The multifaceted City of Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is visited by tens of thousands of tourists from all over the world each year. But you can see the city’s main attractions in just one day.

Cu Chi Tunnels

The first tunnels in the area near Ho Chi Minh City date back to 1939 when Vietnam was a French colony. Residents decided to make deep passages to hide weapons and food in them.

Over the next 15 years, the tunnels were deepened and upgraded in various ways. They became not only hiding places but also peculiar traps for the enemies.

There is now a museum complex inside the numerous tunnels with models, huts and other objects that tell the story of the Vietnamese soldiers.

War Crimes Museum

War Crimes Museum is located in Ho Chi Minh City. On the ground floor of the structure you can see photographs and documents that tell the history of the country and the war effort.

The first floor is dedicated to the work of war correspondent Tim Page. There are two exhibition galleries. One tells the story of the aftermath of the Ranch Hand programme, which has been in use since 1961. Its purpose was to scorch the jungle where the guerrillas were hiding. A second gallery tells the story of war crimes in Songmi Province.

In the grounds surrounding the building you can also see American military equipment and ammunition and play at the first Arena Casino.

Notre Dame de Saigon

But not all of Ho Chi Minh City’s attractions are dedicated to its history and military activities.

The Notre Dame de Saigon Cathedral is popular with travellers and locals alike. Tourists come here to see the statue of the Virgin Mary, which is located in front of the entrance. The woman is depicted holding a globe in her hands, signifying the spread of the Christian faith around the world. There is also a small box at the feet of the 4-meter tall figure, where anyone can place their prayers.

Many tourists say the Cathedral’s exterior is too plain, but the interior is luxurious – many Las Vegas casinos have used it as a decoration. The Arena Casino is a successful example of luxury, having incorporated old era elements combined with modern features in their designs.

Central post office

The main post office building is an excellent example of French architecture. The building is decorated with a lot of stucco and small galleries diverge from the main water in both directions.

It is noteworthy that the building has no doors, but there are metal grates instead.

Currently the main post office building has a modern post office, as well as a museum and a shop.

Reunification Palace

The Reunification Palace (also known as Independence Palace) is considered a symbol of the end of the Vietnam War.

Before stepping inside the building it is worth taking a look at the surrounding area. There are now several tanks, helicopters and aircraft which were used during the war.

However, inside the palace itself there are about 95 rooms, each with its own purpose. Some of the rooms are designed for ambassadors, receptions for the president and vice president.