Sightseeing with friends
Today we caught up with Rodger and Liisa, our good friends from Auckland. We went to the Reunification Palace (which was the seat of the former South Vietnamese government) and the War Remnants Museum (which documents the atrocities of the American War).
The latter proved rather grimmer than we remember from our visit 10 years ago. The place appears to have been rebuilt and there’s now more space for more horrific pictures.
Saying goodbye to Vietnam
It will be sad to leave Vietnam tomorrow. We’ve enjoyed the food and the sights. It has also proved to be an economical destination. Even though I’m not a real drinker, the NZD0.18 beer was a hit … very light and refreshing in the hot weather. Accommodation at 1-star establishments have been comparable to New Zealand motels.
Just a little insight for those who are averse to eating on the streets (unlike us) … some cafes (eg. hotel cafes) actually buy common dishes (like pho) from a street vendors. Our Australian hotelier in Hanoi was very honest about it, saying that street vendors can make such dishes better. I like his honesty in admitting this as there was quite a margin that was being added … but one pays a price for the air-conditioned comfort.
-
- Kim, Rodger & Liisa outside the Reunification Palace.
-
- At the grounds of the Reunification Palace.
-
- Impressive building in the HCM skyline … even better when lit at night.
-
- At the War Remnants Museum.
-
- From the War Remnants Museum
-
- Post office at HCM City.
-
- HCM’s Notre Dame.
-
- The blessed virgin holds an orb (ball with a cross on top, globus cruciger). From here it looks like she’s wearing a necklace with a cross and holding a bowling ball.
-
- People’s Committee Building.