Cu Chi Tunnels visit

This morning, we were picked up at our hotel for our tour of the Cu Chi Tunnel system.  Instead of taking the typical bus, we decided to select a speed boat to the tunnels.

This was a great choice as it was nice to get off the beaten path a bit and avoid the traffic of Ho ChiMinh City. After an hour of travelling on the Saigon river (they provided delicious pastries from Pat A Chou- local bakery and fruit to enjoy), we arrived at the tunnels.

Our guide explained that the tunnel system was over 250km in length and consisted of several different layers. The entrance was a tiny rectangle and was very well-concealed. There were meeting rooms, dining rooms, a hospital, and many other rooms and spaces underneath the ground.

The construction of the tunnels began in 1950 and continued through the war with America. The tunnels were constructed by being dug by hand and the earth was removed (and hidden!). The earth was placed in areas of bombed out land or the river.

Traps were built into the tunnel system and much care was observed in terms of keeping the
entrances, exits, and activities (like cooking) concealed. The complexity was truly amazing.

The tour included seeing several pieces of military equipment and learning how the Viet Cong soldiers lived. It was fascinating to learn that they made their sandals from old tires and created the bottom of the sandals to indicate they were travelling in the opposite direction.

We also learned a bit of life in the village as well. There was a demonstration on how rice paper is created and dried (in two-three hours) and how each pot of rice flour can make 500 pieces of rice paper used in making the spring rolls. Other items were also made from rice including wine and alcohol.

The tunnel area included an optional shooting range experience. Iyla and I sat it out however, Michael enjoyed shooting the M-16.

The entrance to the tunnels was remarkably small. We got the chance to hop in and disappear under the ground. Iyla and I gave it a try.

hi

We were also allowed to enter the tunnels to see how life was a couple meters below the ground. We had the option to go anywhere from 20-100 meters and exit with the guide where we wanted. 20 meters was long enough for most of our group. It was SUPER hot and dark in those tiny tunnels. Amazing to think 18,000 VC troops were using the tunnels!!

The tour gave us the opportunity to try what the VC soldiers ate- tapioca root with salt, sugar, and peanut crumbs and the tea that was commonly prepared. We were also shown a propaganda video about fighting against the Americans.

After the video, it was time to get back on the boat and head to our lunch. We were taken to a local establishment that specializes in weddings and were served a 7-course meal. Included was this dish of sticky rice..interesting sweet flavor