Saigon, or Ho Chi Minh City, has grown into the economic and cultural epicenter of Vietnam. It’s fast-paced, chaotic, and vast. And, compared to Hanoi, moderately young.
The ever-evolving cityscape lacks distinct neighborhoods, and finding Saigon’s charm can prove allusive. Instead, you’ll find a sea of similar buildings infused with quaint alcoves and trendy alleys. One area melts into the next, and there’s a persistent rumble of 4-stroke engines and construction (and, sometimes, roosters). On the other hand, there’s Thao Dien.
An Escape From the Chaos
Driving into Thao Dien is like arriving at your holiday destination after hours on the road. It’s a surreal experience if you live in a city as crazy as Saigon.
There’s a sharp contrast between the city’s assault on your senses and the peaceful streets of Thao Dien. The once sleepy, suburban backwater is now the lifestyle, art, and social hub of Saigon. Ancient banyans and tree-lined laneways found throughout the district add an easygoing charm, despite the city’s emphasis on development.
That’s one of the reasons many people think of Thao Dien as a bubble. But, it’s more like an island, separate from the rest of the insanity but still a part of it.
The well-defined boundaries add to this sense of separation. The Xa Lo Ha Noi highway defines the Southern border, with the Eastern bank of the Saigon River surrounding Thao Dien.
Besides, Thao Dien has all the comforts you could ask for, and you rarely have to venture out into the city.
Diverse Food and Drink Options
Thao Dien is well-known for its cafes and restaurants with diverse styles and ample outdoor space. Among the many options, you’ll find French, Italian, Indian, and Japanese cuisine.
A selection of riverside venues is perfect for sunset cocktails or intimate get-togethers. Alternatively, join the digital nomads in Thao Dien’s relaxed cafes and artsy coffee shops. Plus, craft beer enthusiasts have plenty of taprooms and hidden gems to explore.
Thao Dien is also home to a variety of food and drink festivals throughout the year.
Retail Therapy and Entertainment
With cosmopolitan shopping malls, such as Thao Dien Pearl, Vincom Thao Dien, and Parkson Cantavil, residents have easy access to movie theaters, international fashion brands, skating rinks, and high-end supermarkets.
There’s a growing number of boutique fashion stores, galleries, and health shops that cater to all tastes.
Pedestrian Paradise
Ho Chi Minh’s City’s casual approach to road rules and obstacle-strew sidewalks makes navigating the city on foot daunting. But in Thao Dien, you can walk around the neighborhood thanks to broader streets, comfortably walkable distances, and less traffic.
Additionally, you’ll find beautiful alleys, European-style villas, and more greenery than most of the city center. Walking along streets like Nguyen Van Huong and Vo Truong Toan, you will see couples cycling and families happily walking their dogs.
Not only is it one of the city’s most pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods, but it also seems to be more wellness-centered overall. So, you’ll find tons of yoga studios and fitness centers.
International Community
Many foreigners choose Thao Dien for the quality of life, luxury amenities, access to international schools and hospitals. As a result, the population is diverse, and many expats feel a sense of camaraderie and community that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Thao Dien is a relatively small neighborhood, and you’ll often run into someone you know, which makes it feel a lot cozier than anywhere else in Ho Chi Minh City. There are loads of clubs, expat groups, sports teams, and regular events to help residents feel at home.
Language barriers and cultural differences are, at times, a shock to the system, and the large community of expats can make life a little easier. More specifically, many shopkeepers speak English, fewer people stare, and you won’t struggle as much to make yourself understood.
Family Friendly
Thao Dien and District 2 have some of the best schools in the city for all ages. Notably, you’ll find a third of Ho Chi Minh City’s international schools in the district.
Additionally, many restaurants are kid-friendly, and apartment complexes often feature playgrounds and entertainment areas to keep the kids busy.
The green areas, slower pace, and relative safety also add to Thao Dien’s family-friendly atmosphere. On weekends you’ll see families walking and cycling in the tree-lined streets or enjoying the parks.
Thao Dien is popular for a reason. This neighborhood is so much more than the sum of its parts. In short, it perfectly combines immersing yourself in a different culture while having everyday conveniences and creature comforts.
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