Vietnamese Boat Dancing, Rice Paddies, And The Tourism Mafia

We understand that poverty is an issue and that they're trying to put food on the table, but is not okay to extort money or rip travellers off outrageouslly, which was our continued experience throughout northern Vietnam. They only care about the dollar now, and have no forethought for the future (as in, they're destroying their tourism industry by treating tourists like walking dollar signs).

Mr. Mark Corriveau:
Your remarks are uncalled for. You do not know either of us, nor do you know how we carried ourselves in the 20 or so countries we were fortunate to experience in our year of traveling. Please do your research and know what it is that you are speaking about before you so insolently comment on the blog of two individuals that you do not know. Our experience in Vietnam is just that - our experience. We lived these moments, felt the joys and the frustrations, and yes, were taken advantage of and ripped off more times than we could count. Our animosity towards that fact does not mean we believe we’re better than anyone or that we are racist. It has nothing to do with culture shock or lack of respect for customs - unless the customs you speak of are to flippantly exploit travelers, then in that case, you are correct. We are both aware of Canadian history, and your gross inaccuracy in telling us what our country has or has not done does not aid you in making whatever point you set out to do in your difficult to discern rant. It’s clear that you have some guilt and aggression in regards to the Vietnam war, and international perceptions of America. May you find peace in your past. Your choices are not on our conscience. Do not project your insecurities or anxieties onto others. Our blog is a place where we collectively shared our lived experiences and ups and downs of our travel adventures. We will not allow you to use it as a soapbox for your uneducated rants. Trevor and Kristena