Ho Chi Minh city is fast emerging as one of the most intriguing shopping destinations in Southeast Asia. But shopping here is not represented by gigantic shopping malls, or neon-lighted streets lined with fancy boutiques. Instead, many locals prefer to hunt down trends and bargains in markets which have not succumbed to the temptation of tourists dollars (eliminating Ben Thanh market and Saigon Square from the list).

Travelling is beautiful yet brutal, forcing you to trust strangers and lose sight of the familiar comfort of your home. As William Least Heat-Moon once said, when you're travelling, you are what you are right there and then. People don't have your past to hold against you. If you’re looking for a new destination to add to your bucket list, then Ho Chi Minh city, a lovely city in Southeast Asia, is inviting you to explore.