such as 1st floor, 103 Ton Dat Tien, Tan Phu, D7 3rd Floor, InterContinental Asiana Saigon located in the outer western region interior/exterior decorations, artwork, 5413 6638 Corner Hai Ba Trung & Le Duan, D1 of District One, serves up some fairly handicrafts, glass ceramics, garments, 3520 9999 dynamic Thai massage. and textile materials. MiMi Clinic & Spa [email protected] 60 Bui Thi Xuan, D1 31A Le Thanh Ton, D1

Prestige Spa for celebrities holding 8am – 9:30pm 6291 6835 3825 8672 expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013

88 BIMAGEusiness BY NguyEn Anh DUc & Tech

Ginkgo

89 BUSINESS FEATURE Fit to a T We speak to Benjamin Grepinet, the brains behind the locally-based Ginkgo T-shirt brand about copycats, fair trade and his new concept store Interview by Christine Van

Why did you pick T-shirts as a business to so I asked her, ‘What is this tree that you are Pham. Have you taken any legal action go into? planting?’ And she answered, ‘It's a ginkgo against that? biloba.’ I immediately understood that I just BG: Seven years ago while I was traveling in found my name because the sound of it was BG: Copycats are a big concern for any serious Vietnam, I was looking for nice graphic T-shirts really different and unique. Also the ginkgo tree company in Vietnam. We took some serious with Asian-themed designs, but all I could find has a powerful meaning, it's the first tree that legal actions in the past, but only for serious were low quality T-shirts with awful graphics. grew after the Hiroshima bomb in Japan, so it's cases like people copying our designs to start That's why I decided to start a business of a symbol of life and strength, exactly what a their brand, or copying our name, logo... For T-shirts one year later. So maybe I would say company needs. other cases, we prefer to spend our energy and that it's the T-shirts business that picked me. time for creativity, create more styles and things Who are your designers? Are they expats that are hard or too expensive to copy. Explain your company’s name. or locals? Can you give me an example? BG: When I was searching for a name and logo, BG: In the very beginning, I was doing I wanted a name that sounds different, that is everything myself. But now, we’ve developed BG: For example, some labels are printed in exotic and makes you think about Asia with a quite a talented team. They are expats, high density - it’s a technique that requires five logo that is easy to recognize with simple forms. and, surely, Vietnamese. I love the way our to ten layers of ink and takes excellent skill and The overall logo should also make you think Vietnamese designers express their culture on time to do it the right way, and it's expensive. about nature, a thing that I respect and love. the T-shirts, and I also love the view of our On a USD2, even a USD5 or USD10, it will be At the time, I was in my home in the expat designers on Vietnam and life in Asia. too costly to do. countryside of France. I was walking in the Moreover, we work on every detail of our village and met a neighbor planting trees. I Do you worry about copycats? I've seen products so that the customer can recognize was quite interested in one tree in particular your same designs selling for USD2 in The that it's a high quality product. We make sure h D Uc E D B Y NguyE n A h E s P RO VID I M AG

90 that any print, embroidery, tag, zipper, fabric, It's quite simple, we send our designs to products. In the Ginkgo Concept Store you will even the thread for sewing is perfect. the representative office in Hanoi, we pay find other brands and designers from all over the amount for the copyright process, and Vietnam. It was created in order to propose to How much do you estimate you lose in terms we receive an official document that proves our customers a shopping space where they of sales because of these copied T-shirts? our designs are copyrighted. It takes one year can find high quality and creative products only though to be really protected and to be able to made in Vietnam. BG: We cannot count how much exactly the start any legal action. I think it's really good that loss is, but it influences our sales somehow. nowadays Vietnamese people are required to Your ethos is organic and sustainable respect these obligations. It will force them to be products with fair trade in mind. How do Locally-based T-shirt company Papaya sells more creative. you maintain this in Vietnam? Where do you similar designs as yours (with the electric source your materials and products? Is wires, graphic novel images, etc) and they How often do you come out with new everything made in Vietnam? opened a year after you. Thoughts? designs? BG: One of our main objectives with the BG: Same same but different. You know BG: We have new stuff almost monthly. We company is to create as many jobs as possible this famous phrase? When we created our are not a fashion company, so the collections and bring a cool and safe working environment company six years ago, and even after one don’t go by season. But we catch the trend as well as a fair salary to all of our employees. year, we were the only one in Saigon with on the colors, the cutting style of the fashion And with everyone, we try to share frankly our this concept. Today there are a few other world, and have a collection of designs that ideas for the same objective: to develop together companies that do the same thing. Clients now go with them. with Ginkgo. have more choices, and I prefer to let them We are a team of creative people, so the Ginkgo’s products are made in Vietnam, in have their own thoughts on them. designs may go out right when we have our factory in Saigon. You are welcome to visit From our side, I still have to say that we are an idea. Like now I'm talking to you, and if us anytime. Most of our materials are produced different. Different in our strategy, different in this special flower in front of us gave me an in Vietnam by the local factories that have been our designs and graphic style, different in our emotion and an idea for a T-shirt, tomorrow our providers since the first day. We're trying to image. Really different in many ways. I can call you and say: ‘Thanks Christine, use local materials as much as possible. But when Ginkgo just got a new design collection of it's not available in Vietnam, we need to import, Are your designs trademarked? Can you Vietnamese flowers.’ like organic cotton. Organic cotton is one of our explain the process? proudest products. It has been quite difficult to You recently opened up the Ginkgo Concept import and we are the first local T-shirt company BG: Yes they are. We trademark all of Store. How is this shop different from the to offer a great collection with this fabric. our designs under the trademark legal T-shirt one? representative office of the Vietnamese For more info, visit www.ginkgo-vietnam. government. BG: Ginkgo T-shirt store sells only Ginkgo com.

91 CHARITY

A Foundation for Hope Breaking the cycle of poverty through small loans Text by Harrison Tripple and Michael Arnold Images provided by Dariu Foundation

Charity work is not without its critics. The model is working in Vietnam. financial education. The old proverb about teaching a man to fish Recognized as one of the top microfinance puts its downside quite plainly – there's only institutions in Vietnam consecutively since Success Stories so much you can do for someone in need 2007, the Dariu Foundation works both with The foundation was established in 2002 by before you’re at risk of creating a dependency the Vietnamese government and in partnership Tomas Trüb of the Swiss media company that could do more harm than good. with other aid organizations to help alleviate Ringier AG, who fell in love with the country That's the concern, in some respects, that the symptoms of poverty – mainly operating during his frequent visits. Tomas has since has given rise to microfinancing. While the in the poorest districts of Tieng Giang, Vinh invested a large amount of his personal fortune idea of a charity that lends rather than gives Long, and Dong Nai provinces. and recruited many other donors to help create seems a little counter-intuitive at first, the “We work with Save the Children and better living conditions and opportunities for hope is that in giving people the opportunity Handicap International, but most of our underprivileged Vietnamese families. to take themselves out of poverty, one cooperation is with the Union of Friendship Since then, the foundation has seen many engenders a sense of self-respect and dignity Organizations working around the Mekong,” success stories. “If they asked someone to that does more to bring about real change says the Director of the Dariu Foundation, lend them money, people would shoo them than the traditional give-and-then-disappear Hanh Nguyen. Although microfinancing away because they wouldn’t believe that they model delivers. A man who learns to fish may projects in the poorest communities are its could spend it wisely and repay the loan,” not go hungry again, but a man who gets the top priority, Dariu also runs mobile schools, says Hanh. “One of the poorest residents, chance to start his own fishing business can offers scholarships for kindergartens, builds Mrs. Ngoc of Vinh Long province, joined our feed a whole town. kindergartens, and provides residents with program in 2008 with a loan of one pig. She

92 had no land, nothing. By 2010, after three years in our program, she was earning more than USD10,000 per year.” The microfinancing program has led to other more diversified projects, including “One of the problems is with the culture,” the mobile schools. These provide children says Hanh when asked why many families in without access to computers or the internet at home with basic skills they’ll need later on in the Mekong Delta and the Dong Nai highlands life to pass high school and university exams. The courses teach the children how to use are lagging behind in education compared to Windows and Microsoft Office, and run for three months. their provincial counterparts. “They think Providing children with these skills heads off compounding issues that may occur in the they can make an income easily so they don’t future. “One of the problems is with the culture,” says Hanh when asked why many families in need to go to high school or university.” the Mekong Delta and the Dong Nai highlands are lagging behind in education compared to their provincial counterparts. “They think they can make an income easily so they don’t need to go to high school or university.” Duong Tran Le Truong, a bright 15-year- old boy from Go Cong Dong, currently takes courses at the mobile school in his community. The school has motivated him to work in the IT field. “I’m happy because I can learn and improve my skills for a better future,” he says. “I’d love it if some more programs like this could come to my community.” The Dariu Foundation and the mobile schools they run have become well-respected in the areas in which they are provided. With the excellent reception and success of the program, Dariu is currently working on expanding the school’s model to other countries such as Myanmar and Kenya. Education for the Poor The scholarships provided by Dariu are a little different from what most people imagine by the term. In the most hard-hit impoverished areas, barriers to schooling are far more fundamental than the lack of a seat at school. Scholarships mainly go to poor families who have children of around kindergarten age, and are in the form of school supplies such as uniforms, notebooks, pencils, and bikes for students living a long distance from their closest school. This year, the foundation is looking to provide around 2,000 scholarships, 1,000 of those in the form of imported bicycles from the US. Because of the Vietnamese administration’s need for more than 3,000 additional kindergarten classrooms in the Mekong Delta, the Dariu Foundation has also made a large investment in building classrooms in the area. Both the government and Dariu share the costs of building the preschools 50-50, with the former assuming all responsibilities after construction is completed. “The government provides teachers’ salaries, furniture, toys, and all the necessities. We just help to build the schools,” Hanh explains. Of course, without donations and the support of international organizations, Dariu wouldn’t be able to run the projects that they do. With an official staff of 70 employees, they are always appreciative of the enthusiasm of newcomers wishing to join their cause. For those HCMC-based earners who prefer to invest in charitable work rather than the alternative, it’s worth taking a look at the Dariu Foundation website at www.dariu.org to learn how to get involved.

93 LEGAL EASE legal Column

My wife and I are both French citizens and we would like to adopt a Vietnamese baby, however, as my name is not Brad Pitt and as I am unfortunately not married to Angelina Jolie, I expect that the process for us may be quite complicated. Could you please give us some information about the conditions that A member of the Paris Bar, Hadrien Wolff has been practicing law in Vietnam for six years, currently as a partner of Audier & we must fulfill and the steps that we should take in Partners. He specializes in banking and corporate law, regularly advising major foreign banks and assisting foreign investors in order to adopt a child here? setting up joint venture companies with Vietnamese partners in sensitive sectors such as media, power and natural resources

In Vietnam, matters relating to capacity to act. You must at least be 20 intends, among other things, to ensure adoption are governed by the Vietnamese years older than the child. You must be that intercountry adoptions take place in Law on Adoption of 2010 and the able to provide the health, financial and the best interests of the child, and with implementing Decree No. 19/2011/ND-CP accommodation conditions to assure good respect to the fundamental rights of the (Decree 19). Additionally, Vietnam has care, nurture and education of the child. child and to promote cooperation between been a member of the Hague Adoption You must have good ethical qualities. the member countries. Even though Convention since 2010, and has signed And, finally, you must meet all conditions Vietnam ratified this Convention in 2011, bilateral adoption agreements with various required by the law of the country of intercountry adoption from Vietnam has countries. your permanent residence concerning recently been subject to scandals involving For a non-Vietnamese citizen who wants intercountry adoption. alleged falsification of adoption papers and to adopt a child in Vietnam, the most Those who are not allowed to adopt human trafficking. As a result, the US has relevant principles, rights and obligations, children in Vietnam include ones whose put a ban on all adoptions from Vietnam, conditions and procedures can be found in parental rights over a minor child have which is still in force today. the Law on Adoption. Article 4 of this law been restricted and persons who have a To answer your question: Is the contains an important restriction: “Adoption criminal record relating to serious offences. process of adopting a baby from Vietnam by a person living abroad is only allowed If you meet all of these conditions, then complicated? Depending on your situation, when no domestic substitute family can be it is time for the paperwork! Both the Law the answer would probably be 'yes'. Is it found.” The law also provides for a priority on Adoption and Decree 19 contain detailed impossible? Well, as long as you are not list, whereby foreigners permanently provisions on the required documents that Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, or a citizen of a residing abroad are ranked fifth place, should be submitted to the Vietnamese country suspending intercountry adoptions after family members of the adopted child, Department of Adoption under the Ministry from Vietnam then no, it is not! Vietnamese citizens permanently residing of Justice, which is the authority in charge of If you have any legal questions you want in the country, foreigners permanently processing your adoption dossier. In practice, answered, send them to legal@oivietnam. residing in Vietnam, and Vietnamese the whole process can take several months. com. citizens settling abroad. The Hague Adoption Convention of 1993 In practice, every year a few thousand so-called “intercountry adoptions” from Vietnam take place, where the Vietnamese government actively encourages the adoption of disadvantaged children, such as abandoned and disabled children or children with serious illnesses like HIV/ AIDS or heart disease.

According to the Law on Adoption, one single foreigner or two foreigners (husband and wife) can adopt a Vietnamese child under 16-years-old if either meets one of the following criteria:

1) You are the stepfather or stepmother of the child. 2) You are the natural aunt or uncle of the child. 3) You have previously adopted a sibling of the child. 4) The child is disabled or infected with HIV/AIDS or another dangerous disease. 5) You are currently working or studying in Vietnam for at least one year.

On top of that you must have full civil

94 MONEY TALKS FINANCE Column

I have USD5,000 in a bank but it's just sitting there and not earning interest. What's the best way for me to invest it? Ideally I would like to Afonso Vieira is an investment manager and financial planner. He double that in six months. Any advice or options? is licensed by the Financial Planning Association of Singapore.

So you want to double your money Investors understand that markets can their money. in six months. Great! That means 100 go down for short periods of time but To summarize: now you are a saver percent return in half-year, which that over the long run markets will grow (your money is “just sitting there”) and compounded annually is 400 percent and generate higher returns than bank are considering becoming a gambler. return per year. I only know of one place deposits. Investors assume the risk of Let’s look at both options. If you gamble where you can get that type of returns: being “underwater” during the investment in a casino you are playing a negative- a casino. But innately we know that period, and are comfortable with it. They sum game. This is because the system investing is not about gambling. True, have a long-term horizon (several years) is designed so that the house pays out there are clear parallels between the two. while investing and feel comfortable less than what it takes in. On the other Both call for you to calculate the odds on to buy “more of the same” even during hand, stock investing is a positive-sum a given ‘bet,’ but it is foolish to regard economic contraction periods. "game." Since the Industrial Revolution them as one and the same activity. Speculators are consciously very began in Western Europe in the late 18th Generally speaking, investment aggressive investors and buy/sell in century, most of the world’s economies professionals believe there are four types less than six months. Many even buy/ have witnessed an unprecedented increase of participant attitudes in the financial sell on the same day, hour or minute. in output. We are all richer today then markets: savers, investors, speculators, Some use borrowed money to leverage we were 50 or 100 years ago. Over time, and gamblers. their positions in the market and try to economies expand and companies increase Savers are afraid of the market, usually outsmart them with the help of statistical their value. The aggregate gains made by because they don’t understand why techniques and other trading methods. shareholders must of necessity match the markets go up and down. They park their Usually they end up making a lot of business gains of companies. So when you money in low risk vehicles to protect money or losing almost all. Speculators invest in the stock market you are actually it against inflation, usually in bank are aware of the high risk they incur and investing in the economy. accounts and tangible real estate assets. feel comfortable with it. My suggestion: become an investor, In some emerging markets like Vietnam, Gamblers are born-losers that and understand that returns are obtained collectibles like jewelry, and gold/ silver participate in the market for the thrill of with discipline, patience, and over the are also used. a big win, and usually end up losing all long-run.

95 The List

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3910 2903 Mon-Fri: 8am - 3pm Mon-Fri: 8am-11am; 1.30pm - 5pm automobile claims support services and expa At L i s ting Co p yr ight ©2013

96 long-term insurance to individuals and premier full-service law firms, covering competitive advantage to clients and & relocations, with 128 offices in 78 corporations. all aspects of domestic and international companies. countries, they can move you to/or Unit 809, 8th Floor, 115 Nguyen Hue, D1 business and corporate activity. 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Minh Khai, D1. 3821 3316 One of the largest and most respected overhead and focus on core business 1K Ngo Van So, D4. 3941 1179 providers of moving services worldwide, Prudential Vietnam activities. 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97 Faces & Places

Book Launch Clothes & Art The debut of the first edition of Saigon Artbook drew "Silk of Light," currently on displayed at Phuong My clothing in a large crowd of art lovers who were excited to meet shop, is a body of work inspired by light as both a physical the three artists featured in the book. In turn, the artists and metaphorical medium. Bao Chau carefully studies the themselves became celebrities for a night by signing process of light as it covers, disperses and adjusts to the autographs for fans. surface of different materials.

IMAGEs bY ADAM YOUNG IMAGEs bY ADAM YOUNG

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