Before 1975, the Nhieu Loc – Thi Nghe Canal stretching to five districts (Tân Bình, 3, Phú Nhuận, Bình Thạnh and 1) was the primary channel for untreated effluents since all the slums on either side of the banks dumped all kinds of waste into the canal.

There was a large number of people from different towns in Vietnam moving to Saigon (HCMC) to earn their living. As they found it difficult to either rent or buy a proper house, they decided to build their own small living places by the canal with all industrial debris, boxes, cartons, thatch, etc.

Slums then became the main settlements for those people eke out a living. The residents were surrounded by the canal; hence, they relied on it as their only source of water for cooking, washing, bathing, and other basic needs. The lack of potable water together with a high exposure to sewage resulted in a tremendous increase in people suffering from waterborne diseases amongst the population.

After the North and South Vietnam were integrated into one, the People’s Committee of HCMC addressed the issue to implement a renovation project with the aim of changing the lives of 50,000 households in the area and fixing the image of the urban city center.

The Ministry of Transport in HCMC implemented phase I of the 250 million investment project named the HCMC Environmental Sanitation Project thanks to the World Bank’s financial assistance from 2001 to 2010. The phase II of the project with USD 450 million financed by the Word Bank concentrates on wastewater treatment through the kick-start of Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), the interceptor under the canal, and the reinforcement for the banks of the canal.

This transformation is one of the most significant changes in Vietnam. Nhieu Loc – Thi Nghe Canal, which used to be the dirtiest canal in Saigon, is now the most beautiful canal of the city.

This canal has become a tourist attraction in the recent years. The canal is not only where you can relax but also where you can take a short cruise across the canal.

To see more photos, check the open album below or go to Flickr:
Photo Album Flickr
(Please use the left/right arrows to navigate in the files of the open album)

Words by Chi Le
Photos by Lam Cao

The post Saigon’s Largest Canal Clean-Up: From Trash-Ridden to Crystal Clear in 20 Years appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

Anh Sao Bridge (Cầu Ánh Sao)

Decorated with thousands upon thousands of LEDs, Cau Anh Sao is a wonderful place to bring your special one along. Stroll among the ever-changing colors and the water fountains surrounding the bridge, and indulge in an atmosphere only seen in Korean dramas. It doesn’t matter if you’re on a first date or getting engaged, Cau Anh Sao is a perfect destination for you and your partner.

Address: District 7

Saigon Cruise Ship

Have a delectable meal on the Saigon Cruise Ship, as it slowly passes the Bach Dang River. Let the cool breezy air hit you, and mellow classical music serenade both of you as the warmth from your hearts settle. Simply delightful. (Tip: Always choose the top deck, as the two bottom decks are too loud and chaotic for any romance)

Address: Bach Dang Wharf, Ton Duc Thang Street, District 1

Turtle Lake (Hồ Con Rùa)

Ho Con Rua – or Turtle Lake – is an artificial lake in the heart of the city. Well, was – it’s been drained, leaving behind a shallow pond of sorts. You might think that such a location is unsuitable for romance, but alas, you have made a mistake. Come here in the evening, and join the hordes of young Vietnamese couples enjoying an intimate conversation over some banh trang nuong – Vietnamese pizza, whilst being surrounded by blazing motorbike horns. It’s a quintessentially Saigon experience.

Address: District 3

Notre Dame Cathedral

The younger sibling of the famous Notre Dame in Paris, the Notre Dame in Saigon is pretty impressive in itself. A beautiful brick cathedral, the Notre Dame is often used as a backdrop for lovers taking their pictures, or even married couples who get their wedding photos taken here. Hold each other’s hand as you watch the pigeons soar from the little park in front of the cathedral, or come inside and marvel at the colonial architecture masterpiece.

Address: 1 Commune de Paris, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1

C’est Moi Café

One of the very few cafés left in this city that still retains a quiet charm to it, C’est Moi is a French-influenced romantic hotspot. Cozy up with an amour here, savour the fine classical music, and enjoy Parisian coffee and pastries. The food and drinks are super nice, and while the price is a little bit steep, you get what you pay for. C’est Moi is a little hideaway, for those of you tired of the loud metropolis.

Address: 126F Phan Dang Luu Str., Ward 3, Phu Nhuan District

Trois Gourmands

The French sure know their romance. Situated in a quiet villa in District 2, Trois Gourmands delivers on all fronts. A romantic location, exquisite French-Indochinese fusion cuisine – with dishes such as foie gras spring rolls, lamb shoulder or sautéed beef with truffles – and a fine selection of wine and cheeses to accompany your meals will make the dining experience at Trois Gourmands heavenly. Book a romantic candlelit dinner with your loved one, or choose to dine amidst the stars. The price is rather expensive, but again, you get what you pay for.

Address: 39 Tran Ngoc Dien Str., Thao Dien Ward, District 2

Ho Chi Minh City Opera House

Ah, now we’re talking about the highlife. Hosting events such as concerts, plays, operas and orchestral performances, the Opera House is a wonderful night out for a couple. (Inquire their website for any future dates) Sit back, and marvel at a splendid show. And if you’re not in the mood to pay top money for a show, there’s a stall that sells peach tea for only 15 000VND near the Opera House – so grab a tea or two, and mingle in the crowd. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll definitely enjoy it.

Address: 7 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
Website: http://www.hbso.org.vn

Saigon Saigon Bar

A timeless classic for those looking to impress their beau, Saigon Saigon’s colonialistic influences and inviting atmosphere is perfect for couples. Find yourself an intimate spot in the corner, or take a seat in the rooftop courtyard overlooking bustling Lam Son Square. Live music begins from 9 pm, and Saigon Saigon has a fine selection of cocktails, beers, and liquors, as well as an extensive dining menu.

Share a delightfully luscious Bloody Mary, or the sultry and aptly-named Sex on the Beach, and let go of your inhibitions. Who knows what will come?

Address: 19 Lam Son Square, Ward 5, District 1

Chieu Cafe

Trinh Cong Son’s love songs have long transcended the realm of a simple melody – they have become something entirely different, something that evokes deep, raw emotions that are best left untouched. And what better way to bask in the purity of such emotions, especially with someone you love, than over a cup of coffee? Come to Chieu, a quaint little cafe tucked inside an alleyway on Cao Thang. Founded in 1966, the humble cafe has been heralded as a haven for Trinh lovers ever since. Everything here is a reminder of the good old days, from the wooden walls to the antique coffee cups. Sit on one of the old-timey chairs, listen to Trinh Cong Son melodies over the gramophone, and feel the ambiance surround you.

Address: 124/1, Cao Thang Street, Cao Thắng, District 3

Rooftop Pool Bar at Hotel des Arts Saigon

If you want to have a great time with your partner in a romantic bar, you had better go to the Rooftop Pool Bar. It is a fantastic bar lying up on the roof of the Hotel des Arts Saigon. This destination has not only a large swimming pool but it also offers all the good cocktails and light snacks along with the lively vibes coming from the lounge music and spectacular views of the city.

Address: Floor 24 Hotel Des Arts Saigon, 76 – 78 Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, District 3

The post Top 10 Best Romantic Getaways in Saigon appeared first on Maze Vietnam.