Vietnam, located in the Indo-China Peninsula, is one of Southeast Asia’s most rapidly developing nations. Vietnam is known for its rich history and vibrant culture, and is also reputed for being breathtakingly beautiful. Since the 1990’s Vietnam increasingly bolstered its reputation as a top Southeast Asian tourist destination, with cities such as Mui Ne, Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon and Hanoi being some of the hottest destinations. A recommendable resort in Mui Ne which offers luxury accommodation and warm service is Anantara Mui Ne Resort.
Of the many iconic landmarks in Vietnam, one that is both historical and architecturally significant is the Independence Palace. Also known as the Reunification Palace, the Independence Palace is located in Ho Chi Minh City. Given the palace’s association with the ending of the Vietnam War, it is widely considered to be one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most famous landmarks, and is visited by countless tourists.
Built in 1966, the Independence Palace was intended to serve as the Presidential residence and office, and was in fact used for this purpose until the end of the Vietnam War in 1975. It was when tanks of the North Vietnamese Army dramatically blitzed through the palace gates allowing officers to move into the palace and effectively commence the end of Vietnam War. Scenes of NVA soldiers hoisted their flag above the palace further contributed to the palace being permanently etched in Vietnam’s history. Today, the Independence Palace is open to the public, and is widely admired for its amazing 1960’s architecture. The four storey palace contains many meeting rooms, dining halls, a bar, and stunning living quarters, all aesthetically and architecturally magnificent. However, the most fascinating features of the palace can be found in the basement, which contain warm rooms, telecommunication rooms and a network of tunnels of which were used during the Vietnam War. The Independence Palace was the site where an era in Vietnam’s history concluded, and therefore is well worth a visit.
Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+