We left Singapore at 7.15 am for a fun packed, full on weekend in Ho Chi Min in Vietnam. We arrived at 8.15 and headed for our hotel. Empress Hotel is in district 1 but not on the tourist path. It was only a short walk to the tourist things across a beautiful park but first we had to cross a couple of roads and that is scary. you have motorbikes coming at you and you just have to keep walking and walking without stopping. we were fascinated by how many bike there are on the roads and what they carry on their bikes. Push bikes were the same...many variations and many things added to make it a versatile bike for many purposes.
We walked to many places, saw many things and bought some bargains...well we think they are bargains. We finally managed to get out to Cu Chi tunnels and this was fascinating and incredible. The tunnels had very small entrances and my hips would not fit into the small hole. The people who lived and worked in these tunnels were very clever with what they created in the way of tunnels and traps. We did manage to go through a small tunnel area that had been enlarged for the 'western' people. Our guides father lived in the tunnels and had passed on to him many tales of what it was like. This did make the visit exciting and really worthwhile.
Another highlight was bargaining for some lacquer ware. It is a beautiful and we had decided before we went that we were going to buy some. you will have to visit us to see what we did buy,
We also went up to the 23rd floor of the Sheraton after walking around trying to find a building that was right in front of us! the view was absolutely breathtaking and we even got to see a sunset!
I am amazed at how people carry there wares, hanging on each end of the poles in baskets. some then set up on the roadside and peddle their wares,
Beautiful houses but spoilt by the power lines!
Wayne coming out of one of the tunnels! It was dark and hot!
The sunset overlooking The Rex Hotel from the Sheraton.
It was a squeeze to get through the tunnels.
Wayne at an entrance! I didn't try as my hips are wider than Wayne's.At the entrance to the tunnel complex.
A banana bike! well he has got a bananas in the front trailer!
The Empress Hotel, a lovely boutique hotel in District 1 but not on the tourist walk. It was only a few minutes walk from all the spots we wanted to visit.
