We arrived early and gratefully cleared immigration with no glitches. Boarded our coach for a full morning of sightseeing, including a nursery school run by Catholic nuns, a visit to an 8th century temple and a boat ride down the Cai River with wonderful photo ops. We divided into 3 boats so we had plenty of room.

This country is very different from the other Asian cities we've visited . The language is very difficult to learn but we had a great guide who gave us a lesson in understanding why it is so difficult. Didn't help but was interesting. Kimberly Adkins, you could master this I know.

There wasn't much discussion about the war, which was good. Several of our group had a significant history involving Vietnam and we all tried to be respectful.

It's been interesting to observe the differences in places of worship as we go from country to country. The one consistent theme in every country is that of a diety of some kind. Each is different but the same. Vietnam people venerate their ancestors instead of one single diety. Family is everything and the country is fiercely matriarchal.

So much to learn, so little time.

In the home where the man was making clay stoves (similar to a tandoori) 4 generations live together.

The nursery school visit was delightful. Kids are the same all over. I have so much respect for the teachers. The children come at 6 a.m. And are picked up between 4-5 p.m. They were all well behaved and loved to interact with us.

The traffic is something out of your worst nightmare but I'm getting better at keeping my cool. When the guide doesn't even pause as horns blare and brakes squeal I become more calm.

Back on the ship for a night sail to Phu My and Ho Chi Minh City.