Saturday, September 29, 2018

Next up-Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos



We've been back on the island for a week now.  We have two more weeks to enjoy our time here, and of course our time with NaNa.  She had a great 90th birthday celebration that lasted over several days.  As a matter of fact, it's still going on.  We should put the finishing touches on the carrot cake sometime today.  There are enough "treats" left to take everyone into 2019.
Two weeks from today we'll be heading out again.  This time our travels will be taking us to Southeast Asia to Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.  This region of the world is gaining popularity with travelers from all over the world.  At the present time it is an area that is considered safe, inexpensive and welcoming.
Obviously this area of the world, especially Vietnam conjures up many different memories.  Over 58,000 young American men and women lost their lives in the war.  In addition there remain over 1,500 listed as "Missing in Action".  The total loss of lives of both civilian and military vary widely but is generally estimated at over two million.  Additionally, we can never forget those who returned who suffered and continue to suffer the psychological scars of the war, as well as those who suffered under cruel regimes in Cambodia and Laos.  As we tour around and enjoy the sights and sounds we will be keeping in mind the tragic past, while enjoying the beauty and emergence of the region.
Over the next two weeks I am looking forward to learning and sharing some additional information about all three countries.

If you were looking only in the direction of the sunset last night you would have missed this interesting and colorful cloud.