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No one need go thirsty in Saigon. The city is home to literally thousands of bars, cafes, clubs and other watering holes. Ranging from sidewalk sugarcane shacks through open-air beer gardens (very popular with young Vietnamese professionals), to heavily invested western-style operations catering to the expat market and sophisticated nightclubs that wouldn't be out of place in Paris, London or even New York, Saigon really does appear to have "something for everyone". Prices tend to be higher in Saigon than elsewhere in Vietnam, including Hanoi, although this doesn't seem to affect the numbers enjoying a few drinks of an evening. The top-end bars and lounges tend to be concentrated within District One, and many cater almost exclusively to the new-rich Vietnamese. Pham Ngu Lao - the travellers' quarter - is also host to a number of bars which tend to be significantly cheaper than their District One counterparts, although less sophisticated. The area is also host to several "travellers cafes" which we cover in our Dining Out section. A quick word of caution - many karaoke joints or "billiard bars" are fronts for prostitution - which is rife throughout the city - so be warned. These places are often little more than clip joints, especially for the unwary tourist - it is not unusual for a $100 bill to be run up by one person inside just fifteen minutes. There are now some really very sophisticated bars and clubs in the city, including the much-celebrated Q Bar and newer operations such as Lush or Alibi. The original Apocalypse Now opened in Saigon, and the operation is still in full-flow here (although in much larger premises than the original). Hotel bars tend to be on the quiet side here, the exception being Saigon Saigon bar on the tenth floor of the Caravelle hotel, and Level 23 at the Sheraton Saigon. So, whatever your tastes or budget, you'll be sure to enjoy Saigon's after hours attractions. To access ElephantGuide.com's comprehensive listings for selected bars and clubs in Saigon, simply select your desired the channel at left and let the Elephant guide you.
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