Falling for Saigon

Fifty years ago, when the longest and most unpopular war in American history finally ended, Saigon, the capital of South Vietnam, was left traumatised by the conflict and cut off from the world. Boatloads of Vietnamese, fearing their future under the rule of the Communist party, took their chances on the seas, never imagining they would ever wish to return. However, for the last three decades overseas Vietnamese of all ages have been flocking back to what has become one of the fastest growing cities in Southeast Asia (home to over 10 million people). They’ re not alone. Today Ho Chi Minh City, renamed in 1976 in honour of Vietnam’ s founding father, is a pulsating, multicultural hub that is welcoming the world. While the powering economy and vibrant start-up culture are undoubtedly part of the attraction for Generations X, Y and Z, you can still find oodles of ‘ old Saigon’ flavour. The city’ s age-old hospitality, glorious food offerings, fun-loving social scene, and the seductive Saigonese way of life win everyone over. The city’ s timeless charm endures and its residents’ love of life prevails. These poignant essays are a reminder that the time to go to it, and fall for it, is now.