going to the beach!

A few days ago, Wayne and I decided to mail some stuff home (souvenirs, cool weather clothes, etc) before heading to Saigon. The process was rushed because our taxi left soon and the hotel called these ladies to come with boxes and pack our stuff. It was frantic. So it looks like I accidentally mailed my return tickets home in the package. Here is Saigon I called China Airlines and they didn't understand my problem, so I went to their office and they will reissue the tickets for $100 charge. Not a problem, and I've learnt a lesson. Unfortunately I have to come back to Saigon on the 23rd to get the tickets, which only leaves a couple days to do either Dalat (mountainous countryside) or Mui Ne (dune beach). I decided to go to the beach. Yes, I flew half way around the world to go to a beach. I expect the water to be much warmer than SD beaches and I could use some R&R.

Yesterday, I hired a motorbike to drive me around the city all day and show me some sights. I saw the war remembrance museum which was very touching. The motorbike driver said most of it was fake, but I'm not sure what to believe. He was a veteran from the South Vietnamese army and really hated the government. He spoke good english and talked openly about his war experience and his dislike of the government. He took me to a great restaurant for lunch and showed me where I could get dog for dinner. If you're ever in HCMC, you should call Mr Dat. Shit, I can't find his number. I'll add it later.

edit:
Here's his phone number 0907380713
Don't prank call him, Mr. Dat's a nice guy.

Last night I went to the dog serving place and it was quite good. I got to talking with some locals who thought it was great that I was eating there and they shared their food with me and got me drunk on their rice wine. I stumbled to my hotel quite happy.

Tonight is an overnight bus ride, then beaches!