A beautiful warm / hot day is what we experienced here today in Vietnam, our second time visiting here. Thanks to our travel agent Carla and WD World Travel, we joined the Ensemble Group on a full day shore excursion, just wonderful - well organized, great buses (not crowded), great guides and of course great sites to see.
Our pictures today are of the amazing sail in, there are lots of fishing boat picture opportunities, from the big fishing vessels to the little round boats (made of a water tight bamboo weave), manned by usually one or two fishing men.
Leaving right on time, off we headed to the Cham Po Nagar complex, a complex which was begun in the 7th century to mark the site upon which Hindus had worshipped for more then 500 years. This complex consisted of eight towers - the "newest" from the 12th century. Only four spires remain, but they are now the focus for the devoted Buddhist community.
From here it was off to hear some traditional Vietnamese music on a cliff side location where many locals have their wedding pictures taken, very nice.
Then it was off to the Long Son Pagoda and the seated Buddha, an interesting picturesque site full of hawkers of all types trying to sell you just about everything, from postcards to shirts, to bamboo anything and of course pearls. From here it was off to the market where Jan actually did pick up a string of pearls and a scarf, she is turning into quite the bargainer. We then had a wonderful traditional lunch, shared food style - a great experience. We had probably the best dried sugary coated ginger ever. Our last tour stop was at the Oceanographic Institute, very informative - but I thought the guide did say in his very broken english that we were going to the Pornographic Institute, hmm.
Back to the ship for some retail therapy at the huge market set up at the dock, picked up a few things, including three Ralph Lauren Polo shirts for $10.00 - a great deal until I read the actual label on the shirt, so now I have three Ralp Lauren shirts - oh well.
Great sail away and then we have another great sea day tomorrow, still adjusting to the time so it will be nice to have a down day.
Quote of the day - We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open. - Jawaharial Nehru
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