Exploring Ho Chi Minh City: Day 7
Day 7 | Cu Chi Tunnels | The Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica | Saigon Central Post Office |
Our seventh day began with a journey into history, taking a half-day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located 75 kilometers northwest of downtown Ho Chi Minh City. This extensive underground network, built during the Vietnam War, offered a fascinating glimpse into the resilience and ingenuity of those who used it as a base for living and combat. Crawling through a section of the narrow tunnels was both thrilling and humbling, allowing us to appreciate the challenging conditions endured by the people who once called this place home.
Returning to the heart of the city, we visited two of Saigon’s most iconic landmarks. The Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, with its striking neo-Romanesque architecture and red-brick facade, stood as a symbol of the city’s colonial past and spiritual heritage. Inside, the peaceful atmosphere provided a moment of calm amidst the bustling urban environment.
Nearby, the Saigon Central Post Office captivated us with its stunning blend of French colonial design and local details. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this grand building is more than just a functioning post office—it’s a testament to the architectural elegance of a bygone era. The intricate interior, complete with vintage maps and high, arched ceilings, made it a photographer’s dream and a cultural treasure.
Day 7 was a perfect balance of history, architecture, and cultural discovery, offering a deeper understanding of Ho Chi Minh City’s rich and multifaceted identity.