A week in Saigon-1/19- 1/25/2025

Day 1- Arrival in Saigon/Dinner at Quan Ngon-1/19/2025

We flew from Phuket to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) late in the evening. The whole flight is about 2 hours.

After arriving in Saigon with just enought time to check in our hotel, we made our way to dinner at Quan Nhon, where the setting immediately stood out. The restaurant has a beautifully exotic, almost theatrical charm, lush greenery tucked into corners, warm ambient lighting, and rich wooden textures that give the space a rustic yet elegant feel.

The restaurant wasn’t just decorated, it was in full festive transformation. Bright red and gold accents were everywhere, symbolizing luck and prosperity, with hanging lanterns swaying gently above and clusters of peach blossoms and kumquat trees placed throughout the space. Delicate ornaments, calligraphy scrolls, and New Year couplets added a sense of tradition, while the warm lighting made everything glow with a celebratory energy. It felt immersive, like stepping into a scene that was both cultural and joyful, capturing the anticipation of the holiday.

Intricate draperies hang overhead, casting a soft golden glow, while traditional Vietnamese decorative elements, woven bamboo, carved panels, and earthy tones create an atmosphere that feels both intimate and transportive.

It’s the kind of place that feels thoughtfully curated, blending cultural authenticity with a slightly whimsical flair, making it visually memorable even if the food didn’t quite match the ambiance.

The ambiance was convivial and paired with the laughter and warmth of Hoa’s family, it felt like the perfect way to begin our time in Saigon.

We got back to our hotel later in the evening and this is the view from our window.

View of the Saigon river at night.

NEXT... Day 2-Saigon