Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant and bustling city that never sleeps, and one of the most popular areas for tourists is the famous Pham Ngu Lao Street. Located in the heart of District 1, Pham Ngu Lao Street is a backpacker’s paradise, offering a range of budget accommodations, local food stalls, and lively nightlife. Here’s everything you need to know about street.
History of Pham Ngu Lao Street
Pham Ngu Lao Street is named after a Vietnamese historian and revolutionary who fought against French colonialism. The street gained popularity in the 1980s when it became a gathering place for backpackers who were looking for cheap accommodation and a taste of local culture. Today, it remains a popular destination for budget travelers, but also attracts a wider range of visitors with its eclectic mix of shops, bars, and restaurants.
Accommodation on Pham Ngu Lao Street
Street is known for its budget accommodation options, with numerous hostels and guesthouses offering cheap rooms and dorm beds. Backpackers can easily find a place to stay for less than $10 a night, but there are also mid-range and luxury hotels in the area. It’s important to note that some of the budget accommodations on Pham Ngu Lao Street can be quite basic, so it’s worth checking reviews before booking.
Food and Drink on Pham Ngu Lao Street
Foodies will love the street food scene on Pham Ngu Lao Street, which offers a variety of Vietnamese and international dishes at affordable prices. From banh mi and pho to pizza and burgers, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to try some of Vietnamese cuisine, such as banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes) and bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup).
In addition to street food, Street has plenty of bars and clubs for nightlife enthusiasts. Many of the bars have a backpacker vibe and offer cheap drinks and live music, while others are more upscale and cater to a younger, more affluent crowd. Some of the most popular bars include Go2 Bar, Crazy Buffalo, and Bui Vien Beer Garden.
Things to Do on Pham Ngu Lao Street
Aside from eating and drinking, there are plenty of things to do on Pham Ngu Lao Street. Visitors can browse the street markets, which sell everything from souvenirs to clothing and electronics. There are also several travel agencies on the street that offer tours to popular destinations like the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta.
For those who want to explore the city on their own, there are bicycle rental shops on Pham Ngu Lao Street. Biking is a great way to see the sights and sounds of the city, and visitors can easily ride to nearby attractions like the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace.
Safety on Pham Ngu Lao Street
As with any busy area, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to ensure their safety on Pham Ngu Lao Street. Petty theft can be a problem in crowded areas, so it’s best to keep valuables out of sight and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. It’s also important to be cautious when crossing busy streets and to only use reputable tour operators for travel arrangements.