Vietnam’s Cafe Apartment: An old building, 50 secret cafes, every corner of this honeycomb of Ho Chi Minh City is special

News India Live, Digital Desk: The 42 Nguyen Hue building located in the center of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, known as ‘The Cafe Apartment’, has today become one of the most unique tourist destinations in the world. This 9-story old building was once the residence of government officials and US military advisors, but today it is a vibrant “vertical hub” of more than 50 independent cafes, boutiques, and startups.Location: 42 Nguyen Hue Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.1. History: From residential complex to café hub Construction: The building was built in the mid-1960s. During the Vietnam War, high-ranking government employees and US military officers lived here. Changes: After the ‘Fall of Saigon’ in 1975, it became an ordinary residential building. Following the construction of the nearby Nguyen Hue Walking Street in 2015, residents began converting their homes into cafes and shops.2. What’s inside the building? (What’s Inside?) The building works like a ‘library’, where you can wander through each floor and choose a corner of your choice:Floor Guide: Spread over 9 floors, this block includes Japanese tea-houses, Vietnamese egg-coffee shops, Western steakhouses, and minimalist cafes (like the famous % Arabica).Each balcony has a different story: From the outside, the building looks like a ‘Pinterest board’. Each café has its own lighting, decor, neon signs and plants, making it magical at night. Boutiques and more: Apart from cafés, there are also hidden shops selling clothes from local designers, handicraft shops and small co-working spaces.3. Essential Tips for Tourists: Lift fee: To use the lift of this old building, you have to pay a fee of 3,000 VND (about Rs 10). However, many cafes reimburse this amount in your bill. Thrill of the Stairs: Many people like to go up the stairs on foot so that they can get a closer look at the ‘secret’ gates and tiled corridors of each floor. Best time: The view here is most beautiful in the evening (after sunset), when the entire building is illuminated with colorful lights. Famous cafes that should not be missed: Cafe Ka What is NamFloor famous for?Saigon Oi5th FloorFor its vintage decor and stunning views of Nguyen Hue Street.Thinker and Dreamer4th FloorFor minimalist style and excellent egg-coffee.% Arabica4th FloorJapanese coffee chain known for its premium quality.The Letter6th FloorFor its pale walls and laid-back atmosphere.