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Ho Chi Minh City for wellness lovers
Photo by Aaron Joel Santos
It might seem strange to look for wellbeing in a city as dynamic and bustling as Ho Chi Minh City, however -- as wellness seekers know -- inner peace and health can be cultivated in even the most surprising places. If you love taking great care of your body and mind, here are our top suggestions to enhance your stay in Ho Chi Minh City.
Yoga studios in Ho Chi Minh City
Find balance in a new destination with a reviving yoga session in one of Ho Chi Minh City’s warm and inviting yoga centres. You might make some new friends among the students who can give great tips for your travel adventures.
At Ha’s Boutique Yoga Studio is a small practice center with a wide range of yoga classes, including aerial yoga and Iyengar yoga (hello, proper alignment.) The studio also offers private sessions for reiki, ayurvedic consultation and sound healing.
YogaPod is probably Ho Chi Minh City’s greenest yoga studio. The venue in District 2 is worth the trip for the chance to practice facing beautiful lotus ponds and tropical trees. If you can’t make it that far, try a refreshing vinyasa class at the YogaPod studio in downtown District 1.
Sivananda Yoga maintains a small yoga centre and ashram in Ho Chi Minh City. Traditional hatha yoga classes are open daily to students of all levels. The 90-minute classes follow a tried-and-proven sequence, with pranayama (breathing exercises), asana and a long final relaxation.
TIP: If you’re keen to preserve your well-being on holiday, choose a stay at Fusion Suites Saigon. Set on a quiet alley, rooms come in calming shades of light wood, rates include daily massages, and you can refuel with healthy dishes in the airy cafe downstairs.
Healthy restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam has famously healthy cuisine, and Ho Chi Minh City is a foodie’s paradise. If you need a few recommendations for where to go to fill up on fresh veggies, organic fruits and whole grains, try these favourite healthy restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City.
Poke Saigon ticks all the boxes, with bowls that taste as good as they look. And they look amazing. Choose from brown rice or salad, and take your pick of protein, veggies, sauces, and toppings to create an Instagram-worthy meal in minutes.
Prem Vegetarian Bistro is a homey venue that has won a spot in the hearts of the city’s herbivores. Stop by for a tasty fusion meal and you might stay a little longer, soaking up the calm atmosphere on the terrace or sampling from the tempting list of lattes on the menu.
The Organik House is a gathering place for vegetarians, music-lovers and free spirits of every stripe. Sit down at the al fresco tables to fill up on plant-based a la carte dishes prepared by an Italian chef, then pop into the store to browse organic personal care products.
TIP: Looking for a mini-detox? Order a set of cold-pressed organic juices from Mandala Wellness to your doorstep to have your own one-day juice cleanse.
Spas in Ho Chi Minh City
Excellent, affordable massages are something every wellness traveller can take advantage of in Vietnam. In Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find spas on every corner and treatments at every price point. Book a relaxing session (or two!) with peace of mind at these well-regarded spas.
The Spa at The Reverie Saigon is all about the experience. The spa’s Himalayan salt saunas, colour therapy steam rooms, walnut-walled treatment suites, and luxurious beauty salon cover 1,200 square metres. Prepare to be pampered.
Aveda Herbal and Wellness is an Indian spa with a full suite of Ayurvedic treatments to nourish and rebalance face, hair and body. Come here for deep and restorative massages, soothing head massages and natural facials, or Ayurvedic healing rituals such as nasya karma.
Le Spa des Artistes at the Hotel Des Arts Saigon is a haven of tranquillity above the treetops in District 3. A treatment here is a sure way to spoil yourself or a special someone. Arrive early to use the photogenic steam rooms and soak in the Jacuzzi before your massage.
TIP: If you’re looking for sustainable souvenirs from Ho Chi Minh City, Green Around The Corner stocks lovingly made, eco-friendly accessories, stationery, ceramics, and toiletries.
