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19/04
The nightlife here in Ho Chi Minh is definitely reminiscent of the West and we certainly showed them how much we like the way they party for Will's 22nd. There were dance shows, lasers and a whole lot more you never see in merry old England. Seriously, its the next stop after Ibiza haha. Spent the day today exploring the city including being blown away by its enormous financial district and colonial cathedrals designed by the same architect famous for another monument in Paris. I think his surname is Effiel? Can't remember what he built.
20/04
We were up and at it early this morning, even though we were a man down (some people can't hack burning it at both ends). We jumped on a bus and nipped a few clicks out of town to find the Chu Chi tunnels which were used by the Viet cong to fight the American and southern forces in the 60s and 70s. This was definitely a highlight of Vietnam! We couldn't believe how resourceful and intelligent their tactics were at combating a force much more technologically advanced then themselves. Had a curry tonight - it definitely couldn't touch India.
21/04
Will and Liam headed off for Cambodia this morning leaving is to finish of Ho Chi Mhin and the Mekong Delta. We started by tackling the national war museum; a total eye opener to the otherwise unmentioned atrocities committed by US forces, especially concerning agent orange. Tonight we thought we would give the cinema a go. Unfortunately captain America (a fitting example of how western influence is a huge part of life for the young vietnamese, especially after the museum) was fully booked so we watched 'in the blood' - total s***e.
22/04
Mekong Delta trip today. Having experienced bad tours in the past you thought we might have learnt to avoid them altogether. But the lack of time and money convinced us it was a good idea. A highlight was that we got to try some cobra wine - basically a dead cobra being preserved in something tasting similar to racxi...almost like guzzling down formaldehyde. It was as good as it sounds. Unfortunately the tour was just as good. We were told no shop. There were shops. We were told floating market. There was no floating market. Please avoid all trips and tours unless you pay top dollar (yes, we know we knew!)
23/04
Our last day in Vietnam today as we head west for Cambodia. If we're being honest Vietnam was an absolute experience! The rich history and rapid development of this quaint little piece of Asia makes for some awesome memories. The food is off scale as well, local delicacies are absolutely to die for! But after the crazy, in-deep-with-the-locals feeling you get from India and Nepal makes it feel like a bit of a holiday destination where everyone wants to drink, eat western food, lie on beaches and claim they're backpackers. Don't get us wrong its an amazing place with bouts of potential and a people that are the most friendly we have ever met - just be careful not to fall into the tourist trap. We definitely need to come back and do it on motorbikes away from the beaten track. Anyway, we're not preachy guys, if you do go; the nightlife is incredible!
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