Ho Chi Minh City Things to Do Tips by thedouglas

The children enjoyed the day trip we had to Cu Chi - as they have all seen Vietnam war movies from the American perspective, and were a little agog after the introductory video and the general diaglogue of our guide. We had also been to the War Atrocities Museum, and they were aware of the general anti-American sentiment. As Aussies, we didn't really know where we fit in the mindset!

Nobody could dispute the ingenuity of the CuChi network - and the intrepid souls who must have designed, constructed, used and actually resided in them! Our guide told us that people were married and born in there! These tunnels apparently started out as a network between houses, which was much extended to the 200 or so Kms they are today.

We found this setup very well done - gave a really good visual perspective of the tunnels, how they were used as an obviously effective means of fighting the war, and, regardless of politics or war affiliation in general, you could not but be impressed by the capability and capacity for enduring extreme conditions of the Viet Cong - and perhaps the survival instincts - of the builders and dwellers of this area. It is a must see museum if you have the opportunity.

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A highlight of the day for our son was shooting an AK47 at Cu Chi - I know all the reservations expressed by people about this as a money making leisure activity in the context - howerver, taken at face value, an enjoyable first experience for a boy from Australia. No such opportunities at home. The attention to safety was fine, and he enjoyed the experience - and the girls shot a few bullets. I don't think any psychological damage was done! At US$1 per bullet, this was always going to be limited!

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Always one on the lookout to prove that girls CAN do everything - I was really impressed by the apparent equality between the male and female footsolidiers of the Viet Cong. The small stature and agility of the girls, as well as their undoubted overall capability from a rural life, enabled them to contribute just as much to the war as the males. As stealth and general motor skill ability were undoubtedly the major skills requirements, I am sure they more than matched their male counterparts! An additional obvious need was the emotional commitment to the cause, which is quite clearly evident in the history of Cu Chi - and the enduring pride these people have in the wartime achievements. The "war hero" honour for killing an American was indicative of the mindset that must have motored them along every day and night.

The other role that women had was demonstrated by the more traditional roles of industry, making uniforms and preparing meals.

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We had only a few days in Ho Chi Minh - and we managed to book a daytrip that took us to both Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta. As a family of 5, we constituted the whole tour - and had the small comfortable bus and the guide all to ourselves! He was an excellent guide, with very good English, and engaging sense of humour, and a clear appreciation for the guide he handed us to for the Mekong part of the day! And, he understood teasing!

Lunch was part of the enjoyment of the day, as we ate at a small restaurant along the Mekong, sitting on the water - and ate elephant ear fish! This fish is really do die for - and costs a bomb at home.

It was an early start and a late finish, but the whole day was very much enjoyed by all of our family - taking the easily bored son into account as well.

When we went for the Mekong part of the day, were taken to Unicorn Island - which was a very small island about 10 minute boat ride from the mainland. There were a number of cottage industries there, all of which involved consumption - of honey based alcohol, honey based sweets, fresh fruit and some live entertainment of local girls and musicians! Guide told us she worries about getting fat - refer to picture! She was also a wonderful guide - great English, and keen to learn some Aussie slang!

The guides we had for this one day were the best we had for the whole Asian holiday, in three countries. Makes such a difference to what you learn and how much you enjoy the experiences.

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