Viet Nam Now

Howdy Travelers,

My days in Viet Nam were overwhelming. I visited two ports, Nha Tang, and Phu My which enabled me to visit Saigon. Nha Tang is a beach resort filled with hotels, such as Sheraton, many European facilities, Russian interests as well as local backing. The "new" Viet Nam is a strange place. It is a socialist society with the ability of local people being able to invest and make profits. Their is a great gap between the rich and the poor. It is real, dramatic and very visible. Poverty is all around as are thousands of mopeds. The city is being rebuilt with beautiful buildings. The beach is beautiful with parks along the street next to the beach. Our guide said it was too cold for the natives to be on the beach; it is winter. The day I toured it was 86 degrees. We were also told women do not sun bathe on the beach. To be dark skinned is unsightly. The beach had caucasians soaking up the sun, and there were enough there. Tourism is a growing industry for the natives,as well as the Chinese, Russians, Europeans, Americans, for anyone who is investing in what is growing before the eyes of the world.

There is a national pride, at least indicated by the display of the red flag with the gold star in the middle. Almost every building had the flag flying. It was so much that one got the impression it was an artificial display of support.

The native women are gorgeous. Their pants covered with a silk top are colorful. I do not think they make these outfits any larger than a size 6, if that.

W visited an embroidery workshop. The workman ship was magnificent, as were the women workers. I seem to be getting hung up on the women. They are beautiful.

Yesterday I escorted a group to Saigon. It was a two hour bus trip from the ship. The sights along the way were overwhelming. Shack after shack, dirt, moped after moped. I was told there are 8 million living in Saigon and there are 5 million mopeds there. You can not believe the chaos. I think the driver gets on turns on the bike and goes, while closing their eyes. One hand on the bike the other on the phone. Children of all ages in the lap of the driver. Cargo
from live ducks to a refrigerator balanced as the drive dodged buses, cars and trucks. To cross the street, I think one crosses your fingers, close your eyes and walk. the rest is in the hands of God.

Again the stark contrast of wealth and poverty. There are the Majestic Hotel on the Saigon River, opened in 1925 - old world but beautiful. Had a great lunch here with enjoyable entertainment. Visited the Rex Hotel, something out of 5th Avenue, NYC. Sheraton, Marriott, European Hotels, designer shops like Gucci, Chanel, Polo,Cartier, Etc. The stark poverty around each corner.

The public buildings many built during the French occupation. The old American Embassy, I could recreate in my minds eye the sight of people storming the compound to be air lifted out of the city at the end of the war. The facility now owned by the local government. I was told they have an election every five years just for the fun of it. there is only one party running the country. The average income is just under $1200 a year.

This vist is well imprinted in my mind. I do not think I will forget it soon. I am glad I came and experienced what I did. It helps make me thankful more than ever for all that I get to share on board the luxury of this ship and the beauty of home. Thank you for your love and support. I love you all.

Take care.

Bill