Apr 22, 2010 | Ho Chi Minh City | Mui Ne

Had every intention of skipping Vietnam because of its dubious reputation among travelers, but the pull of family ties was too strong. Cousin Sarah and her husband Boonma have been great hosts, helping me adjust to HCMC's chaotic traffic and criminal taxi drivers. Hard to believe this is actually a communist country. There was a huge celebration on the 35th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, but the ceremony and parade were closed off to the people. So the people went to the grand opening of a luxury shopping center instead, browsing the wares of Dior, Armani, Burberry, and Lady Americana Premium Bedding. No shortage of irony here in Vietnam.