Summer in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) can be extremely hot and humid, making it difficult to stay cool and hydrated. Fortunately, Saigon streets are filled with a variety of refreshing drinks that are perfect for beating the heat. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular drinks for hot summer days in Saigon and where you can find them.
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Favorite Drinks for Hot Summer Days and Are Sold Popularly in Saigon
Vietnamese drinks are just as diverse and flavorful as its cuisine. With its tropical monsoon climate, Vietnam has an abundance of beverages that can quench your thirst during hot summer days.
Whether you’re meeting friends for coffee or stopping at a street-side stall for a refreshing juice or smoothie, drinking sessions are an indispensable part of Vietnamese daily life. Trying each drink in Vietnam is a unique experience that allows you to discover local traditions and interesting stories revealed by Vietnam Travel’s guidance.
Below are some of the most popular drinks for hot summer days in Saigon:
1. Coconut Juice
Coconut juice is one of the most popular and refreshing drinks for hot summer days in Saigon. The lightly sweet taste of coconut juice along with its soft flesh inside is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. You can find coconut juice in most coffee shops in Saigon, costing around 2 USD per coconut.
However, the best way to enjoy coconut juice is from street vendors while chatting with friends and observing the hustle and bustle of the city. One of the most famous places to find plenty of coconut street vendors is the small corner at the end of Pasteur road. Here, you can try out different coconut juice variations mixed with kumquat or pineapple jam, both of which are sweet and refreshing.
2. Nuoc Sam
Nuoc Sam is an herbal drink made from a combination of different types of leaves that are boiled together until the liquid turns to a rich brown color. This drink is known for its ability to cool down the body and detoxify it, making it perfect for hot summer days in Saigon.
You can find Nuoc Sam at many street-side stalls and café shops across the city. It’s often served cold with ice cubes and sugar or honey to help balance out the slightly bitter taste of the herbs.
3. Artichokes Juice
Artichokes juice is an excellent option for those looking for a healthy drink that’s also refreshing. This juice is made from boiled artichoke leaves and mixed with sugar or honey to make it sweet.
The combination of artichoke leaves and sugar gives this drink a unique flavor that’s both earthy and sweet. You can find Artichokes Juice in many coffee shops and street-side stalls in Saigon.
4. Nuoc Dang (Bitter Juice)
Nuoc Dang, also known as Bitter Juice, is a herbal drink that’s popular among locals for its cooling properties. This drink is made by boiling a combination of different herbs such as pennywort, tamarind leaves, and other medicinal plants.
Despite its name, Nuoc Dang has a sweet and sour taste that’s perfect for hot summer days. You can find this drink in many street-side stalls and traditional herbal medicine shops throughout Saigon.
5. Sugarcane Juice
Sugarcane juice is another popular drink for hot summer days in Saigon. This refreshing drink is made by extracting the juice from sugarcane stalks and adding ice cubes or lime to give it a tangy flavor.
You can find Sugarcane Juice at many street-side stalls and mobile vendors across Saigon. It’s often served in small plastic cups, making it an easy and convenient drink to take on the go.
6. Mixed Juices
Mixed juices are a popular and refreshing way to stay cool during hot summer days in Saigon. These drinks are made by mixing different fresh fruits such as watermelon, mango, strawberry, and banana together with ice cubes.
You can find mixed juices at many street-side stalls and mobile vendors across Saigon. They’re often served in large plastic cups with a straw, making it easy to enjoy this delicious drink while exploring the city.
Conclusion
Drinks for hot summer days in Saigon are not only refreshing but also offer a unique taste of Vietnamese culture. With a variety of herbal-infused and fruit-based beverages available, you’re sure to find one that satisfies your thirst and taste buds. So, next time you’re in Saigon during the dry season, make sure to grab a cool drink from any of the street vendors or coffee shops and stay refreshed throughout the day.