Day 4:
My day started like any other day, except it was 4:15am. We had to be up early so that we could get to the floating market before it was too late in the morning. The market was not what I was expecting, not better but not worse. The part I enjoyed the most was watching the sun rise over the bridge and houses. I was very disappointed that we did not get any fruit from the market–they were only selling whole sale. It was still a great adventure, non the less.
After breakfast, we were off and on our way to the Royal Haskoning project site. We learned a lot about water irrigation and how they stimulate better crop yields through flood gates. We had the opportunity to speak with some of the farmers and hear what they thought of the project. It started to drizzle as we headed towards the flood gate which felt very nice on such a hot day. As we approached, we were warned about snakes under the door so I tried to stay clear from those. The gate itself was huge and cool to look at, crazy to think that it takes a hour or two to move and cover block the water from flooding the land. hearing about the project was very interesting because agriculture is such an important part of their lives and culture.
After the long drive home from the Mekong Delta, a few of us went out to dinner. The food here never ceases to amaze me. Course after course left the kitchen all tasting amazing. Our tour guide, Long, played the piano in the corner and was quite good. It was a quiet night which was much needed after the two days of travel. Who knew traveling would be so exhausting?
Vietnam is much different than America and it is taking some time to get used to this new place with a new culture. I still have not gotten used to the smell of trash that we walk, or float, by on occasion. Another thing I struggle to get used to is the begging and children. Very young kids sure working and not going to school which is very different from what I have ever known. One main difference I have noticed in the hotels are the beds. The beds here are very hard and it makes me miss my bed back home; although after a long day I still have no trouble sleeping on it.
I am enjoying this trip greatly and I am learning so much. Learning about the different cultures and religions thrills me and I find myself having in deep conversation with my fellow travellers along the way. It is interesting to see a different view on life and also have the ability to discuss it with my travellers and see their ideas about what we are experiencing.
-Jennifer