Jaka
Built in 1890, it was once named named the Gia Long Palace – after the founding emperor of tue Nguyen dysnasty a.ka. Vietnam’s last dynasty.
This temporarily served as the Presidential Palace back in 1962 after the old Presidential Palace was bombed. In 1963, it was here where President Diem was before he went to the Cha Tam Church to hide (he was assasinated shortly after).
The highlight of the building is the beautiful spiral staircase in the middle. The French style windows are also gorgeous.
It also houses a lot of artifacts and photo displays that reflect the old Vietnamese way of life. Among the displays that interested us are the old historical notes and coins.
Outside the palace are some tanks and aircraft the Americans left during the war. The spoils of war as some would call it. Their is also a nice old black car at near the gate entrance.
Therr are not a lot of tourists that comes here. But the place does have a lot of photo and Instagram opportunities. During our visit, we saw at least two couples having their pre-nuptial photo shoots.
PRO TIP: It’s a must visit in Saigon if you are planning to stay in Saigon for more than 5 days.