Browsing All posts tagged under »Vinh Luu«

JIV: We’re Moving On Up!

October 4, 2010

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My time in Rạch Giá is approaching its end.  It is time to hit the road for the big city and when I say big city, I mean, Hồ Chí Minh City (Saigon).  My family is very excited.  A change of venue.  Perhaps more accommodations such as beds with full sized mattresses, refrigeration and climate […]

JIV: Revelations!

October 4, 2010

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I spent a month at my grandparent’s peninsula home in Rạch Giá, visiting relatives and touring about the neighboring areas.  That was the plan and for the most part, it worked out that way.  Describing the experience of rural living and reconnecting with my heritage as amazing, is simply … understated.  What I’ve learned is that […]

JIV: My Cousin’s Engagement

October 2, 2010

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My cousin, chị Thúy, is getting engaged to anh Long.  She’s 27 years old and the youngest girl in a family of eight children.  Anh Long is also 27 years old and the only child of his family.  For the past 5 years, she has been one of two caregivers to our grandparents.  Anh Long […]

JIV: Culture shock? Maybe just differences.

September 28, 2010

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I appreciate reader feedback and here’s one from a devoted reader, “I just wondered if there is much difference there?”  Great question because, indeed, there are a lot of differences compared to the U.S.  It’s important to note that these are differences I’ve observed, real or perceived, and never am I passing judgment;  If I […]

Journey into Vietnam: 90th birthday bash!

September 21, 2010

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My mom’s father is turning 90 years old.  Grandpa is really getting up in age but he’s not old by any means.  He has a great smile, memory like a steel trap and is quick on his feet.  His wife (grandma) of almost 70 years still speaks fondly of him, about his strength, his resourcefulness […]

JIV: Daughter’s Wish

September 19, 2010

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Before our journey to Vietnam my daughter, Magnolia, asked me about my childhood activities.  What did I do in Vietnam when I was her age?  Coincidentally, I was about her age when my dad left Vietnam with my brother, Hien, and I in tow.  I told her about swimming in the river, riding water buffaloes, […]

JIV: Hà Tiên

September 16, 2010

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From Rạch Giá, it’s a two-hour taxi ride to Hà Tiên, Vietnam. We rented a 16-seat taxi for the day, which costs 1,500,000 VND (approximately $75 USD). This rate is negotiated and is more cost effective for longer distances and durations which can be from 7AM to 9PM. The driver will pretty much drive you […]

JIV: Daily

September 8, 2010

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My day starts a lot earlier than when in the U.S., around 5 AM.  I spend about an hour in bed reading, catching up on news and email.  I do a little research on things to do or learn more about things I experienced the days prior. For breakfast, I opt to have black iced […]

JIV: Taxi

September 4, 2010

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It’s been a thrilling experience daily, including this exciting taxi ride to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). More exciting than a video game Here are some pictures of Vietnamese foods I’m enjoying. Viet flavors VIEW SLIDE SHOW DOWNLOAD ALL       Most of the foods are not spicy – even when they are, it’s […]

Journey into Vietnam: Journey Begins

August 31, 2010

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Journey into Vietnam   Began in Lansing, MI departing for Chicago on United with my parents   At Chicago, departing on Korean Air for Incheon Intl. Airport, S. Korea   Our mode of transportation for the next 13 hours to Incheon and then another 5 hours to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)   “Those drugs […]

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