If you’ve ever traveled to Vietnam, you’ve likely fallen in love with Vietnamese Pho, particularly the version you’d find in Northern Vietnam. Unlike the adaptations commonly found in American or European restaurants, the Pho in this region holds a distinct charm, thanks primarily to its unique preparation style and local flavors that differ significantly from…
Those who have spent time in Japan, either through travel or residence, quickly realize the country’s societal uniformity. However, what’s often overlooked is Japan’s unique version of a caste system despite its appearance of homogeneity. In the intricate tapestry of Japan’s societal structure, a group known as the Burakumin remains a testament to the country’s…
The other day, as I was traveling back to Hanoi, Vietnam, I couldn’t help but notice the significant number of foreigners on my flight. It was astonishing, especially considering the challenges posed by Covid in recent years. Very few foreigners traveled to Vietnam not long ago, but things have changed remarkably. It seems that more…
I recently wrote a book titled A Bus On A Dusty Road—Life Lessons Learned From Asia. In it, I told stories about what I have learned and discovered through my many travel adventures and how travel has changed my life and perspective. In my latest endeavor, “Potholes Along Dusty Roads: Life Lessons Learned From Failure,”…
I recently traveled from the United States back to Hanoi, Vietnam, and marveled at the diverse crowd of international travelers on my flight. This starkly contrasted with the quieter days of travel during the COVID-19 pandemic when the skies and airports were nearly empty. Today, the resurgence of global travel is evident, with people from…
Having resided and worked within Vietnam over numerous years, I’ve garnered substantial insight into the period commonly referred to as the Vietnam War, though technically termed the Vietnam Conflict. This era, which unfolded from November 1, 1955, to April 30, 1975, is etched as a period of intense and divisive conflict in the annals of…