Two old pals reunite for three weeks exploring some of Vietnam’s urban and rural environments — big city to beaches, highlands and history.
Category Archives: travel
91. Underground at Cu Chi
A tour of the Cù Chi Tunnels gives insight into how the North Vietnamese Army won its war against the South and its American allies.
89. Dining at Ănăn, Vietnam’s Finest
An Asian-born, American-raised chef blends two very different culinary cultures in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.
88. Grist for the Vietnam Newcomer
Assorted advice and observations for first-timers venturing to this Southeast Asian country.
85. The Elephants Are Fighting Back
Even in the same rural precincts where a park promotes elephant conservation, local “sanctuaries” are encouraging visitors to go for rides.
84. Notes on 10 Days in Thailand
On a brief trip to Bangkok and Pattaya, the author is reminded of many things he loves about Vietnam’s Southeast Asian neighbor.
83. Cát Bà Island Escapades
Cát Bà may be the best destination in northern Vietnam for exploring the unique seascapes of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO-acclaimed world heritage site.
82. Discovering Vietnam’s Art
Through periods of freedom and suppression, Vietnamese art continues to make an impression as it reveals culture and history to a curious world.
81. A Spirited Stroll in Central Hanoi
Vietnam’s capital city serves up history and religion on a walk past West Lake to the Ba Dinh district.
80. One, Two, Three: Museums of Hanoi
Three institutions in the nation’s capital offer carefully sculpted perspectives on the history of Vietnam.
79. Lake of the Restored Sword
The heart and soul of Hanoi city is Hoàn Kiếm, the “Lake of the Restored Sword.” Stories of its divine nature go back many centuries.
78. Exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter
Vietnam’s earliest urban neighborhood reveals some of its secrets to those willing to search … and ask questions.
76. Where Monks and Kings Rest in Peace
From a Zen tribute to tombs of ancient emperors, the countryside beyond Huế shares its memories well.
75. The Imperial Citadel of Huế
Surrounded by moats and thick walls, the 19th-century home of Vietnam’s final emperors is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
74. The Bridges of Da Nang
Even when other attractions are closed, the colorful bridges of the coastal metropolis of Da Nang make it worth a visitor’s time.
73. Mỹ Sơn Is Not My Son
Central Vietnam’s Mỹ Sơn sanctuary recalls a medieval era when the Hindu faith directed the course of the ancient Champa Empire.
72. Covid Is Not a Walk in Uncle Hô’s Park
“The fog comes on little cat feet,” American poet Carl Sandburg once famously wrote. Covid-19, it seems, has a similar agenda.
71. Eating My Way Through Hội An
Hội An isn’t just another tourist town. Its rich heritage extends to the culinary arts and includes a number of dishes unique to this city and region.
70. Hội An’s Chinese Flair
Colorful assembly halls and communal houses, the legacy of traders of yore, inject an element of exoticism in modern Hội An.
69. Romancing the Past in Hội An
The small city of Hội An has everything a tourist might want. It’s picturesque, historical, romantic, safe and affordable.
Travels in Vietnam 