After soaking up the charm of Hoi An, we hopped on a flight to Ho Chi Minh City, ready for our next adventure. Who knew Vietnam was so big? The energy of the city hit us as soon as we landed, and we couldn't wait to dive in. Our hotel was right in the heart of the city, so we were perfectly situated to start our explorations.
First on our list was the Reunification Palace, a place that felt like stepping straight into a history book. This impressive building, once the home of the South Vietnamese President, is a time capsule from the 1960s. We wandered through rooms filled with vintage furniture and even ventured into the basement where old war command rooms and telecommunications equipment were kept. It was fascinating to imagine the significant decisions made within these walls. The palace grounds were stunning, providing a serene spot to ponder the history we'd just absorbed.
(Reunification Palace)
And we can't forget about taking my favorite "Tiff's Traveling Anchor" picture ever. Shoutout to one of my best travel buddies Alicia for making this spectacular picture happen!
(Scroll through for a BTS look at the making of this picture)
Next, we strolled over to the Saigon Central Post Office. Designed by none other than Gustave Eiffel, the architect behind the Eiffel Tower, this post office is a gem of French colonial architecture. Completed in 1891, it’s still in use today and bustling with activity. Inside, we were greeted by soaring ceilings and intricate details that made us feel like we’d stepped back in time. We even took a moment to send postcards home, a perfect way to share our travels with loved ones. Though, I'm not sure how reliable the mail is, we're still waiting to receive our postcards over a year later...
(Inside the Saigon Post Office)
Our visit to the War Remnants Museum was a moving and educational experience. This museum offers a deep dive into the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese perspective, with powerful exhibits that don’t shy away from the harsh realities of conflict. From heartbreaking photographs to detailed accounts of the war's impact, we left with a much deeper understanding and respect for the resilience of the Vietnamese people.
(Some of the US Army Helicopters left behind after the evacuation)
For a change of pace, we headed to Ben Thanh Market, a bustling hub of activity and commerce. Established in 1912, it's one of the oldest and most iconic markets in the city. We dove into the chaos, navigating through aisles filled with everything from fresh produce and spices to souvenirs and clothing. Our bargaining skills got a real workout here! The vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and lively chatter made this an unforgettable shopping experience.
(Beautiful flowers amidst the hectic atmosphere of the Ben Thanh Markets)
The following day, we took a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a sprawling network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Our guide shared fascinating stories about the tunnels' strategic importance and the incredible ingenuity involved in their construction. Some of our group even crawled through the narrow passages and hid in one of the booby traps! It was both thrilling and humbling to experience firsthand what life was like for the soldiers who used these tunnels.
(Another shoutout to Alicia for braving the tunnels underground booby traps! Not for me!!)
As our trip neared its end, we decided to indulge in one final pampering session with the best pedicure ever. Ho Chi Minh City is famous for its affordable and top-notch spa services, and this pedicure left us feeling like royalty. Afterward, we quenched our thirst at Vina Fresh, our go-to juice bar in the city. Sipping on fresh, delicious juice, we felt like true locals with a favorite spot.
(Sparkling passion fruit juice, my favorite!)
Our last evening was spent enjoying a fantastic group dinner, reflecting on the amazing journey we’d had. We laughed, shared stories, and savored the flavors of Vietnam one last time. It was the perfect way to wrap up our adventure.
(One last dinner in Vietnam)
Reluctantly, we made our way home, with a stopover at our favorite airport in Incheon. Seriously, we loved this airport. As we boarded our final flight, we felt grateful for the incredible experiences and the new friendships we’d made.
Our time in Ho Chi Minh City was a delightful mix of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and a bit of personal indulgence. From the solemn halls of the War Remnants Museum to the bustling aisles of Ben Thanh Market, every moment was an adventure. The vibrancy and resilience of the Vietnamese people shone through in every interaction, leaving us with a deep appreciation for this incredible country.
Vietnam, with its vast landscapes and vibrant cities, captured our hearts and imaginations. Our journey through this beautiful country was just a taste of what this beautiful country has to offer, and we left with a promise to return and discover even more of its wonders. Until next time, Vietnam!
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