The traditional dating pattern in Vietnam

A relationship often starts with the man approaching the woman he likes and trying to ask her out. He does so by giving her flowers, making surprise gifts, messaging her days and nights, and even by saying "I love you". At this stage, no response is required from the woman. She can just enjoy the …

A good manager might not be a good waiter

Our office is at a suburban area of the city so we dont have many choices for lunch. One of our frequent places is a sandwich house which is clean, reasonably priced and has a good selection of food. Everytime I go there, I am happy with the sandwich and at the same time unhappy …

Taking pictures

If you have ever traveled in Vietnam, such a scene does not sound very unfamiliar: at a beautiful paddy field on a sunny summer day, a group of farmers are bending down planting rice when a bus full of tourists pulls over on the side, letting out all men and women, young and old, each …

Selling sympathy

"Please get some candies to give to the local children you are going to see in the village. They are very poor. The candies you give will make their days. Please, please. Please get some candies..." says repeatedly a seller from a street stall in Sapa- a touristy place home to the most underprivileged ethnic …