Phu Quoc

If we were not remote enough in Hanoi, we are today heading to the island of Phu Quoc. It is off the southern coast of Vietnam, very close to Cambodia. We planned to go to Phu Quoc to get some beach weather. However, the weather here in the north has been really good. I understand that Phu Quoc is developing really fast and prices are rising tremendously. Again, it looks like we will be at the last affordable time. We shall soon see.

We have left a bunch of our gear at Emma’s apartment. We are still, in my opinion, lugging too much stuff.

Before we left, Jim got fitted for a new suit, his first tailor made one. The suits are really affordable in Hanoi. We had measurements today, and a fitting when we get back from Phu Quoc. The suit should be finished the day we leave. It should look pretty good if the display ones we saw are any indication. Jim had fun with the process and plans to wear it home.

We will be taking a local Vietnamese airline. Emma arranged for the tickets. She had to pay for them at the local K Mart. Interesting.

Well, we found that we were unceremoniously pushed to a later flight. No big deal. Boarding was a grand happening. Everyone gets into line then the Germans and the Chinese rush the flanks to get better spots. What a cluster, it was either orchestrated by P T Barnum or the three stooges. We all got on OK, and then the real show started. The flight attendants shunted individuals and groups around the plane. I don’t know what that was all about but fun to watch.

Made it to the resort, seems to be a good place. We are a short walk to a great beach.

We spent most of the day at the beach today. Did not take the phone so I was not able to take photos. Maybe I will be able to get one from Jim or Emma. It’s a typical beach scene, mostly Scandinavians and Russians on the beach. There is great food served from some locals on the beach.

I do not believe that there is a lot of multitasking here. It took an hour to get lunch from the gal on the beach. Emma just ordered a fruit plate when we returned to the pool, twenty minutes. Things are done precisely and one thing at a time. Not a problem if anticipated beforehand.

We went for dinner across the street from the resort. A very small family place. The children were doing homework on the main table when we arrived. The daughter was the waitress, nine years old and in her pajamas. A giant thunderstorm started; we were moved under a shelter. Had a wonderful home cooked meal.

I am truly blessed to be able to bring my family here. What a great experience for me and, I hope something positive for Emma to be able to share the country and people she has come to admire.