Originally a part of the kingdom of Cambodia, Ho Chi Minh City was once known as Prey Nokor, and was just a small port town. After the Nguyen Dynasty was overthrown in Danang, Ho Chi Minh City was captured and colonized by the French in 1859. Shortly after, being appointed as the capital of Cochinchina, the city gained its iconic and renowned French architecture. Famous sights, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral Saigon, Saigon Central Post Office and Ho Chi Minh City Municipal Theatre are just a few intricate buildings that have been touched by European influence.
Ho Chi Minh City’s turbulent and colorful past has painted every corner of the destination’s culture with vibrancy. From the complex, underground network of tunnels that were dug during the French and American Wars, to Reunification Palace, a time capsule completely unchanged from the mid-1970’s. Reunification Palace was home and base to the Vietnamese General Ngo Dinh Diem. So why is this building important? Because in 1975, a North Vietnamese Army tank broke through the entrance gate, famously ending the Vietnam War.
Today, Ho Chi Minh City bears all the hallmarks of its past, yet faces firmly forward as the financial capital of modern Vietnam. With a choice of luxury rooftop cocktail bars, events at the Saigon Opera House and late-night browsing at Ben Thanh Market, Ho Chi Minh City has plenty to offer after the sun sets.
On board Emerald Harmony, which has been specifically designed to traverse the Mekong, guests can sail into the center of Ho Chi Minh City, docking at the heart of this wonderful, encapsulating hub of culture. With access to chic staterooms and premium suites that act as modern sanctuaries as you sail through this beautiful destination, your cruise through this stunning city will be unforgettable.