Years ago, when traveling in China, I visited Confucius’s house, temple, and cemetery. Today his house, temple, and cemetery are popular tourist destinations. Confucius was a renowned Chinese philosopher, politician, and educator. He lived over 2,500 years ago, yet his social and moral beliefs still influence many parts of Asia today. During his lifetime, he…
I have completed several virtual challenges and found it a great way to get in shape and virtually travel the world. Getting a medal at the end of my challenge is a great motivator. With a virtual challenge, you can race at your own pace and against yourself or with a group of friends. Most…
I have lived in both China and Vietnam. I have studied Chinese and Vietnamese languages and culture; it is surprising how many things in familiar China and Vietnam have. China and Vietnam are Asian countries with many similarities in their culture, traditions, and language. Both are patriarchal societies that believe in ancestor worship. Many of…
I spent many years living and working in Hong Kong. Hong Kong is a beautiful city to live, work, and be an ex-pat, but I do not speak fluent Chinese like many ex-pats who live in Hong Kong. You can live in Hong Kong and speak only English. Many Hong Kong people speak English. Hong…
For the last 30 years, I have lived and worked in foreign countries such as Hong Kong, Thailand, China, and Vietnam. I have been an ex-pat or expatriate for my entire adult life and working career. As an ex-pat, there are things you miss out on from your home country, family events, and other life-important…
I have lived in Hanoi for many years and have spent some time living in Saigon, Vietnam. Even though they are both in Vietnam, Hanoi and Saigon have some distinct differences. Hanoi and Saigon may be in Vietnam, but they also differ in the food and language of both cities’ daily lives. The weather and…