If you’ve never heard of this Saigon secret then now’s the time to get familiar with the south’s most popular tourist village. Here you can wine and dine as you soak up a watered down, yet palatable, version of Vietnamese culture.

Operated by Saigon Tourist, Binh Quoi Tourist Village is a great family day out, yet even those without kids can enjoy the water puppet shows, sports, boating and amusements. The village is divided into two parts: Tourist Area I, the oldest part, and Tourist Area II.

Aside from amusements you can simply enjoy the wonderful setting of the village. Rich in coconut trees and lush greenery, the tourist park gives a charming insight into the Mekong Delta of days past.

It is also a top spot for dining with its value-for-money weekend buffet where you can sample regional dishes at the floating restaurant. Not just for families, the buffet also caters to romantic couples with its Saigon River setting, lanterns and soft authentic Vietnamese folk music.

Performances are also scheduled. In a celebration of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities, ethnic wedding customs are showcased much to the delight of visitors.

Binh Quoi is largely aimed at catering to tour groups but it is perfectly possible to enjoy the experience independently. Single travellers can join a dinner boat cruise followed by a puppet or musical performance.

Getting to the village is easy. Simply take a motorbike or regular taxi north of the city centre for eight kilometres.