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- Destinations
- Asia
- Vietnam
- Ho Chi Minh City
- Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market
Today the market caters to the tourist dollars and is packed
tight with stalls selling clothing, pottery, souvenirs, jewels and
food. It is rumoured that depending on bargaining ability buyers
will be given their purchase in various coloured bags as a sign to
other vendors. The market was moved to its current building in 1912
but has existed in the area for hundreds of years. The permanent
stalls are passed down in family for generations. Some of Vietnam's
specialties can be bought cheaply here such as cobra and scorpion
whiskey and silks. The market is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
but an outdoor night market and food stalls surround the area until
much later.
Information & Facts
Language
The official language in Vietnam is Vietnamese. Some
Chinese, English and French are spoken. Tour guides can also speak
Russian and Japanese. Numerous ethnic languages are also spoken in
parts.
Money
The official currency is the Dông (VND). There are no smaller
denominations. Currency can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de
change, hotels and on the black market. Visa, MasterCard and
American Express are becoming more widely acceptable, particularly
in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, but it is best not to rely on them
elsewhere. It is recommended that visitors bring travellers cheques
in US Dollars, which can be cashed at major banks in the main
cities and tourist areas. US currency acts as unofficial tender and
is useful as a back-up when banks won't cash travellers cheques
outside the main cities, but notes must be relatively new and
unmarked. Dông can be withdrawn from ATMs, which are becoming more
widespread.
Opening Times
Time
Local time in Vietnam is GMT +7.