Vietnam brings back a horrid past for the USA.  We lost the Vietnam War, our worst defeat in history.  Here is a  video attesting that the defeat was worse than you thought . The country is officially the Socialist Republic of Vietnam with today a population of 102 million, ranking #15 in the world.  The capital is Hanoi, while the largest city is Ho Chi Minh City. Some history, Was inhabited by the Paleolithic age in the first millennium BC. Came under Chinese rule from 111 BC until 939 AD. During the 17th and 18th centuries, Vietnam had two domains. One of them surrendered to France in 1883, and was named French Indochina. In the immediate aftermath of World War II, the Viet Minh, led by Ho Chi Minh, launched the August Revolution, declaring Vietnam's independence in 1945. But France returned to reclaim colonial power, and the U.S. began to encroach in the early 50's. There was prolonged warfare until a treaty was signed in 1954 between the Viet Minh and France, wh...

 The Diamond Princess arrived in Phu My on Day 11.  We gained an hour overnight, so showed up too early for lunch.  We both thus had breakfast, followed by lunch. One of the highlights of this cruise was the Caymus Winemaker Dinner.  But it came at an extra cost of $175/person.  Was it worth it?  Marginally, but why not this kind of treat at least once a journey.  Held in the Pacific Moon Dining Room. Caymus wines. Dining table,. About the dinner. The menu. Appetizer. Mushroom salad. Caymus wines. Photo with manager and chef. Champagne and risotto. Good risotto, but way too much quantity. Steak Rossini, which comes with duck foie gras and truffle slices. Champagne. The couple above wears black medallions, meaning they have been on at least 15 Princess cruises.  They, however, on about their 25th.  Prosciutto, cheeses and fruits. Dessert. So how was this dinner?  As said before, okay, but food portions are too much and over-sauced.  ...