Viet Nam Revisited 2002The desire to revisit Viet Nam had been a fiercely burning ambition since I first returned in '99. The chance finally came this year, and I wasn't about to miss it. This time was special as I could take my wife Jan and son Neil with me. We chose the Oct/Nov Viet Nam in Full tour which would start from Hanoi and finish in Saigon, visiting many places between.
We were fortunate to once again have Garry Adams as our tour leader, and to also have Shane Hodges from Battle Tours assisting. Garry's commitment, professionalism, and profound knowledge of the culture and customs enhanced our experience. Shane is a pleasure to have met, with his willingness and ability to attend to every ones needs.
The group totalling 26 was a wonderful mix of Vets and Non-Vets, who gelled together with instant and complete ease. Alphabetically we had, Colin and Jenny Arndt, Geoff (2 R.A.R 1st tour) and Shirley Cantrill Colin ( Catering ) and Bernie Carpenter, Geoff Clark (Airforce 9 SQN) and partner Ingrid, Ray and Margaret Cox, Hartley and Wilma Gericke, Peter (2 R.A.R 1st tour) and Jen Jasper, Fred and Kath Kenworth, Vaughn ( 104 Sigs ) and Christine Painting, Charles (Armoured ) and Sandra Parsons, and for his 3rd time back, my brother Wayne, affectionately known as either 'the Dentist' or where's Wayne.
Along the way we had three cheerful, helpful, and knowledgeable Vietnamese guides to assist us. In the north we had Mrs Hoa, in the central regions Mrs Hanh, and in the South, Mr Hiep. After travelling the country it is easy to see why they are justifiably, so extremely proud of their country. Mention too, must be made of the coach drivers, whose superb skills as they manoeuvred us along narrow streets in cities, and up winding steep mountains was truly amazing.
Viet Nam is a kaleidoscope of colours, sights and sounds, from the cheerful and friendly people, to the magnificent scenery, and the absolutely fabulous food. The volume and noise of the vehicles, (some of which defy description) can at first be very intimidating. Crossing the roads, for the first time was a daunting challenge; however you soon become accomplished and accustomed to the incessant beeping, and the seemingly crazy and chaotic traffic. (He with the loudest noise or biggest vehicle usually has right of way). Traffic signals and crosswalks are purely decorative, yet unbelievably, there seems to be little or no 'road rage'. You really have to see this to believe it! ……..Ah you wouldn't be dead for quids!
The hotels ranged from very good, to fabulous. They were all were very clean and comfortable, some more than others of course, tho all are commendable. (A night in a sleeper on the train from Hanoi to Hue was also an experience not to be missed.)
Change is inevitable. (I hope the people resist as long as possible). For Vets there is even less to see of Nui dat, and other important sites, I would urge anyone contemplating returning, to do so now before it's too late.
To read the full day by day run down of our trip click next:
