Destination Guide Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the main commercial centre of the southern part of Vietnam. More modern than other Vietnamese cities, Ho Chi Minh City has also retained the quaint charm of French heritage. The streets are jam-packed with scooters and the markets are chaotically busy. The downtown area is home to most of the city's government offices, civic buildings, the modern Hall of Reunification and other well-known monuments. Interesting excursions are visits to the Cu Chi Tunnels in which the South Vietnamese Communists concealed themselves and from which they launched attacks on the Americans. South of Ho Chi Minh city are the flat, verdant planes of the Mekong Delta where much of Vietnam's rice crop is grown.   Ben Thanh, the city's central market features an active bazaar selling fine local lacquerware, silks and fresh market produce. In the center of the city is Dong Khoi Street, which forms the vibrant heart of the entertainment quarter, with restaurants, bars, luxury shops, and a number of famous hotels. General Information Currency Although Vietnamese Dong is the official currency, US Dollar is widely accepted in most restaurants, cafes, shops and all international hotels. Acceptable Credit Cards VISA, MASTER, AMEX (DINERS not accepted) Climate May to November : Rainy Season December to April : Dry Season Recommended Attire Clothing should be kept simple and discreet Language Predominantly Vietnamese