District 1 is the undisputed lodging capital of Ho Chi Minh City, though the decision whether to go east (fancy) or west (cheap) depends on what you're after. Budget travelers often head straight to the Pham Ngu Lao area, where hundred hotels and backpacker-filled cafes line the streets. 

Those seeking upscale digs go to Dong Khoi area, home to the city's best hotels, restaurants and bars. For an alternative universe, try Cholon, home to pagodas, Chinese eateries and which sees many visitors from Hong Kong and Taiwan.