Enjoy a two hour drive northwest of Saigon, through urbanized areas and typical lush southern Vietnamese countryside, to the famous Cu Chi tunnels. The tunnel complex was initially started in 1948 to protect the Viet Cong guerrillas from the French air and ground sweeps. The tunnels also served as communication routes, storage facilities for food and weapon caches as well as hospitals and living quarters for guerrilla fighters throughout the American war. A visit to the underground villages will provide a better understanding of the tunnels’ history, the hardship of life in the tunnels and the Vietnamese resilience during combat. Return to Saigon and Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Saigon is the country’s commercial centre and, with over eight million inhabitants and four million motorbikes, a city that never sleeps. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past.
Enjoy a city tour to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks including the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (It is only possible to visit inside when no service is being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel.
Continue to visit the former Presidential Palace, the headquarters of the Saigon Government during the American war, revealing the history of Saigon during its turbulent recent past. Further, drive to visit the War Remnants Museum for a vivid insight of the American war through the local’s eyes (Please note that some of the photos are very graphic), visit the Jade Emperor pagoda before we’re going to the Ben Thanh Market offering an incredible display of fresh produce. Simply stroll through the market seeing and enjoying the variety of goods for sale. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Meal: L, B
Transport: Mini-Van