Vietnam 2007

Vietnam is a fusion of cultural influences. In 2007, I visited after my trip to mainland China. Amp up the streets and humidity of China X10 and you have Vietnam city life.

Shopping in Hanoi was busy, noisy, and stiflingly hot. I ate street food with locals and regretted it later. I tripped over a dead rat in the street and decided it was time to go back to my hotel for a shower and a nap. Da Nang, China Beach, and Hoi An provided a bit of decompression from the city chaos. I photographed Spirit Houses, like the ones I had seen in Cambodia. A Spirit House is like a doll-house on a stand, placed in front of a home to house the spirits of deceased relatives. They are colorfully painted and decorated with miniature furniture and offerings of rice, flowers, and lit incense.

My final stop was Saigon to speak about Feng Shui to the YPO (Young Presidents Organization) movers and shakers of the country. I stayed at the historic Sofitel Metropole Hotel where I was poked by a ghost who shattered a glass shelf in my bathroom.

My impression of Vietnam was that it has dark energy. Heavy spirits ruled. I deleted all the photos I took at the Hanoi Hilton–Hoa Lo Prison–and left behind a Buddha I bought at the gift shop.

There are lingering spirits at unrest and I don't think the country will ever be able to erase what is lurking beneath the surface.