Ho Chi Minh ( Saigon), Vietnam Day 2

Since the commute from the port was so long into Saigon, we decided to spend 2 nights in the city center, and it worked out beautifully. Found a fun little hotel 2 blocks from Opera House to explore downtown.

Walked the city admiring the impressive French colonial influence which has been preserved and can still be seen in the architecture of the Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral (modeled after Paris), and Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel.

The first stop was to "Nice Silk Tailors" to have a custom tailored dinner jacket for Morris and shirts for Susan made. Not sure about this process as they quickly took our measurements and unbelievably promised a 24 hour turn around time, but we jumped on the opportunity.

We then had a very full day exploring the central Ben Thanh market filled with stalls of local clothing and goods. Intersting to see old-world vendors sewing shoes or grinding eyeglasses alongside modern stores. Had a lovely lunch at "Souls" overlooking the marketplace.

We then decided to visit the War Remnants Museum. What a wave of emotion going through this museum to see the history of the Vietnam War from a different perspective. Sad to see how war has overwhelming devastation on both sides of a conflict.

Ended the day with a haircut for Morris before heading out to see a traditional Water Puppet show at nite, and eating dinner at "Tandoor" Indian restaurant. Walking back to the hotel, we stumbled upon a Fashion Show extravaganza being held in the town center. Family party atmosphere for young and old.Read more