Many young Saigonese always long for a place without earsplitting noises and with a tranquil space and poetic landscapes surrounded by rivers, lakes or green trees to escape the sultry atmosphere and stuffy city life, forget about work and hide from the scorching heat these days.

But those people who do not have enough time on the weekends for long trips can consider some ideal destinations which are not too far from the city.

Buu Long Park – a romantic and picturesque scenery

About 30 kilometers from HCMC, Buu Long Park in Dong Nai Province is a good gathering place for groups of friends, family members, especially young couples who wish to find a romantic scenery during the weekend. 

The park is surrounded by plentiful stunning lakes, ancient pagodas such as Buu Phong Pagoda and Long Son Thach Dong Pagoda, and other sites of serenity. 

Buu Long Park is a worthwhile venue to bring wonderful moments for tourists upon arrival for the first time thanks to its the beauty and tranquility of nature. 

Thanh An Island – a charming and stunning island

About 70km east of downtown HCMC, Thanh An Island off the city's Can Gio District, home to nearly 5,000 residents, has emerged as a popular venue for those aspiring to admire stunning sunset views on the beautiful island, enjoy tasty seafood dishes, and explore the pristine beauty of the island where people’s livelihoods mainly depend on seafood catching with a tough life.

If you want to save money and feel safe, you are advised to catch bus No.20 at Ben Thanh bus station near Ben Thanh Market in District 1 to arrive at Binh Khanh Ferry Station. 

After crossing the ferry, tourists will continue to take a bus No.90 to a wharf leading to the island. From the wharf in Can Gio District’s Can Thanh Town, it takes some 30 minutes by boat to reach the island.

The Bamboo Tourist Village – a peaceful space with green trees

About 15km from downtown HCMC, the Bamboo tourist village in Nhon Trach District, Dong Nai Province is a must-visit site for groups of friends and family members to indulge themselves in the wonderful natural scenery replete with green trees. 

Tourists to the place can join various interesting activities such as taking a kayak cruise and riding a boat on the river. 

In addition, tourists can enjoy buffets with a wide selection of tasty dishes such as banh xeo (fried pan cake), cha gio (spring rolls), goi (mixed salad), grilled pork skewers, and sweet soup of all kinds.

SGT