The Heartbeat of Ho Chi Minh City: District 3

• HelloXin chào
  [sin chow]
• GoodbyeTạm biệt
  [tam byet]
• YesCó
  [kaw]
• NoKhông
  [kohm]
• Please/You're welcomeLàm ơn
  [lam uhn]
• Thank youCảm ơn
  [kahm uhn]
• Excuse me/SorryXin lỗi
  [sin loy]
• How are you?Bạn khỏe không?
  [bahn kwee kohm?]
• Fine. And you?Khỏe, còn bạn?
  [kwee, kawn bahn?]
• Do you speak English?Bạn nói tiếng Anh không?
  [bahn noy tee-eng ahn kohm?]
• I don't understandTôi không hiểu
  [toy kohm hew]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCho xem menu với
  [choh sem menu vwuh]
• I don't eat meatTôi không ăn thịt
  [toy kohm an tit]
• Cheers!Chúc sức khỏe!
  [chuhk sook kwee]
• I would like to pay, pleaseTôi muốn thanh toán, vui lòng
  [toy moon thanh toan, vwui long]

• Help!Cứu!
  [kew]
• Go away!Đi ra!
  [dee rah]
• Call the Police!Gọi cảnh sát!
  [goy kahng saht]
• Call a doctor!Gọi bác sĩ!
  [goy bahk see]
• I'm lostTôi lạc đường
  [toy lack doong]
• I'm illTôi ốm
  [toy ohm]

• I'd like to buy...Tôi muốn mua...
  [toy moon mwa]
• I'm just lookingTôi chỉ xem thôi
  [toy chee sem toy]
• How much is it?Nó giá bao nhiêu?
  [noh zah bao nyew]
• That's too expensiveĐắt quá
  [daht kwah]
• Can you lower the price?Có thể giảm giá được không?
  [kaw te zem zah dohk kohm]

• What time is it?Bây giờ là mấy giờ?
  [bahy zoh la my yoh]
• It's one o'clockĐây là một giờ
  [day la moot yoh]
• Half past (10)Mười giờ rưỡi
  [moowee yoh rwee]
• MorningBuổi sáng
  [bwowee sahng]
• AfternoonBuổi chiều
  [bwowee chee-ew]
• EveningBuổi tối
  [bwowee toy]
• YesterdayHôm qua
  [hohm kwah]
• TodayHôm nay
  [hohm nigh]
• TomorrowNgày mai
  [nyai my]
• 1Một
  [moot]
• 2Hai
  [high]
• 3Ba
  [bah]
• 4Bốn
  [bohn]
• 5Năm
  [nahm]
• 6Sáu
  [sow]
• 7Bảy
  [bahy]
• 8Tám
  [tahm]
• 9Chín
  [cheen]
• 10Mười
  [moowee]

• Where's a/the...?Chỗ...ở đâu?
  [choh...uh dah-oo?]
• What's the address?Địa chỉ là gì?
  [dee-ah chee la zee?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Bạn có thể chỉ cho tôi (trên bản đồ) không?
  [bahn kaw te chee cho toy (trern bahn doh) kohm?]
• When's the next (bus)?Khi nào là chuyến xe buýt tiếp theo?
  [khee nah-oh la chwee-en seh bwit tee-ep the-oh?]
• A ticket (to ....)Một vé (đến ...)
  [moot veh (den ...)]

District 3, originally known as Gia Định, saw significant development during the French colonial period in the late 19th century. The French established administrative buildings, schools, and luxurious villas, many of which still stand today. This era introduced European architectural styles to the region, creating a blend of local and foreign influences that define the district's character.

In the early 20th century, District 3 became a hub for intellectuals and political activists. The area was home to many nationalist movements opposing French colonial rule. Notable figures, such as Phan Boi Chau and later Ho Chi Minh, were involved in revolutionary activities that sought to liberate Vietnam from colonial oppression. The district served as a backdrop for rallies and meetings that would shape the future of the nation.

During the Vietnam War, District 3 experienced intense conflict and upheaval. The area was strategically important, with numerous military installations and hospitals. The war left a significant mark on the district, evident in sites such as the War Remnants Museum, which documents the struggles and resilience of the Vietnamese people during this turbulent time.

Following the reunification of Vietnam in 1975, District 3 underwent reconstruction and urbanization efforts. Many historical buildings were repurposed, and new infrastructure projects were undertaken to accommodate the growing population. The district became known for its cultural institutions, parks, and vibrant community life, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of its residents.

Today, District 3 is celebrated for its diverse cultural landscape. It is home to numerous temples, churches, and cultural centers, showcasing a mix of Buddhist, Catholic, and traditional Vietnamese influences. The district hosts various festivals and events that highlight its rich heritage, making it a vibrant area for both locals and visitors to explore.

District 3 is centrally located in Ho Chi Minh City and is easily accessible from other neighborhoods. From Ben Thanh Market in District 1, you can take a short taxi ride, which usually costs around 50,000 VND ($2.20). Alternatively, local buses such as Bus 3 or Bus 30 connect District 1 to District 3. If you're coming from Tan Son Nhat International Airport, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are the most convenient options, taking approximately 30 minutes depending on traffic.

District 3 is a walkable neighborhood with many attractions within walking distance. For longer distances, motorbike taxis (xe ôm) and traditional taxis are widely available. Grab is also a popular app for easy transportation. Bicycles can be rented from various shops, and cycling is a pleasant way to explore the area. Public buses operate throughout the district, but schedules can be irregular, so check local timetables.

District 3 is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, particularly near the outskirts of the district. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so keep your belongings secure. Areas around the tourist spots may have a higher concentration of scams, so stay alert and be cautious when approached by strangers.

In case of an emergency, dial 113 for police assistance, 115 for medical emergencies, and 114 for fire services. Local hospitals and clinics are available, with FV Hospital and Hanh Phuc International Hospital being well-regarded. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are readily accessible throughout the district.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or pagodas. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; when visiting religious sites, remove your shoes and speak quietly. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly and disabled. Don’t eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet with a nod or a smile; handshakes are common among men. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food and accept invitations to eat; don’t waste food, as this is considered disrespectful.

To experience District 3 like a local, visit the Le Van Sy Street area for its vibrant cafes and eateries where you can enjoy authentic Vietnamese coffee. Explore the small alleyways to discover hidden gems, including local markets and street food stalls. Engage with local vendors and try dishes like Banh Mi and Pho. If possible, attend a local festival or event to immerse yourself in the culture.