Quang Tri

Quang Tri is the northernmost part of Southern Vietnam and was one of the most fiercely contested areas during the American War which makes for a very interesting destination for both war and history aficionados. It has a 75 km coastline but is otherwise a hilly province so with little on the way of topography, its war-torn recent past takes the limelight.

One of the vestiges of war the Vinh Moc Tunnels north of the Ben Hai River. Constructed by those who wanted protection from the fighting but did not want to leave their homes and was used extensively by a large number of families so unlike other tunnels, this one can be navigated comfortably by tourists. The site Battle of Khe San is also a must-see due to its historical significance. Monuments include the Hien Luong Bridge which connected the South with the North where in the past it was seen as a sign of division because it was destroyed by bombing, now it is a symbol of unification. Lastly, take a short trip to the ancient Quan Tri Citadel which was built in 1824 but withstood the effects of war.

Access points to the province are via Danang International Airport; Hanoi which is 600 km away and Ho Chi Minh City which is double that distance but many trains make their way through to Quang Tri.