The Search for a Classic Vespa
When Dominic Johnson-Hill, an avid flea market explorer, set out on his hunt for a vintage Vespa in Saigon, he knew he was in for an adventure. As featured on the Australian television show Vintage Hunter, Dominic’s journey took him through the city’s flea markets, where rare finds and unique collectibles are part of the everyday hustle.
Unlike other parts of the world where classic Vespas are abandoned or scrapped, Vietnam has a deep-rooted tradition of restoring and maintaining these iconic scooters. Due to trade restrictions in the past, owners became skilled at keeping their vespa scooters running, making Saigon a goldmine for vintage collectors.
Finding the Perfect Vespa
Dominic’s search led him through winding alleyways and bustling streets until he finally found it—a beautifully preserved vintage Vespa. With a price tag of $1,400, the deal was too good to pass up. But before sealing the deal, he took it to an expert for verification.
His next stop? Café Zoom, a well-known hub for Vespa lovers in Saigon. Here, he met Steve, a longtime Vespa aficionado, who inspected the bike and confirmed that Dominic had struck gold. Café Zoom, with its old-school Vespa theme, felt like stepping into a time capsule where stories of past road trips and restoration projects filled the air.
Riding Through Saigon on a Vintage Vespa
With his newly acquired vintage Vespa, Dominic was ready to take on the streets of Saigon. Steve took him on a ride through the city, showcasing some of the most iconic locations, from the historic French Quarter to hidden local markets brimming with street food stalls. The ride was more than just a city tour—it was a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich Vespa culture.
After the ride, Dominic visited the Vietnam Vespa Adventures showroom, where restored vespa scooters are lined up, each with a story of its own. Seeing the passion and craftsmanship that goes into these restorations reinforced just how special Saigon is for vintage Vespa collectors.
The Allure of Vintage Vespa Hunting
So what makes Saigon a hotspot for vintage Vespa collectors?
A Rich History – The vespa scooter was introduced in Vietnam in the 1950s and has remained an icon ever since.
Expert Restorers – Decades of maintaining and fixing these scooters have created a community of skilled restorers who can bring any classic Vespa back to life.
Thriving Marketplaces – From flea markets to specialty showrooms, Saigon offers endless opportunities to find rare and well-preserved vintage Vespas.
Ride Through Time with Vespa Adventures
At Vespa Adventures, we celebrate the legacy of these incredible scooters. Our tours take you through the heart of Vietnam, riding on restored vintage Vespas that each carry a piece of history. Whether you're a collector or simply someone who loves to experience culture in a unique way, a Vespa ride through Saigon is an unforgettable journey.
So, are you ready to ride?