The lotus is symbolic of perfection of the Buddha and in this very spiritual country is common. For one reason or another I keep returning to this city which, frankly, is one of my least favorite in Asia. What before was touted as the land of smiles as the Thai tourist board self proclaims would be more accurately described as the land of indifference. However, the food is pretty good, English is widely spoken, some sights are very incredible and prices are reasonable.
I am here with an old friend who now lives in Hawaii so touring around together has been fun. I am a bit more daring than my friend and we have eaten and visited more cautiously than I would do on my own. I must admit that I have enjoyed the luxury of the upscale hotel where we are staying. The complimentary breakfast buffet includes familiar items such as omelets, hash browns and yogurt as well as more unusual fare like ginger chicken, rice soup (congee), papaya, pineapple and mango. Breakfast is filling enough that I eat only two times per day. Having seen the typical tourist attractions such as the royal palace and some of the more famous wats, I am seeing some more local attractions. Today I will go to a new interactive museum which is reported to be almost Disney-esque.
I will return to Ho Chi Minh tomorrow on Air Asia, the excellent low cost airline based in Kuala Lumpur. I will be glad to get back to my gym, my guitar and my swimming hole. Viet Nam is really beginning to feel like home.
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