As we continue our journey we see a variety of houses intermixed, some no more than shacks and others 2 or 3 stories with beautiful tile floors and balconies. The difference, I'm told, is money sent to the families in Vietnam from relatives in other countries. Our guide has helped build four houses for his sisters. Everything is built out of red bricks & stucco applied over them. The have stainless steel railings that won't rust and beautiful tile floors. The most unusual thing is the wide front doors. As you drive past you can see people inside eating or watching TV.

My report wouldn't be complete without telling you about Asian toilets. All places away from the city as well as the homes we stayed had them. No need for seat papers as only your feet touched the ceramic ridges as one squatted. Not too bad once one got used to them. Next to the toilet was a large bucket & water spout. When you are done, you scoop water into the toilet to flush it. No toilet paper, but fortunately I brought many travel wipes in my purse.