Puppets and Perusing

First off, I'd like to make a confession. I have a slight addiction. Not to opium or anything, but to dragonfruit. I knew I like the stuff before, but my consumption has rapidly increased since getting here. Today I had some form of dragonfruit for three consecutive meals: fresh cut for breakfast, juice drink at lunch, and a smoothie drink at breakfast. I just can't get enough! (Props to anyone who started to sing the song, I know I did.)

After a day of shopping and walking around the city, a large group of us went to a water puppet show. We didn't really know what we were getting into, but it was actually really entertaining. I could never guess how they controlled them. But the music was traditional (I would guess) and the show was very well done.


P.S. I found this in one of the knockoff art stores and thought it was probably what all the poor Vietnamese people are thinking when I walk down the street.

Culture Clash

Today is our first full day in Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon. We've gotten a chance to see a little bit of the city and visit some businesses and the common theme I've seen is one of seeming culture clashes, and I'm not just talking about my towering white American frame. These apparent clashes are all over the city: between old culture and new ideas, leftover French architecture and classic Asian influence, open economic markets and communist rule, shacks and high rises. Even its name is a split issue, technically called Ho Chi Minh, but still referred to as Saigon by most. Vietnam, and Ho Chi Minh particularly, is a country in transition and trying to find its identity. I hope that they can find a balance between all of these differences, as it makes for a unique experience for all who visit.


P.S. I was a Vietnamese millionaire for about an hour today. A whole 1.000.000 Vietnamese dong rested in my lady pocket from the time I took it out of the ATM till we got to the restaurant. Don't worry, it was only about $50, but it was still a nice feeling.