Good Morning Vietnam and tạm biệt

My final early morning run into town and back. 

Like yesterday, I couldnt get through one of the back streets because it was flooded. Being so close and at the same level as the tidal river mouth, this seems to be a daily occurrence. 

Then I wanted to show Elijah the fresh food market I discovered yesterday. 

Back for our last delicious breakfast, with a new delicacy - mini Vietnamese omelettes. 

A final swim in the crystal clear ocean and our last grab to the airport. Our driver was originally from the Mekong Delta before moving here for work. He taught himself English just by lisrening and interacting with the diners at the restaurant where he worked and now as a driver. As someone who's studied 3 different languages for at least 3 years and retained virtually nothing, I think that's impressive. 

Inside the modern airport Elijah's face lit up. The culinary delight he had been longing for throughout his time in Vietnam but which seemed to be completely absent 

a Whopper! Arriving back at Saigon airport with time to spare he discovered another Burger King - and another whopper!

Sadly, with flights to stay well on, I had to hold myself back!

Instead I sought out one more taste of Saigon with a walk to a nearby park. I found it but ... you know you're in Saigon when you aren't brave enough to cross the road to get there!

One unexpected highlight at when our plane came to a stop at Saigon airport - these Vietnam airforce fighter jets, complete with bombs. Is this normal here?

Our flight home was very smooth and more than half empty - so we both got to lie down. No need for the sick bags this time. I was even able to look out the window as we passed over Sydney before turning around over the ocean to land.

What struck us as we walked out of the airport? The lack of humidity, people and scooters, and that the cars kept to their lanes. 

I loved being in such a different part of the world and I loved being there with Elijah. It's brought back memories of our other trips as a family, and my individual trips with Isaac, Bethany and Hamish. So many past blessings!

But what a blessing to return home to such a prosperous and well ordered country and to my wonderful wife. Thank you Father!