Vietnam is a nation haunted by its deep and violent historical past. For tourists who are keen to learn about the history of Vietnam and even relive some of the experiences, these are the places to visit for an eye-opener of Vietnam’s past.
Relive the Horrors of Viet Cong Forces and American Atrocities at the War Remnants Museum
Ho Chi Minh City’s War Remnants Museum takes its visitors on an unnerving trip back to the savagely brutish and protracted Vietnam War. This museum is targeted mainly at foreigners, with a not-so-subtle aim to demonize the Americans and their crimes during the blood-chilling war period. After all, the museum is managed and sanctioned by the Vietnamese government, which also means that a propaganda-heavy agenda is involved. For example, the museum does not feature in detail how the Communist forces punish those deemed as “unpatriotic”.
Just outside the main building, visitors can check out a display of authentic American military hardware which were either seized or abandoned by the Southern Vietnamese army. From well-preserved F-5a fighter jets to intimidating rocket launchers and explosives, firearm enthusiasts can spend hours admiring the exhibition. There is also a table guide showing how much military equipment the Americans invested in for themselves and their South Vietnamese allies.
Another popular exhibit outside the building is the ‘tiger cages' where political prisoners were locked up in these gruesome cages. The exhibits in the courtyard only scratch the surface of what you’ll see inside. Some of the most harrowing pictures of interrogation and torture are put on display in the upper floors of the museum; families grieving over loved ones, victims of the toxic Agent Orange herbicide - there is a lot to take in.
The museum operates on a daily basis from 7:30am to 5pm. It goes without saying that paying a visit can result in a largely disturbing experience for the majority. Thus, couples and families are advised not to bring their children along.
Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels
Roughly an hour's drive from Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels are an iconic tourist attraction. The site consists of a long stretch of underground tunnels with living areas, kitchens, storage facilities, armoury, hospitals, and command centres. These tunnels were dug by the Viet Cong forces and were crucial during military operations.
Before entering the underground tunnels, visitors will get to watch a short film regarding Cu Chi Tunnels to facilitate an understanding on how the tunnel system functions. Fortunately, certain parts of the tunnels have been widened for a less uncomfortable experience. For visitors who experience claustrophobia or difficulty breathing in the underground tunnels, emergency exit areas are available every 10-metres.
The Cu Chi Tunnels also have a shooting range where visitors get to fire 5.56mm live rounds from the M16 rifle, the weapon of choice during the Vietnam War.
Opening Hours: 7am - 5pm daily
Take a Journey to the Past at the Reunification Palace
Originally named the Independence Palace before the Vietnam War concluded, the Reunification Palace got its current name and scored a spot in the history books after North Vietnamese tanks battered through its gates during the Fall of Saigon in 1975, bringing the extensive Vietnam War to an end.
Visitors will feel as if they have been transported back to the 1970s. Two of the tanks which were involved in seizing the palace are still parked outside. Today, the palace hosts government-related functions like key summits and conferences.
The palace has five levels which include an in-house movie theater, a library, a games room, a bar, and a rooftop helipad. The basement of the palace is the highlight as it features a bomb shelter, a system of tunnels, a war room, and a communications centre. The war room still has original maps and vintage telecommunications equipment on display.
Opening hours: 7.30am to 11am & 1pm to 4pm daily
