Central Post Office, Saigon/HoChiMinh City (must see)

The Central Post Office is an elegant colonial-style building in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. It has a Gothic architectural style and was designed by the world famous French architect, Gustave Eiffel. Constructed between 1886 and 1891, it resembles a European railway station. It was and is a working post office where visitors can send postcards and purchase stamps.

The Central Post Office building is the biggest post office structure in Vietnam. There are ornately wrought iron gates in the main entrance. The central hall has a large clock and two similar extensions on both sides covered by a large skylight. The arched windows have decorated capstones and green shutters that are a typical feature of French colonial buildings. The interior of the main chamber has two large maps of Vietnam and Saigon that date back to the 18th century. At the far end of the chamber hangs a giant portrait of the Vietnamese revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh. Besides postal mail services, the post office offers public phone and fax facilities. The specialty stamp counter sells some unusual philately sets.

Why You Should Visit:
You really feel transported back in time here, plus it's a great opportunity to send a postcard to your family back home and show them what we did before e-mail!

Tip:
Souvenir shop prices are steep, but there's a sweet spot by the entrance for air conditioning/breeze. The building is particularly beautiful when lit up at night.