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I understand there are quite a few Vietnam veterans here on FR.

Just want to say however, one view from here, in Vietnam. It has been (quite) a long time now since the war. Two entire generations here. (average population here is something like 25)

NOBODY cares about the war anymore here. Maybe because this is the side which won. At least nobody I have run into, in a half year here in Ho Chi Minh City.

Nobody.

I understand there are a whole bunch of you with very strong views on the conflict, but I’m telling you from here, there is zero lasting impression.

People are overwhelmingly positive toward visitors. I have been to several Asian countries. I am telling you Vietnam is unique in my experience.

There is none of the nightlife you find in some of the other countries around here. Virtually none, anyway. With the exception of some “hostess” clubs. Very little nightlife. But short of that huge difference, it is surprisingly open here. I never see a cop. Almost never. And the traffic is complete chaos, as you might expect from the lack of visible law enforcement. This is the south, it may be different up around Hanoi, but I really want to stress things are very positive to the point of seeming like complete chaos, from my impressions so far.

If you drive here, be (very) prepared. Even if you have ridden for a long time. Stuff will happen all the time, 360 degrees with utter random chaos at any time. Do not wear headphones, and keep your eyes open ALWAYS. Always.

With that warning said, let me say my strong first impression has been:

The country is very receptive to Americans.

I have not experienced any negative impressions here whatsoever.

(with the exception of getting my phone grabbed right out of my hand on a street, by a pair of motorcyclist thieves)

Now I have a very simple one, and look all ways, all the time.

Short of that however, I have been very much impressed with things here.

Just my .02.

Thank you for sharing your observations.

Vietnam still has a communist government, correct?

Do you get get the impression people have to watch what they say about the government?

Do government officials require bribs to move a request along?

What’s the infrastructure, housing, environment and health care delivery like?

I understand Vietnam’s economy has been benefiting due to foreign investment projects.

Thanks and safe travels.

“The country is very receptive to Americans.”

“I have not experienced any negative impressions here whatsoever.”

This is actually not a total surprise- the Vietnamese acted the same way towards the French before us. They thought that the French were great once France left VN.

But I suspect that the VN attitude towards China is a whole different matter.