My wife and i are heading to HCM for a couple of days in September, can any of you informative guys reccomend a hotel, fairly central? Also some indication of prices would be handy and means of transport from airport would be nice. Thanks

When you land at the airport,after clearing Customs and Immigration,as you head out from arrivals,there are a row of booths offering taxi/hotel booking services.I have used the booth on the right hand end,I can't remember the name,but it's on the extreme right.Book a taxi there,it depends on where you are going,but it's 8 or 9 USD,or you can pay in VND if you have any.The advantage is that the price is fixed,and you get a proper taxi.The receptionist then escorts you to the taxi.If you go outside on your own you will be approached by touts,who will quote a lot more,and quite often you'll end up in some battered old private car with a driver who doesn't have a clue.As for hotels,I have always stayed in District 1 which is in the centre of Saigon.There are literally hundreds of small/medium sized hotels here,around Ly Tu Trong Street,and the market,and over by the so-called "backpacker "area.I have stayed in the "Giant Dragon"(30 USD) and Hai Long 1 and 2 (20-25 USD) Most hotels there are in the range 15 USD to 35 USD They will have lifts,and the rooms will have TV ,A/C,hot water shower or often bathtub,and be reasonably comfortable.Most have wi-fi or internet access.Some of the hotels are a little run down,but clean and cheap.If you want to pay more,then you will get better facilities.I did look at one called the "Saigon Royal" which was 45 USD,big,well appointed rooms,with a circular(I think revolving) bar and restaurant on the roof,with great views,but I haven't actually stayed there.It's best if you tell the driver a particular hotel,and insist you have a reservation there,or he will take you to somewhere he gets commission,which may not be any good or centrally located.If you google the hotels I have mentioned, there are plenty of references to them.Have a good trip

Thanks for the info lekatai

If you prefer to not stay in the backpacker ghetto, head for Dong Khoi Street. A few hotels there dating from the Colonial days such as the Majestic, Grand, Continental. More upmarket, and more expensive, but September is the slowest month in Vietnam and you should be able to dig up a couple of bargains.

As for the taxis, I always walk out, ignore the SASCO taxis that stand in front of the arrival hall, walk 20 meters and take a Mai Linh taxi. No rigged meters, no hustle, and about USD 5.00 to take you downtown.

"quite often you'll end up in some battered old private car with a driver who doesn't have a clue."

Really?? Never had this happen to me. I always do the same thing as Hanno. Quite simple to get a proper cab at Tan Son Nhut.

Yesterday I went to meet an overseas agent. He was staying at Bong Sen hotel annex on 61 Hai Ba Trung. Unsure how nice the room, but very good location, and he said he was paying $35/nt incl VAT and breakfast.

Seemed like a good deal all considered.

Don't mistake with Bong Sen on Dong Khoi, which runs about $70/nt, this is the "hotel annex" owned by them, and approximately 1 block away.

Additionaly, agree Mai Linh is always my first choice for taxi. Never had them refuse to put the meter, give the city tour, etc. I take them about 90% of the time.

Vinasun & Vinataxi also acceptable.

I refuse to take anyone else, because it is too hit and miss. Many bad stories, but stick to the above, and you will be allright.

The Bong Sen Annex has always been a sort of "secret" tip among expats and businessmen, it is very good value for money and well situated.

The Indochine across the street from the Bong Sen Annex is another good option in that price range.

stayinvietnam.com will show you a wide range of hotels for every budget. They will also do your visa online before you fly.

With no indication what your budget is, my recommendations are with the Grand and the Duxton.

Duxton Hotel in District 1 - Have been there last month. Very nice and clean Hotel with Pool and close to Restaurants and shopping.

As far for the Taxis. Its the same ripoff game like in Thailand. Just avoind the crown yelling at you and get a taxi ( make sure he uses his meter ) outside.