Xin chào!

The month was March of 2018. I was on deployment with my command onboard a warship aircraft carrier in the United States Navy. We were 3 months into deployment, and I was looking for some much-needed R&R in a new country.

Da Nang, Vietnam! 🇻🇳 On the 5th, my shipped was anchored out and we to be transported to land by smaller boat. Da Nang was absolutely beautiful and a site to see! I found myself not being able to focus on just one thing. My eyes scanned this new land over and I was in awe. For the most part it was hot and sunny but on some days it was overcast, rainy and very muggy. The Navy had some fun excursions for us to take part in so, I found myself going on a Hue City tour.

I was able to see temples, shrines, bridges, beautiful botanical gardens, and was amazed at just how after so many centuries they could still keep everything still intact. The gardens were colorful with freshly bloomed flowers and the birds chirps all around. In certain places there was a no photography zone, and we were forbidden to take photos or videos of any kind! 📸 🚫

I feel like what I loved most about being in Vietnam was knowing the history our country has with it and it gave a different meaning to the phrase, "Back when I was in Nam,"old-timely expression. I ate quite a bit of Pho, and it was delicious! 🍲

I will make my way back to Vietnam. I was only there 4 days, and it was simply not enough time to explore and really immerse myself in the culture. Next time I go back I hope to hike through the mountains, sit on a couple beaches, engage with the locals, shop around. I definitely want to be up somewhere really high up in the rainforest surrounded by the greenery while it rains, because that would just be so peaceful to experience.

Asia is one of my most favorite places to have explored. From their customs to the food, the weather, or rich history I just feel a sense of relaxation and stress-free energy being there. The world is such a vast and beautiful place and I think everyone should explore it. I cannot imagine never leaving my hometown and never seeing something so wonderful. I will spend my life wandering Earth and experiencing all it has to offer because we are alive, and the time is now. If you are reading this, I implore you to step out of your comfort zone and LIVE! Go to Asia, Africa, Antarctica, Europe, South America, Central America, Canada, Australia go see the world! 🌎 ✈️