2011, DEC 11: VIETNAM, HO CHI MINH CITY-C

After sightseeing we checked into the Renaissance Riverside Hotel.

In the evening, we went up to the topmost floor to take a few pictures of the Saigon River flowing by the hotel, and the night cruise boats passing by.

Also there were nice views of the area around, including the small circular park in front of the hotel. The park has the tall statue of the popular, 13th century national hero, General Tran Hung Dao, who had defeated the Mongol forces.

Then we strolled by the river, and explored the surrounding area. Even though, most of the Vietnamese profess Buddhism, like many other places during our travels, stores were decked out for Christmas.

And there was a musical concert on the steps of the Opera House.

Finally, for dinner, we walked to the Ali Baba, a North Indian restaurant, which is owned and operated by a man from Kolkata.