Summer in Ho Chi Minh City can be scorching, but fear not! There are plenty of delightful coolers to beat the heat and quench your thirst. From traditional street vendors to cozy cafes, here are the five must-try summer coolers in Ho Chi Minh City.
Coconut Juice
Coconut juice is a lifesaver in the sweltering heat of Vietnam. In Ho Chi Minh City, you can find this refreshing drink in both cafes and from street vendors. While cafes offer a cool and comfortable environment, street vendors offer a more affordable option. For less than $1, you can enjoy the sweet taste of coconut juice right on the street. Don’t forget to bargain if the price seems too high! One unique aspect of street-coconut is that you’ll have to stand while enjoying your drink since there are no seats available. But hey, that makes it all the more adventurous!
Sugar Cane Juice
Sugar cane juice is a popular and pocket-friendly drink in Ho Chi Minh City. These small blending machines attached to vendors’ vehicles can be found all around the city. People often sit on small chairs and stools arranged around the vendor, sipping their drinks and chatting with friends. The simplicity of sugar cane juice makes it an excellent choice for satisfying thirst and temporary hunger. You’ll be amazed at how affordable it is, typically costing no more than 50 cents per glass. Some vendors even add a twist by blending fruits like strawberry and orange, taking the taste to a whole new level!
Smoothies
When it comes to beating the summer heat, smoothies are a go-to choice in Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnam’s tropical climate brings forth a wide variety of exotic fruits that are perfect for blending into a refreshing drink. And let’s not forget the secret ingredient: condensed milk. Unlike smoothies from other countries, Vietnamese smoothies are known for their sweeter and richer taste. The abundance of vitamins in fruits not only makes them good for your health but also beneficial for your skin. You can find smoothies at almost any coffee shop or even on the streets. The average price ranges from $1 to $1.5 per drink. Some places even offer take-away options for those on the go.
Iced Coffee
Coffee is an integral part of Vietnamese culture, and locals begin their day with a cup of joe. In Ho Chi Minh City, you have the choice of enjoying coffee at home, at a coffee shop, or even on the streets. Street vendors offer the most affordable coffee, priced at around 25 cents for a tall glass. Upscale coffee shops might charge more, but they make up for it with their cozy atmosphere and soothing background music. Vietnamese coffee is known for its strength, so if you’re not accustomed to it, take it slow. And on hot days, nothing beats the satisfaction of sipping on a refreshing iced coffee with condensed milk, locally known as “ca phe sua da.”
Nuoc Sam
For a unique and healthy drink experience, try Nuoc Sam, also known as herbal tea. This traditional Ho Chi Minh City beverage is made by boiling water with special herbal plants. These plants have a cooling effect on the body, making Nuoc Sam perfect for hot weather. You can buy the herbs at oriental medication shops or grab a refreshing glass for less than 25 cents on Cach Mang Thang Tam street. After enjoying this revitalizing drink, you’ll feel recharged and refreshed, ready to take on the day!
So, whether you’re exploring the city streets or seeking refuge in a cozy cafe, don’t miss out on these incredible coolers. Embrace the heat and indulge in the refreshing flavors of Ho Chi Minh City’s summer coolers. Remember, the best way to beat the heat is to immerse yourself in the local culture, one sip at a time.