Random Thoughts on S/E Asia

1. The vermicelli and crab soup was a mistake. Big mistake—don’t make me laugh, or we will all regret it...

2. Do not think the locals know that their favorite cotton knit separates are actually pajama sets... judging by their pairing them with chic, strappy high heals and trendy bangles...

3. Traffic rules well summed by BS—will give you the edited version: drive wherever the HECK you want, but be sure to toot your horn politely to let the world know you are coming.

4. Shops run by expats have trendy names like Green Tangerine and Things of Substance, but the local proprietors also come up with some creative names! Two of my favorites so far:

Bich Shin
Fashion DUNG

5. Every Vietnamese institution (e.g. museum, temple or historical site) has a sign banning you from bringing in “weapons, explosives, or radioactive substances.” Tourists are advised to please check these at the “leave baggage” and collect them upon departure. I was worried about leaving my plutonium with the coat check girl, but she took excellent care of it and it seems much improved by the thorough scrub and polish she administered.

Sorry to be so long winded... I seem to be recovering from the soup, so I am off to the shops... the count down is on and we have missed just a few stores in the greater Ha Noi area.