Today we travelled for an hour and a half south of Saigon to the Mekong Delta. First we sampled different local fruits like dragonfruit, banana and jackfruit while listening to a local group singing traditional Vietnamese folk songs. Unfortunately, Vietnamese music is not pleasant to the Western ear, but maybe they say the same thing about our style of music.

Next we boarded a sampan for a short paddle up the tributaries of the Mekong where we stopped, sampled the coconut candy they were making as well as cumquat and honey tea. Then a large python was brought out for those who wanted to have their photo taken with it. Brad was rather apprehensive as he hates snakes, however because I had done it he thought he had better try.

We then hopped on a larger boat for our lunch stop on an island in the middle of the Mekong. Here we had an elephant ear fish (I think), which we then made into spring rolls. There were many other foods which we couldn't identify but they we tried them anyway.

On our way back, we stopped at a place where they make lacquerware. It is a very involved process using mother of pearl, duck eggshells, or bright painted designs to make everything from coasters to furniture. It wasn't real cheap and what I liked Brad didn't and vice versa so we didn't buy anything.

Back in Saigon, nine of our group treated ourselves to a massage. The Vietnamese girls were intrigued by Brad`s hairy chest, arms and legs and giggled about it. I don`t think they see very many hairy men. Anyway, it was great and we felt very relaxed.

After dinner, a small group of us headed to the Beirut Bar where we watched some rather exotic belly dancers. Sorry, no photos of the dancers.

Tomorrow is our last full day in Saigon.