The Dong Khoi Street formally known as Rue Catinat, is a bustling street, in the heart of the chirpy city. This street is dotted with prominent landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, which take you back in time. This street is known for its boutiques, cafes and restaurants, making it one of the best go-to spots for food and shopping sprees.
Impossible to miss at one of the key intersections in the city center, Ben Thanh is the city's main market. Inside is a tightly organized grid of aisles, arranged according to product. Clothes, shoes and fabrics dominate the front, before giving over to kitchenware, cooked food, fresh vegetables and a somewhat alarming display of seafood and meat. There is plenty for the visitor to buy, but the main attraction is the way in which the bustling market is still very much part of the city's life and economy. The clock tower at the entrance of the market is actually considered as the city's major landmark.
The exquisite wares sold at the Thuy Design House are rooted in tradition, inspired by feminine curves and flowers, and enriched by Thuy's talent as an artist fused with her love for high fashion. Thuy's clothing and accessories are fashioned from the finest lace, silk and brocade, and designed to appeal to a modern clientele, with a discerning taste and a firm sense of self. Delicate, feminine and luxurious, yet vibrant, sprightly and whimsical, Thuy's designs truly capture the ethos of the modern day Vietnamese fashionista and art enthusiast. Whether you're looking for a complete outfit, or a statement piece to add a touch of spice to your wardrobe, Thuy's Design House will set you up with just the right choice.
Born of a passion for fine craftsmanship and the art of shoe making, Veritas Bespoke has come to be the go to choice for the city's discerning, fashion-forward male clientele. The store uses 3D imaging technology to create exquisitely designed handmade shoes that are built to last. Not only do Veritas' shoes fit like a dream, but they are also impeccably designed in line with the latest trends in fashion for men. Handmade using the finest leather and a blend of classic and contemporary design, these shoes are sure to add a spring to your step. While Veritas is renown for their bespoke creations, the store at Ho Chi Minh also offers ready-to-wear and made-to-measure collections that are easier on the wallet, but no less impressive in design. Before you head out to get yourself a pair, keep in mind that bespoke shoes can take up to 6 weeks to complete, so plan ahead!
Catherine Denoual Maison Boutique is all for kids. Classy bed linen, comfortable clothing, table linen, and all the other accessories. The designer takes utmost care in making each product with style and intricacy, that sets it apart from the mainstream products. The choice of color and patterns, is classy and upscale, making your kid stand out of the crowd. The ambiance of the store is homely, making your shopping experience wonderful.
Authentique is a shop in two parts, with the Moonfish Cafe sandwiched in-between. On the right is Authentique Interiors, which sells excellent, earthy ceramics, particularly of the green celadon style, typical of Vietnamese crafts. You can find everything from teapots and mugs to plates and serving bowls. On the other side is the Authentique Boutique where the focus is on cloth. They have bags decorated with fish, shoes decorated with umbrellas, quilts decorated with butterflies, and more.
You may not have imagined yourself leaving Vietnam with a guitar, but you could be tempted, as the standard of workmanship is high. The shop also sells a range of traditional Vietnamese stringed instruments which would make unusual gifts. You can buy an instrument that is in stock, or make a special order but this might take a month or so.
This small flower shop is run by a husband and wife team. Although lacking in English, their warmth and helpful manner combined with very reasonable prices is enough to make you want to return here again and again. You'll find Vietnamese style arrangements in a basket. A basket with no flowers costs under a dollar. You will also find Gerberas, red roses and Orchids.
A design superstore, the building itself is a sight to behold. Gaya, a sprawling four-floor home decor shop is housed in a modern building in the center of Ho Chi Minh City. The first of its kind to host international designers, Gaya offers a carefully curated selection of home decor, kitchenware, design elements, accent pieces and more.
Minh Phương Art, located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh, is a great place to witness the traditional Vietnamese art form of lacquer work. This premises houses the work station as well as showroom that are open to public for tours. Visit the gallery and watch the artists create beautiful lacquer masterpieces and browse through their collection of paintings, furnishings, jewelry boxes, vases, coasters and wall dishes to take home as a gift and souvenir.
Viet Thanh is an exclusive boutique that specializes in crocodile leather goods. It is the epitome of luxury and class, each of their carefully crafted purses, wallets, belts and accessories made from the finest, authentic animal leather. From statement-making crimson totes, belts and wallets to subtly classic black purses and accents; there is something to suit every taste. They offer a selection of custom-made key chains and small items perfect as a souvenir or for gifting purposes.
ManGii Shoes - Custom Made is an enterprise that's must-visit for the discerning patron. Their store has an extensive selection of leather shoes, and they also customize shoes as per varied tastes and preferences. The quality of their leather is their unique proposition, in addition to the wide range of designs they offer. They also have an amicable and knowledgeable on-site staff who is always available for assistance.