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Save/ShareA 36-year old ex-pat with the pen name "Our Man in Hanoi" offers advice to budget travelers.
The first thing you have to realize is that nothing is what it seems.
No one has sex outside of marriage here apparently. Yet the teenage abortion rate is horrifically high. Everyone seemingly has a mobile phone and a motorbike but the average wage is a dollar a day.
Befriend a local and they will spend their last few cents on a meal for you. They will refuse to take anything towards the cost (and you probably shouldn't offer) and they will be genuinely honored to eat with you. You can make a friend for life in seconds. At the same time, if someone collapses in the street, people will walk by. Or worse, stop to stare but do nothing.
As a foreigner the police will leave you alone. They know you bring money into this country. But that works both ways too. They may not help you when you need them either.
Everywhere is manic with activity yet strangely serene. Eventually your ears will filter out the noise and you'll fall in step with the traffic. You'll wonder why it seemed so scary when you first arrived.
I understand that when you think of Vietnam the chances are your first thought is of the American War (that's what it's called in these parts -- and what else would they call it, if you think about it for a second). By all means go to the museums, the tunnels and the rest if that is your thing. But Vietnam is much much more than that.
Seventy percent of the population were born after the war. And the American war was a blip in amongst centuries of other wars. In my experience Vietnamese tend to look forward rather than back: understand the horrors of that war. Put it in context and move on. Vietnam has.
Don't get too tied down with that communism thing. Vietnam is communist in name only. In terms of the likes of education and health care the capitalist country you left is likely to provide more for its people. As for freedom, well don't expect criticism of the government in the newspapers, but you don't suffer a nanny state here either.
And yes.. the opening up to commerce has helped Vietnam prosper. But don't forget this is on the back of a rare 30 years of peace. I would guess that this is the most significant factor in the upswing.
Don't worry about your personal safety. Or at least don't panic about it. Vietnam is probably the safest place you will visit. But don't be stupid. Hanoi isn't too bad but by all account bag snatching is on the rise in Saigon. Just keep things close to you. Honestly money belts are not needed. Stick you wallet in your pocket, like you do at home.
People will rip you off sometimes. They need the money. But that doesn't mean that people will ALWAYS rip you off. Sometimes the price they say is THE price. There is no need for haggling. Other times you can haggle and haggle to get a couple of cents knocked off. Why bother?
Find out what things cost. Don't accept the rip off price but accept the reasonable price. And while we're at it, westerners don't always pay more than locals (transport aside). That's a myth.
And yes people are poor here. Ignore the TV shops, the motorbikes, the cars etc. It's for a (growing) select few. Most people still live in a one room home and sleep on the floor. Remember that.
Learn a couple of words of Vietnamese. Hello and thank-you will do it. It'll make people smile at the very least. Smiling is important here. Smile when you're haggling, smile when you're arguing, smile when you're asking for your money back. People will appreciate it and actually it's a nicer way to live. If you're being over charged make an "oh my god" face, but do it half smiling. They'll realize they've been sussed but they'll smile back in an "I've been caught?" way and most likely offer you the real price.
Relax...they can smell nervous tourists and it's like a red rag to a bull. At least pretend you know what you're doing without being arrogant.
Learn to enjoy it even when things go wrong. They will go wrong. Vietnam is slapstick and bizarre and that is why so many of us love it. Vietnamese people know their country is bizarre. Get stuck in a traffic jam in a taxi and the driver will turn to you laughing, shrug and say: "Vietnam." As if that is the reason for the madness.
Remember, each cock-up is another experience and another good traveler's tale. Learn to laugh at the problems and live with it.
Oh and they will call you fat. They will ask how much you weigh, how old you are, how much you earn, how much your camera cost. Compared to them you probably are fat -- and answer the questions truthfully -- who cares?
As Michael Caine says in The Quiet American: "They say, whatever you are looking for, you can find here."
It's true. On every level from beautiful beaches to amazing cities. From boiled dog to bangers and mash. From street food to the Sheraton. How much you submerge yourself in Vietnam is up to you. Eat at street stalls if you enjoy the experience but you don't have to. Don't feel guilty if you only eat in top restaurants. Your dollars will still pay for a wage here. Likewise don't think you understand Vietnam and its people just because you've sat on plastic stools and eaten noodle soup.
And there is a seedy underside, and there are drugs, and there is corruption and prostitution. But where doesn't have these?
There is no where else like Vietnam. People who have been here longer than me, have told me that only five years ago it was all bicycles on the road. Now it's mostly motorbikes but more and more cars are starting to appear. Vietnam is changing. And although I wish I had seen it then, now is also fascinating. The change is here but McDonalds and Starbucks haven't arrived yet. Nothing is ruined. Not yet.
You should realize that people either love or hate Vietnam. It is that type of place. But if you at least try to love it then it is more likely to work for you. Come here already smiling and with an open mind and it will be ok. Start to lose your temper over the traffic, the service, the roads or the food and it will only get worse. Nothing works here if you stop smiling.
My final piece of advice is: play the idiot.
Play the big western lump. Catch their eye when they're laughing at you (you are funny) and laugh with them. Pull a face at the kids.
Leave your ego and impatience behind and it'll work out just fine.
Comment on this story below. Then check out what our other finalists wrote: A young man goes to Belgium on a quest for the world's most elusive beer. A young mother learns how to find spa bargains. And a food-lover offers her list of the best places for budget travelers to eat in eight cool places.
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Amazing, as if you were an artist in a former life. Prose and poetry in one motion.
Vietnam has been on my list of places to go. Your blog has bounced it up much higher in the list.
Posted By Ed F on May 3, 2007, 6:33 AM
This is an engaging piece of writing with practical advice. I really enjoyed it, and it inspired me to put Vietnam on my list of places to visit.
Posted By Jenn on May 3, 2007, 7:59 AM
Great advice for traveling anywhere outside the U.S. One must remember there are lots of stereotypes and most aren't true. Adapt to the culture you are visiting and you will find yourself making more friends and learning a great deal about the culture as well as yourself.
Posted By Steve on May 3, 2007, 9:29 AM
I thought the Vitnam blog
was both informative and entertaining. I vote for him.
Posted By Terri on May 3, 2007, 9:37 AM
Best of the four. I really enjoyed reading it.
Posted By Amy Z. on May 3, 2007, 9:52 AM
I loved this piece, really evocative and enticing, how I wish I could travel more! Good luck to Ourman and I hope we get to see plenty more. (Of his work, not him, obviously.)
Posted By Linda on May 3, 2007, 10:30 AM
A brilliant piece of writing
Posted By Dick on May 3, 2007, 10:33 AM
Very true. I've lived in VN for a year and showed this article to people who asked me what it was like - couldn't have summed it up any better!
Posted By Karin on May 3, 2007, 10:33 AM
Wow - the article made me smile, laugh and fall in love with Vietnam all over again. As an ex-pat in Vietnam, I can vouch that this article is the truth laid bare.
Posted By Emma Masters on May 3, 2007, 10:37 AM
Vietnam is one of my favourite places in the world and Ourman's article captures it perfectly. Absolutely perfectly... makes me want to go back right now.
Within about 30 minutes of arriving in Vietnam I was told I was fat. Then later that day I was asked if I was pregnant. A couple days later I was told I was 'so big'... and I'm considered 'slim' in the UK... if only I'd read this article before I went I wouldn't have spent my whole first week in Vietnam wondering if maybe I needed to go on a diet!!
Posted By Gia on May 3, 2007, 10:40 AM
Great piece of work, to the point and bang on the money.
Posted By Skemps on May 3, 2007, 10:42 AM
An excellent read! This is what one really needs to know when visiting a foreign country. The experience will be far better with such insights.
Posted By Lizette on May 3, 2007, 10:42 AM
Deceptively easy read. Does what many writers have tried to do and failed. Dump the rough guide, print this out and take it with you and I'm sure you'll make more friends.
Posted By Bob Gilmour on May 3, 2007, 10:43 AM
What an amazing insight - refreshing & genuinely interesting. Vietnam is a definate must for me to visit now!
Posted By Katy Sayburn on May 3, 2007, 10:45 AM
As always, an amazing piece which describes Vietnam as I've lived it myself.
Well done, mate.
My vote goes for Steve. And yours?
Posted By Patty on May 3, 2007, 10:49 AM
This is a great article. It's like describing a loved one in an affectionate and irritated voice. The love is there, but so is the awareness of the not so positive aspects. Great tips on dealing with those aspects, and enjoying the rest.
Posted By Stacy on May 3, 2007, 10:49 AM
I am a big fan of OurManInHanoi. Honest and amusing with a socio-political vibe, but without being pretentious. Inspiring words!
Posted By Charlotte Paterson on May 3, 2007, 10:59 AM
A really good insight, most travel blogs just try to sell you something but this explain all aspects of the country and in a realistic way.
Much more useful, thanks.
Posted By Lisa on May 3, 2007, 11:00 AM
Great stuff. I'm a frequent visitor to China, but never Vietnam. Definitely very interesting to read and a place I'll consider visiting during my next trip.
Posted By Vinnie on May 3, 2007, 11:03 AM
beautiful work about a beautiful country
Posted By TL on May 3, 2007, 11:09 AM
A fantastic, well written article. You need to write professionally. I'm now inspired to go to Vietnam. Thank you!
Posted By Nancy on May 3, 2007, 11:13 AM
Great stuff! The first time my interest has been sparked in this part of the world.
"Play the big western lump"
Seriously, not a problem for me :)
Posted By Mike on May 3, 2007, 11:15 AM
This is a well written article, offering savvy advice for the first-time Vietnam traveler.
Posted By Lydia on May 3, 2007, 11:19 AM
I've lived there for nearly 7 years and you managed to capture it perfectly, you've reminded me why i love it!
Posted By Scott on May 3, 2007, 11:36 AM
This one definitely has my vote. Well written, informative and entertaining. This blog puts the reader in Vietnam. Well done.
Posted By Lisha on May 3, 2007, 11:37 AM
Loved the fact about the bicycles - it's made me want to get to Vietnam as soon as possible. Great blog.
Posted By Lise on May 3, 2007, 11:38 AM
great post. concise prose, vivid description, showing a sharp eye for the subtle details of the culture.
Posted By ianmack on May 3, 2007, 11:45 AM
Love the style. Vietnam was never on my travel list. It is now.
Posted By Jayne on May 3, 2007, 11:46 AM
Wonderfully written, thank you for sharing your experience.
Posted By Adriana on May 3, 2007, 11:49 AM
Your article made me smile! I spent some time in Hanoi about 2 years ago and that has brought all of the wonderful memories back. Spot on! Especially about walking out into traffic and letting it manoeuvre around you as if its normal!
Posted By amy dunning on May 3, 2007, 11:55 AM
I really like this piece. Insightful and elegant. Yes
Posted By Caspar Henderson on May 3, 2007, 11:58 AM
Absolutely perfect. Lived in Hanoi for 2006, this is a perfect summary of Vietnam, its good and bad aspects, but in fact it is all good at the end of the day, and it brings a lump to my throat to think about it... Go to Vietnam, its worth it!!!
Posted By Padraic on May 3, 2007, 11:59 AM
Excellent. Well written, well edited thoroughly readable and so descriptive each scene is easily imagined. As Ed F. & Steve noted: this is a poetic travel piece with advice for any destination. Absolutely the best - hire this guy!
Posted By Jem on May 3, 2007, 12:20 PM
Really well written (wouldn't like to taste the boiled dog though)
Posted By Annie Mole on May 3, 2007, 12:25 PM
Having visited Vietnam two years ago this wets my appetite to return.
Posted By Sue on May 3, 2007, 12:37 PM
Whilst reading that I had a moment where I almost believed I was there, well done our man in Hanoi for an inspiring and well informed piece of journalism.
Posted By Glyn on May 3, 2007, 12:43 PM
Perfect - spot on - I should have sent this to my friends before they went there - hated it and left 2 weeks early! I love the place and am desperate to get back.
Great article - number 1!
Posted By Vanessa Kowalski on May 3, 2007, 1:17 PM
Well done...but when I visit Asia, I tend to blend in (so no playing idiot for moi).
Posted By Alex on May 3, 2007, 1:21 PM
I enjoyed reading about Vietnam. I think the blog was well written and made for enjoyable reading. Good luck!
Posted By Debbie on May 3, 2007, 1:28 PM
My roommate freshman year in college was from Hanoi. She talked about Vietnam some, and was always calling home, but I never really learned that much about her country.
Your blog only took me a few minutes to read, but in those minutes I learned more about the country than I ever did from her. It also made me quite eager to visit. Thanks.
Posted By Katie on May 3, 2007, 1:39 PM
Haven't been to Vietnam yet- but your article is "kitche", different, and shows insider "insight"; makes me want to explore the Country with your information in my back pocket! Thanks for your care for the culture, and your interest in the people of Vietnam!
Posted By Tracy on May 3, 2007, 1:41 PM
A great piece, written from the heart. Left me with a smile on my face and a will to find out more.
Posted By Richard Croft on May 3, 2007, 1:42 PM
I've got the smile, who's got the tickets? Looking forward to experiencing Vietnam for myself one day. In the meantime I'll have to make do with your Blog and my imagination. An inspiring piece of writing.
Posted By AJ on May 3, 2007, 1:58 PM
This is wonderful. I've never really listed Vietnam as a place I wanted to visit, but this has changed my mind.
Posted By Amanda on May 3, 2007, 2:40 PM
Nice rapid fire writing style. Looking forward to reading more. See you again in Grenada someday!
Posted By Nicaragua Al on May 3, 2007, 2:44 PM
Really enjoyed this entry.
Posted By Greg Chivers on May 3, 2007, 2:55 PM
The black and white of an intriguing country is captured in this entertaining and frank article. Now really is the best time to visit Vietnam.
Posted By Tiffany on May 3, 2007, 3:46 PM
My favorite country in the world. And I cannot wait to return. Thanks for your words. Fantastic read. Good luck with the contest.
Posted By Timen on May 3, 2007, 3:59 PM
Great piece as always, OMIG. I'm bookmarking this.
Posted By Mike on May 3, 2007, 4:02 PM
Wow. I remember the Vietnam war, so your insight is moving and challenging all at once! It makes me want to visit soon!
Posted By Benetta on May 3, 2007, 4:03 PM
This is a great piece of writing. I am just about to embark on a journey to Vietnam so the information in this article has helped me envisage my trip.
Posted By Richard on May 3, 2007, 4:12 PM
I've always wanted to go to Vietnam. After reading this article, I'm definitely going. Fascinating.
Posted By Justin on May 3, 2007, 5:43 PM
That's how it is... Accurate without being preachy, fun without taking liberties. All you need to know if you're visiting Vietnam.
Posted By Bill on May 3, 2007, 5:56 PM
So very true in so many ways. You have my vote :)
That was a great read!
Posted By Oanh on May 3, 2007, 6:25 PM
Wonderfully written. Maybe I ought to switch my plns from a retirement in Nicaragua to an extended stay in Viet Nam.
Posted By zenpilgrim on May 3, 2007, 6:26 PM
Ourman is now in Nicaragua. Hope he gives his "thumbs up' for us as beautifully as he did for Vietnam.
Posted By Donna on May 3, 2007, 6:50 PM
I always struggled to explain the Vietnam experience, the land of contrasts and contradictions...which you seem to do so effortlessly. A great piece and for anyone considering Vietnam as a place to visit....DO IT!
Posted By Anne on May 3, 2007, 7:22 PM
Thanks for capturing the contradictions of being in Vietnam so well.
I've tried to put into words before and always found it difficult. I can see myself using your blog to explain what Vietnam is like to friends and family!
Thanks also for the reminder that if we all smiled more things might be a little easier! :-)
Posted By Tanzi on May 3, 2007, 7:23 PM
I have been to Vietnam and loved it. This article brought it all back. Thanks for the memory jolt - I greatly appreciated it.
Posted By Heather Hill on May 3, 2007, 7:26 PM
I've lived in Vietnam for nearly two years and find that this piece captures the essence of 21st century life in this enigmatic country as well as anything out there. Very well done.
Posted By Rick on May 3, 2007, 7:39 PM
Well Done Steve,
You have captured Vietnam in words!! Brilliant peice of work.
N
Posted By natalie on May 3, 2007, 8:26 PM
Hey Steve,
This is brilliant- have sent it to all my mates planning to come to Vietnam.
Congratulations.
Caitlin
Posted By Caitlin on May 3, 2007, 9:05 PM
You've hit the spot, Steve... Except... You mean I'm fat?
Posted By Michael on May 3, 2007, 9:09 PM
so true !!! I am still living it ...
Posted By Nadine on May 3, 2007, 9:25 PM
Rat Chin Zac - absolutely exact!!! Fantastic - poetry in motion - truthful but still passionate...
Relax - Smile - Surrender - nothing could be more true of Vietnam - or life in general.
Have a great day...
Posted By josephine moloney on May 3, 2007, 10:09 PM
People should read this article at the end of every day they visit Vietnam, just to get perspective on the crazy, funny, hilarious and heartwarming experiences they can have in this country. Perspective like this is hard to find, and Ourman's is spot on.
Posted By Paula on May 3, 2007, 10:31 PM
Beautifully written. Captures the spirit of Vietnam perfectly
Posted By kurtmiro on May 3, 2007, 11:02 PM
Nice job Steve, all the best to you, keep an eye out for turtles...
Posted By Tim on May 3, 2007, 11:11 PM
Nice article - it made me smile.
Posted By Andrew on May 3, 2007, 11:11 PM
fantastic piece, manages to convey the complexities of vietnam so beautifully
Posted By kurtmiro on May 3, 2007, 11:31 PM
This article is Vietnam EXACTLY.
Posted By Becky C on May 3, 2007, 11:35 PM
This is the Vietnam I know. An excellent piece of writing, I have it in my email to send to any friends planning a visit.
Keep it up Steve.
Posted By Matt Law on May 3, 2007, 11:47 PM
This is Vietnam indeed. Piercingly and affectionately expressed without resorting to cliche. Loved it.
Posted By justin on May 3, 2007, 11:58 PM
They may call us fat, but they also think we're tall, which is worth the price of the flight alone! Great writing - makes me want to return and smile while asking for my house bond back!
Posted By Philip Martin on May 4, 2007, 12:31 AM
Tot lam! (Well done in Vietnamese). This is so good and real!
Posted By Fee on May 4, 2007, 2:53 AM
Yo man, check this out..
Your Vietnam post rocks & Good Luck...
Cheers.
VA
Posted By valkrieangel on May 4, 2007, 3:02 AM
i live in hanoi and this informative,witty and relaxed piece sums this wonderful place up.it certainly made me smile-and i am lucky to smile everyday......well done ourman
Posted By martin on May 4, 2007, 3:15 AM
I've lived here for about a year in Saigon, and think that this article is about the closest of the four. Well done.
Posted By Manuel Moreno on May 4, 2007, 3:41 AM
Your experience shows! Thanks for the entertaining piece.
Posted By Liz on May 4, 2007, 4:49 AM
Beautifully written, Steve :-) Makes me want to go back (and I've been twice!).
For the rest who read this, don't forget to visit the Koto restaurant in Hanoi if you go!
Posted By Yie on May 4, 2007, 4:54 AM
This really does seem to capture the spirit of the place. Gets my vote!
Posted By Katie Streten on May 4, 2007, 5:14 AM
The best travel advice I've ever read for Vietnam. I've lived here for four years and describes the country perfectly. And I've never been called fat... honest! hehehe.
Posted By Mike on May 4, 2007, 5:22 AM
i have been to vietnam recently and it brought back all the memories, really brings such a great country to life , thanks
Posted By doug on May 4, 2007, 6:13 AM
Very good, very useful, and also realistic/down-to-earth. I, too, will put Vietnam on my travel wish list!
Posted By Anna on May 4, 2007, 6:53 AM
Great article. I'm off to Vietnam tomorrow, inspired by Steve and his Vietnam journal - blogging at its very best. His writing is funny, passionate, wistful, joyous, sad and ultimately fulfilling. Someone should give this guy a book deal!
Posted By Bob Piper on May 4, 2007, 7:11 AM
You've captured perfectly what Vietnam is. Everything to everyone. This is what makes it so delightful and dizzying.
Posted By Wallet Rehab - Ways to save money on May 4, 2007, 7:15 AM
This is a truly great post. I vote for Our Man In Hanoi as well. It was one of the most consistently interesting and well written travel blogs on the web during its 2 year run.
Posted By Chris Mitchell on May 4, 2007, 7:57 AM
Well I wouldn't have much trouble acting the idiot.
An informative read.
Posted By Steve on May 4, 2007, 8:02 AM
Your article just reminded me what I loved (and didn't love so much) about Vietnam!!
Even the mention of all things Vietnamese brings a smile to my face :)
Posted By Caz on May 4, 2007, 8:25 AM
Great piece of writing. Exellent advice for visiting Vietnam (and in fact for most developing countries)and made the country come alive. Gets my vote.
Posted By Sara on May 4, 2007, 8:58 AM
great blog, i'm already looking for flights to vietnam
Posted By khalid on May 4, 2007, 9:06 AM
I love this blog. It picks me up and plonks me back down in the middle of Hanoi and reminds me of the happy memories I have of Vietnam.
Our Man gets my vote every time!
Posted By Abby on May 4, 2007, 9:38 AM
This is so much more useful advice than the usual 'travel tips' type of article. Actual real-world experience of the people and the culture in Vietnam, and it definitely makes me want to visit :-)
Posted By Leanne Johnson on May 4, 2007, 9:48 AM
Wow, wonderful loved the read. Thanks
Posted By Dorisann on May 4, 2007, 10:03 AM
My vote is for Our Man in Hanoi. I've always enjoyed his blog and this is a great example of why.
Posted By Mr. No Star Where on May 4, 2007, 11:02 AM
Your second para could be the UK but the rest of the article shows an innocence untouched by western values, thanks.
Posted By PAT WITHERSPOON on May 4, 2007, 11:23 AM
Having been to Vietnam, I know that this account is true in addition to being beautifully written. Thank you.
Posted By Stephanie on May 4, 2007, 11:39 AM
A very vivid explanation of what to expect in Vietnam. Quite an adventure. I doubt that it will be a place that I will go, but I do appreciate your advice.
Posted By Lyn on May 4, 2007, 11:47 AM
Great article. The best by some way, in my opinion. Win or lose, keep it up.
Posted By Steve on May 4, 2007, 11:48 AM
Great reading. This article has made me move Vietnam a few slots higher on my list of places I must visit before the western influence really messes it up.
Posted By Roger on May 4, 2007, 12:58 PM
Excellent travel commentary. Thanks!
Posted By robin on May 4, 2007, 12:59 PM
This is an intriguing profile of Vietnam, a place I've been hesitant to visit until now. The writing is honest, practical, and lovely in its description. Well done.
Posted By Jacqueline on May 4, 2007, 1:01 PM
"My final piece of advice is: play the idiot.",,,works in Nicaragua as well...
I vote for ourmaninhanoi
Posted By Steve DeVos on May 4, 2007, 2:57 PM
An interesting piece,it kept my attention all the way. I feel that I know quite a bit about Vietnam,without ever having been there, after reading this jaunty article. Susan
Posted By Susan Gilmour on May 4, 2007, 3:12 PM
This article inspired me to look into a visit to Vietnam- it sounds like a very friendly place to visit
Posted By rachie on May 4, 2007, 3:19 PM
This is a wonderful summary of the Vietnam experience. It made me smile and remember my time there; and, it made me hope others will take the advice and go (with a smile).
Posted By rvrw on May 4, 2007, 3:33 PM
An amazingly insightful and honest piece. I like his writing style and this has definitely inspired me to add Vietnam to my must-do list!
Our Man in Hanoi gets my vote
Posted By Tony Bradley on May 4, 2007, 4:16 PM
Gets my vote for sure.... A great piece of writing that really rings true! Great work Steve.
Posted By Brighde on May 4, 2007, 8:17 PM
I've always wanted to go to Vietnam, and now I really, really want to go there, thanks to this article. Very well written, thanks for writing this.
Posted By Ivy on May 5, 2007, 1:44 AM
I remember when visiting Vietnam was a hope for Bykersink. Who then became Our Man in Hanoi and captured for us the true character of Vietnam. His writing was never less than beguiling as this piece shows.
Good on you mate.
Posted By Clive on May 5, 2007, 11:16 AM
Strongly influenced by the terrible war that was inflicted on Vietnam, I have been reluctant to visit it, but this article has persuaded me that I should. The writer shows a strong, comprehensive grasp of the social and political issues and presents an appealing picture of the people that is both realistic and romantic.
Posted By Maurice Gilmour on May 5, 2007, 4:05 PM
The insight to Vietnam and its people is both informative and poignant. It's nice to read a travel piece not soley focussed on the sights, the people are what truly make a destination. Enjoyed the read.
Posted By Danielle on May 5, 2007, 9:43 PM
It's all true, well as far as anything is in Vietnam. You captured some of the most vivid contradictions in Vietnamese society. I've just come back from some very poor villages, dirt tracks and one room houses, but every last shack had a tv ariel or even a satellite dish! If you are coming come now _ its changing so fast
Posted By Marvin on May 6, 2007, 1:44 AM
Vietnam is right near of the top of my "must see soon" list -- maybe this fall??
Thanks Steve for a terrific article! It made me smile :-).
Posted By Sandy on May 6, 2007, 5:53 PM
A brilliant account. You paint a beautiful and rich picture of a complex story. Anyone would benefit from reading this article before setting off, or simply just for the pleasure of picturing the place.
Posted By Emma Coughlan on May 6, 2007, 7:54 PM
Great stuff. 3 years here and I've seen too many travel columns written that I felt were too trite and barely scratched the surface. This is gold. Definitely my vote.
Posted By Rob on May 6, 2007, 9:44 PM
What a witty and interesting article written straight from the heart. A fascinating read which certainly gets my vote.
Posted By Carly on May 7, 2007, 3:29 AM
Great piece. Combines useful info with a real sense of the country - cant wait to visit now.
Posted By jim on May 7, 2007, 7:14 AM
I'm going to Vietnam in a couple weeks, so I really enjoyed reading this!
Posted By Julie on May 7, 2007, 10:03 AM
I loved it! It's definitely the winner!
I loved VN when I visited, especially the north, and this article made me even more interested in a third, but longer, trip back.
Posted By Grace Rowland on May 7, 2007, 10:55 AM
Though I haven’t been fortunate enough to visit Vietnam, Steve’s excellent piece makes me want to run out and buy a ticket ASAP. He definitely gets my vote.
Posted By MAO on May 7, 2007, 2:23 PM
Wonderfully descriptive! I want to go.
Posted By Amanda on May 7, 2007, 4:28 PM
This brings back happy memories! So true, keep smiling as it just easier! Well done Steve, a fantastic article that sums up the experience I had to a tee. I had a good guide though! :-)
Posted By Jason Baldwin on May 7, 2007, 5:11 PM
It's good to know :)
Posted By Sharon on May 7, 2007, 5:32 PM
I like the advice given..great article!!
Posted By jo on May 7, 2007, 6:16 PM
Makes me want to go back and explore more of SE Asia - great tips for Vietnam, and for any kind of travel.
Posted By Kris on May 7, 2007, 6:21 PM
Great advise for anyone wanting to travel to the 3rd world or what I call the other world. As an expat in Africa for 8 years we say AWA, Africa Wins Again, if you get up tight when things don't go right you should leave now!
Posted By Dale on May 8, 2007, 12:43 AM
great article, Vietnam, here we come!
Posted By mrgee on May 8, 2007, 2:55 AM
Hey,
Congratulations for being shortlisted! This is indeed a very worthy, insightful and honest entry. Being a Vietnamese, I still appreciate every bit of it! And I was sort of sad to see you have started a new journey! Good luck anyway, and I'm sure you'll charm us with your new journal!
Posted By Annie on May 8, 2007, 7:22 AM
Terrific writing giving a great feel for the country.You've got my vote!
Heather
Posted By heather reed on May 8, 2007, 8:01 AM
This was the only story out of the 4 that kept my interest. Thank you for the insight into Vietnam.
It is a place I never think about visiting but if the opportunity came up, only now I would consider it.
Posted By Debra on May 8, 2007, 10:42 AM
Excellent
Posted By Willy Volk on May 8, 2007, 2:16 PM
What a great article. You almost feel you are in Vietnam reading this so you get my vote.
Posted By Colin on May 9, 2007, 1:34 AM
I spent 3 months in Hanoi last year and this article is SO SPOT ON!! The people, the places, the noise, the smells, the food, the motorbikes, the motorbikes, the motorbikes,the smiles, the laughter, just the sheer joy of the chaos kept me smiling for months and months afterwards. I adored Vietnam. I'd go back anytime. Well done, Steve, fabulous article. You have my vote.
Posted By Meme on May 9, 2007, 2:58 AM
Great writing - reminds me of being in Vietnam and makes me want to go back. I vote for ourmaninhanoi!
Posted By David I on May 9, 2007, 4:30 AM
I've been to Vietnam twice, most recently earlier this year. A beautiful description of a fabulous country and its lovely people. And wise words indeed - smile, you can't help but enjoy yourself if you do.
Posted By Tony on May 9, 2007, 9:19 AM
Written to give an immediate expectation of the people and the place, a vote from me
Graham
Posted By Graham on May 9, 2007, 3:26 PM
I would completely agree on Viet Nam, especially Hanoi. Having spent 3 weeks there is a fancy western hotel but traveling through the old city and shopping and mingling with locals, as we adopted our twin daughters. I have never met warmer people, YET FRANK and weirdly honest about the obvious. I had this overwhelming feeling of love for the place and an overwhelming feeling of...well isn't this weird? The people are just as you describe. I recall a taxi driver trying to charge 5 US dollars for a 1.50 ride. He smiled and laughed through the exchange and we smiled back and said, 2 dollars and he gladly took it and left.
Posted By Jenny on May 9, 2007, 9:12 PM
You've gien me a new perspective of Vietman.
Posted By Kathy on May 10, 2007, 1:52 AM
I remember reading this when you wrote it just after I first arrived in Vietnam and it still rings true 2 years on - well done steve :)
A lot of the advice applies to travelling in all different cultures - I wish more tourists would just lighten up!
Posted By Jonny on May 11, 2007, 6:22 AM
yes, this is a good guide for a first timer. The other thing to remember is that most people DON'T SPEAK ENGLISH. As the article says, smile, giggle, grin, and you'll make a load of friends. I did on my visit.
This gets my vote.
Posted By richard o'brien on May 11, 2007, 6:30 AM
After living here for 21 months and leaving soon I agree: this is Vietnam through Western eyes. We'll never know the real inside.
Posted By Marja on May 11, 2007, 7:06 AM
Voting for Steve Jackson, well done for the piece you have written but also for the huge lifestyle change and the volunteer work you are doing!
Wish I also had it in me!
Mandy
Posted By Mandy Dyer on May 11, 2007, 8:15 AM
Hi Steve....one of the best introduction on Vietnam made by a foreigner...Tks a lot...Next time, have a stay in HCM City (Saigon)....would you, please...
Posted By tien pham on May 11, 2007, 6:37 PM
Have been thinking about where to head for my next trip - this definitely enticed me to make Vietnam top of the list!
Viv
Posted By Viv on May 12, 2007, 3:27 PM
very nice
Posted By selwyse on May 12, 2007, 6:38 PM
Great article. I live in VN and recognised every word. Definitely a winner
Posted By catherine on May 14, 2007, 9:41 AM
a brilliant article! this is a concise and accurate insight for a traveller to Vietnam - not only for a firsttimer but for someone like myself who has been there a number of times.
Posted By John Oliver on May 15, 2007, 9:54 PM
Fabulous piece - you took me there. I am heading over in July and can't wait.
Posted By MichelleF on May 19, 2007, 10:08 AM
The best travel article I have ever read - and very true to Vietnam, being a regular visitor to myself. I pick you to win and good luck!
Posted By ozlady on May 20, 2007, 2:02 PM
Loving your work, covers the large and small issues with the same even hand--definitely gets my vote.
Posted By Matt Kennard on May 21, 2007, 9:32 AM
Amazing.After read your article, I definitely decided go to Vietnam
Posted By Rokhan on September 22, 2007, 4:10 AM