Roughing it in Hanoi’s Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel

We’ve just landed in Hanoi, Vietnam. On this trip, we’re stepping out of our comfort zone to take a peek at how the other half lives. The limo ride from the airport to the hotel was our first taste. Next stop: Hanoi’s Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel. Continue reading “Roughing it in Hanoi’s Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel”

How Did Vietnam Become Vietnam?

We woke up this morning in Taipei, Taiwan. This afternoon we landed in Hanoi, Vietnam. Now we’re in a black sedan cruising down a tree-lined boulevard on our way to our hotel. Looking around as we go, my overriding thought is, Vietnam is amazing. But how did Vietnam become Vietnam? Continue reading “How Did Vietnam Become Vietnam?”

Once Upon a Time in Vietnam…

Once upon a time in Vietnam, people learned how to cast bronze from copper and tin. Artisans made bronze tools, weapons, and ornate war drums. A unique civilization thrived in a wide, fertile valley. We’re flying over that valley now. Continue reading “Once Upon a Time in Vietnam…”