Deerhunter and I leave in about 2 weeks for Vietnam, so I am writing lesson plans, getting shots, and reading the book, Do's and Don'ts in Vietnam. Nevermind the fact that haven't been on an airplane in over 13 years, or the fact that the cruise was as foreign as I have been in my life..this, my friends, can get overwhelming when you get to thinking about it. I pulled out the book to answer some of my questions as to what to pack to wear and found myself reading for hours. Some of what I found was funny, some explained my Vietnamese friends' quirkiness, and some was a little scary. Here are a few bullet points:

* be assured that as a foreigner, you can get away with just about anything-so long as you do it with respect

*don't be offended by personal questions and remarks....ex. "why are you fat?" or "your husband is ugly" (that explains some conversations I've had)

*someone who can crack a joke is appreciated..it even helps when bargaining.

*Vietnamese people also laugh when they are sad, angry, embarrassed, etc.

*forget about political correctness

*shyness is seen as an outward form of respect and is prized as a virtue.

*don't cross your fingers...refers to a private female part

*no public displays of affection (DH may have a hard time with this one)

*nobody walks in Vietnam, Don't expect to be able to walk down street pavements in town...these are generally reserved for parking cars, motor bikes, and cutting hair.

*beware of anyone holding a sleeping child while begging. Children are sometimes rented and drugged.

*don't hesitate to wear snug fitting clothes, and sheer is fine, just don't bare much bare flesh.

*there are no dangerous parasites in still waters, just leeches

*leave shoes outside, but bring motorbikes in.

See what I mean? Then Deerhunter says I can't pat kids on the head. Oh man, I think I'm glad for the first  tip, it should cover a multitude of sins for me!