This is a short multi in the center òf tơwn. Enjoy! Description updated in March 2019.
We will start our little walk at a famous market …
Bến Thành Market is a large marketplace in the downtown area in District 1. The market is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon, popular with tourists seeking local handicrafts, textiles and souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. The market developed from informal markets created by early 17th century street vendors gathering together near the Saigon River. The market was formally established by the French colonial powers after taking over the Gia Định citadel in 1859.
We start our stroll at one of the gates to the market.
Stage 1: N 10 46.326 E 106 41.904
How many cows (big and small) and piglets can you discover above the entrance(s) in front of you?
A = Number of cows and piglets
Then please walk to the Opera building – just follow Le Loi street. N 10 46.585 E 106 42.155
I think the surrounding buildings and exclusive shops are more interesting, though ;-)
Stage 2: You will find the next stage at N 10 46.(A+2)61 E 106 42.09A
The big sugar-style building in front òf you is the old French town hall in typical colonial architecture. It has a main hall, rectangular wings and manicured trees decorate the façade. The famous bell tower, a feature common to many European town halls, sits on top on a pyramid like a pedestal.
Today it ís the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee. It is unfortunately not open to the general public. Only civil servants and cleaners are allowed inside. --
Question: When was the Hotel de Ville built ? --> Cross sum of the year the building was completed minus 2 = G)
Alternative question as the info board about the building seems to disappear from time to time: --> The central stairs lead to a couple of beautifully decorated metal doors. Number of doors plus 11 = G------
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Do you also know the history òf the Rex Hotel next door? The building started out as a two-story auto dealership and garage complex ! Later, a cafeteria and a cinema were added. In 1961 it became a hotel - it was made famous during the Vietnam War when it was hosting the American military command's daily conference. Its rooftop bar was a well-known hangout spot for military officials and war correspondents. Maybe you have seen it in the movie "Good Morning Vietam"?
To find the final, you have to walk in the direction òf the Saigon River.
Final: N 10 46.(A-1)(G/2)9 E 106 42.A7(G-14)
Remember that Green Monsters like big, old trees! Please place the cointainer at the exact position and hide it with a few leaves.
Please refrain from placing a geocoin or TB. The muggle risk is far too big. Local cleaners, taxi drivers, policemen etc. often spend their breaks here, so it might even happen that somebody is eager to show you the container.