After breakfast, our local guide collected us at 7:30am and we were off to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, which are 70 kilometers North West of Ho Chi Minh City. We went early as it was going to be a very hot day…and crowds suck. I am still not coping well with the long drives and feel nauseous a lot because of the stop start approach to driving…even Dramamine can’t save me!
On the way out we stopped at a local factory that employs those injured/with limbs missing from the Vietnam war. They learn how to fresh lacquer art (an old tradition) and sell this to tourists with 50% of sales finding going into programs and supports for them. Very cool type of artwork with shells and beautiful shiny final products.
The tunnels are about a 1.5hr drive from HCMC and make up an underground city with living areas, kitchens, storage, weapon shops, field hospitals, command centers. They were created in 1948 to assist the Viet Minh to combat the French. During the American/Vietnam War, the entire area of Cu Chi was designated a fire free zone and was heavily bombarded. Since 1988, two sections of the tunnels have been open for visitors.
B had some fun firing an M60 machine gun as well.
We headed back to HCMC before lunch and our guide took us to visit the Reunification Palace. We also had lunch at Home Saigon which was absolutely delicious.
We were back at the hotel around 3pm for a poolside rest before tomorrow’s adventure up the Mekong Delta and change of location to Can Tho!
Dinner was Pho at the place full of locals again – it was delicious.
I will miss you Saigon food…..
Mel's Travel Blog 