HO CHI MINH CITY
VIETNAM
Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnamese: Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, formerly (and still commonly) known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam, with a population of around 9 million in 2021. Situated in the southeast region of Vietnam, the city surrounds the Saigon River and covers about 2,061 km2 (796 sq mi).
Saigon was the capital of French Indochina from 1887 to 1902, and again from 1945 until its cessation in 1954. Following the partition of Vietnam after the Geneva Peace Accord, it became the capital of South Vietnam until Reunification Day on 30th April 1975. The government renamed Saigon in honour of Hồ Chí Minh shortly after the Reunification Day. Beginning in the 1990s, the city underwent rapid modernisation and expansion, contributing to Vietnam's post-war economic recovery.
It is known for its well-preserved French colonial architecture and vibrant street life. Its various cultural institutions, which include historic landmarks, walking streets, museums and galleries, attracts over 8 million international visitors each year.
Ho Chi Minh City is a major centre for finance, media, technology, education, and transportation. The city generates nearly a quarter of Vietnam's total GDP, and is home to many multinational companies.