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Why I will never return to Vietnam

Well, I fell in love with Saigon on the day of arrival. Was I worried? Had I heard all those things they say about Vietnam? Like hell I was. But our friends were there to pick us up and show us around, to hold our hand in the country which given the many different reviews was the most intimidating country on our South East Asia trip. With the fantastic baguettes, the possiblity to explore country’s rich past, the endless crowds of people on motobikes, the mix of colonial history with the Vietnamese values made a very fascinating mix convincing us that we may have to extend our travel and explore all that is there to see in this fascinating country. I wondered why they spoke ill of it. It seemed like India – wonderful, busy with its self and with a million smells and tastes. But the first day trip itself, followed by a trip to the war remnants museum convinced us that maybe what they say about Vietnam is, in general, perhaps a little over hyped and, in particular, is possibly not meant for us. And as we traveled to its much famed sights, our faith in Vietnam continued dropping. Hoi An was pretty everything else was a disappointment upon disappointment. Here are five reasons why I will never return to Vietnam: The country wide policy of overcharging the tourists – If you are a tourist. You must pay extra. Period. Scams – Number 1 is fine if at least you know how much extra. But, in Vietnam everybody will try to take from you as much as they can. You have to be on your guard forever. Lack of cheap budget accommodations – Every place to stay comes with a minibar, air con, television and breakfast too. What if I don’t …

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