Happy Reunification Day. Today marks 50 years since the fall of Saigon in 1975, which ended the Vietnam War and led to the reunification of North and South Vietnam under communist control. It also happened to be my last full day in Vietnam—and it was a very chill one.
I woke up super late, still exhausted from my month-long motorbiking trip and the accident. The wound on my knee has scabbed over and makes me walk with a bit of a limp, so I end up using more energy just getting around.
After finally getting out of bed, I found a coffee shop that served kombucha, then took a private transfer to Da Nang. Walking around Da Nang really surprised me. The city has tons of viber cafes, Western restaurants, and a noticeable expat presence. I had one of the best poke bowls of my life for lunch. The beach here is also solid—long, clean, and backed by pretty mountains. It was packed today thanks to domestic travelers celebrating the holiday.
I could actually see myself investing in Da Nang in the future. I even saw a sign for a future Nobu under construction.
In the evening, I met up with my fraternity brother, Jared Peters, who moved to Da Nang almost two years ago. Even though we hadn't seen or spoken to each other in over four years, it was amazing hearing his story. He started a similar backpacking trip to mine two years ago—backpacking Asia after getting tired of corporate life in St. Pete, Florida. After six months of traveling, he landed in Vietnam on a 90-day visa to figure out his next move. Things unfolded serendipitously. He began working as a surf instructor in Da Nang and, eight months ago, opened his own business.
It's inspiring to see people follow their passions and build something from scratch. I hope to do that one day, too.
We chatted about how travel changes you and how different it would feel returning to the U.S. It was great catching up with him and seeing where life has taken him.
Tomorrow, I fly to Singapore for two days before a month of island hopping in the Philippines.
Vietnam has been one of my favorite places on this journey. The people are so warm and friendly, the food is delicious and cheap, and the natural beauty is otherworldly. Riding a motorbike around the country for a month was one of the most adventurous things I've ever done. It was tough at times, but I grew as a man and a human being.
I got to see countless smiling, beautiful faces in remote parts of the country—places many people never get the chance to visit. There are amazing people and places in every corner of the globe. You just have to go looking.
