Friday, January 11, 2008

My Vietnam Vacation


As I reflect on 2007, I can’t help but note that my trip to Vietnam was definitely a highlight.  While this locale is one of the most interesting places I have visited, there were things that I loved, and things that I disliked.  So – for your reading pleasure, I’ve created this list of things I like best and not so much during my extended trip to this lush and beautiful place.

Best

  • Vietnam has some of the most gorgeous beaches.  I found places where I got to enjoy paradise with only a handful of other people.

  • The food is so delicious and healthy.  The flavors and incredible and the food is very cheap!

  • The countryside is very green and lush – with a real tropical feel.

  • During my stay, I didn’t witness any crime and I felt very safe.

  • It is easy to get around on motorbike.  It was my mode of transportation and I found it to be inexpensive (fuel-efficient), versatile, reliable and fast.

  • I was surprised by how inexpensive it was to travel around the country.

Not So Much

  • Language barrier was an issue as the language is difficult to learn and the English spoken by natives is tough to understand.

  • The hot humid weather was tiring and we did experience many rainstorms in the afternoon.

  • As an obvious foreigner, I sometimes felt I was targeted by people trying to sell merchandise.  While I understand they need to make a living – this did get tiresome.

  • Air pollution is rampant and on bad air days, it can be difficult to breathe in the big cities.

  • The cities are also noisy as honking horns seems to be something everyone does!

  • Courtesy is different in Vietnam, you won’t find orderly line ups and people pushing and shoving in line is common.

Despite these few things that I didn’t love about the country, it is definitely somewhere I cannot wait to visit again.  It was a wonderful cultural experience filled with gorgeous landscapes, exciting adventures and interesting history.  Why not plan your own Vietnam vacation!

Posted by Carebear on 01/11 at 03:26 PM
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