I came to Hue in autumn. The best time to visit when the weather is not too sunny or rainy. As my friend’s introduction, I chose Hue Private Cars to have a facilitate trip, the location and time for visit is not limited. In my first trip to Vietnam, I would like to learn about the history of this small country which according to documentary film I knew that defeated two great armies which are France and the US. So I booked Hue DMZ tour to know about its history and a companion – guides – will be necessary for this historic journey.

The car pick me up on time and transfer to Quang Tri. The driver would like me to enjoy the scenery of Hue in the morning. Driver has skillfully selected an amazing road with the trees on either side. On the car, I can see Truong Tien bridge, Phu Van Lau floor and life of Hue people before we arrive in Quang Tri.

After almost 2 hours I came to Quang Tri. According to driver’s suggestion, I stop at La Vang Holy Land, I also intend to visit the Quang Tri Ancient Citadel. But the driver reminded me of a long journey so i should visit the main points before back to Hue and if i have enough time, we will visit ancient citadel. Then I stopped at the Hien Luong Bridge, Ben Hai River. Actually this bridge too ordinary and nothing special about architecture. But why this bridge very famous? Following my guide, I know that where we are standing is the 17th parallel. After Gionever agreements was signed, It was chosen to divide the country. The bridge is a symbol showing the loss, separation and hurt. There is nothing hurt than when we see our country divided into two. At night the sound of fighting and gunfire rang out in bright white smoke roll up the sky. The Soldier was died but their friends, family member still alive. They endure not only pain of body but also the soul.

Leaving the Hien Luong Bridge, next destination is Vinh Moc Tunnels. With a foreigner like me, it seem to be fairly small tunnel. Surprisingly, the cellar like a normal house with essential amenities. However,  is under the ground, dark and cramped. Ending the first road, I saw Cua Tung beach, a beautiful beach, wild and cool. We take a short rest before entering the final tunnel. This is shorter ramp, after 5-10 ‘ we leave the tunnel. Prior to the next place I sightsee the museum and see one documentary film about the Vietnam War.

On request, the driver stopped to have lunch before i came to Khe Sanh combat base. According to the driver and tour guide, this is a long journey. It’s main point of the trip. The town of Khe Sanh seem like an intersection, near the Lao Bao border gate and support to the South from the North. According to my tourist guide, Khe Sanh positioned important military strategy. It decided the success or failure of the Vietnam War. So getting back Khe Sanh from US troops is extremely arduous and much loss. So the battle of Khe Sanh is like a Dien Bien Phu. War went over for long time ago, the scene here has changed a lot. But the historical monuments left over as a clear evidence of the fierce fighting, accusations of war crimes as well as victories over the world. The wreckage was Vietnam’s military shot down or UXO fragments B52 were also exhibited here. I also heard about the heroic sacrifice, despite torture is steadfastly but still kept secret. Or the Vietnam heroic mothers, they repressed emotions to say good bye their husband, son to join the war.

Ending the journey, my emotions are different. I imagine about the hurts of division. If I were them, I couldn’t do like them. I also recognize the severe consequences caused by the war which still affected until now. I thought about that very long and I forgot it was dark and I also forgot if our guide didn’t not remind me of the time that not allowed us to visit the ancient citadel of Quang Tri. I smile and agree, my journey today was good and full of emotion.