Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City? This is a pertinent question that crops up for most travellers planning to visit Vietnam, as the entry point into Vietnam for their Vietnamese vacation. So, what makes both these bustling cities of Vietnam different and yet so similar? Let's find out which city wins the race for popularity among tourists.

Located on the banks of the Saigon River in Southern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City was once known as Saigon. It was renamed in 1976 to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) to honour the beloved Vietnamese revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh. You will need at least three days to experience this city, pulsating with life and energy, with all its historical landmarks, delicious street food, Cu Chi Tunnels, the riveting War Remnants Museum, and a day trip to the famous Mekong Delta.

Cu Chi Tunnels are an engineering marvel that was created by using the most basic engineering technique, digging. This intricate maze of tunnels and passageways is unbelievable...it's spread over 250 kilometres! Through these simple yet effective hideouts, the Vietnamese soldiers could escape the heavy artillery and bombings of the enemy forces.