Xin Chao Saigon!

We arrived at 1:00AM Philippine time here in Ho Chi Minh (previously called Saigon) Socialist Republic of Vietnam. In all honesty, I felt my whole body about to collapse in mere exhaustion. We brought two full loads of hand carries, each consisting of seven kilos and two more little bags for Dwayne's other things. There were no luggages but in all honesty now that I went through what I did, I'd much prefer to have huge trolleys than hand carries. Nonetheless, that was our predicament.

So, minus our son who weighs about 12 kilos at the moment, the entire procedure was totally about endurance, gut and strong will. As we all know the process at NAIA Terminal has a lot of counters and fees to pay. So, I'm just glad that our money was just enough to pay other charges prior to our departure. And, we went through the Immigration booth just fine. I believe it was because of Dwayne's charm that put us through a smooth process though.

Our second flight was delayed about an hour, so imagine an hour of sitting on a stagnant plane and with a son who wants to sleep so bad but cannot. It was really just a situation that I wanted to disappear from. My back was showing its first signs of uneasiness, it was literally getting stuck up. There was not much space to move about. It was terrible. So, when the aircraft started to finally get moving, my son decided to close his eyes. He was too tired. I also followed suite but there were times I would wake up and finding my lower back unbearable. I wanted to straighten it but can't because my kid's head is on my lap. It was really just a matter of me wanting to give up and praying to God we get to our destination already. So, eventually I had to give my son's head to his father's lap so I could at least stretch my aching lower back.

Thank God, he didn't wake up in the process. I was able to bend my back. It was just what I needed. Finally, we reached the top of Vietnam. It was wonderful! I was so amazed from the view way up in the sky. The lights were glaring red and the road map of long highways and well organized districts was clear from atop. Something about it made me feel like this country was as tough and as mysterious as its exterior. It was magical. I was getting sentimental. I felt like all the physical pain went away. I was blown away by the beauty I was seeing. It was priceless.

I felt a new ecstatic feeling. I wasn't sleepy anymore but already excited about the people who will greet us, my mom, two sis and cousin. It was a very happy moment. Surprisingly, Dwayne did not cry upon their greeting complete with hugs and kisses. That was all we needed after a tedious day of backpacker travelling. I felt so relieved. And excited to get to know Vietnam!

Our first plane ride from CDO to Manila

At Lumbia Airport

at NAIA Terminal Airport waiting for departure to Ho Chih Minh

Dwayne strolling and running around the departure area going to Vietnam

Just landed at NAIA Terminal 3

NAIA Terminal 3 relaxing

Christmas is really just around the corner at NAIA Terminal 3

I am so happy for having a safe, smooth and successful trip. After all the days of waiting and praying for all to be well, God has indeed answered all those with great memories and wonderful blessings. Now, I'm taking everything all in as I am exploring the City of Ho Chi Minh here in Vietnam.