VietNamNet Bridge – The streets of Bui Vien, De Tham, and Pham Ngu Lao in District 1 host large numbers of foreign tourists and are called “Pho Tay” (streets for foreigners). There are many cheap hotels, restaurants, bars and pubs in the area to serve daily needs of foreign visitors.

The number of tourists in this area is very large, mostly backpackers. They often walk around the area, order tours, or rent a motorbike. Andrew, a Canadian tourist, who hired a room at a motel in Bui Vien Street, said he chose the Pho Tay for its bustling atmosphere, cheap accommodations and Tripadvisor’s recommendations as a must-see destination in Saigon.

Due to the concentration of tourists, Pho Tay is always cramped with vehicles and pedestrians. Recently the local authorities have proposed to ban vehicles in the area during certain hours or turn it into streets for pedestrians.

Along these streets are restaurants, cafes, bars and hotels. This area is very bustling after 9pm and especially on weekends and holidays.

"The Vietnamese seem to have the habit of going bed early, so if we want to have fun or have a few drinks with friends late at night, Bui Vien Street is perhaps the best choice," a Japanese tourist said.

As the Pho Tay is so bustling and crowded and the sidewalks are occupied by local households doing business, foreign tourists have to walk on the road.

A corner of Bui Vien Street in the afternoon. The road is not yet very crowded but it will be very quickly when restaurants and shops arrange tables and chairs on the sidewalks.

Foreign tourists can buy many items on the streets, such as handbags, clothing, crafts, paintings ...

When the night falls, especially on holidays, Pho Tay will be fully packed with both Vietnamese and foreign visitors.

Foreign visitors see Pho Tay a place for fun, where they meet new travelers from many countries.

photo: VNE

Pha Le