War Remnants Museum of Vietnam is one of the best destinations suggested by the Star newspaper of Malaysia. Of all the things to do in Ho Chi Minh city, visiting War Remnants Museum will offer you an in-depth insight into Vietnamese history.
War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh city documents all the appalling legacy of the US-Vietnam war. The museum featured American atrocities, highlighting the horrors of war. Graphic and confronting as it can be, the museum provides visitors with the truest picture of the pain war victims have to suffer until today.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Saigon is one of the architectural remnants of the French colony in Ho Chi Minh city. The cathedral’s architecture was based on Notre-Dame de Paris. It possesses numerous historical values and also cultural values.
Sai Gon Central Post is one of the remaining buildings from the French Colonial period and a prominent example of French architectural influence. Go inside the giant cylindrical dome to enjoy the fascinating interior emblazoned with intricate iron work and pay tribute to the beloved leader of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh.
Centrally located on Dong Khoi street, Ho Chi Minh City Opera House is a multi-functional theater, used for organizing big art performances such as plays, Vietnamese traditional songs, ballet, opera performances, fashion shows and other events.
Upon approaching Nguyen Hue Walking Street, we shall have chance to look at the Ho Chi Minh City Hall.
Ho Chi Minh City Hall was built between 1898 and 1909, designed by the French architect Femand Gardès, shaped like a casting bell with a sharp roof, which was popular with the architecture of Northern France at that time. The whole architecture was a smooth combination between France and Italy’s cultures during the Renaissance period.
After lunch, you will be transferred to Cu Chi – Ben Duoc Tunnels with a one and half hour drive. This is a rare chance to escape the bustle of the city and explore the rural scenery along the way.
Once you reach Ben Duoc Tunnels, you could see some of the most famous underground networks of pathways, hideouts, sleeping quarters, meeting rooms, hospitals, and Hoang Cam Stove. These narrow tunnels provide barely enough space for a single person to crawl their way through, though some are now wider to accommodate visitors. We also learn that the mere 10–13 feet (3–4 m) thick level of upper soil can support the bearing weight of a 55 ton (50 mT) tank and the explosive damage of bombs.
Then we can watch an insightful film about the wartime experience before further exploring the tunnel’s trap doors and underground quarters. Then make a visit to huge bomb craters left from the war, the Garment-factory Ammunition and Souvenir Shops, and the Museum of Self-made Weapons.
Finally, savor the local tapioca recipe before the comfortable ride back to your Ho Chi Minh hotel.
