On the road in Vietnam, thinking about three decades of change
The view from Graham Green’s room, Continental Hotel, Saigon
© Mark Bowyer
The view from Graham Green’s room, Continental Hotel, Saigon
© Mark Bowyer
In March 2024, I led our Vietnam by the Book tour over 16 days, from Hanoi to Saigon. It gave me cause for gratitude and a lot to think about.
Three decades exploring Vietnam and witnessing a remarkable transformation across the country, has given me countless unforgettable experiences and plenty to think about. It’s been an extraordinary privilege to be welcomed during a period of such dramatic change in the country.
In 1990, Vietnam was still opening to the western world after decades of estrangement. Victory in the Vietnam War and the liberation of Cambodia from Pol Pot’s genocidal rule, left Vietnam shunned by the west and subjected to a crippling US trade embargo. This was one of the poorest countries in the world.
When I arrived in Saigon for the first time in June 1990, everything was changing. This was an optimistic and compelling place to be. I stayed for decades.
In a recent video (above) and blog over at our sister website, independent travel guide Rusty Compass, I consider some of the remarkable things about Vietnam’s three decades of change.
Fresh from leading our Vietnam by the Book 16 day experience, I know how Vietnam’s stories continue to captivate travellers.
2025 is a year of big anniversaries in Vietnam. Saigon recently marked the end of decades of war with parades and fireworks. In September, the celebrations will move to Hanoi.
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Cultural travel ideas from our travel guides over at Rusty Compass. Our videos feature museums, walks, cycling, architecture and more. Check out our blog on Sydney beyond the harbour.
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