Ho Chi Minh City, often affectionately called Saigon, is a bustling metropolis that captivates travelers with its energy. For those planning a longer sojourn, choosing the right accommodation is crucial. While hotels offer convenience, serviced apartments and apartment-style accommodations provide the comfort of home—essential features like kitchens, laundry facilities, and extra living space—while maintaining the perks of housekeeping and security.

Whether you are a digital nomad, an expat on a short contract, or a traveler wanting to immerse yourself in local life, Saigon offers a diverse range of options. From the leafy lanes of District 3 to the expat-friendly enclave of Thao Dien and the modern avenues of District 7, you can find spaces that blend Vietnamese charm with modern amenities. Opting for an apartment allows you to shop at local supermarkets like Co.opmart, cook your own meals when you need a break from street food, and handle laundry with ease, making your long-term stay significantly more comfortable and cost-effective.

District 3 is often cited by long-term residents as the ideal balance between proximity to the action and a peaceful living environment. It is known for its French colonial architecture and tree-lined streets.

• M Village The Garden: Located at 214 Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, this property is a standout for long stays. It features Duplex Apartments with a loft layout, offering separate living and sleeping areas. Crucially for long-term guests, rooms come equipped with a small kitchen including bowls and a fridge—perfect for storing local treats like Vietnamese yogurt. The staff provides housekeeping every two days, coordinating times via WeChat for convenience. While soundproofing is average, the location is superb, just a 15-minute ride from the airport.
• M Village Living Tu Xuong: For a retreat within the city, this location offers rooms with balconies where you can wake up to greenery. It operates with a 24-hour butler team rather than a traditional front desk, ensuring support whenever needed. Guests also enjoy discounts at the on-site cafe, a popular spot for working and socializing. Note that street-facing rooms might experience some noise in the mornings or from nearby evening venues.

Living here puts you within walking distance of the famous Pink Church and about 20 minutes from District 1 attractions like the Central Post Office. For your daily needs, a large Co.opmart supermarket is just a 5-minute walk from The Garden, making grocery runs incredibly easy.

If you prefer to be in the heart of the action or just adjacent to it, District 1 and the neighboring District 4 offer excellent apartment-style options that cater to both budget and comfort.

• Huế Studio near Bui Vien (Em's Home 5): For a stay that feels like stepping into a novel, this Airbnb option near the famous Bui Vien street offers deep red floors and French-Indochine decor. It is highly functional for long stays, featuring a kitchen for cooking light meals and, importantly, a washing machine and dryer—a lifesaver in the tropical heat. It also includes a large bathtub for relaxation.
• Express by M Village Võ Văn Kiệt: Located near the border of District 1, this newer property offers a shared kitchen facility, water dispenser, and a smoking area. It provides a laundry area where you can wash and dry new clothes, adding to the convenience. The rooms are spacious enough to open multiple suitcases, and the service includes luggage assistance and communication via WhatsApp.
• CityHouse - Ariosa Apartment: This accommodation offers rooms with bathtubs and strong air conditioning, essential for Saigon's climate. To ensure a quiet stay for work or rest, it is advisable to request a room on a higher floor away from the street to avoid the sound of honking horns. It represents a great value option for extended visits.
• Cubicity Hoang Dieu (District 4): A budget-friendly gem just across the bridge from District 1. It offers large rooms, big televisions with YouTube access, fridges, and essential toiletries. The facility provides laundry and drying services, with staff delivering clean clothes directly to your room. A convenience store is located just down the road.

For a quieter, more residential vibe often preferred by expats, look towards Thao Dien (District 2) or District 7. These areas are self-sufficient with international amenities.

• Amanaki Thao Dien (District 2): This hotel offers a "Southern Ocean Dream" aesthetic with antique decorations. The rooms are equipped with kitchens featuring exquisite tableware, allowing for elegant in-room dining. Guests are welcomed with small coconuts and the room scent is a relaxing blend of pineapple, lychee, and lemongrass. The property also features a clean swimming pool, sauna, and Turkish bath facilities.
• Golden Tree Apartment & Hotel (District 7): Situated in a newer district with wide roads and fewer crowds, this apartment hotel is surrounded by dining options including Thai, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese restaurants (such as the recommended "Qi Li Xiang"). The staff is attentive, providing ample bottled water. The location is excellent for daily living, with a Citimart supermarket and 7-11 nearby, plus a spa for foot and body massages right in the vicinity.

Thao Dien is particularly vibrant on weekends, hosting markets with local crafts, clothing, and food at spots like Vincom Mega Mall and Starbucks Q2 Terrace. It's a hub for lifestyle activities, from DIY workshops to karting.

To make your serviced apartment truly feel like home, you might need to pick up some household items or find places to unwind.

• Home Goods: If your apartment needs extra storage or cozy touches, the MUJI flagship store at Parkson Le Thanh Ton (District 1) is a go-to. It offers a wide range of bedding, aroma diffusers, and storage solutions, often mirroring the complete experience of a Japanese flagship store.
• Relaxation: Long-term stays often mean working remotely. To decompress, Sen Trang Spa in District 1 offers excellent shampoo and massage services that are highly rated for their value. Alternatively, Momo Spa & Nail near Ben Thanh Market offers a one-stop service for massage, hair washing, and nails, with luggage storage available if you are between accommodations.
• Fitness & Socializing: For those living in Thao Dien, the Level Up Sport Club offers Pickleball courts, a popular way to socialize with both expats and locals. There are also CrossFit gyms in the area for maintaining your fitness routine.

Living in Saigon is about embracing the convenience. Use apps like Grab for transport and delivery, and don't hesitate to explore the local markets near your apartment for the freshest produce.