before, next and in between

So I need to indulge more about myanmar, but i have been through vietnam already and am currently making my way through laos.

A few things about vietnam to get it out of the way.

Its AWESOME... Go there if the get the chance. Its really cheap. The food is the best around. And the cultural activities are top notch. That said the people aren't really friendly. At least not in my opinion and not compared to other peoples in that part of the world. They just got their own shit going on and don't care if your black or white. Really they could care less or a a large majority of them could. Again this is my opinion. Maybe you have experienced something different, and congratulations.

A few things...

If you are wanting a good message I recommend you don't go to the ones that also offer a sauna and jacuzzi and the like. If you do you will just get a shitty message and an expensive HJ.

Eat as much as you possibly can. It is very healthy and delicious. You must try bun nhit gyoun (SP? but its close). A slightly moist noodle salad that will knock you off your rocker.

The coffee is the bombest drink possible. Even if you don't like coffee, and your a sucker if you don't, try it. que rico.

Wear your helmet if you are motorbiking. Not only is it the law my friend Chris and I saw 4 accidents in Ho Chi Minh in about as many days.

One month is not enough time for vietnam. Fair enough Chris and I took it rather slowly but you ought to if you want to enjoy yourselves as we do, on the chill vibe, and we only made it half way up the country. Give it two months.

Tet, the lunar new year is awesome, at least the fireworks are and the people's attitudes, the tax that EVERYBODY adds on for the next two weeks SUCKs. Try to avoid it during tet unless you want to shell out the extra dough. Fuck you tet tax. Longest holiday in the world...

There are hundreds of propaganda posters in vietnam, many of which have great graphics. Wish I had the chance to take one.

Skip Mui Ne unless you really dislike chilling on the beach and only want to windsurf and kite board and watch out for the scags, they'll get ya.

Don't take an easyrider tour. A group/gang of motorbike drivers that are in a few cities and charge an exorbitant amount for their rides proclaiming "You will see the real vietnam, guaranteed." Yea, what a crock of bullshit. Hate those guys. Except Cong your cool.

Try not to spend too much money in Hoi An. All those nice suits and fake shoes make it real hard.

Hue is a really cool city. Except that it was raining the entire time. Stay at the backpackers hostel there. FREE BEER from 5-6, almost makes up the money you spent on your room.

Other than that kick it is hard as you can.