It’s no surprise that most of the guests who join our Vespa tour are travelers eager to experience Vietnam in a unique and immersive way. But over the past few months, we’ve noticed a growing trend—more and more of our riders are actually locals! Whether they’re longtime residents or short-term visitors, people living in Ho Chi Minh City are rediscovering their hometown from a whole new perspective. Our tours offer an opportunity to break away from the usual sightseeing routes and dive into the hidden corners of the city, unveiling places even longtime residents never knew existed.
One such rider was Tim Bishop, a local expat living in Saigon with his wife, Lou, who works with CARE International. Always up for an adventure, Tim decided to join us for our Saigon After Dark tour, a thrilling night ride through the city’s lively districts, exploring street food gems, buzzing bars, and vibrant cultural hotspots. Tim dropped a very nice post on his blog SaigonSays, in which he gives a full and detailed description of our Saigon Insider's Tour, complete with an account of the young lady they encountered at the wet market in District 2 who was butchering frogs.
A Night to Remember on Vespa Tours
Tim and Lou had previously taken part in our Saigon Insider’s Tour, which had given them an insider’s look into the city’s bustling wet markets and historic districts. But this time, they were in for something different. As we zipped through the city’s neon-lit streets, Tim couldn’t help but marvel at how different the city felt when experienced from the back of a vintage Vespa. The cool night air, the rush of wind, and the pulse of energy that defines Ho Chi Minh City after dark—it was an experience unlike any other.
One of the highlights of the night was a stop at a hidden local eatery in District 2, where we introduced Tim and Lou to some of the city’s best seafood dishes. Watching the chefs skillfully prepare fresh clams, grilled scallops, and sizzling shrimp right in front of them was a feast for the senses. The flavors were bold, the atmosphere lively, and the conversations with locals and fellow travelers made it a truly authentic experience.
Discovering the Local Side of Ho Chi Minh City
For Tim, the night was not just about the incredible food or the thrill of the ride—it was about connection. He met fellow riders from different walks of life, all eager to share their own stories and experiences of Saigon. “I’ve lived here for years,” he told us, “but I’ve never seen the city quite like this.”
As we made our way to a hidden rooftop bar overlooking the Saigon River, Tim reflected on how much he had learned from the locals on the tour. The guide shared fascinating insights into Vietnamese culture, from traditional customs to modern-day trends.
A Growing Community of Local Explorers
One of the things we love most about our tours is how they bring people together. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, there’s always something new to discover. Tim and Lou are now part of a growing community of local adventurers who have taken more than one of our tours. We love seeing Saigon through their eyes, and we can’t wait to welcome more locals looking for a fresh perspective on their city.
So, if you’re wondering about things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, why not hop on a Vespa and see where the ride takes you? Whether it’s your first time exploring or your fiftieth, we promise it will be a night to remember.
Ready for Your Own Vespa Adventure?
If Tim’s story has inspired you, why not book your own Vespa tour and experience Ho Chi Minh City in a whole new way? Check out our Saigon After Dark tour and join a community of riders who love exploring the hidden side of Saigon.