Check out Vung Tau (Cape St. Jacques) on the South China Sea, in Vietnam, due east of Saigon. This was the in-country R&R center during the war where I was fortunately stationed. It was called the "Riviera of the Orient" back then because the beaches were pristine, the reataurants excellent and the town had a resort feel to it. Very much like northern California.
You can go online and download info on the place. I read that the old military base was converted to Russian housing area since the government started placing oil derricks out in the ocean. A big boom in population as well.
I flew all over Vietnam (C-123 and C-7A) and it was the most beautiful country I ever saw. Although I was Air Force and in country during the Tet Offiensive (1968-1969) I have great memories of the people, the places and most of all Vung Tau.
If I were to return, and someday I would love to visit Vietnam, I would check out the coast and delta areas besides the larger cities. That would give a good dose of culture, great food and sites.
Bob
1973.5T Sepia of Course
