It's been a while since I last posted and I am back in central Vietnam. I couldn't resist, Hoi An was too charming! And I am so glad I returned. Although my wallet isn't. The shopping here is UNREAL. Literally insane. I mean, most shops carry about the same stuff but that makes it all the more easier to find the best deal. They do attack you on the street though asking you to buy things so that is a little intimidating. It took me most of the day to get good at ignoring them. This was after I bought 2 custom-made dresses at 2 different shops, some jewelry, and a bunch of bananas (that lady got me good!).
Last night I went out to some bars and met a bunch of people - all European. I seem to run into many more Europeans than Americans. I love it, actually. It's really fun to meet other travelers and learn about where they are from. This morning I woke up a bit groggy but figured I'd better embrace the day. I hit the breakfast buffet at the hotel (like woah) and then gathered myself and hit the streets. Literally within minutes of walking out of the hotel a woman scouted me out and did her routine on me. Since this was the first tailor who had approached me I didn't know the deal and I was hooked. It actually worked out really well because the dress she made me is beautiful (pictures to come). Then, another woman managed to do the same thing to me minutes after I left that tailor. Another beautiful dress came out of that encounter. After those two woman, however, I was onto these tailors.
For anyone ever planning to visit Hoi An (which I highly recommend!), here is a tip. The tailors come out and stalk you. First, they ask where you are from. Then, they tell you you are beautiful. Then, they say you should just come see their shop and they'll give you a card. If you are as gullible as me you'll be getting measured within minutes. I did want some dresses made so I am not at all disappointed by my inability to resist the tailors.
Vietnam is the first place I have ever stayed in a hostel. One one hand, the one's I've stayed in here have been lovely. On the other hand, I am noticing a trend. Here in Hoi An every 3rd girl is wearing these stretchy, "Ali Baba" pants (as one Vietnamese shop owner referred to them). While I want to reject this backpacker stereotype, I admittedly want some of these pants - they look so comfortable! I will just be sure not to wear them whilst actually staying at hostels so no one mistakes me for a typical backpacker. I do actually one a version of these pants. They are solid-colored (most of the backpackers here have print ones) and they are 3/4 length. They are actually amazingly comfortable and thus I want more. Don't judge.
I am laying low tonight (hence updating my blog) so as to be able to easily wake up early tomorrow. I have booked a tour as a way to avoid shopping more. Also, the tour sounds awesome. It is a trip to this nearby island where I get to go snorkeling! Hol-la. I am desperate to go in the ocean so hopefully the weather holds up for me! I'm taking my chances coming to central Vietnam during their rainy season. After my tour I will inevitably shop a bit more, pick up one of my dresses and my new jacket (oops) and hopefully find some more gifts! I've bought a few so far. I much prefer shopping here to shopping in Ho Chi Minh City. The city is just toooo big and busy, I don't know where to shop!
I specifically brought a spacious suitcase here for all of the items I knew I'd buy ... hopefully I can fit everything! I also bought 10 small lanterns (that do not fold up!) and 2 new pairs of custom-made sandals (they are amazing). Pictures to come!
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