Saigon Essence

Motorcycles, Markets, and Memories

Saigon, known as Ho Chi Minh City, is a destination that blends modern comforts with traditional culture. The city’s infrastructure has kept up with the demands of its expanding population while not losing sight of its Vietnamese heritage

Living in Ho Chi Minh City is like entering a patchwork of influences, ranging from French colonial architecture to traditional Vietnamese pagodas. Motorcycles dominate the downtown roadways, resulting in a breathtaking traffic dance. It is a country where infrastructure has kept up with the needs of a growing population, but this progress has not blurred the essence of Vietnamese culture.

As you walk around Ho Chi Minh City’s neighborhoods, you’ll see an undeniable, a combination that feels different and meaningful in an age of homogenized cities.

An interview with Felix Becquart, a young computer-aided designer:

I live in Bình Thạnh, a district conveniently situated between the city center and the expat community. My flat is located in the midst of a bustling area, just steps away from a supermarket. Restaurants are always popping up, so I don’t have to go far to find fresh dining options.

What’s my favorite pastime? I enjoy having coffee or eating with my neighborhood buddies. Despite being far from my family, these friends are part of my chosen family. In 2012, I arrived for an internship in Biên Hòa. Then I kept returning to Vietnam until I chose to stay here. I have been here for eight years.

You will notice the plethora of wonderful coffee places right away. While global behemoths such as Starbucks have made their mark, the true gems are the tiny coffee shops tucked away in quiet roads or perched atop busy highways.

Vietnamese coffee culture is rich and historical; it’s simple to find a café that’s been around for decades and still serves strong, aromatic drip coffee with a side of sweetened condensed milk. Coffee is more than simply a beverage here; it is an experience, a ritual that brings people of all ages and nationalities together.
Félix testified that he has seen a significant change in cafes over time. They are incorporating more and more plants, natural light is everywhere, and architectural styles are evolving.

The decorations, which are often highly exquisite and seasonally appropriate, give each location a distinct character. My friends and I gather on a daily basis in these areas, where everyone has their own activity: some work, others read or study. What we particularly love is the variety and distinct atmosphere of each café, which is often hidden or virtually secret. I believe we will have even more freedom to work anyplace. Saigon, in particular, appears to be ahead of this style of living.

I believe I will stay here for a long time.