This morning we went back to the local market in Saigon and did some more shopping, I don't think I can quite explain how big this place really is and how much you can buy there. Super FUN! They have everything, and I haven't seen it all yet so I plan on going by one more time before we come home. At first I was thinking I needed a translator with me to be able to barter but I have come to realize that you really don't need one because almost everyone speaks English.
We left Saigon (by the way no one calls it Ho Chi Minh City here) about noon and headed to the Cu Chi Tunnels just north of the city. Its not very far but with all the traffic it took nearly an hour to get there. Upon arriving we were given a video to watch about the history of the Cu Chi people and their involvement in the Vietnam war. Very interesting info. because I didn't realize how many women and children were V.C.s apparently they joined to take revenge against the death of a parent. We were then taken on a tour of the tunnels, seriously amazing stuff, we got to to through and see some of the tunnels which they have made bigger now so us (big) Americans can fit. The whole point to make them so small was that during the war we wouldn't be able to fit down the tunnels. I must say though these tunnels are far from being roomy definitely not a good idea for anyone who doesn't like being stuck in small places. The last tunnel we went through the guide asked if we wanted to go the short way or long, we decided long because we didn't know what 50 meters was and I thought it wouldn't be that far.... um yeah, I really didn't think it would end, total misery especially since you crouch down the entire time. However, I loved the experience and had lots of fun!
After leaving Cu Chi we headed to my mom's home town Cho Moi this was a five hour trip, we made some stops along the way and got to drive on the new HWY 1 just built last year, it is the only HWY that is here in Vietnam and limited to vehicles only. However its not completed and you can only go about 60 km and then you have to exit and get back on the rural roads that are terrible. We will now be here in Cho Moi until Saturday. While here we will visit with family and finding out who to help out as part of our charity we started. This town is definitely more of a village and not the the hustling city of Saigon.
Oh and just a side note, but I pretty much close my eyes when I'm in a car or just don't pay attention because the driving is so horrific and the few times I've crossed the street I've learned to do it their way, which is just don't look to whose coming because they will go around you and just walk....EEEEKK. I will post a video soon so you can see what I'm talking about!
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