Dear Kat2, Sorry for this late reply, I went to Perth during the weekend. Just got back 2 hours ago
I think it'll be handy if you own a vietnam travel book. The hotels and tourism centers should have maps etc also, but I would suggest get a book because at one point you can refer to your book to find nearest cafes, restaurants etc... I have a frommers vietnam. I can borrow it to you if you want.
I'm not sure about Equatorial Hotel. But as long as the transportation to district 1 is easy then that should be okay. Since most of the tourist places located at district 1.
At night, we went to saigon2 at caravelle hotel, then to top of 23 (sheraton)... they have live music there... But they ran until 1 or 2 I cannot remember, But the DJ at Saigon2 told us that there is one good club called Apocalypto. But we didn't go there. We went to some local techno club instead... It is quite interesting. Unfortunately I could not remember the name and address of the club anymore...
I think the shopping stores closes around 8 pm. Not exactly sure. But I think its different for each stores.
Just walk along the Le Loi and Dong Khoi street. Many cute stores there.
I agree with rolling smith. It got incredibly hot. Luckily our hotel located at district 1, so we could go back to hotel and have quick shower change shirt. Vietnam is so hot. Sweat in seconds... But that is vietnam. I bought a local hat also. It helps.
cheers,
cheers,