Discovering the Coffee Culture of Buon Ma Thuot

Echoes of the Past

Today was a day of profound reflection, a journey into the heart of Buon Ma Thuot's history. It’s a day where I connected with the resilience of the Vietnamese people through visits to significant historical sites. It was a day filled with somber moments, but also with a deep appreciation for the strength of the human spirit. I started my day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Quán ăn mẹ ô, a cozy spot recommended by a local I met yesterday. The bánh mì was the perfect way to fuel up for the day's explorations.

My first stop was the infamous Di tích nhà tù Buôn Ma Thuột, the Buon Ma Thuot Prison. It's a place that echoes with the stories of political prisoners who were incarcerated here by the French colonialists. Walking through the prison, I could almost feel the weight of the past, the suffering and resilience of those who were held captive within its walls.


Uncover the poignant history of Vietnam at Di tích nhà tù Buôn Ma Thuột, a local museum dedicated to the stories of resilience and struggle.
The prison, located on Lý Thường Kiệt Street, is a stark reminder of a difficult period in Vietnamese history. Built in the 1930s by the French, it was used to detain political prisoners from central provinces. The prison complex is surrounded by high, thick walls with barbed wire and watchtowers. The six cell blocks within the 2-hectare compound held prisoners under harsh conditions.

As I walked through the prison grounds, I saw the solitary confinement cells, each a tiny, dark space with minimal facilities. I learned that prisoners endured brutal treatment, including inadequate food, unsanitary conditions, and physical abuse. Despite these hardships, the prisoners maintained their revolutionary spirit, turning the prison into a school for revolutionary ideas. They organized study groups, shared information, and even produced clandestine publications.

Visiting the prison was an emotional experience. Seeing the cramped cells and imagining the suffering of the prisoners was deeply moving. However, I was also inspired by their resilience and determination to resist oppression. It was a stark reminder of the human cost of colonialism and the importance of fighting for freedom and justice.

The strength of a nation lies not in its military might, but in the resilience of its people.

After the prison, I needed a change of pace, so I stopped by Shop's Make My. It was a welcome distraction, a chance to see some local crafts and perhaps pick up a souvenir. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-woven scarf, a reminder of the skilled artisans of this region.


Explore unique Vietnamese fashion at Shop's Make My, a must-visit clothing store in Buôn Ma Thuột offering a blend of traditional and modern styles.
For lunch, I ventured to Quán Cơm 108, a local eatery known for its cơm tấm, a broken rice dish that's a Southern Vietnamese staple. It was delicious and filling, just what I needed for the afternoon's activities.


Discover the flavors of Vietnam at Quán Cơm 108, an inviting bistro in Buôn Ma Thuột known for its authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.
My next destination was the Mậu Thân Memorial, a tribute to the soldiers and civilians who lost their lives during the Mậu Thân Offensive in 1968. This memorial commemorates the spirit of the people of Dak Lak province during the Tet Offensive of 1968. The memorial includes a collective tomb at Km7, Tân Hòa ward, where revolutionary soldiers and civilians who participated in the offensive are buried. The monument itself is located at the Hòa Bình intersection (Km 5) in Tân Lập ward. It features a statue modeled after Huỳnh Thị Hường (má Hai), a symbol of the mothers and sisters who joined the demonstrations in Buon Ma Thuot in 1968. The memorial stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the war and the enduring spirit of the Vietnamese people.


Discover the Mau Than Memorial in Buon Ma Thuot, a historical landmark honoring Vietnam's brave warriors and a serene spot for reflection.
The Mậu Thân Offensive was a turning point in the Vietnam War, and this memorial serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the people of Buon Ma Thuot. It's a place for quiet contemplation, a space to honor those who fought for their country.

As I stood there, I thought about the stories I had heard, the history I had read, and the faces I had seen throughout my journey in Vietnam. I thought about the resilience of the Vietnamese people, their ability to overcome adversity, and their unwavering spirit. I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to learn about their history and culture, and a deep respect for their sacrifices.

Before heading back to my guesthouse, I had dinner at Ẩm thực hương rừng, a restaurant that specializes in local Dak Lak cuisine. I tried the gà nướng bản Đôn, grilled chicken marinated in local spices, and it was absolutely delicious.


Experience authentic forest cuisine at Ẩm thực hương rừng in Buôn Ma Thuột - A unique taste of Vietnam's natural bounty awaits.
Tomorrow, I’m planning to visit Buôn M'Dŭk Village and BanMe Tour [see tomorrow's itinerary]. I’m looking forward to learning more about the local culture and exploring the natural beauty of this region. I also plan to check out 30 Beer, a local bar, to unwind after a day of exploring.

As I reflect on today, I am reminded of the importance of remembering the past, of honoring those who came before us, and of learning from their experiences. Buon Ma Thuot is a city with a rich history, and I am grateful for the opportunity to explore it and share its stories.

Tonight, I'll recharge, journal, and prepare for another day of discovery in this captivating land. I am so grateful for this journey and the opportunity to share it with you all. Ăn ngon nhé!