M Hotel Saigon Review: Is It Worth Staying Here?

There are plenty of reviews about M Hotel Saigon, but after staying here as a family of three, I wanted to share some practical details that we couldn't easily find before booking.

1. Surprisingly Quiet Despite Being in District 1

One thing that really impressed us was how quiet the room was. Although the hotel is located right in the middle of District 1, we hardly heard any traffic noise at night. After spending the day exploring the busy streets of Ho chi Minh City, returning to a peaceful room made a huge difference. 

If you re a light sleeper, this is something you will definitely appreciate.

2. Walking Everywhere Saved Us Money

We barely needed to book a Grab.

From M Hotel Saigon, we comfortably walked to:

• Takashimaya & Saigon Centre
• KKV
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street
• Saigon Opera House
• Ho Chi Minh City Hall
• Ben Thanh Market

Not only did this save us transport costs, we also discovered hidden cafes, bakeries, convenience stores and local shops along the way. Sometimes the best part of travelling is simply wandering around and this hotel's location made that easy.

3. Perfect for Families Sharing One Bed

Many hotels say they have a king-sized bed but M Hotel Saigon's bed genuinely felt huge.

As a family of three, we slept comfortably without needing an extra bed. This helped us save money while still getting a good night's sleep.

4. A Hotel with a Unique Design

One feature that stood out was the bathtub which is placed outside the bathroom instead of inside it. It gives the room a modern feel and creates a more spacious layout.

It's a small design touch, but one that makes the room memorable.

5. Shopping Was Too Convenient

My daughter loved that KKV was only a short walk away and we found ourselves visiting it several times during out stay.

Takashimaya and Saigon Centre are also just minutes away, making it easy to return to the hotel to drop off shopping bags before heading back out again...something we really appreciated in the Ho Chi Minh City's warm weather.

6. Breakfast: Small but Well Planned

Don't expect an enormous buffet spread.

Instead, expect a smaller breakfast with a reasonable variety of local and international dishes. The menu wasn't extensive but the food was fresh, regularly replenished and enough to start the dat comfortably.

Sometimes quality matters more than quantity.

Little Details We Appreciated

These aren't things you will usually see in hotel listings, but they made our stat more enjoyable:

• Plenty of international power sockets around the room for charging multiple devices. You don't need to bring your adapter
• Strong and stable wifi, even when all three of us were online at the same time
• Good air-conditioning that cooled the room quickly after coming back from teh heat
• The boutique size of the hotel meant the lobby and lifts were never crowded, unlike many larger hotels

Final Verdict

If your priority is a hotel with an excellent location, comfortable rooms and easy access to Ho Chi Minh City's best shopping and attractions, M Hotel Saigon is an excellent choice. 

For our family, the combination of the huge bed, quiet room, unique bathtub, walkable location and convenient access to KKV made this one of the most enjoyable hotels we stayed in.

Would we stay here again? Without hesitation.

Address:

M Hotel Saigon 

39 Ton That Thiep St, Sai Gon Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Exploring Cabbages and Condoms Bangkok: Where Advocacy Meets Gastronomy

In the bustling city of Bangkok, where the streets are lined with an endless array of dining options ranging from traditional Thai street food to upscale international restaurants, there's a place that not only stands out for its culinary delights but also for its commitment to a crucial social cause. Cabbages & Condoms is a restaurant that has successfully combined the joy of eating with the serious mission of promoting safe sex and family planning. This unique establishment has become a must-visit for both locals and tourists, not just for its food but for its distinctive approach to raising awareness about sexual health.

Cabbages & Condoms was founded by the Population and Community Development Association (PDA), with the goal of promoting better understanding and acceptance of family planning and to generate income to support various development activities. The name itself is a statement, stemming from the idea that condoms should be as accessible and as ordinary as cabbages, a staple vegetable. This concept is vividly brought to life within the restaurant's walls, where condoms are featured prominently in decorations, from lampshades to life-sized mannequins dressed in outfits made entirely of condoms.

Walking into Cabbages & Condoms, guests are greeted by an ambiance that's both quirky and enlightening. The décor is filled with informational posters and displays about sexual health, alongside the inventive use of condoms in various forms of artwork. Despite its unusual theme, the restaurant maintains a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, making it an excellent place for dining with friends, family, or a partner. The outdoor seating area, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a serene dining experience, especially in the evenings when it's beautifully lit.

The menu at Cabbages & Condoms focuses on traditional Thai cuisine, offering a wide range of dishes that cater to different palates. From spicy salads and soups to curries and stir-fries, each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. The restaurant is particularly famous for its seafood selections and vegetarian options, ensuring that there's something for everyone. Despite its social mission, the food quality and taste are never compromised, making it a culinary destination in its own right.

Pik Kai Tod (Deep-fried chicken wings): THB220

Ped Rad Sauce Makham (Roasted duck topping with tamarind sauce): THB420

Tod Mun Pla Krai (Deep-fried feather back fish patties): THB300

Phad Phak Bung Fai Dang (Stir – fried morning glory): THB180

Khao Suay (Plain steamed rice): THB25 each

What sets Cabbages and Condoms Bangkok apart is its commitment to giving back to the community. Proceeds from the restaurant are used to fund the activities of the Population and Community Development Association (PDA), a non-profit organization founded by Mechai Viravaidya. The PDA works tirelessly to promote family planning, reproductive health, and HIV/AIDS prevention initiatives across Thailand, empowering individuals and communities to make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health.

Beyond the unique dining experience, the heart of Cabbages & Condoms lies in its dedication to social causes. The proceeds from the restaurant go towards supporting the PDA's various programs, including HIV/AIDS prevention, family planning education, and rural development projects. By dining or purchasing gifts here, patrons contribute to these important initiatives, making their meal not just enjoyable but meaningful.

Visiting Cabbages & Condoms is an experience that extends beyond gastronomy. It's an opportunity to support a vital cause while enjoying some of the best Thai cuisine Bangkok has to offer. The restaurant also features a shop where guests can purchase souvenirs, including crafts made by local communities and, of course, condoms. Before leaving, diners are offered condoms instead of the traditional after-dinner mints, a reminder of the restaurant's underlying message.

Cabbages & Condoms stands as a testament to the power of combining social entrepreneurship with the hospitality industry. It's a place where guests can indulge in delicious meals, immerse themselves in a unique atmosphere, and contribute to a significant cause, all at the same time. Whether you're a local resident or a traveler exploring Bangkok, Cabbages & Condoms offers an unforgettable dining experience that satisfies the palate and enlightens the mind.

Address:
Cabbages & Condoms
10 Sukhumvit Soi 12, Sukhumvit Road, Klongtoey, Bangkok, Thailand 10110

Operating hours: 11am - 10.30pm

Total damages:
1) Fried morning glory: THB180
2) Roasted duck with tamarind sauce: THB420
3) Deep fried chicken wings: THB220
4) Deep fried fish patties: THB300
5) Steamed rice: THB25 x 4
6) Orange juice: THB100
7) Bottled water: THB20
8) Chinese tea: THB90
Total: THB1,683.11 including service charge and tax

Exploring the Compassionate Traditions of Bangkok: A Journey through Temple Gates to Coffin Donations

Every visit to Bangkok for me is not just about savoring its vibrant street food, exploring the labyrinthine markets, or basking in the electric nightlife; it holds a deeper, more personal ritual. Tucked away amidst the humming cityscape is a temple that quietly beckons with a unique call to generosity – the act of coffin donation. 

This temple, a serene oasis, has become my unlikely pilgrimage site. Here, away from the skyscrapers' shadows, I participate in a tradition that honors life by supporting the journey after it. The coffin donation is a profound gesture in Thai culture, an offering of dignity and respect to those who have passed away without the means for a proper farewell.

Each trip, I find my way to the temple gates, where the metropolitan bustle gives way to a tranquil courtyard. The sign pointing to the 'Coffin donation' reaffirms my purpose. Inside, I'm greeted by walls lined with names, each representing a soul whose departure from this world was eased through the kindness of strangers. 

My contributions here are small, humble threads in the larger tapestry of communal care that this foundation weaves so diligently. But the impact, I've come to realize, is immeasurable. In Bangkok, among the temples and tuk-tuks, I've found a place where I can leave a piece of my heart, contributing to a cycle of giving that reverberates with the enduring spirit of humanity. 

This tradition has become an anchor of my Bangkok experiences, a meaningful counterpoint to the ephemeral joys of travel. It reminds me that amidst the transitory nature of life, there are enduring acts of kindness that define our existence. And so, with each visit, I embrace the poignant beauty of this city, not only through its sights and sounds but through the silent giving that echoes in its heart.

Please note:

1) Write your name on the pink slip of paper to be pasted on the coffin of your choice

2) Receipt is to be burnt at the temple connecting the donation centre after you make your wishes, do not bring it back

Address:

Wat Hua Lamphong

義德善堂

728 Rama IV Rd, Khwaeng Si Phraya, Khet Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500

Nearest train station: Sam Yan

Putuo Village: A Tranquil Oasis of Buddhist Culture and Bamboo Beauty in South Malaysia

Nestled within the verdant landscapes of South Malaysia, Putuo Village emerges as a serene and lush tourist destination situated on the outskirts of Kulai, Johor. Enveloped by a bamboo forest, this idyllic spot encompasses a Buddhist cultural hall, an eco-friendly bamboo forest, and captivating attractions. Boasting a rich history spanning two decades, it is conveniently located just a short drive away from the city, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a brief respite and relaxation for their weary minds.

Putuo Village stands out as an excellent venue to delve into Malaysia's Buddhist culture and immerse oneself in the enchanting beauty of a bamboo forest. The site offers engaging traditional cultural programs designed to bring joy and excitement to visitors of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures. Welcoming locals and tourists alike, Putuo Village endeavors to blend Buddhist culture with scenic innovation, creating a distinctive and inviting amusement spot.

Spanning 43 acres, Putuo Village provides a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. At its heart lies the meticulously crafted Purple Bamboo Valley, an imaginative recreational bamboo forest characterized by Zen-like beauty. Stepping into this tranquil haven filled with phytoncide-rich air offers a rejuvenating experience, providing respite from stress and allowing both body and mind to unwind. As you explore, savor bamboo rice with your loved ones and capture memorable group photos in the amusement area, adding to the overall charm of your visit.

The only drawback is the limited variety of food available.

Address: 1488, Jalan Kampung, Off, Jalan Kota Tinggi - Kluang, Felda Taib Andak, 81000 Kulai, Johor, Malaysia

Operating hours: Sun to Fri (9am - 6pm), Sat (9am - 10pm)

Spring Labs: A Retail Concept Park in Taman Ekoflora - Where Innovation Meets Shopping

Visited Spring Labs, a retail concept park in Taman Ekoflora that reimagines the traditional shopping experience. We came and Discovered the unique charm and innovative offerings of Spring Labs, where creativity, sustainability, and community converge.

Spring Labs is a testament to the visionaries behind Taman Ekoflora, embracing innovation, design, and sustainability. Experience a harmonious fusion of art, technology, and nature, revolutionizing the way we engage with retail.

Indulge in culinary landscape, from trendy cafes to specialty restaurants, catering to every palate. Experience a journey of gastronomic adventure amidst Spring Labs' inviting ambiance.

Spring Labs is a celebration of innovation, creativity, and sustainability. Embrace an extraordinary journey that combines shopping, leisure, and community engagement. Experience the magic of Spring Labs, where innovation meets shopping in the heart of Taman Ekoflora.

A colourful wonderland, this is how you can get there:

Jalan Ekoflora1, Taman Ekoflora, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia. Operation Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM (Monday – Thursday). 10 AM – 6 PM (Saturday- Sunday).

Verdict :

Spent about an hour or so for photo taking. Nothing much but the colorful surrounding is insta-worthy.