Here’s an idea. I haven’t been to VN for two years, but I enjoyed hanging out at a VN bar next door to the Omni Hotel in Phu Nhuan district on Nguyen Van Troi street - the name of the bar is the Chot Nho. It’s not a big place. If you go in early afternoon, after the lunch crowd, it will be empty. Talk to the bartenders about what you want; they’re friendly, speak some English and will be happy to help, I’m sure.
Otherwise, try the open air bar on top of the Caravelle Hotel in town center - it’s a big hotel, backs up to the Sheraton and, again, has very friendly bartenders (better English thanChot Nho) who will likely be happy to help you.
VN is very safe, no need to worry about a Vietnamese Vet attacking you.
You might also consider the outside bar on the 5th floor of the Rex Hotel (near the Caravelle) although it’s a Commie hotel so I don’t know how much help you’d get.
As in most Western countries, money talks, Hillary walks. I’d suggest you offer the bartender $10 for his help - you’ll probably get it.
If I were you, I’d ask about a guided tour by someone who speaks English but is not part of a tour agency. Tell them you want some iced down beer, the ability to stop at a few places, crawl around, get dirty and take pics.
A 50 dollar bill on top of their expenses for the car, gas and incidentals would probably do it. Maybe a little more.
Old memories are already flooding back.
Will shoot plenty of pics and vid. Will post.
Will shoot plenty of pics and vid. Will post.
A big thanks again.