Saigon – The Beating Heart of Southern Vietnam
Exploring Saigon, I quickly realized the traffic here is even crazier than in Hanoi. Crossing the street without a collision feels like a miracle—yet somehow, I made it to one of the city’s most stunning landmarks: the Catholic Notre-Dame Cathedral, built by French colonists between 1863 and 1880. Its neo-Romanesque red-brick façade and twin 58-meter bell towers leave a lasting impression.
Right next door stands the 19th-century Central Post Office, another gem of colonial architecture, brimming with intricate details and old-world charm.
A short walk away is the War Remnants Museum, where American aircraft, helicopters, tanks, and armored vehicles from the Vietnam War era stand on display. Inside, graphic wartime photographs and anti-American propaganda offer a sobering glimpse into the country’s turbulent past.
In the city’s parks, locals prioritize health and fitness, dancing to lively music—a captivating slice of everyday social life.
Cu Chi Tunnels – An Underground Network of Freedom
One of the most fascinating sites near Saigon is the Cu Chi Tunnels—a sprawling 200-kilometer underground network dug by communist guerrillas during the Vietnam War. Stretching all the way to the Cambodian border, these tunnels served as supply routes and hideouts for the Viet Cong, enabling their resistance against American forces.
Cao Dai Temple – Where Religion and Architecture Unite
On the way back to Saigon, I visited the Cao Dai Temple—a surreal place resembling a Christian church from the outside, yet devoid of crosses. Inside, devotees in loose white robes pray cross-legged, with men and women seated separately. Religious leaders stand out in vibrant robes and headgear. The air is thick with devotion, as prayers and hymns create a uniquely spiritual experience.
Costs in Saigon:
- Accommodation: Around $5 for a dorm bed
- Full-day tour to Cu Chi Tunnels & Cao Dai Temple: About $6
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