Jan

9

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)

Filed Under Return To Vietnam 

Vietnamese Children

Vietnamese Children

Actually the city is still called Saigon by local residents and much of the rest of the world. Somehow that was comforting in its own small way…

Saigon, more than any other place in Vietnam, is embracing a capitalist approach to tourism and welcoming outside investments. With 10 million people, the city is busy but continues to upgrade its lifestyle. It looks and feels less like a third world country than anywhere we have been in-country. Since the outskirts of Saigon was my first contact with Vietnam during the war, the memories are also more alive in this place. I remember the intense heat and humidity. I remember how beautiful the land was, even in time of war. I also, and more graphically, remember the sacrifices made by those who served. Its those memories that are most vivid…the horrors of war.

Now Jan & I are going to stroll along the streets and appreciate this place for what it is now and for what it is striving to become. But we will also never forget the past and especially those who never returned home.

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