Fili’s world

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Lonely Planet has devoted half a page saying in so many words that there is no apparent reason for any one to want to visit this place other than experiencing the competition to Saigon’s sex tourism. “Vung Tau? Are you absolutely sure?”, the dreams still laying at Singapore, thinking that there’s no way Lonely Planet could be that far off. She looked a little offended, blushing a bit and raising her eyebrows in a questioning deep look, but then soon came the sweet smile and the slow nod indicating that I should let my western prejudice off and go along with my instincts so far to let her guide our way.

It wasn’t very clear how the whole thing is going to work. There was plenty of room for misinterpretation since expectations were not negotiated before hand. It was the first time the local experience would last more than a couple of hours into an overnight and cultural differences might result in extreme difficulty. Especially intriguing was the issue of how the sleeping arrangements would be set. That is, shared rooms with members of both genders were a common experience for backpackers since they are somewhat open minded knowing that it doesn’t have to mean anything romantic and nothing usually happens. Yet, from wisdom gathered so far about the local ways of thinking it was confusing as to how the social pressure on a female Vietnamese against the problem of money constraints would be solved.

The hydro-boat ride was a rough one with the boat slamming against the waves and making her a bit sick. But ever since the arrival at shore it was absolutely clear that she owned the place. It was once her home, her workplace, but was now the place where her good memories and best friends still live. All streets were familiar and each corner was accompanied by an exciting story with detailed tales of friendship and adventure. It is a lovely town, there’s no denying that. A long stretch of beach, beautiful rich buildings, mountains climbing up above the water with a lighthouse and Christian-Buddhist temples with huge Ave-Maria and Buddha statues - a truly gorgeous place to spend some time off the big city, especially when accompanied by her adorable lively friends.

Borrowing a motorbike from one of the local friends the journey has began. Along the beach, onto the mountain temples, into the green covered streets. There were signs of “massage” everywhere and she had admitted that there is a common reason as to why rich Vietnamese like to spend time there, but it was barely noticeable. No big traffic, no big fuss, only families, friends and couples having a quiet good time. Fancy restaurants, some of which she used to work in, attached with mysterious dark pool-tabled bars and no one can do without the traditional karaoke coffee Vietnamese hangouts.

Some really good times with the best company I could have wished for. I’m feeling very fortunate.

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