Tucked away, North of Ho Chi Minh City, amid the villas of the well to do, in District 2, is a tiny corner lot of blurred culture. Saigon Outcast is a testament to the globalization of street style and sustainable development.
One is greeted upon entering with a Buddhist arch akin to those of ancient temples, a mini half pipe for skateboarding, Zen garden, and shipping containers. The giant monoliths, synonymous with world trade, have found new purpose amongst the party goers, film makers, English teachers, professionals, and artists. They act as home, stage, and art installation. Linh and Ha, the brains and residents of Outcast, started out to create a welcoming space for those in South Vietnam tired of the luxury night clubs, blanketing red light districts, and drunken barrooms.
The overall atheistic of the lot, however, resembles a hip park in New York City. Benches and coffee tables are scattered about the near grassy knolls and barbeques. Nearly every item on the property has been salvaged from junk yards and the ever present trash piles that surround Ho Chi Minh City. The space provides a venue for motorcycle exhibitions, musicians, films, fashion shows, graffiti, vendors, and charities.
When Outcast charges a cover the proceeds are donated to a local orphanage. Various charities are seen at nearly every event. Outcast attempts to create a house party atmosphere have succeeded in most respects, and it is easy to return and find familiar smiling faces. Outcast has had its share of problems. Locals of District 2 have complained about a liberal service of alcohol, loud music, and general corruption of minors. At the most recent party, however, expats of an older generation decided to bring their kids. Alleged wrong doing aside Saigon Outcast is perfect for anyone looking to dive into a cross breed of new Vietnamese happenings unknown to the likes of trip adviser.
