Welcome to Wanderlust Wednesday where you can digitally explore some of the cities I’ve visited. And just maybe you decide to visit yourself with my assistance π The first city is in Vietnam — Ho Chin Minh City. Did you know its former name was Saigon? Yes, that Saigon from all the history lessons you had on the Vietnam War.
History
Saigon used to be the capital of South Vietnam until the Fall of Saigon which ended the Vietnam War on April 30, 1975. Then on July 2, 1976, Saigon officially became known as Ho Chin Minh City.
Furthermore, did you know that Ho Chin Minh City is the most populous city in Vietnam with over 12 million people? You would think with that many people, traffic would be horrendous. NOT! Pretty much everyone drives/rides a moped or scooter.
Wouldn’t it be cool to ride one in Ho Chin Minh City? However, I opted to be in a car/bus. I was not adventurous on this trip. π±
Food
While there I did enjoy the food. I spent the entire trip just eating and tasting a variety of different food.
Just down the street from my hotel, was a BBQ place. I swear the chicken and yellow rice had me seeing angels.
I almost ordered a second plate. Oh, and I will tell you a little secret, the food is seasoned and inexpensive. Yep, I like cheap and good food π
The Nightlife
When I travel, I never go to the nightclubs. It is not my thing! Also, I am about a finger snap away from South Beach — what country can beat that? But there are other ways to enjoy the city at night. Why not people watch and walk around the colorful and beautiful city?
Or find a spot that has rooftop
And enjoy some cocktail or wine
As beautiful as the night is, the day is even more spectacular. There is so much to see and explore and so little time. Just make sure you have some good walking shoes.
The Cu Chi Tunnels
However, before you leave Ho Chin Minh City, make sure to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels. The Cu Chi Tunnels were the location of several military campaigns during the Vietnam War and were the Viet Cong’s base of operations for the TαΊΏt Offensive in 1968.
The tunnels were used by Viet Cong soldiers as hiding spots during combat, as well as serving as communication and supply routes, hospitals, food and weapon caches and living quarters for numerous North Vietnamese fighters.
The day trip is so worth it and you get an understanding of the Vietnam War. Psst! Basically, the South (Saigon) wanted to cede from the Union (North). And the North said Hell to the N-O. That was the message I got from the locals/guide.
One of the things I love about traveling is learning the history from the people. Can it differ from our history books? Yes, but it is a different perspective to consider.
Anywho, I hope you enjoyed the first series of Wanderlust Wednesday.
Come back next week for a new city in Wanderlust Wednesday. Oh, if you are interested in visiting Vietnam or traveling in general, make sure to contact me! I have the hookup!