Closing Entry for Vietnam

I am leaving Vietnam very satisfied. Even though my first few moments in Vietnam were rather negative, I have developed a real love of the country and it's people. I think 3 weeks has given me enough time to explore the diversity and richness of the culture. There are significant differences between the north and south, and even though the north has many excellent sights (Ba Ca and Halong Bay etc.), my favourite part of Vietnam is the south... Saigon being the most exciting and the Mekong Delta being very scenic.

Bikes in Saigon

The locals have been absolutely phenomenal... the tour gave us an opportunity to meet many people from the tribal villages of Ba Ca and Sapa to city dwellars in Hanoi and Saigon. But my last few nights have been my favourite with me going out on my own to meet my own friends, Quang and Hai being the highlight.

Booby trap

Last night the tour group had a farewell dinner at the Vietnam House in downtown Saigon. It was a very special evening... I loved the relaxing atmosphere with the piano playing in the background. It was our last moment as a whole group. After saying our goodbyes, I ventured off by myself to meet up with Quang and Hai at Apocalypse Now... one of the larger nightclubs/bars in Saigon where we danced and drunk the night away.

For first timers to Vietnam, I would recommend a small group tour such as Intrepid because it gives you an opportunity to experience things that you wouldn't normally experience as an independent backpacker. In terms of going back, I would prioritise returning to Saigon, and maybe Hanoi (for the tailoring). The cheap prices make Vietnam a real bargain... but the tourist industry is nowhere as developed as Thailand.

Crater

So that's Vietnam... I feel as though I've done this country justice and am now ready to move on to Cambodia. For people organising RTW trips through this region, I would suggest at least a month in each country. I am regretting the thought that I only have 4 days in Cambodia.

More bikes in Saigon

Saigon and its bikes

Tom in his hole

War Machine