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.
Parkson is an international luxury brand with its origin in Malaysia. It now has branches in China, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Mexico, Singapore and the United States. The Flemington Tower, being a commercial hub, houses one of their outlets. The brand sells high end clothes ranging from pyjamas to party wear for men, women and children. Some home decorating appliances and furniture can also be found here. They even sell jewellery, beauty products and baby products. So the next time you're looking for the perfect party dress, a gift for your baby relative or brand new curtains to spruce up the room, come to this place.
Phu Tho Bookstore has books for one and all. Located in one of the busiest districts of the city, this bookstore is thronged by children, college students and travelers alike. The store has a variety of books from fiction to education, and their systematic layout makes navigating through the store quite hassle free. In addition to books, the store is known for their collection of gift articles, games for children, party supplies and toys.
Co.opmart is a chain of department stores and supermarkets, located all over Vietnam. They have several locations in Ho Chi Min City itself. One of their District 10 outlets, lies on Đường Hòa Hảo and offers a great place to shop for daily products. These stores boasts of wide range of grocery items, processed food and food products, all at really good discounts. For more on current offers, check their website.
An interesting market selling a variety of craft and arts material, Thuong Xa ai Quang Minh is thronged by locals and visitors on any given day. For those who wish to explore their innovative side by creating unique jewelry and home decoration articles, they can procure raw materials from here. The market is lined with many street food stalls, bars and cafes where you can satiate your well worked appetite after a long shopping haul.
An Dong Market is one of the city's most popular markets. It is known for its wide collection of accessories, locals products, handicrafts, clothes, bags and a lot more. To add to the list, the market also sells some great street food, cooked in the most traditional manners, to depict the true taste of the region. When you enter the market, you will come across various goods that will definitely catch your fancy, but make sure you pay the best price available, as the area is meant for tourists and the prices are sky high, but can be brought down through bargaining.
If you're looking for an edible gift, head to Trai Cay 141. This store specializes in providing top quality fresh and exotic fruits like dragon fruit, apples, Australian oranges, Taiwanese mango, and so on. In addition, they offer delivery services like gift baskets for weddings and special occasions.