cao dai, cu chi & vietnam house

24 march 2009, 0700a

yesterday was a long day-- the cao dai temple was 3 hours away by bus, near the cambodian border. it was very neat to see as the religion is a combination between buddhism, taoism, confucianism, catholicism and islam. we even watched part of their service, which was mesmerizing. the entire complex was overwhelming and very ornate - red, blue, yellow, white - there was color everywhere.

the cu chi tunnels were an hour and a half drive back towards the ship and it was an interesting experience. the tunnels were used by the vietnamese during the war to attack american soldiers. families lived below the ground to save themselves from the bombings. the site was interesting; drawings of american soldiers being impaled and the opportunity to fire guns. i tried to crawl through the tunnels but i nearly had a panic attack just looking at the small hole, knowing i would have to keep going once i started. so i ran out as quickly as possible. at least i tried?

we also stopped at the cu chi cemetery, which would be similar to our arlington national cemetery. it was powerful, and very hot under the relentless sunshine.

another hour and a half drive home, through the scooter-laden streets, and we made it back to the ship. a quick shower and wardrobe change found us heading out to dinner with a modest group of 25. too many people! but a great dinner at vietnam house, nonetheless. crab fried rice is my new favorite!

opting out of karaoke (saving that for japan!), i tried to find a friend who was out for her birthday but had no luck. so we all headed back to the ship and i watched some gossip girl on my computer until i fell asleep.

today is my agent orange/ymca visit and i'm nervous. i'm bringing my bubbles, so hopefully the children will enjoy those.

off to get dressed & head out for the day. have a good evening!