Ron
I really enjoyed Vietnam and particularly found the people to be friendly.
There's no problem with the thriving economy there - hell I was offered more real 'Rolex' watches or real 'Polo' shirts than anywhere else ever...
I didn't think 'Rolex' and 'Polo' made so many..
Spent a few days further north and travelled along the Delta region finding the people there living a real hand to mouth existance but very happy. Living here was very basic with few luxuries - even in 2006.
I took the opportunity to take in the tunnels and the various war museums and prisons. For me as a non participant in the Vietnam war - a few years to young at 17yrs. - it was an eye openner on the terrible conditions that both the US and the Australians served in.
Damnn it was hot and I had the luxury of retreating to air con. hotel and poolside bars.
Well worth a visit to Vietnam.
I found Thailand a little seedy and the people perhaps were a little more attuned to making sure Anne and I parted with our dollars. It was expensive and a few of the people we dealt with had a tendancy to dissapear with your change/money..
now Anne does not need encouragement to spend..
Thailand was ok, but I would possibly not go back there.
Anne has been a number of times. But her travel is to the Jim Thompson emporium and a few other well known companies that welcome her Credit Card..
Bernie