The Vietnam War was a defining event of the 20th century, and even now, over 40 years later, it still haunts many. Vietnam is a peaceful country these days, but war has left deep wounds on this nation and its people. Here are the best places to learn about the conflict.
This is an absolute must for history buffs who visit Ho Chi Minh City. The military hardware on display brings the conflict to life, and the images inside speak of the horrors of war. This museum was originally built to showcase American atrocities, but the government has since eased its message. Now they want nothing more than a lasting peace for Vietnam.
The equipment on display at this little museum is fascinating, from tanks to old jet fighters and pretty much every gun ever fired in this country. The propaganda is a bit strong, but that’s to be expected. Finish your visit with a trip up the old tower for a fantastic view of the city.
This building was where the South Vietnamese government operated from during the war, and it has been remarkably well-maintained. You can see where foreign dignitaries were hosted, as well as the bomb bunker in the basement where the military leadership communicated with its forces. Even the maps are still hanging on the walls.
During the Tet Offensive in 1968, this combat base, located near the demilitarized zone north of Hue, was a name known around the world. It was a pivotal battle between American forces and troops from the north who slipped in through nearby Laos. Though much of the base has been lost to the jungle, there are still bunkers and part of the original air strip to see, as well as some American military hardware.
These islands off the southern coast of Vietnam are some of the most beautiful places in the country, but they were also home to torture, abuse and politically-motivated executions for much of the last century. The French were the first to build and use these prisons, but the American-backed regime in Saigon also used them to hold captured soldiers and other political prisoners, including Võ Thị Sáu, Vietnam’s famous guerrilla girl.
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