Vietnam. Few places conjure up so many images. From spectacular white sand beaches to lush verdant jungles to small villages alongside paddies of a thousand years to teeming modern cities. From ancient Buddhist temples to 19th century French colonial architecture to 21st century high rises. From battlefields of a hundred years – against the Japanese, the French and the Americans, and of their own civil war. Vietnam is a complex mosaic of history, culture and scenic beauty. Of energy and mass and perfect tranquility.
We are now beginning the 60th anniversaries of much of the American involvement in the decades-long Vietnam War. Our first battles were in 1965 and the last in 1972. Our brothers and cousins, fathers and grandfathers, and others fought in this mystical land half a century ago. Some of you did, as well. In the titanic, 45-year struggle of the Cold War, the battles in Vietnam played a significant role in the worldwide order. Conflict is a long and continuous waging of effort – militarily, yes, but also diplomatically and economically and culturally. Today, the US and Vietnam are strong partners in many aspects. Our itinerary will include visits to many Vietnam War sites but will also have so many other significant locations of historical, cultural and natural beauty importance.
We will travel from the southern capital of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) to the central coast at Danang and Hoi An and on to Hue. Along the way, we will visit battlefields and temples, white sand beaches and quaint villages, coffee plantations, incredible shopping opportunities in ancient markets and splendid visions of unique flora and fauna. We will “experience” Vietnam like no others. Finally, we will conclude our trip in the environs of Hanoi, the national capital and its nearby World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay. This is truly the adventure of a lifetime!
