Was in Sai Gon for a week. Noticed a reduction in tourists in hotels, restos and the streets. 1 friend in construction seems to be in a wait-and-see mode. Another has recently down-sized his travel agency office and his 3 art galleries were consolidated into 1 site. A legal and financial consultant-friend, though, is so bullish, she's increasing her staff to meet demands of nw clients from Thailand and the Philippines.
Personal notes:
1. A fave chinese seafood resto is not full as it used to be.
2. My favorite vietnamese home cooking place, 19 Ngo Duc Ke, is still as good as ever.
3. Shop n Sai Gon for local coffee, which smells so good and is less acidic; much cheaper than Starbucks, too; imported stuff like french jams and pate- cheaper than Manila, just look at the expirations dates.
Would you believe there is a french goods store on Hai Ba Trung St. in District 1 that sells 1st class pate for US$60 a block. Yes, the more affluent locals can afford it.
Of course, the climax of all my meals is the tartine lunch at Cafe elysee of sofitel saigon. This US$16 meal is to die-for. You wouldnt think you are in Vietnam.
Still looking forward to visit Hanoi, come fall- mua thu.
In the meantime, may have to go back to replinish my stock of coffee and jam.
Hen gap lai.
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