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Brandon Coleman

Khôi Phạm

in Food Culture

From Kuy Teav to Hủ Tiếu: How a Phnom Penh Classic Became Hủ Tiếu Nam Vang

Originally from Cambodia, made popular by Chinese vendors and enjoyed by local diners, hủ tiếu Nam Vang captures the essence of Vietnamese history in one hearty bowl of noodles.

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: A Long-Anticipated Bowl of D10's Pre-Eminent Mì Vịt Tiềm

Rarely have I gone into a meal with such anticipation.

Khôi Phạm

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: A Trip to Bàn Cờ for Lạng Sơn’s Sweet and Sour Dry Phở

There’s not much you can say about phở that hasn't already been said. From its complicated origin to its deliciousness to its ubiquity on Saigon’s streets, the subject has been covered ...

Khôi Phạm

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: The 40-Year-Old Phở Gà in Kỳ Đồng, Now Michelin-Approved

If you’re ever lost in District 3, Kỳ Đồng’s famous phở gà place will be the oasis you need in those trying times.

Khôi Phạm

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: 60 Years of Guangdong-Style Chinese Food at Chợ Cũ's Chuyên Ký

Besides being the “it” place to obtain imported goods, Saigon’s chợ cũ, or Old Market, is also a treasure trove of hidden eateries.

in Development

After Years of Delay, Operating Company of Saigon's 1st Metro Line Is Broke

Years of delay, which has been further compounded by the extended pandemic, have depleted the funding for Saigon Metro's operator.

in Saigon

Saigon Restaurants, Cafes Resume In-Person Dining at 50% Capacity

What's the first restaurant on your list?

in Saigon

D1 Proposes VND32.5bn Revamp Project of Me Linh Square Park

The VND32.5 billion (US$1.4 million) effort will focus on repairing the T​rần Hưng Đạo Statue, planting ornamental trees and performing road repairs.  

in Saigon

Saigon Approves Removal of 178 Trees for Bach Dang Wharf Renovation Project

They were nice while they lasted.

in Tech

New Decree Imposes up to VND100m Penalty on Spam Texts, Calls

Will this stop the barrage of real estate and online game solicitations attacking our inboxes?

in Vietnam

Morning Stories Roundup: IT Demand, New Hospital, and SIM Cards Restriction

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Each morning, we select some of the most important stories from Saigon, the rest of Vietnam and beyond, and digest them...

in Vietnam

Bars, Cinemas, Sports Get Green Light, Karaoke and Clubs Remain Closed

Vietnam residents can now knock back a few cold ones at their local watering hole, but they'll have to leave their karaoke dreams at home.

in Vietnam

Vietnam Is Among Countries With Lowest Online Civility, Microsoft Report Shows

Microsoft has found an increase in online incivility globally, with Vietnam ranking as one of the least digitally civil.

in Food Culture

Cơm Tấm Crisis: Price of Pork Dishes Increases as Pork Shortage Hits Saigon

Back in July, it was predicted that Vietnam's recent African swine fever outbreak might cause a pork shortage that could last until 2020.

in Development

Saigon Authorities Cut $147m From Metro Line 1’s Cost

Work on the first metro line is 75% complete.

in Saigon

Site Clearance for Saigon Metro Line 2 Expected to Finish in June 2020

While progress on Saigon’s first metro line is somewhat nearing the finish line, the city’s second line is undergoing site clearance.

in Vietnam

Morning Stories Roundup: Storm Matmo Causes Widespread Blackout in Central Region

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Each morning, we select some of the most important stories from Saigon, the rest of Vietnam and beyond, and digest them...

in Vietnam

From January 2020, New Alcohol Law Will Make Coercing Others to Drink Illegal

Be gone, peer-pressured drinking.

in Food Culture

Vietnam Crowned Asia's Leading Culinary, Cultural Destination at World Travel Awards

Vietnam’s rising position in the global tourism arena was recently recognized by scores of accolades at the World Travel Awards.

in Vietnam

68% of Vietnamese Insist on Driving Themselves Home After Drinking Sessions

More than two-thirds of people who drink at a nhậu session or restaurant admit to driving afterwards, contributing significantly to traffic accidents. 

in Tech

HCMC Becomes First Locality in Vietnam to Run 5G Trial Program

Saigon has become the first place in Vietnam to have 5G coverage.

in Vietnam

Pork Shortage Caused by African Swine Fever Might Last Until 2020

As of June 28, African swine fever had spread to 60 provinces and cities and resulted in the culling of three million pigs, or 10% of the total number of pigs in Vietnam.

in Food Culture

Each Vietnamese Consumes 3kg of Beef, 20l of Milk Annually, Minister Says

Despite the country’s rising wealth, Vietnam still consumes a modest amount of beef compared with the world average.

in Saigon

Financial Woes Haunt Saigon Public Transport as Bus Ads Attract Zero Interest

Advertising on buses is falling out of favor in the eyes of Saigon’s advertisers.

in Food Culture

The Familial Vietnamese Ritual of Making Spring Rolls

“Nem rán (fried spring rolls), or just nem for short, has been a part of life in Hanoi since forever. Whenever I think of this dish, I think of my mother. That is because only nem made at home by my m...

in Saigon

Saigon Will Not Ban Motorbikes, Only Impose Restrictions: Official

Motorbike use will only be restricted, and only after proper public transportation infrastructure is set in place. 

in Development

Cash-Strapped Saigon Metro Project Requests $1.68m From City to Pay Staff

The management team of Saigon's ongoing metro project has requested advance funds from the city to pay employees who have only received partial salaries since January.

in Tech

Vietnam to Test 5G Technology Next Year for 2020 Launch

The fifth generation of cellular mobile technology promises superior speed, higher bandwidth and better responsiveness.

in Saigon

After a Two-Year Renovation Project, Binh Tay Market Will Reopen Next Month

After months of operating in sub-optimal conditions, vendors and customers of Binh Tay Market are finally allowed to move back in.

in Saigon

Saigoneers Prefer Vietnam's Paper Lanterns Over Chinese Ones. Artisans Can Barely Keep Up.

In recent years, locally produced paper lanterns have slowly taken back the mid-autumn market from their Chinese counterparts.

in Vietnam

Vietnam Wants to Limit Alcohol Sale Hours to Combat Social, Health Issues

The plan is the latest in an effort to address issues arising from late-night drinking. 

in Saigon

HCMC Archbishop Impersonated by Scammers in Notre Dame Donation Fraud

The archdiocese at the Notre Dame Cathedral emphasizes that there is only one official call for donation to the cathedral’s renovation fund made by Father Bui Van Doc.

in Saigon

Saigon Starts Seeking Investors for Metro Line 5

While Saigon’s first metro line is still very much under construction, municipal authorities are hoping to get the ball rolling on the city’s Metro Line 5.

Michael Tatarski

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: A No-Name Chợ Cũ Food Collective to Satisfy All Your Snack Cravings

Some street eateries in Saigon are so good they don't need a name.

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: HCMC Seeks Visa Waiver Extension to Boost Tourism

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Vietnamese books introduced at India’s international book fair [SGGP] ▪ HCM ...

Brian Letwin

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Chu Se's 65 Years of Hủ Tiếu Mì by the Calmette Bridge

Saigon is home to a number of street food eateries that span generations, from a 100-year old vegetarian joint to a 70-year-old hủ tiếu Mỹ Tho restaurant right in the heart of District 1.

Michael Tatarski

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Fine Dining at a Budget Price in Binh Thanh's Mai Sen Bistro

When it comes to dining in Binh Thanh District, most Saigoneers probably think of street food, or perhaps the strip of Japanese establishments on Pham Viet Chanh Street.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Photochemical Smog Threatens Public Health in HCMC

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Vietnam's deputy PM takes to the streets to celebrate U23 Asian Cup semifinal victory&n...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam to Face Uzbekistan in AFC U-23 Final on Saturday

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Vietnam to play against Uzbekistan in AFC U23 champs final [VietnamNet] ▪ ...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: UNESCO Discusses New Approach to Study Vietnam’s Heritage

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ UNESCO discusses new approach to study Vietnam’s heritage [DTI] ▪ Vietnam in...

in Vietnam

Vietnam Considers Increasing Retirement Age in 2021

In a recent draft bill, the Ministry of Labour, Invalids, and Social Affairs proposed raising Vietnam’s retirement age to 60 for female workers and 62 for male workers, starting from 2021.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Death Toll From Air Pollution 4 Times Higher Than Traffic Accidents

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Death toll from air pollution four times higher than traffic accidents [VietnamNet...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam PM Asks Banking Sector to Cut Interest Rates to Spur Economic Growth

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Ministries disagree on plan to raise taxes [VietnamNet] ▪ Vietnamese PM asks...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: HCMC to Call on Investors in Anti-Flooding, Wastewater Treatment

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ HCMC to call on investors in anti-flooding, wastewater treatment [SGGP] ▪ Gr...

Thi Nguyen

in Literature

On Reading Thi Bui's Illustrated Memoir 'The Best We Could Do' in Saigon

One of my favorite pastimes during summer holidays was reading through the textbooks for my next school year. History textbooks were the most interesting and fun to read: they were like the Harry Pott...

Khoi Pham

in Food Culture

Cơm Âm Phủ: Hue’s ‘Purgatory Rice’ That Tastes Like Heaven

Throughout the Vietnam’s decades of development from a war-torn nation to one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies, rags-to-riches stories are a dime a dozen. This is especially true in the country’s c...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Uber Files Lawsuit Against HCMC’s $2.3m Tax Demand

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Hanoi to spend VND2.5bn to repair the ceramic mural [DTI] ▪ Uber files lawsu...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Toyota Vietnam Recalls Another 8,000 Cars Over Airbag Fault

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Hanoi, Da Nang among world’s top trending destinations in 2018: Airbnb [VnExpress]...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: 13m Foreigners Spend Holidays in Vietnam in 2017

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ 13 million foreigners spend holidays in Vietnam in 2017 [DTI] ▪ Vietnamese i...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam’s Banking Sector Expects 44% Surge in Profits in 2017

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Vietnam escapes damage after typhoon takes heavy toll in Philippines [Reuters] ▪&...

in Society

[Photos] Catholic Neighborhoods in Saigon Celebrate Christmas With Elaborate Nativity Scenes

Unlike most of the western world, Saigoneers see Christmas as less of a time for cozy gatherings at home with family and friends but more as an oppotunity to take to the street to bask in the festive ...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Experts Warn Vietnamese Investors of Bitcoin Bubble

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Experts warn Vietnamese investors of bitcoin bubble [DTI] ▪ Tourism sector u...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Launches School of Aerospace Engineering

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Deadly Tropical Storm Kai-tak to threaten southern Vietnam, Malay Peninsula with heavy ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam’s Economy to Reach $300bn by 2020

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Vietnam’s economy to reach 300 billion USD by 2020 [DTI] ▪ Inspectors find n...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Saigon Woman Finally Granted Visa to See Dying Father in US

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Saigon woman finally granted visa to see dying father in US [VnExpress] ▪ Ho...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: McDonald's Opens First Store in Hanoi

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ McDonald's opens first store in Hanoi  [Tuoi Tre] ▪ Global giants see Vietna...

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: In Hẻm 284, O Thu Brings a Touch of Hue to Saigon With Cơm Hến

As the sun went down and Saigon’s throngs of workers ventured out of their office nests to fill local streets, I was perched on a red plastic stool in a hẻm in District 3 weeping and snorting like an ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: HCMC Kindergarten Owner Arrested for Child Abuse

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ 145 options proposed for greenhouse gas mitigation [DTI] ▪ HCM City nursery ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Ministry Plans Free Education for Primary, Secondary School Students

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Ministry plans free education for primary and secondary pupils [DTI] ▪ Six-y...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Programmer Hints at 'Flappy Bird' Return

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Vietnam Stocks Electrified as Deals Prompt ‘Re-Rating’ of Market [Bloomberg] ▪&nb...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Approves Bill Letting Banks Be Declared Bankrupt

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Vietnam approves bill letting banks be declared bankrupt [Reuters] ▪ Senior ...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Vietnamese Pilot Among 4 Dead in UK Air Crash

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Vietnamese pilot among four dead in UK air crash [VnExpress] ▪ ​Ho Chi Minh ...

in Saigon

Saigon Leader Slams Sidewalk-Clearing Campaign for Being 'Inhumane'

Saigon's controversial sidewalk-clearing campaign came in for criticism from the city's leader earlier this week.

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Chinese-Malaysian Noodles and Saigon's New Generation of Street Food

When it comes to Saigon’s culinary landscape, the southern hub is pretty progressive. In addition to an array of Vietnamese dishes from every corner of the country, the city has also acquired a cosmop...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: ASEAN Sends Aid to Typhoon Victims in Vietnam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Global coal price hike could cost Vietnam $1.27 billion per year: report [VnExpres...

in Saigon

Amid Line 1 Delays, Saigon Plans to Start Building Metro Line 3A

While progress on Saigon’s Metro Line 1 and Line 2 is lagging behind due to delays in funding reimbursement and land clearance, city officials have recently finished a formal plan to commence construc...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Ryan Giggs to Become Director of Football at Vietnam Academy

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Ryan Giggs to take director of football job at Vietnamese academy [Tuoi Tre]

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: During Hanoi Visit, Trump Offers to 'Mediate' in East Sea Dispute

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ ​Trump in Hanoi offers to 'mediate' on East Vietnam Sea dispute [Tuoi Tre] ▪ ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: HCMC Launches Bilingual Tourism Magazine

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ HCM City launches bilingual tourism magazine [DTI] ▪ Trump and Putin set to ...

in Music & Arts

Exploring the Human Condition Through a Fusion of the Familiar and the Strange

In his most recent exhibition, "Paradise Lost", Hoi An-based artist Hoang Thanh Vinh Phong offers a menacing interpretation of day-to-day life. In a selection of seven works of art spanning multiple m...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: 3 Moon Bears Freed After Nearly 20 years Behind Bars in Vietnam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ 3 moon bears freed after nearly 20 years behind bars in Vietnam [VnExpress] ▪&nbs...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: The Ingenuity of 24-Way Grilled Oysters in D4

Innovation is important. With a healthy imagination and a bit of gusto, humans have the ability to create everything from DIY submarines to all-terrain wheelchairs to helmets specifically for married ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Over 1,000 Khaisilk Products Confiscated in HCMC Amid Mislabeling Crisis

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Over 1,000 Khaisilk products confiscated in Ho Chi Minh City amid mislabeling crisis&nb...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Da Nang Schools, Agencies to Have Days off During APEC Week

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Da Nang schools, agencies to be given days off during APEC week [Tuoi Tre] ▪ ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Spends $9.4bn on Debts This Year

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Vinamilk tops list of prestigious food – beverage firms in 2017 [SGGP] ▪ Vie...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam's Tourist Arrivals up 28% Compared to Last Year

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Vietnam’s inflation edges closer to annual limit in October [VnExpress] ▪ To...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Photographer Wins International Environmental Photo Prize

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Grab, Uber benefit from ‘unfair competition’: Vietnamese ministries [VnExpress] ▪...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Made-in-Vietnam Chemotherapeutic Drug Reduces Treatment Cost by 60%

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Foreign ownership in Techcombank officially at 0% [VnExpress] ▪ Vietnamese c...

in Society

Readers’ Choice: What Are Saigon’s Best Up-and-Coming Neighborhoods?

As Saigon continues to grow and develop by the day, the city's transformation is more visible in some neighborhoods than others. Earlier this month, we asked Saigoneer readers to let us know which nei...

in Development

Japan's Aid Agency Voices Concerns Over Vietnam's Handling of ODA Loans for Metro Projects

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is not happy about how the Vietnamese government manages its official development assistance (ODA) loans.

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: HCMC Wants to Ban Jeans, T-Shirts in Public Offices

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Ho Chi Minh City wants to ban jeans and T-shirts in public offices [VnExpress] ▪&...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: The Green Delight of Phu Yen's Bánh Canh Hẹ

In the age of the internet, we go back and forth about everything, including whether or not the most important meal of the day is, in fact, important. While members of the medical profession continue ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Typhoon Khanun Weakens Into Tropical Depression

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Typhoon Khanun weakens into tropical depression [SGGP] ▪ Vietnam’s ‘Glorious...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Floods Kills 83, More Rain on the Way

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Vietnam floods killed 83 and more rain on the way [VnExpress] ▪ Provinces re...

in Food Culture

Viet Nam Mien Ngon: A Journey in Watercolor Through Vietnam's Diverse Cuisine

Vietnam has long been an enthralling destination for foodies near and far – just ask Anthony Bourdain, the globetrotting New York chef who has repeatedly professed his love for the Southeast Asian cou...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vingroup's Retail Unit Launches up to $713m IPO, Vietnam's Largest

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ▪ Vingroup's retail unit launches up to $713 million IPO, Vietnam's largest [VnExpre...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Named Asia-Pacific’s Best Golf Destination in 2017

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam named Asia-Pacific’s best golf destination in 2017 [VietnamNet] Uber Vietn...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Withdraws Run for UNESCO Director General

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam withdraws run for UNESCO Director General position [VietnamNet] Vietnam’s ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Launches 3rd Pair of Locally-Made Guided Missile Corvettes

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam launches third pair of locally-made guided missile corvettes [Tuoi Tre] Ho...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Binh Dinh Company Director Detained for Huge Forest Destruction Crime

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Director detained for huge forest destruction crime [DTI] ​Industrial park develop...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Puts Forward Candidate as UNESCO Seeks New Leader to Revive Fortunes

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam puts forward candidate as UNESCO seeks new leader to revive fortunes [VnExpress...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: The Sumptuous Street Snacks of Ha Cao Ban Co

Whether we’re talking about the packaged foods aisle at Circle K or the lady whipping up bánh tráng trộn on the street corner, snack foods often meet two distinct criteria: they are both delicious and...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Tourism Firm Fined for Encroaching on Nha Trang Bay

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Tourism firm fined for encroaching on Nha Trang Bay [DTI] ​Ho Chi Minh City buildi...

in Culture

[Photos] Color and Lights: Tet Trung Thu on D5's Lantern Street

Every fall, District 5’s Luong Nhu Hoc Street becomes a melee of lanterns, kids’ toys and dragon dance paraphernalia ahead of the Mid-Autumn Festival.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Accused Women Plead Not Guilty in Kim Jong Nam Poisoning Trial

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Kim Jong-nam poisoning trial: accused women plead not guilty [The Guardian] Ho Chi...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Chinese Tourists Top List of Foreign Visitors to Vietnam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. South Korean appointed national football team coach [DTI] Chinese tourists top lis...

in Arts & Culture

Board Game Van Tich Turns Vietnamese Legends Into Action Figures

Step into Nguyen Huu Tu’s office, and it’s pretty clear from the get-go how he feels about action figures. Running along one side of the room are several display cases, each housing an array of superh...

Khoi Pham

in Food Culture

Bánh Cuốn, Chee Cheong Fun and Pork Intestine Rice Rolls: A Sprawling Family Tree

One of Vietnam’s most common breakfast foods, bánh cuốn, might not save a life – not in the way that a bowl of hearty phở can – but the silky rice rolls sure do make living easier.

in Health

Vietnam's Abortion Rates Remain Highest in Asia Due to Lack of Awareness

The frequency of unplanned pregnancies and abortions among young Vietnamese remains high despite government efforts to raise awareness on effective contraception.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam's Internet Cables to Be Completely Fixed This Weekend

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Repairs to Vietnam's submarine internet cables set for completion this weekend [VnExpre...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Official Says Giving Students English Name 'Not Good for Traditional Education'

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Giving students English names ‘not good for traditional education’: Vietnam official [T...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: 3 New Caves to Open to Tourists at Vietnam’s Phong Nha-Ke Bang

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam rice paper artisans roll with tradition [Jakarta Post] Three new caves to ...

in Tech

Vietnam to Allow Switching Mobile Carrier While Retaining Phone Number This December

If you’ve been thinking about switching to another service provider but are reluctant to change your phone number, there’s some good news.

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: An Evening of Bánh Xèo Phan Rang and People-Watching by the Canal

There are certain foods in life that take time to love. Mắm tôm, for instance, or mắm chưng. Any of the mắms, really. Durian, I’m told, is a wonderful fruit on the fourth or fifth try. And while some ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Starts ASEAN Para Games With Gold Haul

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam starts ASEAN Para Games with gold haul [Tuoi Tre] ​Da Nang chairman faces ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Da Nang Authorities Encourage Locals to Smile More

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Hanoi hospital opens weekly ‘cinema’ for children with cancer [Tuoi Tre] Vietnam’s...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam to Produce Own Bird Flu Vaccine From 2018

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam to produce own avian influenza vaccine from 2018 [DTI] 70 percent of Vietn...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Vietnam Spends $11.8m Preparing for Dioxin Removal Near Former US Military Airbase

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam spends $11.8mn preparing for dioxin removal near former US military airbase [Tu...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Northern Central Region Braces for Storm Doksuri

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Northern central region braces for Storm Doksuri [DTI] Vietnamese film Father and ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Nearly 80,000 Vietnamese Working Overseas in First 8 Months

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Nearly 80,000 Vietnamese working overseas in first 8M [DTI] Vietnamese troll fined...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam’s Copyright Watchdog to Start Charging Local Hotels From October

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam’s copyright watchdog to start charging local hotels from October [Tuoi Tre] ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Kong Director Hospitalized After Alleged Bar Fight in Saigon

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Kong director hospitalized after alleged bar fight in Saigon: reports [VnExpress] ...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Hanoi to Axe More Trees to Make Room for Metro

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. More trees face chop for Hanoi metro [DTI] Vietnam Airlines retains four-star stat...

in Saigon

Vietnam PM Supports Plan to Give Saigon More Policy Autonomy

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has agreed to a proposal which would give Saigon more leeway to set policies separate from the central government, though details of the plan remain vague.

Michael Tatarski

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: A Quick, Delicious, No-Nonsense Lunch at Quan Com Ga Hai Nam

Now that I'm on my fourth chicken-centric Hẻm Gem, I guess I might as well start carrying out these assignments dressed as a chicken.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Tech Outfit Bkav Invests $22m in Smartphone

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnamese engineers aspire to make strides in farming technology [Tuoi Tre] Bkav ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam in Talks to Acquire Rights to Finland's Education Program

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. HED [VnExpress] Ho Chi Minh City water park found raising leopards, Asian golden c...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam PM Endorses Son Doong Cable Car Plan

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam’s PM endorses cable car plan to world famous cave system [VnExpress] Repai...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Vietnam’s Track-and-Field Team Ends Thai Dominance at SEA Games

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam’s track-and-field team ends Thai dominance at SEA Games [Tuoi Tre] East Vi...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Saigon’s First Designated Food Street to Open on Monday

Earlier this year, as District 1 People’s Committee Vice Chairman Doan Ngoc Hai ramped up his sidewalk-clearing campaign, Saigoneers wondered about the fate of the city’s street food vendors. Now, jus...

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Sủi Cảo and Handmade Noodles, a Match Made in Food Heaven

Is this the best mì sủi cảo in Saigon? I don’t know, but it’s pretty goddamn delicious.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Company Director Sparks Outrage After Slapping Female Doctor in Central Vietnam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Company director sparks outrage after slapping female doctor in central Vietnam [Tuoi T...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Polluting Factories Still Remain in Hanoi's Residential Quarters

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Polluting factories still remain in Hanoi's residential quarters [VietnamNet] Prof...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Battles Dengue Outbreaks With 42% More Cases

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam battles dengue outbreaks with 42% more cases [Business Mirror] Vietnamese ...

in Vietnam

Amid Issues With Da Nang Authorities, Uber Announces Fare Hike in Saigon, Hanoi

Getting around Vietnam’s big metropolises will be more expensive in the future as Uber has increased its fares.

in Saigon

Work on Overpass Near Tan Son Nhat Delayed Due to Safety Concerns

Saigon officials have decided to suspend construction work on an overpass near Tan Son Nhat International Airport, extending traffic woes for residents and commuters near the congestion hotspot.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Dengue Fever Death Toll Rises to 24 as Outbreak Spreads Across Vietnam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Dengue fever death toll rises to 24 as outbreak spreads across Vietnam [VnExpress] ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: ​Jetstar Launches Direct Flights Between Quang Binh, Chiang Mai

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. ​Jetstar launches direct flights between Quang Binh and Chiang Mai [Tuoi Tre] In s...

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Cô Nhi and Chú Den's Humble Nui Xào Bò Cart

At this point in our Hẻm Gem journey, I’ve stopped thinking of us – a two-person team consisting of me and my photographer colleague Brandon – as mere food reviewers, but rather food hunters from hunt...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Bkav Unveils Next-Gen Homemade Bphone

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam’s Bkav unveils next-gen homemade Bphone [Tuoi Tre] Life as a VIP motorbike...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Woman Caught With Cocaine as 'Gifts' for Nigerian Boyfriend

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnamese woman caught carrying cocaine at Ho Chi Minh City airport  [Tuoi Tre] ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Journalist Arrested for Extorting Businesses in Mekong Delta

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnamese reporter arrested for extorting businesses in Mekong Delta [Tuoi Tre] 1...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: VietJet Named Asia’s Best Employer Brand

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietjet named Asia’s Best Employer Brand [SGGP] Hanoi eyes standard color scheme f...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Vietnam Forecasts Record Foreign Investment of $16bn

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam forecasts record foreign investment of $16b [Deal Street Asia] Visa-free t...

in Food Culture

A Brief History of Curry in Vietnam

It is well documented that southern Vietnam’s cuisine has been influenced by the French, but it is also undeniable that the fare has been influenced by another of France’s former colonial hubs: the po...

Michael Tatarski

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Praise Be to Cheap, Tender, Delicious Chicken by the Mosque

Thanks to central Saigon's blistering pace of development and the short-lived sidewalk-clearing campaign of 2017's early months, the downtown area can be something of a street food desert.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: HCMC to Have 1,000 New Buses by 2020

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. HCM City to have 1,000 new buses by 2020 [SGGP] Vietnam’s most wanted runaway bigw...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Chef Badeh Brings Syrian Cuisine to Saigon

In the small covered area outside the front door, Chef Badeh brings together two of my favorite things: bread and fire.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Venues for Street Vendors to Open in HCMC

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Venues for street vendors to open in HCM City [DTI] Vietnam hotel sector starts to...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam May Relax Flying Rules to Assist Travelers Who Lose Passports

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam may relax rules to assist foreign flyers who lose passports [Tuoi Tre] Vio...

in Arts & Culture

Saigon Spaces: Reuse, Recycle and Reinvent

In a slightly tired traditional tenement block in District 1 is Huong Nguyen’s latest renovation project, a studio apartment overlooking Nguyen Du. Shaded by an old tamarind tree, the building was ori...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Says Indonesian Navy Shot Its Fishermen in Disputed Water

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam says Indonesian navy shot its fishermen in disputed water [VnExpress] Auth...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Kickin' It at Kim Thao's Hột Vịt Lộn Hangout

In the thick of rainy season, afternoon snack spots are hard to come by. Street vendors make do with cement-weighted umbrellas and heavily used tarpaulin, carving out (relatively) dry patches on the s...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: HCMC Airport Crippled by 5-Hour Traffic Jam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. HCM City airport crippled by five-hour traffic jam [DTI] Illegal beauty clinic acc...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: HCMC to Host International Traffic Safety Conference

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. HCM City to host international traffic safety conference [DTI] Another luxury trai...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Globetrotters Name Hoi An Among 15 Best Cities in the World

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Globetrotters name Vietnam's Hoi An among the 15 best cities in the world [VnExpress] ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: 13 Vietnam Banks Named in World’s Top 1,000

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. 13 Vietnamese banks named in world’s top 1,000 [VnExpress] HCM City okays expanded...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Tropical Storm Talas Batters Central Vietnam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Tropical storm Talas bearing down on central Vietnam [VnExpress] Soc Trang-Con Dao...

in Saigon

[Photos] Saigon Then & Now: Chợ Cũ

In today's Saigon, Chợ Cũ on Ton That Dam Street might appear like a derelict wet market, but in its heyday, the street used to be home to a bustling commercial area where merchants from all over...

in Vietnam

Vietnam Among the Most Sedentary Countries on Earth: Study

According to a new study by Stanford University researchers, Vietnam is among the most sedentary countries in the world.

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: In Search of Saigon's Best Home-Cooked Char Kway Teow

Saigon’s street vendors are a special bunch. They come in various shapes, sizes and backgrounds, but all have one raison d'être: creating the most enticing and memorable dishes that leave patrons year...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Reports Outbreak of H5N1 Bird Flu in North

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam reports outbreak of H5N1 bird flu in north [VnExpress] Patients pay high p...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Can Tho Ex-Traffic Inspectors Get Jail Terms, Life Sentence for Extortion

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Can Tho ex-traffic inspectors get jail terms, life sentence for extortion [Tuoi Tre] ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Human Remains, Artifacts Found at Airport Excavation in HCMC

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Human remains, artifacts found at airport excavation in Ho Chi Minh City [Tuoi Tre] ...

in Society

Saigon's Tattoo Culture Flourishes Thanks to Changing Attitudes

Danis Nguyen remembers the first time he saw a tattoo. It was on TV, in a world far away from his childhood home in Nha Trang: a world of rebellion, electric guitars and round sunglasses. At 18, ...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: HCMC Ranks Among Best Cities for Solo Travelers

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Ho Chi Minh City ranks among best cities for solo travellers [DTI] Personal traine...

in Health

In Vietnam, Taboo and Tradition Hinder Contraception Awareness

With many urban Vietnamese waiting longer to get married, the country’s younger generations are recognizing the need to open up about sex education in the conservative country.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam to Auction ‘Lucky’ Vehicle License Plates

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam to auction ‘lucky’ vehicle license plates [Tuoi Tre] High-rise developer M...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam to Receive $100m Loan From South Korea for Bridge Projects

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. South Korea to lend $100mn for bridge projects [DTI] Nat Geo rates Topas Ecolodge ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: 24 Exposed to HIV After Helping Road Crash Victims in Vietnam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. 24 exposed to HIV after helping road crash victims in Vietnam [Tuoi Tre] China rem...

Michael Tatarski

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: The D5 Beefsteak Joint That Means Business

There is no shortage of restaurants slinging beef-based dishes in Saigon, but every now and then one comes along and stands out from the pack.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Locals Team Up Against Sand Thieves in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Locals team up against sand thieves in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta [Tuoi Tre] Men taser...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam’s Employers, Unions Fight Again Over Wage Increase

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnamese men arrested for attacking American in Hanoi [VnExpress] Vietnam’s empl...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Co Huoi and Her West-of-the-Border Delights

One of my favorite Saigon pastimes is wandering around strange neighborhoods. If you’re feeling lost or bored or lonely or just a little too comfortable, have someone drop you off in a district you do...

in Arts & Culture

Saigon Spaces: Huy Nguyen's Home for Repurposed Vintage Treasures

Huy Nguyen’s lovingly restored colonial-era bolt-hole, tucked away above a hẻm off Nguyen Hue, is a masterclass in making the best use of small spaces. As the owner of Mountain Retreat restaurant, Ngu...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Shaky Internet Connections in Vietnam as New Undersea Cable Breaks

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Shaky internet connections in Vietnam as new undersea cable breaks [VnExpress] Ove...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Experts Warn of More Deadly Heat Waves for Vietnam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Experts warn of more deadly heat waves for Vietnam [VnExpress] Vietnam police susp...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Hanoi’s Notorious Water Pipe Breaks Again

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Hanoi’s notorious water pipe breaks again [VnExpress] Five Vietnamese companies in...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Downtown Saigon Streets Re-Routed for Metro Construction

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Downtown Saigon streets re-routed for metro construction [Tuoi Tre] Ho Chi Minh Ci...

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: The Life-Changing Beauty of Bánh Cuốn Trứng

If I have to drive eight kilometers across the city to get breakfast, it’d better be damn good.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: VNA Targets Nearly $4bn in Revenue for 2017

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam Airlines targets nearly $4 bln in revenue for 2017 [VnExpress] Vietnam, Ch...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Local Man Stabs Self, Posts Video on Facebook

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam man stabs self, posting video on Facebook [Tuoi Tre] Children forced into ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam's Exporters Hunt for Robusta Coffee as Supplies Dwindle

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam's exporters hunt for robusta coffee as supplies dwindle [VnExpress] Saigon...

in Society

Out and About in Binh Thanh's Budding Japan Town

Only a ten-minute ride away from Saigon's established Little Tokyo, another Japanese neighborhood is in the making in Binh Thanh District — and it's a whole world apart.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Toxic Spill Feared as Chemical Tanker Stranded in Vietnam Waters

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Toxic spill feared as chemical tanker stranded in Vietnam waters [VnExpress] Austr...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Saigon Water Park Apologizes for Sensual Dance in Kids’ Presence

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Saigon water park management apologizes for sensual dance in kids’ presence [Tuoi Tre] ...

Michael Tatarski

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Pasteur Street's Well-Hidden Cơm Trưa Mother Lode

Every once in a while, you come across a simple Vietnamese restaurant that absolutely blows you away.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Extends Visa Waiver for 5 European Countries

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam extends visa waiver for five European countries [Tuoi Tre] Inside the golf...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Asia Continues Battle as Vietnam Declares Free of Bird Flu

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Asia continues battle as Vietnam declares free of bird flu [VnExpress] Police deta...

in Saigon

Sections of New Overpasses Near Tan Son Nhat to Open This Month

Sections of two new overpasses near Tan Son Nhat International Airport are expected to open later this month.

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Hanoi Revives Plan to Ban Motorbikes in Uphill Battle Against Congestion

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Hanoi revives plan to ban motorbikes in uphill battle against congestion [VnExpress] ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: VietJet Signs $4.7bn in Trade Deals in the US

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. VietJet signs US$4.7 billion in trade deals in the US [DTI] World Bank helps Vietn...

in Development

Historic Maison du Combattant to Be Replaced by Mixed-Used Complex

Two years after the real estate giant Tan Hoang Minh won the bid for Saigon's "gold land" property at 23 Le Duan, the former Maison du Combattant will finally meet the bulldozer this fall.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: American Injured in Car Accident Inside Saigon Zoo

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. American injured in car accident inside Saigon Zoo [DTI] Vietnam Airlines not affe...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: 7 Die While Undergoing Dialysis at Northern Vietnam Hospital

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. 7 die while undergoing hemodialysis at northern Vietnam hospital [VnExpress] Saigo...

in Development

[Photos] The State of Saigon's Metro: 2017 Progress

Last year you had a chance to marvel at Hanoi’s first metro line from above, now get ready for a glimpse into Saigon’s future Metro Line 1.

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Vietnam Jails 6 Dog Thieves for Combined 30 Years

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam jails six dog thieves for combined 30 years [Tuoi Tre] Vietnam says Google...

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: D5's Bò Xào Sa Tế, a Feast for All the Senses

Saigon is changing at a dizzying rate, and so is its food scene: forget about your favorite café or restaurant for a few months and you can come back one day to find it replaced by a convenience store...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Set to Approve Coal-Fired Power Plants Worth $7.5bn

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam set to approve coal-fired power plants worth $7.5 bln [Tuoi Tre] Vietnam m...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Jetstar Bans In-Flight Use of Power Banks

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Indonesia, Vietnam to probe reported skirmish in disputed waters [Reuters] Vietnam...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam's Coast Guard Receives 6 US Patrol Boats

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam's Coast Guard receives six US patrol boats [VnExpress] Vietnam’s 2015 budg...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam’s Pepper Faces Difficulties Because of India’s Ban

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam’s pepper faces difficulties because of India’s ban [VietnamNet] Vietnam’s ...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Quan 249’s Wondrous Cơm Chiên Emporium

It’s 6pm on a Thursday, and I’m up to my eyeballs in cơm chiên. Page after page, Quan 249’s excessively handled menu features a laundry list of fried rice combinations, some you’ve heard of, some you ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Expat Children in Vietnam Thrive Culturally, Survey Says

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. State-owned hospitals still ignore local medicines [VietnamNet] Vietnamese busines...

in Architecture

Opinion: Saigon’s Architecture Should Express Our Times Today, Not the Past

Based upon its fascinating history, modern-day Saigon displays a rich character all its own, with buildings across the city representing each era of its storied past. However, several faux colonial bu...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Hanoi's Water Supply Forecast to Run Dry During Hot Summer

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Hanoi's water supply forecast to run dry during hot summer [VnExpress] Hanoi, Beij...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Ca Mau Loses Nearly 450ha of Coastal Land Each Year

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Ca Mau loses nearly 450ha of coastal land each year [DTI] Vietnamese-American man ...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: To Chan's Noodle Soup Offers Comfort in a Bowl

If you turn up to a hủ tiếu spot anywhere in this city and there is not a hand-painted, wooden noodle cart taking up one corner of the venue, you may want to think twice about sitting down.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: HCMC to Promote Tourism at Cannes Film Festival

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. HCMC to promote tourism at Cannes Film Festival [VietnamNet] Ca Mau bird garden ca...

in Asia

Asia's Rapidly Aging Population Is a Threat to Regional and Global Economy: IMF

Asia’s population is aging so fast that in just a few decades, the region might stop being the top contributor to the global workforce.

in Development

Saigon's Metro Line 1 Might Extend Into Binh Duong and Dong Nai: Study

The governments of both Binh Duong and Dong Nai provinces are studying the feasibility of extending Saigon's Metro Line 1 into their areas.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Facebook Crash Sends Vietnam, Asia Into Frenzy

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Facebook crash sends Vietnam, Asia into frenzy [VnExpress] Vietnam cuts size limit...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Announces Player Lineup for U20 World Cup

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam announces players for World Cup [VietnamNet] ‘Made in Vietnam’ explosive r...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: 4 Months After Launch, Hanoi BRT Hit by Poor Occupancy

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Hanoi BRT line hit by poor occupancy, four months after launch [Tuoi Tre] Hanoi re...

Michael Tatarski

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: D5's Glorious Com Tam Is the Perfect Drunk Food

Saigon is a city of a million cơm tấm carts, meaning it is easy to pick one at random and chow down. But some stand out from the crowd.

in Saigon

[Photos] Saigon Is Going Green With These Smart Trashcans

If you’ve been hanging out on Nguyen Hue Boulevard recently, you probably noticed the presence of Saigon’s new “smart trashcans”.

in Arts & Culture

Hoa Van Dai Viet: A Very Vietnam Take on Adult Coloring Books

As globalization transforms Vietnam’s cultural landscape, a group of young history aficionados have taken it upon themselves to keep old traditions alive.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Secretariat Turns Down HCMC Proposal on Fireworks for Reunification Day

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Secretariat turns down Ho Chi Minh City proposal on fireworks for Reunification Day [Tu...

in Saigon

Saigon's Metro Construction May Be Delayed Due to Financial Setbacks

Two of Saigon’s largest infrastructure projects – including the high-profile Metro Line 1 and an environmental facility – might be delayed in the near future due to insufficient funds.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Hoi An Seeks to Control Tourism Boom on Protected Islands

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Hoi An seeks to control tourism boom on protected islands [VnExpress] Nature gets ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam's Car Market Has 2nd-Fastest Growth in World

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam's car market has second-fastest growth in world [VietnamNet] Vietnam’s pla...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Drivers Bemoan Confusing Toll Booth Rules in HCMC

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Drivers bemoan confusing toll booth rules in Ho Chi Minh City [Tuoi Tre] Activists...

Michael Tatarski

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Anh Tư's Dreamy Grilled Chicken in Binh Thanh

Around the Saigoneer office I've become the go-to scribe when it comes to chicken-related Hẻm Gems. Therefore, when a friend described a Binh Thanh-based restaurant with dozens of chickens hanging abo...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Wants Homegrown Social Networks to Replace Facebook

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnamese government wants homegrown social networks to replace Facebook [VnExpress] ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Military-Run Viettel Becomes Vietnam’s First 4G Provider

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Military-run Viettel becomes Vietnam’s first 4G provider [Tuoi Tre] Vietnamese pol...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Government, Ministries, Bankers and Businesses Cooperate to Breed Shrimp

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. VIB interested in buying ANZ’s retail operations in Vietnam [Deal Street Asia] Gov...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Up to 15 Storms, Depressions Forecast to Enter East Sea in 2017

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Up to 15 storms, depressions forecast to enter East Vietnam Sea in 2017 [Tuoi Tre] ...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: An Excursion to Tan Dinh's Secret Bún Hideout

Life is slow in the jungle of hẻms that branches out from Dinh Cong Trang Street. Here, a bún establishment offers noodles of northern heritage using recipes handed down through generations of family....

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: The Balanced Beauty of Bacon and Fried Rice

Our dining experience at A Lung was remarkably simple: there was no turning back when we saw bacon on the menu.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Quang Ninh Lifts Ban on Ha Long Kayaking After 1 Week

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Super-rich in Vietnam on sharp rise, public debt nears ceiling [VietnamNet] At lea...

in Tech

Vietnam to Get Nationwide 4G Coverage by End of April

Under the central government’s ambitious plan to bring Vietnam up to speed with the region's internet standards, local mobile carriers are extending their fourth-generation (4G) high-speed network.

Michael Tatarski

in Society

Chasing Pavements: In Defense of Saigon's Sidewalk Economy

As Doan Ngoc Hai, the leader of Saigon’s most aggressive sidewalk-clearing campaign in recent memory, takes a brief hiatus, headlines about towed cars and demolished buildings often obscure the r...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: HCMC Under Water Following ‘Unprecedented’ Unseasonal Rain

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Ho Chi Minh City under water following ‘unprecedented’ unseasonal rain [Tuoi Tre] ...

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Chicken Noodles in Phu Nhuan's Flower Neighborhood

Located deep in the heart of Phu Nhuan District’s “flower” neighborhood, Mi Ga Lua Hong offers up a solid addition to Saigon’s host of chicken-centric dishes: a fried chicken drumstick with dry, green...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Da Nang Orders Removal of Illegally Built Constructions on Son Tra Peninsula

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Da Nang orders removal of illegally built constructions on Son Tra Peninsula [Tuoi Tre]...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Hanoi Proposes Giant Golden Turtle Statue for Hoan Kiem Lake

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Ten-ton golden turtle statue proposed for iconic Hanoi lake [Tuoi Tre] HCMC to ope...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Ranks 2nd Best Place in the World to Teach English

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam ranks second best place in the world to teach English [VnExpress] Four san...

Brian Letwin

in Food Culture

In-N-Out Burger Pop-Up Hits Saigon for One Day

A few lucky Saigoneers were able to enjoy some coveted In-N-Out munchies this afternoon as the American regional burger chain opened a pop-up shop in District 1.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: HCMC Revives Idea of Banning Private Vehicles in Downtown

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. HCMC revives idea of banning private vehicles in downtown [VietnamNet] 9-year-old ...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Hanoi and HCMC Top Global Office Yield Index

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Hanoi and HCMC top global office yield index [VnExpress] Chinese tourist influx to...

in Arts & Culture

Art for You Returns to Saigon

In Vietnam and around the world, Art with a capital "A" can be an intimidating subject. The pressure to "get" abstract or contemporary artwork has a way of deterring some from becoming museum goers or...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: HCMC Plans Vendor-Friendly Sidewalks

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Ho Chi Minh City plans vendor-friendly sidewalks [Tuoi Tre] British government war...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Films to Screen at Cannes Film Festival 2017

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnamese films to screen at Cannes Film Festival 2017 [VietnamNet] Vietnam doubl...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Drunk Men Open Water Reservoir, Flood 2 Communes in Central Vietnam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Drunk men open water reservoir, flood 2 communes in central Vietnam [VnExpress] Vi...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: An Expedition to D2's Hole-in-the-Wall Mexican Joint

On the modest patio in front of Simple Place, a charming little hole-in-the-wall in District 2, my Spanish coworker Victor launches into a stirring speech about tacos.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Noi Bai Ranked Among World's Top 100 Best Airports

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Noi Bai ranked among world's top 100 best airports [VietnamNet] 65% of Vietnam ent...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Targets YouTube Ads in Campaign Against Dissent

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City in dire need of parking spaces [Tuoi Tre] Developer remain...

in Society

Vietnam Is Aging Faster Than Its Welfare System Can Handle

Ever since the country opened its doors to foreign investments and free market policies a couple of decades ago, Vietnam has enjoyed an enviable rate of economic growth. However, one of the biggest dr...

in Food Culture

Vietnam in World's Top 3 Fastest-Growing Coffee Markets

Vietnam is currently among the top three fastest-growing coffee markets in the world.

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: A Bún Bò Breakfast in D3

Tucked away in a narrow storefront along District 3’s Nguyen Thien Thuat is a mean bowl of breakfast bún bò Huế.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam's Airports Seek $1.4bn for Infrastructure Upgrade

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam's airports seek $1.4bn for infrastructure upgrade [VnExpress] Hanoi vows t...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam’s February Car Sales Rise 50%

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam’s February car sales rise 50% [VnExpress] Female workers have short career...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Da Nang Considers Blocking Uber, Grab

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Da Nang considers blocking Uber, Grab [VnExpress] Authorities search for bootleg a...

in Vietnam

Hanoi Woman Fined $260 for Littering

Last week, a woman in Hanoi was fined VND6 million for littering under a new regulation.

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Vietnamese Justice Official Causes Uproar for Vandalizing Da Lat Cherry Tree

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam says Kim murder suspect thought it was a prank [Reuters] Vietnam's top swi...

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Cô Khanh's Vegetarian Banquet and a Trip Down Memory Lane

On days when the thought of biting into a slab of greasy fried pork fills your gut with mild disgust, Saigon’s scores of vegetarian eateries are exactly what you need to cleanse your palate.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Mass Fight Breaks Out at Samsung Plant in Northern Vietnam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Algal bloom paints red streak in Vung Ang economic zone [DTI] Vietnamese lawyers o...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Students’ High Scores at PISA Tests Remain Mystery to Experts

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Students’ high scores at PISA tests remain mystery to experts [VietnamNet] Vietnam...

in Saigon

Inside Saigon Official’s Controversial Sidewalk-Clearing Campaign

As a new week begins, Vice Chairman Doan Ngoc Hai of the District 1 People’s Committee has made it clear he plans to continue his sidewalk-clearing campaign.

in Tech

Vietnam Aims to Bring Internet Access to 80-90% of Population

Vietnamese IT officials are hoping to bring internet access to as much as 90% of the local population.

in Saigon

Saigon to Evict Shops and Cafes From 42 Nguyen Hue

You might need to sit down for this: in the next few months, Saigon’s most popular cafe apartment building at 42 Nguyen Hue Boulevard will be stripped of its businesses.

Michael Tatarski

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Grilled Chicken With a Side of Jet Fuel

In the pantheon of great street food locations in Saigon, many of my favorite places to chow down can barely even be considered restaurants. Is there really a need for four walls and real furniture wh...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Kim Jong-Nam Was Killed by VX Nerve Agent, Malaysians Say

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Kim Jong-Nam Was Killed by VX Nerve Agent, Malaysians Say [The New York Times] Tra...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: 2 Killed, 12 Injured in Bus Explosion in Northern Vietnam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Two killed, 12 injured in passenger bus explosion in northern Vietnam [Tuoi Tre] I...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Raises Border Alert Following Cambodia Bird Flu Outbreak

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam raises border alert following Cambodia bird flu outbreak [VnExpress] V...

in Saigon

Saigoneers Should Walk More to Reduce Pollution, Traffic Congestion: City Official

After unveiling a plan for river bus services, Saigon officials are encouraging the southern hub’s residents to ease traffic congestion by walking to school or work if their destination is within thre...

in Food Culture

70% of D1's Street Food Vendors Don't Meet Food Safety Standards: Report

The majority of District 1’s street vendors do not comply with health standards, according to a recent report, but the situation has improved since 2015.

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: HCMC Aims to Halve Traffic Congestion Spots by Year-End

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Ho Chi Minh City aims to halve traffic congestion spots by year-end [Tuoi Tre] Vie...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Beef and Booze at Lau Bo Co Thao

The alley where cô Thao has set up shop isn’t worth remembering. A high concrete wall runs down one side, reflecting the sun that’s sapping our energy on this hot, dusty Friday afternoon, while the ot...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: India in Talks With Vietnam for First Missile Sale

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. India says in talks with Vietnam for first missile sale [Tuoi Tre] 'Miss Saigo...

in Saigon

Saigon Metro Construction to Demolish Ben Thanh Roundabout, Bus Station

Saigon’s historic Quach Thi Trang roundabout in front of Ben Thanh Market will soon be no more.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: New US Visa Policy Worries Vietnamese Travelers

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. New US visa policy worries Vietnamese travelers [VietnamNet] Methanol poisoning su...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: VietJet Air to List at End of February

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. VietJet Air to list at end of February [Nikkei Asian Review] HCM City offers onlin...

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Refreshing Chè at Hiển Khánh, a 60-Year-Old Retro Hangout

Relishing a bowl of assorted chè at Thach Che Hien Khanh is more than just an afternoon spent shooting the breeze with friends, it’s also a trip down memory lane and an exploration into Saigon’s herit...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Can Tho to Pilot Public Bicycle Rental Services

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Can Tho to pilot public bicycle rental services [DTI] Casinos report losses while ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Air Carriers Warned They May Lose in Home Market

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Scientists warn of dangers in using old plastic bottles with EDC [VietnamNet] Viet...

in Saigon

[Video] Hop on Saigon's Shiny New Electric Bus

Tourists in Saigon are now able to enjoy the city’s scenery on four eco-friendly electric buses. 

in Tech

Facebook Is Vietnam's Favorite Way to Shop: Surveys

While Vietnam’s goal of becoming a cashless society by 2020 seems like a lofty one to say the least, some Vietnamese are well on their way toward embracing technology for shopping, according to three ...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Vietnam Welcomes First E-Visa Visitor

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam welcomes first e-visa visitor [Tuoi Tre] Binh Thuan okays floating power p...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: HCMC’s Downtown Flower Show Ready for Opening

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Ho Chi Minh City’s downtown flower show ready for opening [Tuoi Tre] Hanoi will no...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Loriekot’s Filipino Fare in the Heart of Saigon

In Saigon, there are plenty of places you don’t see when you’re breezing by on a motorbike. If you are (hopefully) focused on the road ahead, the narrow shopfronts and modest quán lining most Saigon s...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam’s Biggest Network Operators to Waive Roaming Fee

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam’s biggest network operators plan to waive roaming fees [VietnamNet] Vietna...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Parents Shocked Over Adult Content in YouTube Videos for Children

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnamese parents shocked over adult content in YouTube videos for children [VnExpress...

Michael Tatarski

in Literature

How Mekong Review Aims to Connect Southeast Asia Through Literature

First published in late 2015, The Mekong Review has quickly garnered a sterling reputation in a region short on quality print publications. Minh Bui Jones, its founder and editor, talks to Saigoneer a...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Traffic Congestion in Hanoi Worse Than in Saigon

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Traffic congestion in Hanoi worse than in Saigon [VietnamNet] Will golf courses at...

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: A Perfect Plate of Cơm Trưa by the River

In Saigon, cơm trưa is more than just a meal: it’s also a cultural trait, a community and, at times, a serious business, all wrapped up in a plate of freshly cooked rice and perfectly caramelized chun...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Party Chief Nguyen Phu Trong Visits China to Deepen Ties This Month

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam Party chief Nguyen Phu Trong visits China to deepen ties this month [Tuoi Tre] ...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Vietnam’s Longest Sea Bridge to Open to Traffic This May

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam’s longest sea bridge to open to traffic this May [VnExpress] HCMC to pilot...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Among Most Optimistic Countries on Economic Prosperity

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam among most optimistic countries on economic prosperity [VOV] Vietnam healt...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Scissors Pulled From Vietnam Man's Stomach 18 Years After Surgery

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Scissors pulled from Vietnam man's stomach 18 years after surgery [Daily Mail] Vie...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Become Second Largest Expat Group in South Korea

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnamese become second largest expat group in South Korea [VnExpress] Nutritioni...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Hundreds Run for Clean Toilets in Southern Vietnam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Hundreds run for clean toilets in southern Vietnam [Tuoi Tre] Dog theft gang buste...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: HCMC Welcomes Five-Millionth International Visitor in 2016

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Ho Chi Minh City welcomes five-millionth int’l visitor in 2016 [Tuoi Tre] Vietnam ...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: 2017 to Be Good Year for Vietnam Economy

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. 2017 to be good year for Vietnam economy: analysts [VietnamNet] Vietnam claims hau...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Woman Suffers Blindness, Stroke After Nose Job

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam woman suffers blindness, stroke after nose job [Tuoi Tre] Crocodiles in Vi...

Michael Tatarski

in Environment

Coffee Production in Vietnam Faces Dark Future Under Climate Change

Rising temperatures and shifting rainfall patterns may cost Vietnam 50% of its current Robusta coffee production areas by 2050. Experts agree the situation looks dire, but there is hope that the count...

in Food Culture

Bottoms Up: Alcohol Consumption Exploding in Vietnam

While this may come as no surprise to anyone who has driven past one of Saigon's many raucous beer clubs, Vietnam is home to one of the fastest-growing alcohol markets in the world.

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Cô Hong’s Killer Late-Night Cơm Tấm

In the 16 years she’s spent selling cơm tấm on the District 4 side of the Calmette Bridge, cô Hong has seen some things.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Donald Trump Speaks to Vietnam PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Hopes to Strengthen Ties

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Donald Trump speaks to Vietnam PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc, hopes to strengthen ties [Internati...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: 10 Districts in Hanoi to Have 5-6 Star Hotels

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. 10 districts in Hanoi to have 5-6 star hotels [VietnamNet] Hanoi police propose br...

Brian Letwin

in Food Culture

[Photos] Rita Cafe, a Lush Oasis Under Saigon Bridge

Before it was added to Google Maps a few months back, Cafe Rita was nothing more, it seemed, than a green smudge along the District 2 side of the Saigon Bridge.

in Vietnam

Uber Still at Odds With Government After Paying Taxes

Uber Vietnam has once again gotten into trouble with local authorities for – wait for it – dodging taxes.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: HCMC Hospital Becomes Country’s First to Offer Robot-Assisted Surgery

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Ho Chi Minh City hospital becomes country’s first to offer robot-assisted surgery [Tuoi...

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Phu Nhuan's Beef Inferno

It might take more than a few Hẻm Gem reviews to chronicle all the things I have gone through for good food in Saigon.

in Saigon

City Approves Project to Build Underground Parking Lot Beneath Saigon Zoo

In an effort to tackle some of the city’s parking woes, municipal officials have agreed to build an underground parking lot beneath the Saigon Zoo.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: In Vietnam, High-Pollution Industries Enjoy Relaxed Environmental Standards

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. In Vietnam, high-pollution industries enjoy relaxed environmental standards  [Tuoi Tre]...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Saigon’s Plan to Draw Tourists With Weekly Fireworks Shows Raises Eyebrows

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Saigon’s plan to draw tourists with weekly fireworks shows raises eyebrows [VnExpress] ...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Striking a Balance With D10's Chè

If life is all about balance so, too, is food.

in Saigon

Saigon to Expand Its Bus Advertising Scheme

After a successful trial run, Saigon will expand its bus advertising program to include all 136 routes around the city.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Many Vietnamese Women Believe Spousal Abuse Can Be Justified

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Northern Vietnam city’s ex-Party chiefs jailed for abusing powers [Tuoi Tre] Many ...

in Development

[Photos] MEGA City: The Soul of Saigon

Saigoneer is a proud media sponsor of the third edition of TP. Ho Chi Minh: MEGA City, released last month. The compact and concise photo book explores urban development, landscapes and people in Viet...

Brian Letwin

in Development

[Photos] Future Saigon: City Garden Phase 2

Binh Thanh District’s skyline is set to get a bit more crowded as one of the area’s largest residential developments, City Garden, is sprouting a couple of new towers.

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: D1's Rainy-Day Cháo Mực

“A cháo a day keeps the cold at bay.” – Saigoneer proverb

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam to Deactivate 12 Million Unregistered SIM Cards

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam to deactivate 12 million unregistered SIM cards [Tuoi Tre] Vietnamese stud...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Airlines Adds Nearly 900 Flights During Tet Holiday

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam Airlines adds nearly 900 flights during Tet holiday [DTI] Social network f...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: 5 Million Vietnamese Lack Standard Toilets

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. 5 million Vietnamese lack standard toilets [VnExpress] Cold spell to hit northern ...

Brian Letwin

in Architecture

[Photos] Saigon Architect Combines Past and Present at 4Ps Ben Thanh

In its new space near Ben Thanh Market, Saigon's most popular Japanese pizza joint, Pizza 4Ps, has managed to combine the southern hub's unique sense of place with innovative contemporary architecture...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: An Old-School Nhậu on D10's Bia Hơi Block

Any self-respecting Saigoneer has a certain reverence for the art of nhậu.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Hanoi to Spend Over $312,000 to Support Startup Community

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Hanoi to spend over $312,000 to support start-up community [DTI] Parents pay for b...

in Saigon

Saigon Needs $7.6bn for Infrastructure Projects by 2020: Official

In the wake of budget cuts, Saigon’s municipal government is projecting a required investment of US$7.6 billion to implement the city’s planned infrastructure projects by 2020.

in Travel

Saigon-Vung Tau Hydrofoil Service to End in December

By the end of this year, Saigoneers will no longer be able to take a hydrofoil to Vung Tau.

in Vietnam

In Hanoi, UberX Is Now 50% More Expensive

In a controversial move, Uber recently announced that it is increasing its fares in Hanoi.

in Vietnam

Morning News Round: Officials Punished for Illegal Logging in Quang Nam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Officials punished for illegal logging in Quang Nam [VNS] How Malaysia allows chil...

in Development

Tan Son Nhat Is One Step Closer to Getting a Metro Line

Preparations are moving forward on a two-kilometer extension connecting Saigon Metro’s planned Line 5 with Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

Brian Letwin

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Crab Curry Fit for a King

At a glance, this week’s District 4 Hẻm Gem might appear like any typical ốc restaurant in Saigon. Quan Oc 63’s laminated menu offers up no less than 40 dishes within its sticky plastic pages. However...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Protesters Block Traffic in Hanoi After Requests for Street Overpass Remain Unanswered

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Protesters block traffic in Hanoi after requests for street overpass remain unanswered ...

in Heritage

Lost and Found: A Trip to Saigon’s Antique Market

The second he sees me, rolling down the crumbling concrete path on a dented bicycle, Chien perks up and heads in my direction.

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Nguyen Thuong Hien's Quaint Corner Juice Heaven

In Saigon, when life gives you grapefruits, you create a thriving business to sell its juice to health-conscious locals.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Truck Catches Fire, Looted by Mobs in Central Vietnam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Truck catches fire, looted by mobs in central Vietnam [Tuoi Tre] Vietnam PM orders...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Vietnam Prisons to Allow Inmates Private Time With Spouse

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam prisons to allow inmates private time with spouse [Tuoi Tre] Vietnam confi...

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: D1's Bún Mọc Assembly Line

We leave our office in search of District 1’s famed phở áp chảo only to find bún mọc in a hopeless place.

in Society

Vietnam's Fast-Growing Middle Class a Juicy Target for Foreign Brands

Due to rapid economic growth and prolonged political stability, urban Vietnamese have become richer in a short amount of time. This boost in purchasing power among the local middle class has created a...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Restoration Begins on 88-Year-Old Market in HCMC

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Restoration begins on 88-year-old market in Ho Chi Minh City [Tuoi Tre] Hanoi man ...

in Development

Saigon Seeks Approval for First Phase of $1.84bn Metro Line 5

After much delay, Ho Chi Minh City officials are seeking approval from the National Assembly for the construction of the first phase of Metro Line 5.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Google Maps Turns Green Light on Traffic Updates in Vietnam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Village officials take relief aid from flood-stricken villagers in central Vietnam [Tuo...

in Vietnam

Vietnam Now Has 65% Fewer Traffic Jams Than Last Year: Ministry of Transport

A recent report by the Ministry of Transport revealed that the number of serious traffic jams in Vietnam dropped by 65% during the first nine months of 2016 compared to last year.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Abducted Vietnamese Sailors Finally Home After 4-Year Ordeal With Somali Pirates

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Abducted Vietnamese sailors finally home after four-year ordeal with Somali pirates [Vn...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Hanoi Fires Transport Inspector for Attacking Vietnam Airlines Employee

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Hanoi fires transport inspector for attacking Vietnam Airlines employee [VnExpress] ...

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Nguyen Tri Phuong's Chicken Rice Paradise

We promise this will be the last Nguyen Tri Phuong-based Hẻm Gem…for now.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Survey Finds 76% of Vietnam's Security Cameras Hackable

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Survey finds 76% of Vietnam's security cameras hackable [VnExpress] HCMC declares ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Jetstar Pacific to Open New Routes to Northeast Asian Countries

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Jetstar Pacific to open new routes to Northeast Asian countries [DTI] US, Vietnam ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Weighs Record-Long Lunar New Year Break

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. National Assembly Standing Committee suggests increasing basic salary [VietnamNet] ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: 30,000 People Die in Vietnam Every Year Because of Air Pollution

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. 30,000 people die in Vietnam every year because of air pollution [VietnamNet] Magn...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: 2 More Zika Cases Confirmed in Ho Chi Minh City

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. HCMC to build $4,500 apartments for low-income workers [VnExpress] Two more Zika c...

in Saigon

[Photos] One Last Look at Ben Thanh Roundabout, Le Loi and 23-9 Park

On Saturday, city workers began closing off portions of Le Loi Street and Ben Thanh Market’s Quach Thi Trang Roundabout as well as uprooting trees from nearby 23-9 Park.

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Conquering the Giant Bánh Canh Ghẹ Muối Ớt Xanh of D10

My uncle used to say that you haven't had real crab until you have to cook and dismantle one. For this week’s Hẻm Gem, Saigoneer takes you on a trip to do just that, relishing real crabs by break...

in Saigon

Demolition of Saigon Tax Center Officially Starts Today

As you’re reading this, Saigon’s iconic Tax Center is meeting its ultimate demise, making room for a new, 40-story skyscraper.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Disaster Alert and Watch System to Be Built in 13 Coastal Localities

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Disaster alert and watch system to be built in 13 coastal localities [DTI] Vietnam...

in Arts & Culture

Youth Culture Library Finds Niche in Saigon Cafe

The Youth Culture Library sets out to become an outlet of self-expression for young people and non-commercial artists through the ultimate form of alternative culture: zines.   

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Saigon's Original Bò 7 Món

Going to dinner at Au Pagolac is like going to dinner with family. That is, of course, provided your family spans several generations and also serves its meals in crisp, white button-ups and the occas...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Yuan’s Global Popularity Will Impact Vietnam Economy

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Yuan’s global popularity will impact Vietnam economy [DTI] Lung transplants coming...

in Saigon

Le Loi, Ben Thanh Roundabout Will Close to Traffic for Metro Construction

From October 15 onward, District 1's Le Loi Street and the roundabout in front of Ben Thanh Market will be fenced off due to metro construction.

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: A Cuppa in Saigon's Oldest Cafe

One of the first things Co Suong does when we sit down in the back of her tiny District 3 cafe is bring out the newspaper clippings.

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Getting Lost in D3’s Soup Bermuda Triangle

During a busy Thursday lunch hour, my coworker and I commit a soup drive-by.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Saigoneer Reaches 40,000 Facebook Likes

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. YSEALI announces academic fellowship program for members from ASEAN countries [Tuoi Tre...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Microsoft Partners With Vietnam Silicon Valley to Support Startups

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Expert proposes imposing gradual ban on cars to curb congestion in Vietnamese cities [T...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam's Rank in E-Government Index Moves Up

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Power-hungry Vietnam may now look to disastrous Lao dam projects [VNExpress] Ho Ch...

in Music & Arts

After Curatorial Shift, Saigon Artbook Delivers Best Exhibition to Date

Founder Dang Thanh Long and curator Shyevin S’ng talk about the work behind Saigon Artbook’s sixth edition and what the future holds for the local nonprofit art initiative.

in Saigon

The Story Behind Cho Ba Chieu

Ba Chieu is an old, bustling local market with nostalgic charm. Built in 1942 in what is today’s Binh Thanh District, Ba Chieu Market has remained largely the same despite Saigon's rapid urbanization ...

in Culture

[Photos] Inside Saigon's Vibrant Lantern Artisan Communities

In Saigon’s Chinese quarter, “lantern streets” have always been one of the most popular spots in the city come mid-autumn.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Scientists Win 4 More US Research Grants

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnamese mobile start-up ‘Shark Journey’ snaps up $40,000 from Facebook [VNExpress] ...

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Lão Hương Thân, One of Saigon's Oldest Cơm Gà Xối Mỡ Restaurants

Is there anything quite as glorious as beautifully done fried chicken?

in Tech

Uber Dodging Taxes on VND1bn in Daily Profits: Official

Vietnam’s battle of the taxi apps has taken another interesting turn: one of the country’s biggest players, Uber, is being called out again for allegedly evading tax payments.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: HCMC to Allocate Area for Street Vendors

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. France to support Vietnam’s sovereignty over waters, airspace: Hollande [Tuoi Tre] ...

in Society

Saigon's Parking Woes: What to Do When a Parking Lot Loses Your Bike

Saigon’s traffic issues are an extremely tough nut to crack for local authorities. In recent years, the government has come up with a slew of solutions in an attempt to ease traffic woes, with va...

in Heritage

[Photos] Saigon Then & Now: The Diem Coup (1963)

In September 1963, reporters and journalists began to hear rumblings about a coup that would ultimately topple the increasingly unpopular Ngo Dinh Diem regime.

in Vietnam

You Can Now Travel From Saigon to Phan Thiet in a New Luxury Passenger Car

On September 2, Saigon Railways unveiled a newly renovated car on the SPT8 train running from Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet, right on time for the country’s national day celebration and the 80th...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Woman Killed in Pokemon Go-Related Accident in Japan

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Disturbing smell enshrouds southern Ho Chi Minh City [Tuoi Tre] Heineken buys a br...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Bún Sứa Serves Up a Jellyfish Medley Without the Sting

The menu at Bun Sua Co Hanh is geared towards diners with a hankering for seafood, and not just your regular fish and company. They serve something out of the ordinary at this slightly drab river...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Hanoians Go Fishing in the Streets After Typhoon Dianmu

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. HCMC to set up emergency aid stations, train paramedics [Thanh Nien] 6.6 kilos of ...

Khoi Pham

in Society

Catching 'Em All in Saigon: Pokemon GO Brings More Than Old School Nostalgia to Vietnam

One of my colleagues threatened to ban Pokemon GO in the Saigoneer office after he saw me catching a Pidgey, a bird-type Pokemon, at our desk.

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Slurping Mì Ốc Hến in District 4 With Công 'the Enforcer'

Shuffling along in flip-flops and a pair of baggy shorts, Công the Enforcer arrives at our table.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Boy Burns $1,500 Worth of Bills Using Hairdryer

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnamese boy burns $1,500 worth of bills using hairdryer [Tuoi Tre] Northern Vie...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Saigon Proposes Fines for People Wearing Fake Helmets

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam Airlines plane makes emergency landing after hitting bird [Thanh Nien] Chi...

in Society

The Strict Stipulations Behind Takashimaya's Top-Notch Service

Along with a slew of foreign brands and mouthwatering Japanese pastries, Saigon’s new Takashimaya department store has also brought its unique brand of hospitality to the southern hub in hopes of wowi...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Responds to Chinese Defense Chief's Call for Maritime War Preparation

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam responds to Chinese defense chief's call for maritime war preparation [Tuoi Tre...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Vietnamese Contestant Eliminated From National Pageant for Having Fake Teeth

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnamese contestant eliminated from national pageant for having fake teeth [Tuoi Tre]...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Entertainer Pleads Guilty to US Child Molestation Charges

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Sponge left inside woman after surgery in Vietnam [Thanh Nien] Vietnamese entertai...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Octogenarian Spends 43 Years Clearing His Name of False Murder Charge

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnamese octogenarian spends 43 years clearing his name of false murder charge [Tuoi ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Michelin Star a Double-Edged Sword for Hawkers

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Michelin star a double-edged sword for hawkers [TODAY Online] Lost and found pregn...

in Saigon

[Photos] Saigon Then & Now: Ben Thanh Market

The southern hub has seen its fair share of transformations over the years. From French colonialism to the swinging 60s, the early days of Đổi Mới to 21st-century Vietnam, Saigon’s urban lan...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: HCMC to Sacrifice More Trees for Subway

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. HCMC to sacrifice more trees for subway [Thanh Nien] 63 civets saved from cruel fa...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: 'Unprecedented' Corrosive Chemical Leak at Vietnam Alumina Refinery

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. 'Unprecedented' corrosive chemical leak at Vietnam alumina refinery [VnExpress] 2 ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Man Fined for Killing 3 Monkeys in Central Vietnam

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Man fined for killing 3 monkeys in central Vietnam [Thanh Nien] Third Zika infecti...

in Development

For Japanese Retailers, Saigon Center Opening a Sign of Good Things to Come

Across the street from a colorful, decades-old Hindu temple, motorbikes pour into the parking garage of the newly opened Saigon Center. Spiraling five floors below ground, the downtown shopping m...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnamese Woman Faces Murder Rap After Crushing Husband's Testicles

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnamese woman faces murder rap after crushing husband's testicles [VnExpress] 8...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: After Steel Complex, Formosa to Develop Oil Refinery

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. After steel complex, Formosa to develop oil refinery [VietnamNet] Heineken fizz fa...

in Arts & Culture

[Photos] #WeAreSaigoneer: Instagram Shots of the Week

From frenetic traffic to historic cathedrals, this is what we saw through our lens this week.

in Vietnam

Street Cred: Princess Huyen Tran's Historic Hanky Panky

Arguably Vietnam’s most famous princess, Huyen Tran was born in 1287 to King Tran Nhan Tong and Queen Thien Cam, rulers of the Dai Viet kingdom. Throughout her childhood, Huyen Tran was your standard,...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Saigon’s Original Bánh Mì Breakfast

I am a lifetime supporter of the sandwich.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Traffic Cop Filmed Punching Driver in HCMC

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Traffic cop filmed punching driver in HCMC [Thanh Nien] 1 killed, tourists strande...

Michael Tatarski

in Food Culture

Crossing the DMZ: A Visit to Saigon’s North Korean Restaurant

UPDATE: We're sad to announce that as of October 2017, Ryu Gyong has been shuttered permanently, along with a few other North Korean restaurants in Da Nang, Hanoi, and Saigon.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Seizes Thai Vessel Carrying 260,000 Liters of Illegal Gasoline

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam seizes Thai vessel carrying 260,000 liters of illegal gasoline [VnExpress] ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Da Nang Slaughterhouse Coats Chickens With Carcinogenic Dye

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Da Nang slaughterhouse coats chickens with carcinogenic dye [Thanh Nien] HCMC publ...

in Eat & Drink

Spice up Your Morning Phở With These Herbs

In the wonderful world of Vietnamese soups, everyone has their preferred set of spices.

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Hanoi 'Kicking Cop' Will Not Face Suspension: Boss

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Hanoi 'kicking cop' will not face suspension: boss [Tuoi Tre] 2 confirmed dead aft...

in Arts & Culture

[Photos] #WeAreSaigoneer: Instagram Shots of the Week

From epic storms to street corner motorbike repairs, this is what we saw through our lens this week.

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Dessert Happy Hour at Quynh Hoa

Just as rush hour traffic starts to pick up around me, motorbikes zipping back and forth down the wide alley, I send a message to my coworker.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Surgeons at Major Vietnamese Hospital Operate on Patient's Wrong Leg

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. My left foot: Surgeons at major Vietnamese hospital operate on patient’s wrong leg [VnE...

in Music & Arts

Dislocate: Artist Bui Cong Khanh Deconstructs Vietnamese Identity

A beautiful large-scale recreation of a fortress, a photographic essay and a documentary video feature in Bui Cong Khanh’s latest exhibition, Dislocate, an impactful reminder of Vietnam’s heritage and...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Coast Guard Builds Muscle With New Vessels

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam Coast Guard builds muscle with new vessels [VnExpress] American man found ...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Vietnam Province Authorities Want to Shoot Feral Buffaloes That Attack People

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam province authorities want to shoot feral buffaloes that attack people [Thanh Ni...

in Music & Arts

Quach Phong’s Monumental Take on Vietnamese History

An ambitious and essential art project, Sketching Vietnamese History – the first major solo exhibition by established artist Quach Phong – is a tribute to Vietnam’s history and its people. It is a wor...

in Vietnam

New Decree Could Regulate Vietnamese Facebook Users’ Photos

By mid-August, Vietnamese Facebook users could be subjected to a controversial new regulation that would require users to apply for permission before uploading photographs online.

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Good Bánh Bèo Comes to Those Who Wait

The most memorable eating experiences are the ones that take time. Of all the meals Saigon’s sidewalks can offer, the best require a pilgrimage to some faraway district and a series of trial-and-error...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: HCMC Parents Sleep at Kindergarten Gates to Submit Applications

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Hanoi battles deadly brain virus outbreak [VnExpress] Cut cable hits Vietnam’s int...

in Development

Ministry of Transport Needs $10.58bn to Build Cross-Country Highway

Vietnam’s Ministry of Transport is seeking VND235.95 trillion (US$10.58 billion) for the completion of a cross-country highway that would run from Hanoi to Can Tho.

in Heritage

[Photos] Then & Now: Images From Old and New Saigon

The southern hub has seen its fair share of transformations over the years. From French colonialism to the swinging 60s, the early days of Doi Moi to 21st-century Vietnam, Saigon’s urban landscape has...

in Arts & Culture

When WRONG Is Right: Vietnamese Tradition Meets Contemporary Fashion

There’s an hour to go before Fashion4Freedom unveils its latest collection and LanVy Nguyen is buzzing about, all smiles, in sneakers and a black-and-white embroidered áo dài.

Khoi Pham

in Tech

Busted: A 3D Printing Adventure in Saigon

My journey with 3D printing begins with me mishearing “bust” as “butt.”

Khoi Pham

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

[Video] Hẻm Gems: Fish Balls, Curry and Noodle Soup, a Perfect Storm

Some may say that good things in life come when you least expect them, and from my encounter with this week’s Hem Gem – curry fish balls and noodles – you can count me in as a firm believer in this pa...

in Saigon

City Officials Consider Private Vehicle Ban Downtown to Reduce Traffic Congestion

On the heels of Hanoi's plan to ban motorbikes by 2025, Saigon is exploring the possibility of limiting private vehicles downtown to reduce traffic congestion.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Mike Tyson Heads to Vietnam to Join Cast of Asian Movie

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Hilton to operate 4th hotel in Vietnam [DTI] Wild baby elephant found dead in high...

Khoi Pham

in Vietnam

Street Cred: Han Mac Tu

Vietnam’s literary scene is filled with colorful characters and mystifying urban legends, but no other poet has received as much fanfare – or as much scrutiny – as Han Mac Tu, one of the country's mos...

in Arts & Culture

[Photos] #WeAreSaigoneer: Instagram Shots of the Week

From decaying ships to street life in the Delta, this is what we saw through our lens this week.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Chinese Tour Guide Distorts Vietnamese History

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Thailand's PTT delays $20bn Vietnam refinery and petrochemical complex [Reuters] V...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: HCMC Starts Biggest Ever Anti-Flood Construction

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Ghenh Bridge opens to traffic, resumes North-South railway [SGGP] Protecting Vietn...

in Arts & Culture

[Photos] #WeAreSaigoneer: Instagram Shots of the Week

From Saigon market vendors to sunsets on the shores of Con Dao, this is what we saw through our lens this week.

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: For Good Phở in Saigon, a Dollar Is All You Need

You can really stretch a dollar in this country. That's two cà phê sữa đá or two bánh mì, a couple liters of bia hơi, a xe ôm ride, a well-bargained souvenir, enough snacks to constitute a meal or a s...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Audit Finds Giant Holes in Vietnam's Local Budgets

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Tourism firm may be shut down after Chinese client burns Vietnamese money [Thanh Nien] ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Hanoi Offers Dead Fighter Pilot’s Wife a Teaching Job

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnamese woman denied lottery money after losing tickets [Tuoi Tre] Vietnam send...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Using Obama's Image for Ads, Does Habeco Violate the Law?

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Cyclones thrash hundreds of houses in southern Vietnam [Tuoi Tre] Da Nang lays pat...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Crystal Meth Kits Openly Sold in HCMC

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Crystal meth kits openly sold in HCMC [Tuoi Tre] Altai Technologies and ETN Singap...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Tourists Banned From Sightseeing on Deck

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam tops productivity growth in ASEAN [VOV] Da Nang to commence key projects&n...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: The Legend of Baby African

You'll have to clear an afternoon to get to Baby African.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Government Plans to Borrow Over $20bn This Year

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. General schools rush to apply bilingual textbooks [VietnamNet] Vietnam government...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Vietnam Flight Delayed Due to Bee Swarm

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Vietnam still needs ODA for infrastructure development: economists [VietnamNet] Ca...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

[Video] Hẻm Gems: The Long but Worthwhile Wait for Xôi Chiên

They say the best things in life are worth waiting for. In the case of the elusive xôi chiên, they're right.

in Vietnam

Ministry of Health Recalls More Bottled Teas From Philippine Manufacturer

The Ministry of Health has recalled a fourth batch of bottled tea produced by Philippine manufacturer URC Vietnam after tests confirmed elevated lead levels in the drinks.

in Food Culture

An Abridged History of Phở

Phở is serious business.

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Binh Thanh's Delectable Bánh Căn

Located on a busy street in Binh Thanh District, Hai Ton Quan is a small, family-run restaurant that serves up Phan Rang-style cuisine, that glorious mixture of tasty, golden-brown rice cakes and fres...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

[Video] Hẻm Gems: D5’s Glorious Goat Curry

One of the benefits or writing this column is that it allows us to sample some of Saigon’s best local eateries. We may be well versed in the ways of street noshing, but once in a blue moon, we come ac...

in Development

The State of the Metro: An Update on Saigon's Subway Construction

Now entering its fourth year, construction of the Saigon Metro system is chugging along. With several lines in development and plenty of work still to go, Saigoneer takes a closer look at the pro...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: Saigon's Sủi Cảo Street

Saigon is, in essence, a giant food court. From District 1 to Binh Chanh, the city streets are pretty much a macro version of the cooked food section at your local market, spread out over miles of une...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Says US Lifting of Arms Ban Would Reflect Trust: Report

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Environmental group bashes $1.1bn plan for Vietnam's Red River [Thanh Nien] Panama...

in Music & Arts

Livinwondr: A People’s Art Project

The first installation of new community project Livinwondrexpresses the stories and creative ideas of the public through transformative media art.

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: A Year on, HCMC Walking Street Already Shows Signs of Deterioration

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. A year on, HCMC walking street already shows signs of deterioration [Thanh Nien] V...

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: Divers Find Little Presence of Life Underwater off Vietnam Central Coast

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Popular in Vietnam, Thai fruits, vegetables fail toxic test at home [Thanh Nien] H...

in Development

Korean Company to Develop Tran Hung Dao's 'Golden Triangle'

Along with the dozens of other iconic locations scattered across downtown Saigon, that three-pointed sliver of land bordered by Pham Ngu Lao, Nguyen Thai Hoc and Tran Hung Dao Streets will be getting ...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Heavy Metal Levels Found in Fish Samples in Central Vietnam ‘Safe’

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. HCMC urged to raise houses [Vietnam News] Ministry releases list of safe food outl...

in Vietnam

Morning News Roundup: Vietnam Airport Denies Claims That Foreign Passengers Were Beaten During Delay

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. After 10 years, each Vietnamese burdened with additional $1,200 public debt [VietnamNet...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: A Perfect Saigon Breakfast

Most days, I roll out of bed 15 minutes after my alarm has stopped ringing, stumble downstairs, brush my teeth and leave the house just in time to grab my morning dose of caffeine before heading to th...

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

Hẻm Gems: On Eating (Chicken) Ass

Let’s play a game. I tell you a word and you tell me the first thing that comes to mind. Here goes: chicken.

in Development

[Photos] On the Move: Saigon's Changing Transportation

Once the domain of bicycles, Saigon's narrow roads have become jam-packed over the last two decades with increasingly modern vehicles. Following a boom of motorbikes in the 1990s – first described to ...

in Development

[Photos] Vinhomes Unveils Golden River, Its Ba Son Development

If you've recently driven along District 1's Ton Duc Thang recently, chances are you've seen the large, glass-front building going up on the corner of Nguyen Huu Canh Street.

in Architecture

[Photos] A Farewell to Saigon's War-Era Water Towers

Saigon Water Company (Sawaco) is drawing up plans to destroy seven of the eight large war-era water towers scattered across the city.

in Vietnam

Weekend News Roundup: MobiFone to Pilot 4G Services

Stay connected with Saigoneer on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook. Cold spells hit Hanoi while HCMC remains hot [SGGP] David Beckham comparisons OK...

Brian Letwin

in Development

[Photos] District 2 Just Got a Fresh New Park

Green space has long come at a premium in Saigon, especially as some public areas – see District 1’s Chi Lang Park – have lost out to the city’s breakneck development.

in Saigon Hẻm Gems

[Video] Hẻm Gems: The Merits of Chè Dim Sum

If we're being real, I would not break an appointment for chè.

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