Vietnam - Riding into the Horizon with Bullriders of Dallat

You might have traveled to different places, drinking the aura of each region that you cross. It is true that each place has its own specialty. In order to enjoy the beauty of a place to the full extent you must have adequate knowledge about the right traveling options available and you must also be equipped with the right type of traveling gear. Vietnam is one such place on the map which has all the characteristics to make it an awe-striking holiday destination for many travelers. The appeal of the place is not limited to its scenic beauty but the people and their culture also adds to the attraction of this place. The country hosts two natural world heritage sites and six biosphere reserves.

There are many tour and travel guide companies in Vietnam that will be ready to be at your service and will help you understand and enjoy the beauty of the place. One of the foremost companies in this business is the Dalat Bull Riders.Situated in the mountainous region, Da Lat has been one of the French colonies during the nineteenth century. And it is in this place where the company has set up its headquarters.

There are numerous traveling plans that have been set up by the Dalat Bull Riders. The various tour itineraries provided by the company are as follows:

Buon Ma Thuot

· Da lat to Mui Ne: this entire tour for 4 days and 3 nights gets you in the habit of some really enterprising road trip and to enjoy the experience you just need to pay 280 USD. During this tour you will visit places like Lak Lake, Buon Ma Thuot, Bao Loc and Mui Ne. 

· Da Lat to Hoi An: For this entire tour you need to pay only 420 USD per person. This tour extends for 6 days and 5 nights. On the first day of the tour you will travel from Da Lat to Lak. On the second day you will travel up to Buon Ma Thuot. You will reach Pleiku by the third day. On the fourth and fifth day you will travel across Kon Tum and Phuoc Son and on the sixth day you will reach your final destination of the tour, which is Hoi An. 

· Da Lat to Mekong Delta: this entire tour is for 9 days and 8 nights and to enjoy this fantastic experience you just need to pay 630 USD. If you choose for this plan, you will have to get into the habit of traveling long distances as it covers different regions including Lak Lake, Dak Nong, Dong Xoai, Sai Gon, My Tho, Ben Tre, Can Tho, Chau Doc, Kian Giang, till the place where you want to finish off with your trip. 

The facilities provide by the company, the Dalat Bull Riders, is the same for all the tour packages. This travel and tour company will provide you with an English speaking guide, a helmet, saddle bags, rain ponchos and also regular local coffee. The company will also look after your accommodation in a two star hotel. You will also be provided with a motorbike as well as petrol, and if you ride it, it will be an additional advantage. However payments for elephant ride, for your food and drinks as well as your personal expenses needs to be taken care by you.

So if you are really excited to explore the exotic and alluring natural beauty of Vietnam you can choose from the different tour packages offered by Dalat Bull-Riders and make the required books with them.

Related post:  Vietnam - How the Vietnam War Affected the Culture

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How Siem Reap, Cambodia Got Its Name

Siem Reap is a major city in Cambodia. This city is also the capital of Siem Reap Province which is situated in northwestern Cambodia. Siem Reap is famous for being the entrance to Angkor region. This city has great historical relevance, known today as Angkor Wat, and it is seen in the architecture and culture of the city, which has influence of Chinese and French traditions. This makes this city unique in many ways and a famous tourist destination.


Relevance of the Name

The name of the city Siem Reap means "Siamese Defeated." Siamese here is referred to the people of present day Thailand. The story of this name takes reference from the conflict between the Khmer and Siamese people, which is centuries old. According to the traditional story of the region, this name was given by King Chan, when he defeated the Thais in this region in a major war. After the battle the Thai Prince Ong was dead and close to 10,000 Thai troops was captured. The Thais were completely destroyed in this battle and therefore, the name "Siamese Defeated."

History of the Conflict

The history tells that one of the Thai king, named King Chairacha was poised by concubine, to capture the throne with her lover. Later, both the concubine and her lover were killed by the nobles as they hated both of them. After their death, nobles appointed Prince Thainracha as the king and gave him the title King Maha Chakkraphat. King Chakkraphat demanded a white elephant from King Ang Chan and he refused to give anything to Thai King. Therefore, Prince Ong was sent to defeat King Ang and capture his kingdom. However, King Ang Chan counter-attacked Prince Ong and killed him in the battle, eventually capturing 10,000 Thai soldiers as prisoners. After the glorious victory, King Ang Chan named the battle area "Siem Reap" meaning "Siamese Defeated." Finally the Angkor Kingdom was defeated by the Thais in the fifteenth century and since then this city was abandoned.

Re-Discovery of Siem Reap

Re-Discovery of Siem Reap

Angkor was re-discovered by the French explorers in the 19th century, at that time Siem Reap was little more than a village. Later Angkor was acquired by French in 1907 and then Siem Reap started to grow. There were more tourists coming to the city to enjoy their culture and study their habits. This city suffered through the phase of Khmer Rouge and survived well. This city is now the gateway to many culturally famous heritage sites. Most of these world famous sites are Angkor temples. This attraction has resulted in this city developing itself into a major tourist hub in the region. Despite the influence of international culture, the people of Siem Reap have been able to conserve their culture, traditions and habits in its complete originality.

There are many reasons to fall in love in Cambodia and Siem Reap is one of them. Siem Reap due to its unique history and rich heritage is a great tourism spot. Tourism is the main economy of Siem Reap these days. Siem Reap also has a distinct combination of Chinese and French traditions, which adds to the cultural colors of the city.

Related post:    Booze Cruise in Sihanoukville Cambodia-Be Careful!

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Holidays with a Difference: Multi-Centre Vacations

When you think of multi-centre holidays, what do you think of? Round the world trips that cram as much of our planet into one vacation as possible? Visiting various resorts or areas of the same country? If either of these things is what you think of, you’re essentially correct. Multi-centre holidays help you to combine more than one trip into one, manageable and affordable package – giving you the opportunity to broaden your horizons and see the world without having to worry about a thing. 

The terms multi and twin centre holidays withTrailfinders mean breaks where you need to fly to two or more destinations or when you fly into one resort but depart from a different one entirely. Multiple destinations are easy to visit nowadays – in an age where there’s an abundance of airports and plenty of itineraries that can be tailormade to suit your dreams, multi-centre holidays have never been better. 

Perhaps a stint in South East Asia is a dream you’ve had for years? While you will undoubtedly need to take more than a week off work, if you save up your annual leave, there’s no reason why you can’t achieve your aspirations. With gateway cities such as Bangkok, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on the doorstep of all the magical destinations that South East Asia holds, there’s nothing stopping you from exploring it all in one fell swoop. Fly into Bangkok and explore this bustling city before heading to the mountains to discover the history of Chiang Mai, before relaxing on one of the secluded sandy beaches. From here, head over to Laos or Vietnam before venturing further towards Indonesia, an archipelago made up of over 17,000 islands, including Lombok, Bali, Borneo and Java. Return home via Singapore after appreciating this beautifully clean city that has a whole host of surprises for you to enjoy. 

If that doesn’t sound like your kind of thing, perhaps a multi-stop tour of Australia does? This vast country has so much to offer that even a multi-centre trip won’t scrape the surface, but it can certainly help you to see more than just one area. Fly into Sydney, admire the Opera House and climb the dizzy heights of the Sydney Harbour Bridge before heading up the east coast into Queensland – home of the Great Barrier Reef. Be enthralled by the beaches, reef and rainforests before heading over to Darwin, the gateway to National Parks that will bring you a step closer towards understanding the Aboriginal people. Fly into Alice Springs, the closest town to the notorious Uluru (Ayer’s Rock) before heading over to the west coast to see what Melbourne or Perth has to offer before flying home. 

The possibilities with multi-centre breaks are endless – whatever you are planning to achieve from your globetrotting stint, combining more than one stop will almost certainly quench your thirst for adventure. 

Related post: 5 Great Destinations in North Thailand

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Sentosa Singapore - The Best Family Destination

Singapore a country in Malay Peninsula. It's blend of three nations China India and Malaysia making it a major tourist attraction for most people in the world. The English speaking-population and the friendly population makes you get around it.With the merge of different western culture, habits makes it a major tourist attractions site been supplemented by the friendly locality.

Sentosa Singapore has many attraction sites including one as well known universal studio. I would call it ride the movie in Singapore studios, thrill seeker and families will be the first to experience many new rides and shows based on blockbuster hits.Don't be left behind for the show.

Adventure cove

Adventure Cove is a memorable unique site in Singapore .It's an aquatic adventure park for the old and the young.Don't miss the cold breeze and fun that follows.

Be exited with the new generation in 4-dimensional digit effect. Using the-state-of -the-art digital projection system, movies come to life right off the big screen.Change your culture, habits and taste new life.

Skyline is the most exciting thing here. The lure offers a unique outdoor experience for all ages. This includes parity go-cart, part toboggan and others.

The Song of the Sea brings a mesmerizing show with live cast, pyrotechnics and dramatic effects. Flame bursts, water jets and captivating music makes it a performance you don't want to miss.

Mega Zip Adventure Park is a must for all visitors. Gives you the whiz over the canopy and the buzz of the Siloso beach. It includes over 450 meters of long and 72 meters above sea.Don't miss the experience to feel you in another world.

Flying trapeze is an excellent form of sport whether you're participating or speculating. Learning the trapeze helps ones concentration, strength and coordination and aid you conquer any fears of heights.

Skyline luge brings you the first luge in southern Asia. The luge is a fun filled gravity ride safer for all ages. With braking and self-steering makes the ride as exciting and leisurely as you want it.

Do you want to live your dream? Try the iFly adventure. It's the world's largest wind tunnel for indoor skydiving. I fry Singapore has made flying more fun and easier than ever. Spanning 16.5 feet wide and 56.5 feet tall what else can you ask for?

Segway Eco adventure offer incredible fun you can't resist. This include fun rides through twists and turns, explore the beaches of the Sentosa while gliding effortlessly on a Segway, they also offer beautiful beaches, resort world, universal studios and night activities.

These are just among the few pleasantries you find in Sentosa Singapore. Singapore is the home to fun excitement what else would you ask for if planning for a family holiday or some personal retreat.

Did I say that the climatic condition of this place is all you could ask for personal refreshment? This is one place you can't live without going for a holiday. With the cool breeze from the beach this just makes your nerves just wish for more.

Singapore is the place to be for fun and excitements.

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4 Great Hotels in Malaysia- Don't Miss These Ones

Going on a vacation is always a thrill. You have the opportunity to see a new world from what you see daily. There are countless chances for you to enjoy yourself, enjoy a new culture and way of life. As a traveler, you may find it difficult and tricky to pick a destination.

There are factors you put into consideration as you choose your destination. One of the basic ones should be the kind of experience you are hoping to have while traveling. You may desire to see wild life, you may want to see marine life, or simply travel to a modern city. Whichever place you choose, you are sure to enjoy greatly.

Hard Rock Penang

One such place you can enjoy is Malaysia. There are great places you can stay during your visit. Hard Rock Hotel in Penang is a brilliant place to stay. It is the epitome of luxury with its location along the eminent Batu Ferringhi beaches. This is an iconic hotel as it is right in the Oriental Pearl. You can enjoy the genuine hard rock experience mingles with different cultures. This is an ideal hotel for couple, singles and families looking to have a relaxing time. All 250 rooms are exquisite with 32-inch LCD screens to give you quality entertainment. You are always in connection through a fast Wi-Fi internet connection. This hotel has delicious and authentic Malaysian cuisine to excite your taste buds.

The welcome you receive at the Lake House - Cameron Highlands is something to remember. The

The Lake House - Cameron

smell of flowers fills the air as you make yourself feel at home. This elite getaway hotel offers you a divine connection with nature. It is located on a lush hill that overlooks hills and woodlands. This is indeed a beautiful and marvelous sight. The fresh air, food, traditional tea and ambiance make this a memorable place to stay. It is ideal for honeymooners and those looking to enjoy nature with some romance.

Those looking for some fun and adventure, look no further than the Sunway Lost World of Tanbun-Ipoh. This water theme park is unique in every way. There is the lazy river, wave pool and beautiful sandy beaches. You get to see breath-taking views of the whole park. The green scenery of Tambun surround the place and this gives a beautiful relaxing effect. The hotel is beautifully constructed with classy finishes for the interior. The infinity pool, hot springs and relaxing massages are a beautiful attraction for many. The members of staff are more than willing to make your stay ever more pleasant. This is one of the habits with Malaysian people in hospitality.

The Casa Del Rio Melaka is a marvelous place to stay while in Malaysia. Its location is breath-

Casa Del Rio Melaka

taking, right at the Melaka River near the entrance to the straits. The design of this hotel is perfect for capturing unforgettable views and landmarks. It is also listed in the UNESCO world heritage list. It is an elegant hotel for those that want pampering as well as luxury. There is a spa, infinity swimming pool, water front dining and other luxurious water facilities. Enjoy rich culture and wonderful living. You cannot go wrong with the Casa Del Rio Melaka.

The next time or if you are planning a vacation, visit any one of these hotels and enjoy luxury at an affordable price.

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7 Great Attractions in Malacca, Malaysia

If you are going on a trip to Malaysia there are some things you should know about. You want to have the best vacation and what better way to do that than hitting the hot spots?

Before getting there, you may want to book accommodation solutions in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the weekend. In our visit in Malacca, we stayed with two types to accommodation which both were great.

Casa Del Rio
The first one is an awesome boutique hotel right off the river, Casa del Rio which means in Spanish "Home of the river". The hotel has many great amenities such as rooftop swimming pool, great library with many books and free coffee/tea,  several food outlets, amazing buffet breakfast, and fascinating customer service. All stuff and management was very friendly and made sure at all times that we were all we need!

River One Residence
River One Residence hostel is more on the budget side and great for the typical backpacker. The place has free WiFi all around, awesome balcony with river view, free coffee/tea all day, a/c rooms, sitting area, hot showers, and great service. Expect to get a clean towel on check in and of course, clean bed and clean room. Just next door, you can fine the local restaurant Little Mamma, which offer all day food for very affordable prices and free smiles.

Malacca (also written Melaka), Malaysia has plenty of them but we will only focus on the top ones today. These are the sites you have to visit in order to have a true Malacca experience.

Here are some hot Spots:

1) Bukit China - This is the ancestral area of Malacca. It is said to have 12,500 graves and it also has a certain hill for jogging. It became famous when Mansur Shah was married and the Ming emperor's daughter known as Princess Hang Liu was buried there. Today it is known as the oldest burial ground of China.

2) Jonker Walk- If you love shopping than this is the place to hit. You will literally find anything or everything crammed into every nook and cranny during a stroll in Jonker Street. You can find artworks, shoes, knick-knacks, and even food. Since it is a night market area you get to see the stars while enjoying a incredible shopping experience.

3) Malacca Zoo - All animal lovers must have the experience of visiting this zoo. It is perfect for families and single visitors. It is the second largest zoo to find in Malaysia and it offers quite a unique aspect. The unique aspect seen here is the night viewing safari offered at the zoo. This gives visitors the opportunity to see many nocturnal animals that cannot be seen during the day.

4) Malacca River -This river was once called the Venice in the East. It has a 45 minute cruise that will take you down to Kampung Morten. You will also get the chance to pass many settlements along the way. It is a good thing to try out if a river experience is desired.

5) Wonderland Theme Park - Everyone loves the chance to cool down hot day. The perfect way to do that is a visit to Malacca's new Wonderland Theme Park and Resort. It has been built in the area of Ayer Keroh and includes many water slides and rides such as Anaconda Twist and The Pendulum.

6) Malacca Butterfly and Reptile Sanctuary - This sanctuary called Taman Rama and it has a wide range of animals which include lizards, Koi fish, and of course butterflies. It was opened in the year of 1991 and has five sections. They are Wild Photo Lane, Koi River, Butterfly Garden, Reptile Aviary, and Nature's Art Center.

7) A' Famosa Fort - This fort was constructed in the year of 1511 by use of slave labor. It was originally suppose to be a stronghold against invasion. Today it is considered to be one of the oldest surviving remains of Europe to be in Asia.

Those are all the seven hotspots to see in Malaysia. No visit should be complete without seeing them and you can learn a thing or two during the visit. Getting educated and experiencing a wonderful visit should be something for everyone to have and therefore Malaysia should be the place to go. Finally, here is a great post about 10 things to consider when visiting Southeast Asia.

If you have been in Melaka and experienced any of these places or great other ones, let us know.
Also, if you had been in great accommodation places such as Casa del Rio or River One Residence, share with us how was the stay.
Cheers.

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10 Things to Consider When Visiting Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia has lots of beautiful scenes and cultures. From India to Bangkok you will be sure to get lots of attractive things to see and hence you should highly consider traveling to southeast Asia. When you are traveling to southeast Asia, there are things that you must consider if you are to maximize on your trip. Here are 10 things to consider when visiting Southeast Asia

Budget Travel

1. Budget and currency
When traveling to Southeast Asia, you must ensure that you have the right budget for your trip. You should include things such as accommodation, food and fare. It is advisable to always allow for miscellaneous expenditures since there are lots of beautiful things that you will love to buy when you are in south Asia. You must also make sure that you change your currency to the local currencies. This is easy since there are many places in the cities and near airports where you can change your currency. 

2. Flights

Flights

Are you flying using a direct flight or you are connecting. If you are connecting, which are the countries you will go through and how long will you be in those countries. You must include all this in your plan. The costs of the flights are also very important.

3. Health insurance

When traveling to these countries, you must have health insurance. Trips usually involve going into public places and mixing with people. This makes one prone to tropical diseases. To ensure you can get treated in case you fall sick, get health insurance.

4. Accommodation

Accommodation

So long as your trip is going to take more than a day, you will need to have an accommodation. This should be a secure place where you can rest peacefully. It is advisable to book for a place to stay long before you travel to avoid disappointments and discomforts.

5. Food

Although there are lots of places to eat especially in the cities, you should do checks before you travel and choose where you will be eating. The places you choose should have menus that include foods that you are okay with. Avoid eating lots of new foods as it may give you stomach problems.

6. Why you are traveling

This is very important. If you are traveling for tours and fun, make your schedule to read exactly that. If you are on a business, to do allow your timetable to have lots of tours as it may disorient you. By planning effectively, you will be able to achieve the aim of your travel.

7. Climate and weather

Southeast Asia has a wide variety of climate from very dry areas to very wet areas. There are also extremely cold areas and hot areas. When you are traveling, it is important to know the exact weather and climate of the areas you are traveling to. This will help you know which cloths to carry and what else to bring with you.

8. Peak or off peak

Before you start booking flights, you should first know whether that season is off peak or peak. Traveling during peak means you will pay more for flights and accommodation. Always try and travel during off peaks.

9. On ground travel

How are you going to travel from one place to another. You can decide to hire taxi or use public transport. However, public transport lacks lots of comfort. You can also decide to get a rental car.

10. Papers

Do you have the required papers? Each and every country you will decide to visit will require documents. You must ensure that you have all the necessary papers to avoid being arrested and deported back before you complete your trip.

To enjoy you trip fully, make sure you make all these considerations. It is important to do this long before the time you are suppose to travel.

Related post: Great Accommodation Options in Asia

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Great Accommodation Options in Asia

Encompassed by the Pacific and Indian Ocean, Asia is the largest continent in the world and has over the years become a popular vacationing spot; it is home to a variety of exotic cultures, beautiful landscapes, tropical weather and diverse cuisine, all of which make it an attractive holiday destination.

More than its beautiful sights are Asia's affordable accommodations, which are diverse as the continent and will suite a variety of interests and budgets, ranging from hotels to hostels, guest houses, Dorms, private rooms, apartments and luxurious resorts.

Ranging from $1 a night rooms to $3000 a night luxury suites and beyond, accommodation in Asia will include the following:

Asia Guest House

Family run guesthouses- These are small, intimate and true to their names, though they are regrettably a dying breed, with most either going out of business or transforming into what is known as all dollar villas, with highly erratic service and, while some still maintain their charming images, others eventually becoming nightmares, mostly because they are run by families that have no understanding of tourism and what visitors, especially foreign tourists, want. Family run guest houses were for a long time the only or most prominent forms of accommodation in some Asian tourist spots, though all that has changed with time.

Western owned guesthouses- it is common knowledge that these are (usually) better ran, though with time, as the continent has become more sophisticated, with many insisting that westerners should neither sleep in nor own guest houses in their respective countries, it has become more difficult to distinguish between traditional family run and western run guest houses. The distinction will usually reveal itself in the management style, though most such guesthouses will employ locals to allow foreign visitors to enjoy a local touch, which was after all their purpose for visiting. The advantages of western ran guesthouses is foreigners can usually get the information they need to know rather than what the locals want them to know, hence a better choice for more independent minded tourists.

Asia Top Hostel

Mid-range hotels/hostels/motels- There are a lot of accommodations to choose from in this category, from generic looking Asian style hotels to unique well crafted guest houses.

Upper range hotels/motels/hostels- These are usually legitimate 4 and 5 star hotels of international class, and equally costly which is why they will mostly cater to foreign visitors.

While the above can be defined as the most common categories of accommodations that can be found in most Asian vacation spots, there are several other varieties stationed within and unique to the different countries of the continent, including guest houses, Inns and villas, many of which are not only budget friendly but will include benefits such as swimming pools, free breakfast, security and internet.

Popular Asian holiday making locations include:

Malaysia- located in the South China Sea, breathtaking destination that blends culture with cuisine, natural attractions, religion, friendly people.

Thailand Hotels

Bali- beach side vacation destination, affordable, offering culture, shopping centers and the best sunsets.

Thailand - diverse beautiful beaches, sea food, bustling capital city.

As the largest and most populous continent, Asia provides a diverse grouping of accommodation options that will suite any and all types of tastes, needs and cost requirements while fulfilling every wish and longing that one could ever hope for in a fantasy holiday destination.

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Vietnam - How the Vietnam War Affected the Culture

The Vietnam War that occurred in Laos was a military conflict that took place from 1st November 1955 to 30th April, 1975. Following the first Indochina war, this antagonism was characterized by two fighting groups, the South Vietnam's, supported by US and other anticommunist countries, and North Vietnam, featured by communist allies and the republic of China.

Effects of Vietnam War on the Culture and Behavior of People

Vietnam War

Just like a normal war degrades the emotions, behaviors, habits, economies and the general way of life for many, Vietnam War was not an exemption. Basically, this war was a hinge in Vietnam's culture. This means that the collective confidence of the entire Vietnam population was shattered. However, this doesn't imply that the entire Vietnam culture was wiped-off, it was a perfect cultural transformation. Luckily, this moment was a good stimulator of Vietnam's most valued and greatest art works and designs. The danger and desperation that left both the Southern and Northern communities homeless and desolate led to the creation of works with lasting value and great beauty.

Language was another victim of the war. With American soldiers touring the Southern parts for attack-planning and strategic military design launches, those living there were able to learn some English bits. Before the war, English in Vietnam was not a language of long sentences and stately prone. However with time, prospective Vietnam writers began mastering language and a state of eloquent English balance was attained.

Before the year 1955, Vietnam has been enjoying a state of relative peace during which scientific knowledge took great leaps and bounds. As if this is not enough, cultural prosperity greatly increased. However, all these came at a standstill after both the northern and southern parts broke into hues and cries over the conflict. Although originally the two localities rarely faced immediate cultural degradation and erosion, this came to be prevalent and especially after the war. Basically, the entirety of the war as well as the western civilization jumped into a dangerously cultural new chapter.

The countries involved in Vietnam War were never the same. Things fell apart, a brand new menace of totalitarianism came up from wreckage and a new chapter of technology and scientific innovations came thereafter. The thousands of bodies that were trampled upon the war raised a state of fear, uncertainty and dreadfulness. Indeed, the sheer life loss that all the communist participants experienced in such a limited period of time in history was something never expected, it was something unprecedented.

Vietnam culture

Up-to-date, both the Northern and Southern parts host feelings of fear and sometimes doubts. Somehow there are losses that each party faced although it wasn't equitably shared. Some parts suffered dramatically than others and even date, it becomes hard for local travelers to venture each others localities, perhaps this stark contrast is what makes forgiveness and complete reconciliation impossible. It is still a dilemma for the Northern and Southern parts to make a reconciliation move as culture, habits and many other way of life traits differ at a greater extent, something that never existed long before the war. And this fear and hesitant move to reconcile form the basis of our fifth cultural disorientation during the Vietnam War.

And anytime within Vietnam, artists, artifacts and other design strongholds are able to imitate the picturesque that prevailed, both during and after the war. This is so as to draw the feelings, memories and sentiments that the beloved left after their lives were shattered from the face of the earth. And anytime in your travel to Vietnam, the diversity of such memories in both museums and cultural attraction sites will only serve to draw heart-wrenching memories of the after war.

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