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Most visitors stay in Districts 1 and 3—the center of old Saigon—where the highest proportion of the museums, galleries, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs are found. The gracious old colonial hotels are here, too, as are many newer international hotels. Free Wi-Fi is ubiquitous, but service can be hit-or-miss. When in doubt, just remember that location trumps facilities. Look for bargains during Ho Chi Minh City's low season, from May to October, when some hotels discount their room rates to entice visitors during the rainy season.
At the higher end of the hotel spectrum, management strives to deliver international-standard four- or five-star service, and usually does so. Things can get interesting in the mid-range and budget options, especially if staff is unfamiliar with international service standards. Exercise patience because in most cases, intentions are good.
Serviced one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments with fully equipped kitchens and on-site recreation amenities, all only a short walk from the zoo, make this a great choice for families. The resort-style pool, barbecue area, landscaped grounds, children's playground, daily housekeeping, and 24-hour reception all make for a great alternative to a hotel room, especially during the rainy season when a heavy downpour can mean staying indoors for hours on end.
True to its name, these one- to five-bedroom riverside apartments house a mix of long-term expat residences and short-term visitors, and can be a great deal for families. The complex has a pool, children's playground, expansive grassed areas, tennis courts, a café, a convenience store, and a fitness center on-site. There are regular shuttle boats and buses to District 1. The views of the Saigon River from the river-fronting apartments are great, and the complex manages to maintain the feel of a boutique resort while maintaining home-away-from-home comforts.
In this luxurious, peaceful, and private complex on Thanh Da Island (considered one of Ho Chi Minh City's last green vestiges), apartments with one to four bedrooms come with a full kitchen and a washing machine. There's also a range of resort-style, family-friendly amenities including a swimming pool, children's play areas, a library, and a gym. There are regular minibus shuttles into District 1, and apartments can be rented on a nightly or monthly basis.
