The bustling Vietnam capital Saigon, also known as Ho Chi Min City, comprises 19 districts. Tourists generally stay within District 1 which caters to visitors with restaurants, bars, attractions and hotels. Pham Ngu Lao, a dark and winding alley consisting of cheap, crammed hostels is a popular lane for budget travelers; however, full amenities and inexpensive hotels are widely available for as low as $25 per night.
In the heart of Saigon, Yellow House Hotel is close to all the major attractions such as the historically significant Reunification Palace and the popular River Front (both within walking distance). It is also a perfect example of the impact spending a few extra dollars can have between a 'budget' and a 'standard' room. Guests have an array of options from single to dorm starting at $7 per person (as of March 2010). Guests can also enjoy their complimentary breakfast or unwind at the end of day with a cold 'bia hoi' (beer) up on the private rooftop.
31 Bui Vien Street
District 1
Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/vietnam/ho-chi-minh-city-r1974384/yellow-house-hotel-q1214408/
"Lonely Planet" lists the family-owned and operated Kim Hotel as an author's pick. The quaint hotel with spacious, tile-floored rooms is $20 per night or $10 per person for solo travelers. Visitors may miss the slim hotel but the open entrance with potted plants should be a strong welcoming indicator. Unlike many other hotels, guests have an option of choosing additional amenities like the elevator or air-conditioning at extra costs. Rooms in the front have private balconies to watch the city go by. Kim also offers guests a complimentary city map listing important points from museums to ATMs, all of which are in walking distance. Just steps from the hotel, late-night restaurants like Sinh Café serve Vietnamese and Western meals and the backpacking friendly 333 Café serves beers all night long.
40-18 Bui Vien Street
District 1
Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/vietnam/ho-chi-minh-city-r1974384/kim-hotel-p1027519/
At $12.50 per person, An An 2 Hotel is considered a mid-range option. Friendly and knowledgeable receptionists, wearing the traditional native dress, called "ao dais," offer guests spacious rooms which are upgraded to reflect a Western-style hotel room. Rooms are simple yet warmly decorated with a sitting area, extra pillows, large windows and non-fluorescent lights. They also include rare amenities like a bathtub and decent hot water. Views of the vibrant city are better on the higher floors but all guests are welcomed to have their breakfast and enjoy the city view on the 10th floor. Ben Thanh Market, a one-stop market for souvenirs, local handicrafts and street-fare food, is just an easy 15-minute walk from the hotel. The hotel staff is well equipped to answer any questions regarding other attractions, tours and bus tickets or visitors can opt for STA Travel, which is located inside the hotel.
216 De Tham Street
District 1
Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/vietnam/ho-chi-minh-city-r1974384/an-an-2-hotel-p1027517/
