We started off the day by going to a yoga class at Saigon Yoga. It was in a little alley off the street our hotel is on, Alley 10. The alley had some really nice residences in it too. The class was great. Ironically, Saigon Yoga is moving to the Somerset HCMC on June 14.
On the way to Yoga. Pedestrians are a complete afterthought. Even the sidewalks are filled with motorcycles.
In the afternoon we went to Ben Tranh market. The Lonely Planet describes the area as lively. That translates into crazy traffic and so much pollution that your eyes get blurry. Now I know why Visine was on a packing list that I got from D. It was very interesting. That's for sure. They have everything there from produce, seafood, coffee, tea, clothing, knock off handbags, bolts of silk cloth, fancy childrens outfits, cosmetics, "mobile" pedicure services - you name it. Not convinced I got the best deals as my bargaining skills need some improvement. The vendors put on such a good performance during negotiations. First it's complete shock - like that's an insulting price. Then when you strike a deal the expression turns to one of defeat or resignment - with a slight wince. You walk away feeling kind of good until you see the same thing for 1/2 the price you bought it for. The negotiations are always good natured though and it's all in good fun since we're only talking a few dollars.
Ben Tranh Market
After the market we went to the back packer area and had some dinner. I was bit worried but the food seems to be OK. (it's 4 in the morning right now - my clock is still not adjusted). I had a delicious coconut rice dish. They actually served it in a coconut. We're not eating any of the raw vegetable garnishes that come with the meal or any salads and bottled water with dinner only. No drinks with ice. Someone told us we could ask the restaurant to put the garnishes in boiling water then they would be OK to eat. We haven't tried it yet.
Tomorrow we meet with Loan - our agency rep here and go over the details of the BIG DAY on Wednesday.
To use some imagery from Star Trek to try to describe my headspace right now - I feel like I'm about to enter a worm hole that's going to take me into a new galaxy or different dimension. Maybe that's the 4 hours a night sleep talking though. We're so excited that we feel like excited little kids over it.
We are sorry about chintie, We don't seem to be able to get rid of this name. Dad would just love to go shopping in that market. It looks very exotic. Dad would not have been any better in the bargaining business as you are. At least you had a lot of fun.
ReplyDeleteThe best of luck for Wednesday.
With all our love,
Mom and Dad (Fries)
looks like you are really getting around and trying new things. good tip on the Visine although i think i'm too lazy to make another trip to Walmart at this point.
ReplyDeleteWe are all packed and so anxious to come. Did you end up staying in the studio?
leslie