7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, affectionately known as Saigon, is a bustling metropolis that offers digital nomads a vibrant lifestyle with its mix of modern amenities and rich cultural heritage. While the city itself is teeming with activities and sights, sometimes a weekend getaway is just what one needs to recharge. Fortunately, the city's location in southern Vietnam makes it an excellent base for exploring a variety of destinations, from beach resorts to quiet countryside retreats. Here are seven fun weekend getaways for those looking to escape the urban jungle of Ho Chi Minh City.

V?ng Tàu

Just a short drive from Ho Chi Minh City, V?ng Tàu is a popular coastal city known for its beaches, such as Back Beach and Front Beach, and the iconic Christ the King statue, which offers panoramic views of the city and sea. Visitors can enjoy water sports, fresh seafood, and a laid-back atmosphere. The city also boasts a rich history, with the White Palace (Villa Blanche) and the V?ng Tàu Lighthouse being notable landmarks.

How to Get There: The most convenient way to reach V?ng Tàu is by hydrofoil boat, which takes about 1.5 hours from Ho Chi Minh City. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive, which takes around 2 to 3 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to hike up to the Christ the King statue for a stunning sunset view. The climb is quite steep, but the scenery is well worth the effort.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Imperial Hotel Vung Tau for its luxurious amenities and beachfront location. For a more budget-friendly option, the Green Hotel is well-regarded and centrally located.

Where to Eat: Ganh Hao Seafood Restaurant is famous for its delicious and fresh seafood dishes, offering a great dining experience with ocean views.

Can Gio Mangrove Forest

For a unique and eco-friendly escape, the Can Gio Mangrove Forest, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is an excellent choice. This vast wetland ecosystem is home to a rich biodiversity, including mangrove trees, saltwater crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can explore the forest by boat, visit the Monkey Island, and learn about the area's importance in Vietnam's ecosystem at the Can Gio Museum.

How to Get There: Can Gio is accessible by bus from Ho Chi Minh City, which takes about 2 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a motorbike or car for a more flexible journey.

Travel Tip: Bring insect repellent and wear long sleeves to protect yourself from mosquitoes while exploring the mangroves.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited in Can Gio, but the Can Gio Resort offers a comfortable stay with basic amenities.

Where to Eat: Seafood is a must-try in Can Gio, and the local market offers a variety of fresh options that you can have cooked to order at nearby stalls.

Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is a rich tapestry of rice paddies, fruit orchards, and sleepy villages. A weekend trip here offers a glimpse into the rural life of Vietnam, with activities like visiting floating markets, cycling through the countryside, and sampling local specialties like coconut candy. The town of Ben Tre or the bustling city of Can Tho, with its famous Cai Rang floating market, are great starting points for exploring the delta.

How to Get There: The Mekong Delta is best reached by bus or private car from Ho Chi Minh City, with travel times varying depending on your specific destination within the delta, generally taking around 3 to 4 hours.

Travel Tip: Wake up early to visit the floating markets at their most lively. The Cai Rang market in Can Tho is particularly vibrant in the early morning hours.

Where to Stay: The Victoria Can Tho Resort offers colonial charm and luxury, while the Mekong Rustic in Ben Tre provides a more authentic homestay experience.

Where to Eat: Try the local eateries in Can Tho for a taste of traditional Vietnamese dishes, such as the noodle soup known as "bun ca."

Dalat

Dalat, the "City of Eternal Spring," is nestled in the cool highlands of Vietnam and offers a stark contrast to the tropical climate of Ho Chi Minh City. Known for its French colonial architecture, flower gardens, and pine forests, Dalat is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a romantic getaway. Activities include visiting the Valley of Love, exploring the Dalat Flower Gardens, and enjoying the numerous waterfalls in the area.

How to Get There: The most common way to reach Dalat is by bus, which takes about 6 to 7 hours from Ho Chi Minh City. Flights are also available for a quicker journey.

Travel Tip: Rent a motorbike to explore the scenic countryside around Dalat, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and occasional rain showers.

Where to Stay: The Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel offers luxury accommodations with a vintage feel, while the Terracotta Hotel & Resort Dalat has a modern design and overlooks Tuyen Lam Lake.

Where to Eat: Enjoy the cozy atmosphere and delicious French-Vietnamese fusion cuisine at La Viet Coffee, which also offers a tour of their coffee plantation.

Con Dao Islands

The Con Dao Islands are a group of pristine islands in the South China Sea, known for their stunning beaches, clear waters, and rich history. Once a penal colony, the islands now attract visitors with their natural beauty and opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and trekking. The Con Dao National Park is a highlight, offering a chance to see rare wildlife and explore untouched forests.

How to Get There: The fastest way to reach the Con Dao Islands is by a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from the coastal town of Vung Tau, which is a longer journey.

Travel Tip: Visit the Con Dao Museum to learn about the islands' poignant history before enjoying their natural splendors.

Where to Stay: For a luxurious stay, the Six Senses Con Dao offers exclusive villas with private pools and exceptional service. The Con Dao Resort is a more affordable option with beach access.

Where to Eat: Try the local seafood at Thu Tam Restaurant, where the catch of the day is always fresh and expertly prepared.

Ta Dung National Park

Ta Dung National Park, often referred to as the "Ha Long Bay of the Highlands," is an off-the-beaten-path destination that will mesmerize nature enthusiasts with its stunning lake dotted with over 40 islands and surrounded by a dense forest. The park is a biodiversity hotspot with many endemic species. Visitors can enjoy boat trips on the lake, trekking through the forest, and visiting ethnic minority villages.

How to Get There: The journey to Ta Dung National Park from Ho Chi Minh City involves a combination of bus and taxi, taking approximately 7 to 8 hours.

Travel Tip: Stay overnight in one of the local homestays to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of the park.

Where to Stay: Homestays are the primary accommodation option in Ta Dung, offering a chance to experience local hospitality and cuisine.

Where to Eat: Dining options are limited within the park, but homestays will often provide home-cooked meals featuring local specialties.

Tri An Lake

Tri An Lake is a serene and relatively undiscovered destination perfect for those looking to escape the city's hustle and bustle. The lake's calm waters are ideal for kayaking and fishing, while the surrounding area offers opportunities for cycling and bird watching. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a great spot for picnics and relaxation.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Tri An Lake is by motorbike or car, which takes about 2 to 3 hours from Ho Chi Minh City.

Travel Tip: Bring your own picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the lake, as there are few restaurants in the immediate vicinity.

Where to Stay: Accommodation options are limited near Tri An Lake, but you can find guesthouses and homestays in the nearby town of Vinh An.

Where to Eat: For a local dining experience, try the roadside eateries in Vinh An, where you can sample traditional Vietnamese dishes at a very reasonable price.

Whether you're looking for a beachside retreat, a cultural experience, or an adventure in nature, these weekend getaways from Ho Chi Minh City offer something for every type of digital nomad. Each destination provides a chance to unwind, explore, and enjoy the diverse landscapes and cultures that Vietnam has to offer.