Months have slipped by since my last post. My second trip to Vietnam in October 09 now behind me, I would consider myself somewhat of a veteran. My travels include Hanoi, Ha Long, Mui Ne, and of course generous doses of Ho Chi Minh City, along with numerous day trips including the city of Cu Chi, but not the tunnels thank you very much.
On my second trip I did expand my understanding of the star rating system for hotels and having stayed in two star to 5 star (often self proclaimed) hotels I would not judge where you stay by the number of stars, but rather focus on the comments left by your fellow travelers on the hotel websites. Also, have some one who is Viet make your reservations, it will be a lot cheaper for the same room.
Restaurants: like it or not, you are going to eat a lot of barbecue. Unless you are completely reckless, what you eat will not be a problem. Even street vendors can be relied on. But, you need to kind of check out your potential eating spot for well cooked grub and of course clean water to wash the dishes. Beyond that, don't ask what it is, just try it!
Yes, same GF which is "like" on the installment plan. Yes, I said like not love, and my arrangement is not all that unusual in VN. The local ladies know the deal, you send money, take them on trips and they are there johnny on the spot to be sure you are taken care of and don't wander off to another enterprising female. My last trip included several nights at Saloon 17 Saigon, a very popular hang out for both Viet and Westerners. Of my drinking colleagues, one had married his GF, while another was shopping for a potential mate.
I will pass on a common plea from westerner who enjoy this country. Behave, be generous, but not too generous, as you might spoil it for the next guy.
