Yesterday evening our sleeper bus inched its way in to the heaving mass of a city that is now officially called Ho Chi Min City but is still called Saigon by most Westerners.
Our sleeper bus
We did not have much time to explore the place at the late hour after we had found our hotel, courtesy of a taxi driver with a very dodgy meter.This morning after a very nice breakfast we walked to the War remnants museum a few blocks from the hotel. Its made up mostly of photographs from the conflict although there are several planes, tanks and helicopters on show outside.
Deb at War Remnants Museum
Its a distressing experience with many photos showing the damage caused by "agent orange" that left so many disfigured. Also many images from the Mai Lai massacre in which a platoon of Americans killed over 500 men, woman and children without a shot being returned in anger.
Distressed victims
It can be a bit ghoulish looking at these things but if we are to learn from our history its important to see the mistakes that were made, much like at Auschwitz.
War munitions
From here we headed into town, spending a brief period in the Culture park where people did their exercises, played instruments and took photos. We had to return to the hotel not long after as the blistering heat was proving too much for Deb.
Culture park
Pineapple drink seller
I got to try his paddle
On the evening I went for a walk and had a bite to eat in a local roadside cafe packed with locals. I became a source of amusement as they were all keen to talk to me but communication was a major problem.
Just sitting at the cafe for half an hour was an experience. This city is a sea of humanity. It is said to be the 36th most populated city on earth. Just walking within a few blocks of our hotel I could feel the energy of the place. Everywhere you look there is something, someone or some site that captures your attention. I cant really describe it but the place is awesome. It even puts Hanoi in the shade. I cant wait to see more of it tomorrow.
Bike of the day
Saigon at Night
Photo Studio
View from my roadside cafe
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