Vietnam, Hanoi and Ho Chin Minh

08-Sep-2024

Last month, I had the opportunity to visit Vietnam two cities Hanoi (the capital) and the Ho Chin Minh city on a business trip. The schedule was very tight so we couldn't explore any of the city, but it was a good touch experience. The currency denominations in Vietnam Dong made us millionaires (1 USD -- 25400 VND, 1 THB - 730 VND). It's doesn't look cheaper though.

28-Aug

We took a noon flight to Hanoi (approx. 2 hrs flight), reached hotel by 3pm, went to office to check setup for client meetings etc. Had a dine in the busiest area of Hanoi, and at 10pm it was still fully alive. No real time for any clicks. The city looked like Delhi, but much cleaner. 

29-Aug

We had the morning meeting with the client and post that we took a flight to Ho Chin Minh. The city looked modern, bit of European flavor (Vietnam being a French colony). We had the dinner at the hotel and went to bed as we all were fully exhausted. 

30-Aug

Decided to hit the gym a bit and later we did a quick morning walk with Ngoc and Deepak to get a local coffee. 

We attended a client meeting in the morning and departed for airport in the afternoon. Landed back at Bangkok around 7 pm (it was an hour flight from Ho Chin Minh to Bangkok). 

In crux, it was a good trip and an ice breaker with my top boss. I believe, every step in a new unknown direction can be an opportunity so you should welcome it with open hands. OfCourse, it comes with its own risks. In case, we get some business in Vietnam, I may have to fly back again but so far it looks like this is the one. 

On a side note, Ho Chin Minh is just one hour flight and can be a good vacation destination. 

vA