Gone is the day that Vietnam was the country of war, death, and despair. Although enough time has passed for the grass to grow green on once-battlefields and for forests to recover and develop with full vitality, the remnants of war remain as witnesses of history. For many veterans, the haunting memories of war are a constant presence, following them every night and even throughout their lives. Some are afraid of returning to Vietnam, fearing harsh recrimination from the Vietnamese people.
Yet, perhaps, only by coming back to Vietnam can these veterans find peace in their souls and permanently close the chapter of their past. The reality is that most veterans who return to Vietnam find healing, thanks to the warmth and hospitality of the Vietnamese people, as well as the remarkable changes that have taken place in the country.
If you are a veteran, it would be hard to resist the desire to return to Vietnam, to confront your past, and to have heartwarming meetings with local soldiers who once belonged to the other side of the battlefield. Vietnamese people who lived through the war will never forget it. Despite the enduring pain it brings, they are willing to let go of the past, knowing that their sacrifices were for the future well-being of their children.
However, you will hardly find Vietnamese people boasting about the war. They understand that peace and freedom came at an exorbitant price, and victory is not something to be proud of. Vietnamese people who were born in peaceful times find it even easier to let go of the past.
Hence, many veterans are bound to be surprised by the warm welcome they receive from the Vietnamese people. As a veteran, you can choose to find your own way back to your old places and reconnect with the people you once knew. Alternatively, you can join humanitarian tours with fellow veterans, which promise an amazing and healing experience.
Meeting and sharing stories with North Vietnamese veterans at old wartime posts can provide solace. Participating in activities that contribute to the development of rural areas that were destroyed during the war should also be on your itinerary. Experiencing the rapid changes in these places will bring a refreshing feeling and leave you with the image of a newly rising Vietnam – a country that is peaceful and bursting with vitality. By combining trips to historical destinations with cultural tours, you can perfect your nostalgic journey to the past.
So, veterans, is there anything preventing you from returning to Vietnam? Just come and discover the fact that the war is over, and we are no longer enemies. If you need special advice to tailor your own tour, feel free to email us and share your needs.