Comments on: A Strange Book to Inspire Vietnam Travel

By: Vera Marie Badertscher

Vera Marie Badertscher — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 20:16:29 +0000

Thanks for all the lively conversation about Vietnam. I think I’ll read the book, and certainly want to visit, but probably not the commercialized tunnels.

By: Candy Harrington

Candy Harrington — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 19:04:33 +0000

Thanks for the comments:)

I’ve been to VN many times since, but the book is what first inspired my first trip there, just a month or so after the embargo was lifted. I agree, it is a much different country today, and they have found a way to commercialize a section of the tunnels. I haven’t been back there since the commercialization, but I’ve heard about the shooting range, huge gift shop and bus tours. Anyway, at that time it was like what some of the country still is now — relatively untouristed. So I guess that is a general travel lesson — see things when given the opportunity, as if you put it off, they may remain changed forever.

I think the bottom line of why I went to the tunnels was that in some way I was looking to connect to the friends I lost in the war.

Candy Harrington

By: Jennifer Margulis

Jennifer Margulis — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 18:03:39 +0000

I’ve never been to Vietnam or anywhere in the East… This discussion (the post and comments) makes me want to go!

By: Sherry Ott

Sherry Ott — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 17:17:31 +0000

Nice article – I’ll have to pick up the book. I live in Vietnam now and every time it’s pouring rain out, sticky with 80% humidity, or the sun is boring down on me relentless (which is pretty much every day!)- I think of the war. It’s impossible not to. When I go by the thick jungle foliage, I think of the people who fought here – both sides. The resiliance of the Vietnamese people is still alive and well and I see it every day. It’s strange to be living in a country with so much American history – but that’s what makes it a fun country to travel through as an American!

By: Donna Hull

Donna Hull — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 15:29:18 +0000

Thanks, Candy for introducing me to this book about the tunnels in Viet Nam. I’ll be visiting the area for the first time in October. I doubt that I’ll tour the tunnels. Although it’s important to remember and learn from history, like Wanderluster, I’d rather concentrate on the more positive aspects of Viet Nam.

By: Jessie Voigts

Jessie Voigts — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 21:05:10 +0000

what an interesting article. i am glad that she shared this with us, because i have no intention of doing the tunnels. still, it is important to recognize the terrors that have gone before us, lest we forget. i am excited to learn of candy’s sites – heading there next!

By: Wanderluster

Wanderluster — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 15:02:17 +0000

Vietnam is an amazing country. I’ve been there 7 times and have visited the tunnels. It’s really creepy, if you ask me, that this such a popular tourist area. Mostly because they now have a shooting range where you can test out your rifle skills.

Personally I’d rather experience the beautiful countryside and all the more positive things, like the food and people, that this country has to offer.