Three days is plenty of time to take in the sensory explosion that is Vietnam's biggest city. The historic sites are outstanding, but perhaps the most fun is to be had in day trips just outside the city, to the Cu Chi tunnel complex and the Mekong River.

Ho Chi Minh City has an unusual number of attractions for kids, including a number of water parks and amusement parks where admission prices are very reasonable.

The former capital of South Vietnam is home to many grand public places, peaceful parks and bustling neighborhoods where you can wander for hours.

In Vietnam's still-developing tourism economy, tours are-- ironically -- often the best way to get off the beaten path. Having a local show you sights beyond the regular few, especially on a bicycle or motorbike, can be the most fun you'll have here.

You simply cannot visit Ho Chi Minh City without making time to get out of the city to crawl through the Cu Chi tunnels and explore the Mekong river by boat.