BJJ in Ho Chi Minh
January, 2024New Year in HCMC
Autor Jean-Pierre
Duration: 5 days, 4 nights
Location: Saigon / Ho Chi Minh, VN
Costs: Flight 60$, Hotel 120$
Just two days’ bevor new year`s I arrived in the big city in south Vietnam Ho Chi Minh or how the locals still call it Saigon.
BJJ experience in Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)
Meeting my friend Berk from Germany that I know since the BJJ Camp in Reykjavik. We spended the days in HCMC together and explored the city.
Find my map with points of interest in Vietnam here!
Getting here
Two ways of getting here by ferry or by airplane.
BJJ
Over Under Submission Grappling is a relatively new club in Ho Chi Minh based on NoGi training.
From Monday to Friday you will find a wide schedule for training here.
The Dojo is in the upper floor of a business building in Binh Thanh.
Cory and his team has a high level of NoGi BJJ. They will give you some solid rounds after the one-hour class.
Pass by if you are in Saigon!
BJJ here is quite big, some more Gyms in Ho Chi Minh:
Kimura Saigon, Top Team Saigon, Gisdio, Vinculum, C88 and Arkain
Food and drinks
Here are some iconic foods and dishes you might want to try when in Ho Chi Minh City:
Phở (Vietnamese Noodle Soup): A quintessential Vietnamese dish, phở is a flavorful broth with rice noodles, usually topped with beef or chicken.
Bánh Mì: This is a Vietnamese sandwich made with a baguette filled with various ingredients such as grilled pork, pâté, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and chili.
Gỏi Cuốn (Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls): These are fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, herbs, pork, and rice vermicelli, wrapped in rice paper and served with a dipping sauce.
Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Savory Pancake): A crispy pancake made from rice flour, turmeric, coconut milk, and filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs. It is typically eaten with fresh herbs and lettuce, wrapped and dipped in a special sauce.
Chè (Vietnamese Sweet Desserts): There are various types of chè, which are sweet dessert soups or drinks made with ingredients like beans, fruits, jellies, and coconut milk.
Cà Phê Sữa Đá (Vietnamese Iced Coffee): A strong and rich coffee brewed through a Vietnamese drip filter, mixed with sweetened condensed milk, and served over ice.
Hủ Tiếu (Rice Noodle Soup): A noodle soup dish that can be made with different types of meat, such as pork, beef, or seafood, and served with a flavorful broth and fresh herbs.
The city offers a vibrant food scene with countless street food stalls, local eateries, and upscale restaurants serving both traditional Vietnamese cuisine and international dishes. Exploring the food culture of Ho Chi Minh City is definitely a culinary adventure not to be missed!
What to do
Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) is a vibrant and bustling metropolis in Vietnam with a rich history and culture. Here are some things you can do when visiting:
Visit the War Remnants Museum: This museum provides a deep insight into the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese perspective, displaying photographs, equipment, and other artifacts from the conflict.
Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels: Located just outside the city, these tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. You can explore parts of the extensive tunnel network and learn about the guerrilla warfare tactics employed.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon: Built in the late 19th century, this iconic red-brick cathedral stands as a reminder of the city’s colonial past.
Central Post Office: Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this historic building is not only functional as a post office but also a beautiful architectural landmark.
Ben Thanh Market: A bustling marketplace where you can shop for souvenirs, textiles, local handicrafts, and sample Vietnamese street food.
Bitexco Financial Tower: For panoramic views of the city, head to the Saigon Skydeck on the 49th floor of this modern skyscraper.
Saigon Opera House: Catch a traditional Vietnamese opera, ballet, or musical performance at this beautifully preserved colonial-era building.
Take a River Cruise: Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Saigon River, especially during sunset, to see the city from a different perspective.
Street Food Tour: Ho Chi Minh City is renowned for its delicious street food. Join a guided tour to sample local specialties like pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls.
Visit the Mekong Delta: Take a day trip to explore the scenic waterways, floating markets, and traditional villages of the Mekong Delta region, located a few hours from the city.
Nightlife: Experience the city’s vibrant nightlife by visiting rooftop bars, nightclubs, and live music venues.
Historical Sites: Apart from the War Remnants Museum, you can also visit the Reunification Palace and the nearby Independence Palace to learn more about Vietnam’s history.
Remember to respect local customs and traditions, and always be mindful of your surroundings when exploring Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy your visit!
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