Saigon was already a busy commercial center

  Looking at Ho Chi Minh right now, those who are not aware of its history might find it hard to believe that this city has been through turmoil. Formerly known as Saigon, the city was originally a small fishing village called Prey Nokor before it became a French colony of Cochin-china and the capital of South Vietnam. These days, Ho Chi Minh is a favourite with tourists.

  It is a good idea to head to the Notre Dame Cathedral for some sightseeing and perhaps a coffee on one of the side streets or in the park. There are many museums, galleries and pagodas around town. The most popular attractions are probably the War Remnants Museum, V?nh Nghiêm Pagoda and the C? Chi Tunnels.

  Many centuries ago, Saigon was already a busy commercial center. Merchants from China, Japan and many European countries would sail upstream the Saigon River to reach the islet of Pho, a trading center. In the year of 1874, Cho Lon merged with Saigon, forming the largest city in the Indochina. It had been many times celebrated as the Pearl of the Far East. After the reunification of the country, the 6th National Assembly in its meeting of the 2nd of July, 1976, has officially rebaptized Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City. The history of city relates closely with the struggle for the independence and freedom of Vietnam.