Monday, May 15, 2006
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, 2-5 April 2006:Viet Vibes
First Impressions
 I love Vietnam. The food is great, and the street life is the liveliest. I chanced upon this pair of ladies on a sidestreet (I did not know where, being blissfully and gleefully lost). The young lady was shaving the densely powdered face of the other with a naked razor blade. The grace and taut posture of the former - especially the well-turned left ankle - befits a classical ballerina. They both laughed softly when they discovered me taking their photo. The older woman cupped her face with both hands like a chastened maiden. |
 The dark and cool interior of the nail salon provided a respite from the blazing afternoon sun. This young manicurist was the perfect embodiment of Vietnamese serenity and beauty. She gazed intently as she gingerly trimmed the nails, her mouth occasionally breaking into a hesitant smile. |
 Motorcyclists rule the roads in Ho Chi Minh City. They ride as a pack, but will miraculously part and weave around you when you walk across the road. Pillon-riding on motocycle 'taxis' is a cheap and exhilirating way to get about town. However, be forewarned: helmets are neither required nor provided. |
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Wow! I have always wanted to know Vietnam. I can't believe the woman is having her face shaved. She must have a hormonal disorder. ¿Have you visited the caves where they get the nests to make soup? Greetings.
I believe this is some form of traditional facial beauty treatment! Older Chinese women do this as well, but with tautly stretched strings, not razor blades. I have just been to HCMC, not the rest of Vietnam. Would love to return soon.
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These are the 30 countries that I have ever set foot on. Airport stopovers don't count!
