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The Sky & The Speed

The Sky & The Speed

[Disclosure] This article contains affiliate links.

Why Ho Chi Minh City Now?

Early December 2025. Escaping the cold Japanese sky, I landed in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, which was welcoming its best dry season.

The image of "cheap hostels and backpackers" is a relic of the past. This city, where the heat of economic growth and refined luxury coexist, has evolved into a place worthy of adults seeking rest.

The theme of this trip is "Overwhelming Efficiency and Comfort". All transportation was by Grab and private boats, and the stay was at the highest sky hotel in Vietnam. This is a record of a trip that thoroughly eliminated "noise".

Castle in the Sky: Vinpearl Landmark 81, Autograph Collection

The place I chose to stay was Vinpearl Landmark 81, Autograph Collection, which occupies the upper floors of Vietnam's tallest building, "Vincom Center Landmark 81".

Take the elevator straight up to the sky for check-in. The moment the doors open, the noise of the lower world is completely shut out. This is physically "above the clouds".

The view from the Club Lounge is simply breathtaking. The Saigon River meanders, and the rapidly developing city skyline spreads out at your feet. Enjoying latte art brewed by a barista while gazing at this view. Is there any greater luxury?
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Swimming in the Night Sky: Infinity Pool

One of the highlights of Landmark 81 is the infinity pool.

At night, the pool is fantastically lit up, and the night view of the city of 10 million shines like jewels below. Leaning against the edge of the pool, feeling the warm breeze while looking down at the city lights.

There is no place that fits the words "The Winner's Seat" better than this. The time spent tilting a cocktail poolside is truly a priceless experience.

Go to Cu Chi Tunnels by "Boat"

A staple of Ho Chi Minh City sightseeing, the Cu Chi Tunnels. However, there is a mistake that many tourists make. That is "choosing a bus tour".

A bus ride that gets caught in a 2-hour traffic jam one way is nothing but a waste of time. I unhesitatingly arranged a luxury speedboat tour like "Les Rives".

The exhilaration of going up the Saigon River cutting through the wind. The traffic-free cruise of just over an hour itself becomes the best activity.
Find a boat tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels

Experience Diving into the "Hole" of History

Arriving at the site by boat, you are in a deep jungle. You witness the reality of the underground fortress that terrified the US military during the Vietnam War.

Experiencing diving into small pitfalls where people could actually hide (the camouflage technology is amazing), and the maze-like narrow tunnels.

At the Shooting Range, you can also experience the roar of AK-47s and other weapons. It was a valuable time to feel the weight of history, away from peaceful modern Japan.
Find a tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels

Pursuit of Gastronomy: Hoang Kitchen

One of the pleasures of travel is, of course, food. This time I visited "Hoang Kitchen", which is highly rated by locals.

I ordered the classic fresh spring rolls (Gỏi cuốn) and stir-fried dishes that sizzled on the iron plate.

The performance of cutting boldly with scissors was impressive, as was the exquisite harmony of the scent of herbs and the sweet and sour sauce. Dining at a luxury hotel is good, but such "restaurants where you can feel the local heat" are the real thrill of travel.

Tropical Christmas and the City's Pulse

Ho Chi Minh City in December is filled with a midsummer Christmas mood. The famous "Pink Church (Tan Dinh Church)" and the historic "Saigon Central Post Office" were also bustling with tourists and Christmas decorations.

And above all, the torrent of motorbikes filling the streets. This overwhelming energy is the symbol of growing Asia.

The "silence" of Landmark 81 and the "hustle and bustle" of Ho Chi Minh City. Being able to freely go back and forth between these two contrasts might be the privilege of adult travel.

Conclusion

Invest in comfort. The view from Landmark 81 and the speedboat experience are worth every penny.
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