Ho Chi Minh City

Download Grab for ride-hailing — it's the dominant app in HCMC. A GrabBike (motorbike) ride of 5-10km costs around 45,000-85,000 VND ($1.80-$3.40), and a GrabCar (car) for a 15-minute ride is roughly $3-5. A late-night surcharge of 10,000 VND applies between 10pm and 6am.

Vietcombank, Techcombank, and BIDV are popular local banks for expats. You'll need your passport, a visa valid for 3+ months (or temporary residence card), proof of address, and a minimum deposit of about 1,000,000 VND (~$40). As of January 2025, all accounts require biometric registration.

A meal at a local restaurant or street stall costs around 51,000 VND (~$2). A mid-range restaurant dinner for two runs about 520,000 VND (~$21). A domestic draft beer is 30,000 VND (~$1.20) and a cappuccino is about 48,000 VND (~$1.90).

A one-bedroom apartment in the city center (District 1, Thao Dien) averages 15,760,000 VND (~$626/month). Outside the center, expect around 8,360,000 VND (~$332/month). Popular expat areas include District 2 (Thao Dien), District 7, and Binh Thanh.

Get a Viettel SIM card at the airport or any phone shop. Viettel has the best 4G/5G coverage nationwide. Tourist plans range from 60,000-200,000 VND ($2.40-$8) for 15-30 days of data. You'll need your passport for registration.

Family Medical Practice (FMP) and Vinmec International Hospital are the top expat-friendly healthcare options. HSBC and international insurance are widely accepted. For serious emergencies, Bangkok is a 2-hour flight away with world-class hospitals.

Bag and phone snatching from passing motorbikes is the most common crime against expats, particularly in District 1 and along busy streets. Keep your phone on the building side when walking and use a cross-body bag. Avoid displaying expensive items near the curb.

HCMC has two seasons: dry (December-April) and rainy (May-November). During rainy season, expect heavy afternoon downpours lasting 30-60 minutes. Temperatures stay between 25-35В°C year-round. Carry a light rain jacket or poncho during the wet months.

For groceries, local markets like Ben Thanh are cheap for produce. Western imports are available at Vinmart, Co.op Mart, and Annam Gourmet. A weekly grocery shop runs $25-50 depending on how much imported food you buy.

Remove shoes before entering someone's home or a temple. Dress modestly at pagodas (cover shoulders and knees). Avoid touching anyone's head, and don't point the soles of your feet at people or religious objects.

Bui Vien Street (District 1) is the main backpacker nightlife area with cheap drinks. For a more upscale scene, try rooftop bars in District 1 or the craft beer bars in District 2 (Thao Dien). A domestic beer at a bar costs around 30,000-50,000 VND ($1.20-$2).