With only three days left in Vietnam, I will admit it. This place got under my skin more than I ever anticipated - in the best possible way.
During my one month visit, there have been so many surprising aspects to this safe, easy and very enjoyable travel destination. In addition to the images below, there were two things that struck me personally during my travels.
People - It is easy to be sceptical and assume that everyone wants something from you as a tourist but I was touched by so much genuine friendliness and kindness on so many occasions. Sure, there are always people who will want your tourist dollar, but at the end of the day, they are people too, who are just trying to make a living and provide for their families in a tough environment.
Resilience - the ability of this country to bounce back and prosper after multiple wars and to genuinely welcome travellers from all countries, despite history.
So it is time again for me to move on - another destination awaits discovery. My next blog will be from somewhere in the Philippines - a country I originally had no intention of visiting.
But that's the great thing about travelling without a plan.
Ca Phe (Coffee) - the start of a love affair. Hot, strong and drip filtered over a layer of condensed milk. Sooo good with a fresh baguette and best drunk when sitting on a tiny little red chair.
Motorbikes - everywhere. Love 'em or hate 'em, they are an integral part of the Vietnamese landscape, both city and country. Travelling for seven days on a bike through the central highlands was an absolute highlight.
The blend of old and new. Historic tombs, temples and gates co-existing with modern development.
Natural beauty - in abundance and often where you least expect it.
Fresh produce and the people who sell it - the markets are some of the most appealing in Asia.
The quirky - always in search of quirky, I was delighted to find that special place where serviettes go to dry.