Ho Chi Minh city hosts a thriving expat community drawn by its affordable cost of living, career opportunities, and vibrant culture. Significant populations of expats from the U.S., Europe, Korea, and Japan have made their home here. The city offers numerous a venues for connection, such as language exchange events, expat social groups, and international community hubs. Whether you're attending meet-ups in District 1or joining professional networking events, finding your tribe in Ho Chi Minh City is easy and rewarding. Join our community of over 150 members who have relocated to Ho Chi Minh City! Connect with fellow expats, share experiences, and build your network in one of the world’s most diverse cities.

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Co-working spaces

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Ho Chi Minh City’s co-working scene is thriving, catering to digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and established professionals. Here are some top options:

• WeWork: Centrally located in District 1, offering stylish workspaces, high-speed Wi-Fi, private offices, and regular networking events.
• Dreamplex: Multiple locations in District 1 and Binh Thanh, designed for creatives and startups. Known for flexible plans, a supportive community, and wellness programs.
• The Hive Saigon: A stylish co-working space in District 2’s Thao Dien area. Offers private offices, hot desks, and a rooftop terrace for work and networking.
• Toong Co-working Space: Located in District 3, blending modern facilities with artistic decor. Focused on fostering creativity and innovation.
• Regus's Zeta Buildling: Nestled in Ho Chi Minh City features modern coworking and private offices in Phú Nhuận District, close to Tan Son Nhat Airport. Equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi and meeting facilities, it’s ideal for businesses seeking convenience.

Public workspaces

Ho Chi Minh City also provides several public spaces ideal for remote work and networking:

• The Workshop Coffee: A chic coffee shop in District 1 with a productive atmosphere, great coffee, and free Wi-Fi.
• Artisan Saigon: A cafe in District 3 known for its quiet ambiance, power outlets, and reliable internet, perfect for remote workers.
• Ho Chi Minh City Central Library: Offers a serene environment for study or work, along with free Wi-Fi and a wealth of resources.

Company presence

Ho Chi Minh City is a major business hub in Vietnam, with various industries contributing to its robust economy:

• Technology: Regional offices for companies like Intel, Microsoft, and Samsung, alongside a booming software outsourcing industry.
• Finance: Hosts key players like Vietcom bank, TechCom bank, and regional offices for international banks like HSBC and Citibank.
• Manufacturing: A leading center for electronics and textiles, with companies like Panasonic and Nike operating significant facilities.
• Retail and E-commerce: Regional operations for Shopee, Lazada, and Tiki.vn.
• Hospitality and tourism: Home to international hotel chains like Marriott and InterContinental, leveraging its tourism prominence.

Startup culture

Ho Chi Minh City has a thriving startup ecosystem, supported by government incentives, incubators, and accelerators. The city excels in fintech, logistics, and e-commerce sectors.

• Saigon Innovation Hub (SIHUB): A government-backed initiative providing mentorship, funding, and networking for entrepreneurs.
• Dreamplex Innovation Hub: Offers resources and collaboration spaces for startups and small businesses.
• Vietnam Silicon Valley (VSV): A program supporting startups with funding, training, and international exposure.

Notable startups include VNG Corporation, MoMo (mobile payment), and Tiki.vn (e-commerce), which have gained regional and global attention.

Networking opportunities

Ho Chi Minh City boasts a vibrant networking scene, providing platforms for professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors to connect:

• Vietnam Tech Conference: An annual event showcasing innovations and connecting startups with investors.
• Ho Chi Minh City Entrepreneurs Hub: Regular meetups and workshops for business professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs.
• Co-working events: Spaces like Dreamplex and The Hive host frequent networking events, skill-sharing workshops, and industry talks.

Attractions

Ho Chi Minh City is rich in history and culture, offering a blend of colonial architecture, historic landmarks, and bustling markets. Here are some must-visit attractions:

• Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon: A stunning French colonial-era cathedral located in the heart of the city, featuring red brick construction and stained-glass windows.
• Ben Thanh Market: A vibrant market offering everything from souvenirs to local street food, perfect for experiencing the city’s lively atmosphere.
• War Remnants Museum: A sobering yet informative museum documenting the Vietnam War, showcasing photographs, artifacts, and historical narratives.
• Independence Palace (Reunification Palace): A landmark of historic significance, this palace played a key role during the Vietnam War and is now open to the public.
• Cu Chi Tunnels: Located just outside the city, this underground network of tunnels gives visitors a glimpse into the ingenuity of war time strategies used by the Viet Cong.
• Bitexco Financial Tower Sky deck: Offering panoramic views of the city, this modern skyscraper is a symbol of Ho Chi Minh City’s rapid urban development.
• Thien Hau Temple: Located in District 5, this beautiful temple dedicated to the goddess of the sea showcases intricate Chinese architecture and a peaceful ambiance.

Festivals and holidays

Festivals:

• Tet (Lunar New Year): Vietnam’s most important festival, celebrated in late January or early February with family gatherings, traditional meals, and vibrant street decorations.
• Mid-Autumn Festival (September/October): A celebration of harvest and family, featuring lantern parades, mooncakes, and cultural performances.
• Ao Dai Festival (March): A tribute to Vietnam’s iconic traditional dress, showcasing vibrant fashion shows, exhibitions, and cultural events throughout the city.

Holidays:

• Reunification Day (April 30): Marking the end of the Vietnam War in 1975, this day is celebrated with parades, fireworks, and cultural events.
• Vietnam National Day (September 2): A patriotic holiday featuring public celebrations, fireworks, and community gatherings.
• Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day (April): Honoring Vietnam’s legendary founders, this day is celebrated with offerings and ceremonies at temples across the country.

Local celebrities

• Nguyen Cong Tri: An internationally acclaimed fashion designer whose creations have been worn by global celebrities like Rihanna and Katy Perry.
• Son Tung M-TP: A Vietnamese pop sensation known for his catchy music and influence on the country’s entertainment scene.
• Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh: The first female Acting President of Vietnam, celebrated for her contributions to the nation’s leadership.

Fun fact

Ho Chi Minh City was formerly known as Saigon and retains this name in many cultural and historical contexts. The name change occurred in1976 to honor revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh after reunification.

Local cuisine

Ho Chi Minh City’s food scene is a delightful mix of bold flavors and culinary traditions. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Pho: Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup, typically made with beef or chicken, and flavored with fragrant herbs and spices.
• Banh Mi: A fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine, this baguette sandwich is filled with meats, pickled vegetables, and pâté.
• Com Tam (Broken Rice): A flavorful dish of broken rice served with grilled pork, a fried egg, and fish sauce.
• Banh Xeo: Crispy Vietnamese pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
• Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls): Fresh rolls made with rice paper, shrimp, pork, and vegetables, dipped in peanut sauce.
• Che: A popular dessert made with sweet beans, jelly, and coconut milk, served hot or cold.

Street food is an integral part of Ho Chi Minh City’s culture, with vendors offering everything from steaming bowls of noodles to skewered meats grilled over open flames. Don’t miss the bustling food stalls atBen Thanh Market or street corners in District 1 for an authentic culinary adventure.

Do's and Don'ts

✅ Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting pagodas or temples. Dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) and remove your shoes before entering sacred spaces.

✅ Do learn basic Vietnamese phrases like “Xin chào” (hello) and “Cảm ơn” (thank you).A small effort to speak Vietnamese is greatly appreciated by locals.

✅ Do bargain politely at markets like Ben Thanh, but ensure the negotiation remains friendly and respectful.

❌ Don’t touch someone’s head or point your feet at people or sacred objects, as it’s considered disrespectful in Vietnamese culture.

❌ Don’t take photos of military sites or uniformed personnel, as it’s prohibited and may lead to misunderstandings.

❌ Don’t raise your voice or lose your temper in public; maintaining calmness and respect is highly valued in Vietnamese society.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory in Ho Chi Minh City but is appreciated in certain situations. Here’s a quick guide:

• Restaurants: 5-10% of the bill if service is excellent or no service charge is included.
• Street food vendors: Not expected, but rounding up the bill is a kind gesture.
• Taxis: Rounding up the fare is customary and appreciated.
• Hotels: 20,000 - 50,000 VNC for bellhops or housekeeping is a kind tip.

Equivalent services & platforms

^{Taxi service} _{Grab, Gojek, traditional metered taxis}

^Supermarket _{Co.opmart, Lotte Mart, Vin Mart}

^Messaging _{Zalo, WhatsApp}

^{Food delivery} _{Grab Food, Shopee Food, Baemin}

^{Internet provider} _{Viettel, FPT Telecom, VNPT}

^{Bank Vietcom bank}_{, TechCom bank}

^{Hotel booking} _{Agoda, Booking.com}

^Streaming _{Netflix, Spotify, FPT Play}

‍Apps to download before arrival

^{Navigation & transit} _{Google Maps, BusMap}

^Ride-hailing _{Grab, Gojek}

^{Food & dining} _{GrabFood, Shopee Food}

^{Daily essentials} _{Lazada, Shopee}

^{Currency & language} _{XE Currency, Google Translate}

^{Weather & city info} _{AccuWeather, Vietnam Weather}

Disclaimer:This city guide is based on personal research, experiences, and various onlinesources. While we strive for accuracy and inclusivity, the content isgeneralized and may not reflect all individual circumstances or perspectives.Readers are encouraged to double-check information for accuracy and relevanceto their specific needs. Updated as of November 2024, this guide is forinformational purposes only. We disclaim all liability for decisions made basedon this guide.

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