DAY 20 & 21: Southeast Asia: Wonders of Cambodia, Vietnam & the Mekong
The final two days of our trip unfolded quietly, exactly what we needed after weeks filled with movement, history, celebration and connection. We spent our time walking the city, lounging by the pool, reading, dining and indulging in a little well-earned rest.
On Monday afternoon, I treated myself to a 90-minute hot stone massage, and without question, it was the best massage of the entire trip. Warm stones + skilled hands = pure bliss. Chris spent that time walking the city and visiting the sky deck of one of Ho Chi Minh City’s tallest buildings, Saigon Skydeck in Bitexco Financial Tower, taking in sweeping views and enjoying his exploration.
Sunday night, we wandered through a bustling mall filled with families, young people and every walk of life imaginable. The energy felt vibrant and familiar in a global way. We ate at an international restaurant, pasta and pizza this time. I ordered pizza, Chris had French onion soup, and we both agreed that we were for something other than Asian fare although we’ve been enjoying all the food immensely!
Still, Vietnam had one more perfect meal waiting for us. On our last night, we chose a local Vietnamese restaurant where Chris enjoyed a comforting bowl of beef pho and I had a chicken banh mi. The French bread was outstanding, crisp, warm and somehow the perfect ending to our food journey. Later, we found an ice cream shop and ordered mint ice cream topped with marshmallows and chocolate boba, a fun, indulgent final treat.
Tuesday morning came early, very early. We were up at 3:30 a.m., but Emerald was right on time to pick us up. The airport experience was seamless; we made it through immigration and security in under an hour, leaving us plenty of time to relax in the lounge before departure. Comfortable, calm, and cared for, this truly is the way to travel.
As we sat there waiting to board, it felt like everything had come full circle. From temples and river villages to bustling cities, from quiet reflection to joyful celebration, this journey gave us more than memories, it gave us perspective, gratitude and a deeper appreciation for connection across cultures and continents.
Until next time!