It is difficult to put into a few words my experiences in Vietnam. For now I will give my strongest impressions and leave the others for another time to reflect upon.
The very first thing that comes to mind to share is the kindness of the Vietnam people. The best example is my guest house host and hostess (first pictures)who treated me as kind as if I was a family member. They spoke enough English to have a conversation with me and they loved to visit with me. They shared their tea, rice, fruit, and even doctor. As always I seem to get sick travelling and this week was no exception. The hostess offered to take me to her doctor when she noticed me coughing. She then proceeded to sit down with me and make sure I understood the medication instructions. Anytime I stepped into the lobby she stopped what she was doing and prepared a cool drink for me. My host would get me fresh fruit and we would share a huge grapefruit or some other delicious fruit together while we visited.
Another example is when I went out alone and walked through the area. I never felt unsafe at any time. I decided to stop for lunch at a small cafe. It was full but the food on the table looked inviting so I walked in. I stood not knowing quite what to do about sitting down when a young man looked up and told me in good English to sit at a table and the waitress would clean off a spot for me. I then told him what he had looked good-- fish with rice and greens (picture). He spoke to the waitress in Vietnamese and in about 2 minutes I was eating a hot lunch! The lady next to me spoke some English and we proceeded to have a good conversation for several minutes. She then ordered 2 bananas and gave me one. It seemed everywhere I went someone was there to help. I never had a sense of insecurity or fear while alone on these occasions.
On the spur of the moment while walking alone on another day I walked into a barber shop and had a haircut. They laughed and smiled when I walked in. I was probably the first American in that shop, it was not on the tourist map. We took pictures and for less than $2 I had a haircut, and a great massage. Phuong can't figure out how I got my haircut without a translator but it was easy, I guess. I point and they cut. What more is there?
I would urge anyone to visit Vietnam who has a desire to do so. You will be treated well. Just don't take your coat! More blogs in the future on Vietnam as I have more time to reflect and sort things out better.
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