(Ta Phrom)
Once again, I am reminded how fortunate I am to live in this region of the world. Vietnam just celebrated two back-to-back holidays (Reunification/Liberation Day on April 30th, followed by International Labor Day on May 3rd), providing a 4-day window to travel.

(buying fruit in the market)
As such, I jumped on the opportunity and [...]

Hanoi is slowly but surely beginning to feel like home. My neighborhood, centered around Truc Bach Lake, boasts numerous cool coffeehouses, restaurants, bia hoi (beer) joints, a Fivimart (my local grocery story), etc., but the best feature is the lively market directly across the street! Vendors with hoards of fresh fruits and vegetables, [...]