Visited Arlington National Cemetery and it’s one of those places that really stays with you. It’s incredibly peaceful, beautifully maintained, and carries a weight and significance you can feel the moment you step onto the grounds.

Walking through the cemetery is both humbling and grounding. The rows are perfectly kept, the landscape is quiet and intentional, and everything about the place encourages you to slow down and be present. Seeing the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the changing of the guard is especially powerful — simple, respectful, and deeply moving.

Even though it’s a major landmark, it never feels rushed or chaotic. It’s well organized, easy to navigate, and handled with the respect it deserves. Whether you’re there to pay respects, reflect, or learn more about the history behind the service and sacrifice, it leaves a lasting impression.

Arlington isn’t just something you “see” — it’s something you experience. Absolutely worth visiting at least once, and a place that reminds you why remembrance matters.

Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most powerful and moving places I’ve ever visited in the United States. It’s not just a cemetery — it’s a place of deep respect, history, and silence that speaks louder than words.

The grounds are beautifully maintained, vast, and peaceful. Walking among the rows of white headstones really makes you pause and reflect on the scale of sacrifice and the personal stories behind it. The Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is especially emotional and absolutely worth seeing — precise, dignified, and unforgettable.

This is not a tourist attraction in the usual sense. It’s a place to slow down, be quiet, and feel gratitude. I highly recommend visiting if you want to better understand American history and honor those who served.

Plan enough time, wear comfortable shoes, and come with respect. A truly humbling experience.

This amazing place is serving as a final resting place for more than 400,000 active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. It is situated on land that was originally the estate of Mary Anna Custis Lee, the wife of Confederate General Robert E. Lee. It is open to the public daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 and it feels surreal when there are few people here...

Arlington – Where I Learned the Meaning of Forgiveness
When I visited Arlington National Cemetery, I wasn’t simply visiting an American landmark.
I came there as a Vietnamese, carrying the memory of a war in which our two nations once stood on opposite sides.
I knew that among those resting here are soldiers who once fought in Vietnam — those who held weapons, those who caused pain and loss to my people.
Yet standing among thousands of white headstones under the quiet sky, I didn’t feel anger. I felt peace — and an unexpected sense of forgiveness.
I don’t know whether death or judgment carries more meaning.
But I do know that as long as hatred remains, peace will always be fragile — an idea, not a reality.
I don’t deny history, nor do I forget it.
But I’ve come to believe that understanding and compassion are the only ways to close old wounds and begin new chapters between our nations.
This visit made me reflect on the path I’m pursuing — to connect Vietnam with American researchers, organizations, and businesses.
Because only through genuine understanding of each other’s culture, history, and people can collaboration become meaningful and lasting.
Forgiveness isn’t about forgetting the past — it’s about learning how to walk forward, together.

Definitely everything we expected for our first visit. We took the tram, got out at all the stops. We spent about an hour at the museum and watching the changing of the guard. Get to the steps for a seat in advance - you may be surprised how many people show up to view the ceremony. When we paid for the tram tour, we also bought discounted bus tours for downtown. Fortunately there's a connector bus that runs from ANC to the tour bus.