Vietnam

While I only went to the North part of Vietnam and barely scratched the surface on that, I have to say that it is one of the most unique places I've been to. It's a world apart from both China and the rest of Southeast Asia in psyche, food, music, and just about everything else. Though foreigners are often hassled far more here than in any other country for money and the quality of bought goods is often incredibly low, visiting Vietnam is an experience you won't forget. Though I will say that I'm in no hurry to go back, despite missing some highlights like the Sapa region, the Southern coast, and Ho Chi Minh City.


Places:
1. Ha Long Bay
2. Hanoi
?. Hue
?. Hoi An
?. Sapa
?. Ho Chi Minh City

Sights/Activities:
1. Ha Long Bay (Natural Wonder)
2. Temple of Literature (Misc Edifice)
?. Easy-Rider Motorbike Tours
?. Snake Village

Beer of Vietnam: Although the home-brewed Bia Hoi sold on street corners is quite unique, the fact is that Vietnam's beer just isn't that good. The three main lagers I encountered all taste similar and are nothing special. Grade: C.

Ice Cream: Same deal as all the Southeast Asian countries. Bad ice cream. Grade: F.

Exchange Rate: $1=17,800 Dong as of September 7, 2009. This rarely fluctuates much.

Time Spent: 6 days, 6 nights.

Optimum Time Spent: For the whole country, plan for at least three weeks. For just Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, about a week is fine.

Best Season:

Food Specialties: Pho