The pride of the Vietnamese is amazing.  They have fought more wars in this century than most countries see in their lifetime.  They are a fiercely proud and warm people.  During this trip, in 2002,  it was one of the the hottest "new" spot in the world to for non package-tour travel.  The country lacked in 21st century influence, but this changed quickly.  In 2008 Hanoi, where this photo was taken, is a popular place for ex-patriots from the rest.