Vietnam: Asian tiger. Hollywood punchbag. Undefeated warrior state. Everybody has an idea of ‘Nam, perceptions coloured by movies and books. Its name itself is loaded with innuendo. Flying into Hanoi on a day when cloud hangs low over the city and mist is rising off the Red River is guaranteed to stir your heart. It’s like arriving on a movie set – but here you have a walk-on part and you can’t read the script.

Call it what you like, this long, skinny country is the hottest destination in Asia. One thing is certain – if you go, be prepared for an experience that is everything and nothing you expect.

Photos and text by Paul Ash.

15 February 2012

 

Frankie Couts

Shaq posted his official retirement from basketball via video. The date recorded was just prior to the start of the 2010 season.

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