Upon stepping into the evening Saigon air 2 nights ago we were instantaneously sucked back into “Vietnam”. The humidity, smells, bright smiling faces and the beeping of horns – thought to be the national anthem.
Oh…..Post Modern world please stay away. We were anxious to stay again at the Rex Hotel made famous by war correspondents and VIPs. Gone is the “royal” Rex replaced by cold decor, Versace, Gucci and all the She-She stores. The traditional tea shop now a TUMI store.
Yesterday we visited Cholon. The Chinese section of HCMC. Today Bill has a walking tour for us and tomorrow we head to the Mekong Delta to the floating markets.
We met a fantastic cab driver yesterday who speaks English. His dad worked with the Americans during the war and now resides in Amarillo, Texas. He and his 14 year old son are escorting us tomorrow. We’ll spend the next 2 days with them touring the Delta.
Tell me what you think of the old lobby (Bill had a brochure from last time we were here) compared to the new lobby.
*Preston the Ba Ba Ba is for you!!!
I love the old lobby so much more. It was beautiful and the new one is cold with no beauty. That is my opinion. Gail Davis.
I would have never thought that was the same lobby! The old lobby seems to be so much more traditional than the newer. Safe travels ~
The Government appears to have used a different interior designer than the one Mr. Ung Thi did when he owned the Rex Hotel.
You did your homework! I love your curiosity. It is so sterile now. We are greatful that we experienced the grandeur of the old days and now know the difference – the new visitors will not know what they are missing.
Oh my gosh…What a change. Doesn’t even seem like you are in Viet Nam. Glad I visited when and before they decided to go Posh Grandeur!!!! 🙂