Saturday, January 12, 2019

Vung Tau in 1970: Bars, Beaches and a Bustling Bazaar


Opposite of Saigon’s metropolitan vibes, Vung Tau in 1970 was a quiet town fit for tourism activities, as shown through these film snapshots by Australian serviceman Barry Connors.

Pristine white beaches, rows of kitschy tourist bars and breezy seaside roads were among the subjects of Connors’ images. Sheltered by a bay, the city’s Bai Sau Beach has always been a choice destination for day-trippers looking to enjoy its languid waves and calm waters. Bai Truoc Beach, however, is rockier, but offers fantastic views of the ocean.

Connors was an avid photographer outside of his day job, with a photo collection of more than 100 shots taken in Vung Tau. Here are 25 standout photos from the Australian’s archive:

More @ Saigoneer

4 comments:

  1. Had my in-country R & R there based inside the Task Force Logistics Area. Still have a an almost identical photo of the grounded ship somewhere up in the loft.

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  2. Looks to be very inviting, simple, easy to fit in and normal.
    This was 1970, I wonder if the old ways remain. I use to go to
    Key West back in the 70's and it was like going back in time; no big
    box stores, chickens running around in the streets, old homes,
    old unique businesses. Not anymore.
    The more things change, the more they stay the same does not apply.

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    Replies
    1. Didn't make it last time but did in 2005 and the Backbeach was just fine. I have always stayed there except for my honeymoon.

      https://freenorthcarolina.blogspot.com/2018/05/photos-take-day-trip-to-vung-tau-half.html

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