Same Same But Different

Same same but different is a common expression here. You can even find it on the tourist shirts. It pretty much sums up my 2nd visit to this beautiful country. In 1 year the changes are noticeable yet the charm still remains the same. Last time I felt as if I stepped back in time, a simpler time. Now, that simplicity still exists but the creature comforts have advanced so much. The roads are better, the cars are nicer, the locals dress better, there is just an overall sense of more wealth. I'm thoroughly enjoying my last day in a Hanoi before flying to Bangkok tonight to begin English training. What a vacation it was. First and foremost, we went back to My Canh before we left Hoi An and it was bigger and better then ever. I did not pour one beer.

The waitress at My Canh

Shrimp and beers

Beers make Zach happy

We've been in Hanoi the last few days, it's been rainy but the rain didn't stop us. We visited the Hoa Loa Prison today( Hanoi Hilton) and the rain contributed to the eerie feeling that takes over when walking through. Zach's cousin Brian met us in a Hanoi.

Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi

Ponchos!

Cousin Brian arrived!

Hanoi Hilton, this room had an eerie precense

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Prisoners

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My favorite meal ever

This is happiness

Now off to Thailand where the real adventure begins