S1 E44 | First Impressions of Saigon – War Remnants Museum and more

Our Vietnam journey began in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon. The day started with a practical stop at the Cambodian Embassy, where we clarified details about the visa process. We had heard unsettling stories about border control, and it felt important to be prepared before heading there next.

From the embassy, we walked toward one of Saigon’s most significant landmarks — the War Remnants Museum. Spread across several floors, the museum offered a powerful and sobering look into Vietnam’s modern history, from its struggle against French colonialism to the devastation of the Vietnam War.

We learned how Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia were once collectively known as Indochina, a region controlled by various dynasties before the French established colonial rule in the 1800s. Exhibits detailed Vietnam’s eventual fight for independence under the leadership of Ho Chi Minh, the rise of communism, and the prolonged conflict with both France and later the United States.

Walking through the museum was not easy. The photographs, documents, and stories revealed the human cost of war — from the bombings in Hanoi and Haiphong to the use of Agent Orange, a chemical that left devastating health effects for generations. We were deeply moved by stories of ordinary people who bore the brunt of decisions made far away in the name of power and politics. As Indians, we couldn’t help but see parallels with our own freedom struggle and felt a deep respect for the resilience of the Vietnamese people.

Despite the sadness the museum evoked, it also left us with a sense of admiration for Vietnam’s spirit. Their ability to endure, rebuild, and welcome visitors with kindness speaks volumes about their character.

In the afternoon, we explored Saigon’s streets and passed by the Notre Dame Cathedral. Unfortunately, the landmark was under renovation and covered in scaffolding. But we remembered visiting in 2017 and could picture its elegant French colonial design that still stands as a symbol of the city’s layered past.

As the sun set, Saigon felt alive with its mix of history and modern vibrancy. Our first day here was both emotional and inspiring — a reminder that travel is not only about places, but about understanding the people and the stories that shaped them.

This was just the beginning of our journey through Vietnam, and we couldn’t wait to dive deeper into its culture, food, and everyday life.