Tokyo, Japan
January 13
Tag: Vietnam
Monday, February 3, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Ho Chi Minh City, previously known as Saigon, Vietnam
HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM
The Pearl of the Orient
A chaotic, enchanting swirl of sensory stimulation – Ho Chi Minh City has incense-infused temples,
colonial architecture, warm people, and delicious street food. Formerly known as Saigon, the city was affectionately-
labeled the Pearl of the Orient by the French. Afternoons here drift by lazily on the gentle chaos of
the River Saigon as taxi boats and motor canoes flit up and down, and parks fill out with locals playing jianzi,
kicking shuttlecocks back and forth.
The French colonial imprint is evidenced in the Saigon Notre Dame Basilica, which stands out with its grand
double bell towers and red brick hue. Just across the road, you’ll also find the celebrated Ho Chi Minh
Post office, which was erroneously credited as a Gustav Eiffel creation. In reality, the architect was another
Frenchman, Alfred Foulhoux. The French also caffeinated this city with coffee culture, and a refreshing iced
coffee from the innumerable coffee shops will perk you up instantly. Taste the street food to get under Ho
Chi Minh City’s skin, with humble restaurants serving rich flavors – from the Vietnamese take on the
baguette, a banh mi sandwich – to the local staple of pho, a delicious noodle soup. The Tortoise Pagoda is
a tranquil escape and a serene place of worship for Vietnamese who practice Buddhism and Taoism. At the same time,
the Vietnamese medical museum has a fascinating collection of remedies and potions – some dating back
to the Stone Age.
Journey to learn more about the Vietnam War at the Remnants Museum and Cu Chi tunnels. Offering a
vivid glimpse of conditions and the ingenuity and resilience of the soldiers, you’ll learn of the guerrilla war
campaign raged from within this claustrophobic, 70-mile network of war tunnels.
SIGHTS
- Ao Dai Museum
- Caravelle Hotel
- Central Post Office
- Cholon Mosque
- Fito Museum
- Giac Lam Pagoda
DINING
Dining options in Ho Chi Minh City run the gamut from fine dining in secluded air-conditioned splendor to sidewalk eateries where the food is cooked in makeshift open-air kitchens. The dynamism and energy of the city is reflected in a dining scene bursting with international options and a host of fusion choices in between.
Today’s activities include:
9:45 Enrichment Lecture with Evelyn Evans – Ho Chi Minh Part Lenin, Part Gandhi, with a little dash of Confucius
The life story of the man who dedicated himself to Independence for Vietnam.
Today’s excursion – Saigonese Coffee Culture
We discovered how coffee is intertwined with Saigon’s local population, culture, and history.
Apartment Café, Sitting-Plump Café, Notre Dame Cathedral, Post Office, Reunification Palace
Naval officers formerly frequented this old apartment during the post-war period after Reunification Day in 1975, and it features several little coffee shops. The cafe can somehow keep a traditional Saigonese feel, even though it sits in the center of an otherwise modern part of town. After visiting the different coffee shops inside the Apartment Café, we drove to Café Bệt, the ‘Sitting-Plump Café.’ In the central park near the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Reunification Palace, students, workers, and even foreigners can be found with a plastic cup of this cafe’s coffee in hand. This area also offers fantastic views of the city’s most attractive highlights.
Racquet Café, Saigon Retro Concept Café & PHO Noodle Shop for snack/lunch
Next, re-board your coach and drive to Café Vot, the ‘Racquet Café ‘. During our visit, we observed how they traditionally brew their coffee for its unique and special taste and enjoy it on the sidewalk filled with tiny plastic stools. Our last stop is at the Saigon Retro Concept Café. Located in a small valley, this eclectically-furnished café exudes a laid-back vibe and a cool, retro feel. Following a cup of coffee here, drive to Pho, a local noodle shop, for a snack lunch with a noodle soup or ‘bánh mì,’ a type of sandwich that consists of a Vietnamese baguette that is split lengthwise and filled with various savory ingredients, along with a cup of coffee. Coffee here is not just a drink but a social aspect of life. Morning, noon, and/or night, coffee is for people of all ages and classes, and a part of Saigon’s history is brewed into every cup of coffee made here.
VAN ANH FUSION BAND
TONIGHT’S LOCAL SHOW
Van Anh Fusion is a Vietnamese folk fusion band formed in Ho Chi Minh City in 1996. VAF combines Vietnam folk and modern music (rock, jazz, blues, country, etc.). VAF is divided into five entertainment groups: Instrumentals, Dance, MC-Singing, Water Puppets, and Special Performances.
Check out one of their YouTube videos at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKEN1xB4z_s
Saturday, February 1, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Da Nang, Vietnam
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Da Nang, in central Vietnam
DA NANG, VIETNAM
A sublime mixture of secret lagoons, spiritual sites, and Vietnamese energy.
Just North of Hoi An, Da Nang often gets overlooked on the traveler trail. However, as the third largest city in Vietnam (with a population of 1 million), Da Nang packs a punch that puts other Vietnamese towns in the shade.
Naturally, Da Nang is a savvy choice. The beaches are stunning – white sand that runs on for miles, lapped by sapphire seas, and punctuated by tall coconut trees. The mountains are breathtaking – vast swathes of emerald green poking out of the top of the few skyscrapers the city has, and the temples are enormous and plentiful. From Lady Buddha – an 18th-century shrine and statue that guards over the fishermen – to the Marble Mountains, Da Nang is a sublime mixture of secret lagoons, spiritual sites, and Vietnamese energy.
The Marble Mountains are undeniably the city’s main attraction, although the Golden Hands Bridge (40 kilometers from the city center) is fast overtaking the Mountains for the top spot. Both are sublime in their beauty – one a spiritual pilgrimage site sculpted by (and named after) the elements, the other, a man-made structure of two giant concrete hands that stretch towards the sky. You have a destination that offers travelers far more than tourist trinkets. If you are looking for a Vietnamese city that offers both connection and authenticity, you can find it in Da Nang.
SIGHTS
• The Marble Mountains
• Sun World Ba Na Hills
• Lady Buddha
• My Khe Beach
• Dragon Bridge
• Non Nuoc Beach
• Golden Bridge
• Son Tra Mountain
SHOPPING
Regarding shopping in Da Nang, whether you are looking for souvenirs, local delicacies, or high-end fashion items, this city is sure to satisfy your needs and leave you with many unforgettable memories. It is a must-have experience for visitors to this coastal city. From local markets selling traditional handicrafts to modern malls featuring high-end brands, the city offers diverse shopping options in a vibrant atmosphere!
For the best shopping in Da Nang experience, don’t forget to note down these tips:
• Set a budget before going shopping to avoid overspending
• Ask the locals for recommendations on reputable shops and vendors
• Take note of the opening and closing times of markets to plan your itinerary
• Research and compare the prices before making purchases
• Bargain politely but confidently to get the best prices
• Bring cash, as some smaller stores may not accept credit cards
• Consider purchasing souvenirs at the local markets for unique and affordable finds
• Be wary of counterfeit products, especially when shopping for luxury goods
• Don’t forget to try the local specialties before leaving Da Nang
Today’s Excursion – Ancient Town of Hoi An
We discovered Hoi An’s exquisite natural beauty and historical treasures during this excursion.
Da Nang, Hoi An, Old Temples & Houses, Town Centre
Hoi An is a treasure trove of Vietnamese history. An important trading port, Hoi An, initially boasts some of Vietnam’s most historic architecture, colorful old temples, and community houses. This ancient river town. It has been virtually unchanged for centuries.
Walking Tour, Hoi An Museum, Artefacts, Relics, Photographs, Phuoc Kien Temple, Local Market
During our tour of picturesque Hoi An, your first stop is at the Hoi An Museum. We explored artifacts, photographs, and other relics spanning 2,000 years of Hoi An history. We visited the Phuoc Kien Temple, which is dedicated to Thien Hau, Goddess of the Sea, and then stopped by a local market.
Japanese Covered Bridge, Ancient Home Visit, Marble Mountain
We walked across the Japanese Covered Bridge to visit an ancient home on the other side.
World Cruise Event – HOI AN FOR FOODIES
A sunset cruise along the rivers of Hoi An, revered for its well-preserved history and legendary culinary scene, kick-started our gastronomic adventure. We dined at the Cargo Club Café, celebrated for its delicious Vietnamese comfort food.
Tuesday, April 2, 2024 – Photo of the Day – At Sea En Route to Hong Kong, China
Where in the World Are We?
We sail from Chan May, Vietnam, to Kong Kong, China, in Southeast Asia.
Today’s activities include:
- Bridge lessons
- Enrichment Lecture with Michael DiSpezio: Welcome to Hong Kong – Explore an incredible city and the surreal landscape on which it was built. Take the iconic Star Ferry and ride the funicular to the Peak for world-class views of the city and surrounding islands.
- Dance Lessons
- Enrichment Lecture with Carole Klein: Hong Kong on the Horizon: Join Hong Kong Specialist Carole Klein for an informal chat and Q&A to help plan your perfect day exploring “Asia’s World City.” See the shopping guide below.
- Enrichment Lecture with World Affairs Lecturer Marc Ginsberg: Tales from the Diplomatic Woods—From Congress to the Coalition for a Safer Web… join me as I discuss world leaders and events encountered in my career in politics and diplomacy.
Captain’s Farewell and Crew Parade –
Captain Michele Macarone Palmieri and the crew of Silver Shadow wish you a fond arrivederci!
Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant.
Fresh Lobe of ‘Rougie’ Foie Gras · Salt · Pepper · Sugar · Cognac · Madeira Wine Toasted French Spice Bread · Forest Berry Compote · Guérande Sea Salt · Mignonette Pepper
with Lemongrass and Roasted Coconut
Lobster Stock · Lobster Chunks · Cream · Brandy
with Spring Onions and Oyster Dressing
with Prawn Mash, Vegetables Fricassee , Avocado and Coriander Salsa
Yeast Cake · Pastry Cream · Whipped Cream · Rum
CASINO – THE MOST ICONIC CASINO ENTERTAINMENT OF ALL TIME
It features the music of Elvis Presley, The Rat Pack, and James Bond. Tonight’s performance celebrates the most iconic Casino Entertainment of all time.
Join your Silversea Vocalists and the Silversea Dancers as we bring this Casino
experience to life. Enjoy familiar hits such as Viva Las Vegas, Come Fly with Me, and Goldfinger, enhanced with modern choreography to entertain you!
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Monday, April 1, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Chan May, Vietnam
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Chan May, Vietnam, in Southeast Asia.
CHAN MAY, VIETNAM
BEAUTIFUL SCENERY, HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE, AND RICH CULTURE
Experience the rich imperial past, stoic resilience, and blissful beaches of central Vietnam as you delve deep into this
fascinating country’s past and present. The sheer beauty and vitality of the scenery will amaze you as you explore the
stories this now tranquil land has to tell – all the while surrounded by rolling rice paddies, freely grazing water buffalo, and soaring limestone scenery.
Cut in half by the evocatively named Perfume River and home to a spectacular sprawling citadel; Hue is an authentic
experience for the senses. Vietnam’s timeless beauty outshines the shadows of its past, but Hue still bears the heavy
scars of war – whether it’s from American bombs or harrowing events like those of Hue Jungle Crevice – where the Viet
Cong pushed 3,000 civilians to their deaths.
Hue’s Old City was once the jewel of Vietnam, standing proudly as its Imperial Capital. Lotus flowers now twirl
peacefully in the grand moat around its mighty walls, which encase a spectacular array of charred palaces, temples
and regal residences.
Danang’s Marble Mountains rise dramatically close by, scattered with Buddhist shrines and plunging caves. While an endless treasure trove of rich cultural experiences is waiting here, it’s hard to resist the call of Danang’s idyllic beaches, where white sand gives way to a fringe of palm trees.
The undulating humps of the city’s Dragon Bridge soar across the wide River Han, and this ambitious structure comes
alive at night, when strobing light illuminates its flowing form, and the bridge’s dragon head rasps fire into the
dusk.
LANG CO BAY
Lang Co Bay is among the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam. It has smooth white sand and is known for its pristine natural beauty. Not yet widely known because of the popularity of beaches in Da Nang and Hoi An, it’s a real hidden gem.
SIGHTS
- Marble Mountains
- Me Cung Cave
- Cat Ba National Park
- Cannon Fort
- Hai Van Pass
Today’s Excursion – The Streets of Hoi An
Vietnam’s culture and heritage fascinate all who visit. We explored the streets of Hoi An, Vietnam’s treasure chest of history. This picturesque river town has remained unchanged for centuries. Initially an important trading port, Hoi An boasts some of Vietnam’s most historic architecture, colorful temples, and old community houses. We visited the Hoi An Museum, experienced a guided walking tour of the town, and enjoyed a traditional lunch.
Marble Mountian and Showroom
We enjoyed some shopping time and the opportunity to take photos at Marble Mountain.
Hoi An
Hoi An is a pretty river town that has earned a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. Our walking tour begins along its colorful streets, which have remained unchanged for centuries before we entered the Hoi An Museum. Housed in a traditional merchant’s house, this museum is known for its fine collection of objects relating to the town’s heyday as an important trading port. We view the ancient silk-making process.
Phuoc Kien Temple
Next, we visited the Phuoc Kien Temple, a structure built in honor of Thien Hau, the Goddess of the Sea.
Perhaps one of the most intriguing and beautiful of Hoi An’s sights is the Japanese-covered bridge. Built in 1593 over a stream, it is a lovely amalgamation of Chinese, Vietnamese, and Japanese architectural characteristics. It connects
Hoi An’s Japanese and Chinese districts. At the center of the bridge stands a small temple.
More pictures from the streets of Hoi An.
TONIGHT’S SHOW WITH COMEDIAN DARRELL JOYCE – CONTRARIAN
A native of Columbus, Ohio, this 30-year veteran of the comedy circuit and finalist in the Aspen and Montreal Co Festivals appears to effortlessly deliver his cutting style. He is guaranteed to leave audiences doubled over and rolling in the aisles with laughter. This young, up-and-coming comedian is set to be the next breakout star on the comedy scene.
Appearing in colleges and comedy clubs across America, Joyce knows precisely what it takes to get a room rocking. “I like to think of my show as comedy therapy,” Joyce points out with his smirky smile and uncanny stage presence. Darrell is a comedian who will be seen and heard in the coming years and is just getting started.
Check out today’s Chronicle.