My little brother asked me: “What are the differences between Ho Chi Minh city and our hometown?”, “Do you enjoy living in Ho Chi Minh city?”. These questions make me think about my life in Ho Chi Minh city, where I have lived for seven years. I would say I have a love-hate relationship with Ho Chi Minh city.
Here are the things that I love about this city.
1, The center of education
I studied commercial business at the University of Economics (UEH) in Ho Chi Minh City. UEH is one of the best universities in economics in Vietnam. There is no doubt that the most prestigious universities in Vietnam are in this city. Besides, there are a lot of famous English centers here. We also have sports or music courses to sign up for. So, It’s many opportunities for us to learn in this city.
2, Many job opportunities
Ho Chi Minh city is the economic hub in Vietnam. There are many companies here, such as multinational corporations, local companies, and start-ups. It’s pretty competitive here. But, If you have skills, you always get a job in this city.
3, The food paradise
There are many chances to try a lot of food worldwide right in Ho Chi Minh city. I’ve tried Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Korean, Mexican, and Western food here. Thousands of food from other parts of the country. We have Pho, Bun bo Hue, Bun cha Ha Noi, Mi Quang, etc. The food paradise is so unique and diverse. Besides, We have incredible street food in Ho Chi Minh City. I would highly recommend Banh trang nuong, and Oc Saigon for people who first come to Ho Chi Minh city. It’s no doubt that Ho Chi Minh city is a food paradise.
4, The entertainment haven
Ho Chi Minh city never sleeps. This city is a bustling metropolitan city. We have a lot of movie theaters, karaoke shops, bars, acoustic coffee, etc. I usually see many singers and famous people when I go to concerts or music festivals. This place gave me some eye-opening experiences that I hadn’t experienced when I lived in the countryside.
5, The bridge to travel
It’s easy for us to travel in Vietnam or overseas from Ho Chi Minh. Cars and flight tickets now are pretty cheap. We can do solo travel or book a tour immediately. This city is the bridge to travel.
6, Convenience
We can use many super apps, such as Shopee, Tiki, Lazada, Grab, etc., to order what we want and get things within two hours. Besides, there are many street stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores where you can buy things 24/7.
Although Ho Chi Minh is the most developed city in Vietnam, there are some downsides to living in this city.
1, Traffic jams
Ho Chi Minh city is crowded. Over 13 million people are living here. I face congestion every day I go to work. It makes me feel stressed sometimes. It’s sad, but I think there is no solution to this. I have to accept that It’s a part of living in Ho Chi Minh city.
2, Flooded roads
I hate the heavy rain in Ho Chi Minh City. It leads to flooding lines. It’s terrible that I ride on the road, but I feel like I am swimming. One of my nightmare experiences was when I was stuck in Binh Thanh district at 10 PM because my motorbike was broken due to water.
3, Housing problem
The houses are costly in Ho Chi Minh City. It might be no way to buy a home or an apartment if you are just a typical worker. That’s why many children were raised in a motel.
4, Air and water pollution
The air is seriously polluted. The air index is usually alarming because there are many manufacturers nearby the city center. Besides, The water in rivers is black. People are destroying the natural environment in this city with plastics and rubbish.
To sum up, Ho Chi Minh city is a special place for me. Life in Ho Chi Minh city has pros and cons. In the end, It is still a pretty good place for me to follow my dream. I hope that this city will take off and solve the problems that exist in the future.
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