We arrived at Tan Son Nhat airport just before sunset and set out for our hotel in District 1. The road to the hotel was crowded, noisy and very busy with motorbikes weaving through the heavy traffic. Suddenly, all the lights came on and the city appeared bright and grand, so different from my first impressions. The city’s magical transformation made me decide to do an unplanned night tour. On the bus’s upper deck, we toured through crowded streets, night spots, roadside coffee shops, went past historic French colonial buildings and contrasting modern skyscrapers, as well as a ride along the Saigon River. Each neighborhood, from the historic District 1 to the modern skyscrapers of District 7, has its own unique attractions, making the night drive an unforgettable journey through the heart of Vietnam’s biggest city.

While the bus ride was great, looking back, I think I should have taken a taxi and visited each location and soaked in the atmosphere. We could have even stopped for dinner at Turtle Bay and also visit some of the iconic french buildings not covered on the bus tour. Although it would have taken a few extra hours, it would have saved me time from revisiting these places later. Despite considering myself an experienced traveler, I’ve realized that a nighttime ride through any city is a must for my future travels!