Ho Chi Minh is a city located in Vietnam, formerly known as Saigon. The city is now the most populated city in Vietnam with a total population of 13 million people as of 2017. The city centre is located in the southeastern part of Vietnam in which the metropolis encircles the Saigon River. Ho Chi Minh is the most visited city in Vietnam with a total number of 6.3 million visitors in 2017 as it is famous for its historical, cultural and racial backgrounds. Landmarks such as the Ben Thanh Market, Ho Chi Minh City Hall, Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and Independence Palace are all well-known internationally and attract foreign tourists all year round.

Best Time to Fly from Iloilo to Ho Chi Minh City

The best time to travel to Ho Chi Minh City is during December until March when the weather is dry and the temperatures are mild, ranging from 21 degrees Celcius to 34 degrees Celcius. Vietnam celebrates its New Year in late January or early February. Hence, the city will see higher tourism traffic during this time of the year. Due to the increased traffic, accommodation and flight rates will be higher than usual during this time, unless you book them as early as possible.

Main Airports in Iloilo and Ho Chi Minh City

Iloilo International Airport (ILO) – This airport is the province’s main airport that connects the city to both domestic and international destinations. It is situated in the district of Cabatuan and nearby the district of Santa Barbara, which also makes this airport known as the Santa Barbara Airport. Travellers who wish to travel from Iloilo to Ho Chi Minh has to transit either in Clark International Airport or in Manila before proceeding directly to Tan Sorn Nhat International Airport.

Tan Sorn Nhat International Airport (SGN) – This airport is known to be the largest airport in Vietnam which receives around 32.5 million passengers annually. The hub provides both international and domestic routes. In 2025, the construction of the newly extended terminal to meet the demands of increased air traffic will serve 100 million passengers annually. The current terminal will serve only domestic flights.

Climate Pattern in Iloilo and Ho Chi Minh City

Situated near the Equator, the city experiences a tropical climate with slight to no difference in average temperature. Rainfalls dotted the months equally throughout the year along with constant humidity. The region is separated by two notable seasons which are the wet and dry seasons. The rainy season usually begins in May and ends in late October while the dry season occurs from December to April with the highest recorded temperature is 40 degrees Celcius.

Highlight Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City

• Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon – This gothic cathedral was built in the late 1880s by French colonists that resided in the city. It is the centre of the last few remaining believers of the religion and it is located in Paris Square. It was given the name Notre Dame after its installation of the statue of Peaceful Notre Dame in 1959. A Virgin Mary statue stands serenely in front of the cathedral and myths has it that she was seen to shed tears before.
• Cao Dai Temple – This temple was built originally for the Cao Dai worshippers. It is a religion that incorporates elements from Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Taoism and Confucianism. Here, tourists that visit this place are welcomed to learn the religion that is still being practised by a minority group of believers. Visitors are also able to see the mixture of cultural elements that are being practised as well as admiring the architecture of the temple itself.