So what exactly was in that pate?

Vietnam was wonderful. I'll have to admit, I was really wondering how we would be treated, but everyone was very nice. Language was a definite barrier everywhere except the tour company we used to visit the Mekong Delta and Vietcong Tunnels. Generally when we travel, we do everything ourselves. Ah the challenge of public transportation in a foriegn country!! But in Vietnam, it seemed impossible. We did use bike taxis a lot to get around the city, but to travel longer distances, we gave up. Besides, when you can get an all- inclusive day trip for under $15, why not?

Cheap hotels are plentiful, but getting to one you picked in advance is not easy. It seems that every taxi driver has a relative who runs a hotel, and since the hotel you wanted "burned down" last week, you may as well stay there. Ha! Ha! Ha!

What suprised me the most about the country was the fact that everything was priced in US dollars. If you ever get the chance to travel there, take about $50 in $1 bills. They'll get you everywhere! Souvineers, bike taxi rides, tours, entrance fees, all priced in US currency. We had to use Vietnamese Dong to buy food and everywhere accepted either Dong or Dollars, so our exchanged money didn't go to waste.

Speaking of food, Vietnamese sandwiches are incredible!!!! Huge fresh french rolls(thanks to prior French occupation), odd but tastey pate, slices of ham or beef, or something "similar" anyway, lettuce, tomato, and tiny little peppers that are SO HOT that 3 pieces the size of a button are enough to make your eyes water for an hour.

Vietnam Photos