On the complete opposite spectrum from Japan is Vietnam.  This was my second trip to Vietnam.  My first trip was ten years ago and I only visited Hanoi.  This trip I visited Hanoi, Da Nang, Hue, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City.  Covering so much of Vietnam meant a lot of plane rides as the roads make for slow travel in Vietnam.

Vietnam is chaotic, noisy and unorganized.  Although I noticed a lot more cars this time around, the motor bikes (and their honking) are ever present.  Crossing the road is an act of death-defying activity.  People use their horns as a second language.  But at the same time, their is a warmness to the country that makes the visit worthwhile.

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is vastly different from HCMC’s wide boulevards and colonial architecture.  I liked HCMC right away (if only because it was so different from Hanoi).  Hoi An was a little slower and amazingly well preserved given how old the town is.  Vietnam’s craftsmanship is evident in both Hanoi and Hoi An.  There is beautiful clothing, leather and wood items.  Life happens on the streets and a “restaurant” can be set up on pretty much any sidewalk.  It is amazing how anything and everything can be done on a motorbike, including a mid-day nap!

I felt like Vietnam is at a crossroad.  There is evidence of lots of development and the presence of more cars means wealth is being built (at least for some).  But there is still a lot of poverty and the need for infrastructure.  I do hope that Vietnam moving into modern times will not ruin the beauty of the country.