Our last days in Bali were a bit unusual, since we both normally feel some type of pressure as we approach Travel Day. But after countless times of sorting, purging, and packing, our natural sense of order was remarkably calm. One reason was because we were taking a SUITCASE, first time in a long time, which meant we could be a bit casual with our backpacks. And also, since we KNEW we’d be coming back to the same city and the same homestay, our emotional tug was much healthier. Since we’ve stayed in the same city, same room, and seen the same people three times, they’ve become friends, and we give stuff to them we want to leave, and they keep stuff for us that we want to store.

When we checked in at the airport we were reminded that we actually had a priority ticket since we paid extra for the luggage. That gave us access to a lounge, which is always nice, so we were able to relax and eat rather than idly sitting at the gate. AND, we had the first two seats in the plane, their version of First Class. Sweet! Especially on a four-hour flight. Of all the flights I’ve ever taken in my life, most of my seats have been over the wing, which obstructs whatever views there are, so it was nice seeing the coastline of Bali with more clarity than I have seen before. Their business class seats were not quite as opulent as a longer or overseas flight, no private or sleeping cabin, but it was still a nice perk.

The downside of our flight to Da Nang was that we had to fly into Ho Chi Minh City first, go through immigration, pick up our luggage, and transfer to the domestic terminal, and then check in again! What a pain in the ass. But it worked out fine and we are now settled back in Vietnam (for the 4th time).

One of the most significant differences I saw immediately: the people in Vietnam talk much, much louder! At the Bali airport the gate was a normal state of noise, but in Vietnam people were talking LOUDLY—to their friends, on the phone, and it seems the “inside voice” was missing.

We’re in Hoi An, nice homestay, and will be here for about 40 days, then probably up to Da Nang proper. After being here for 2 days, Kat and I both miss Bali quite a bit, and as I walked around today searching out gyms, I reflected on the differences between the countries. I view the comparison as being similar to Albania and Croatia: one country is just a bit more advanced, maybe sophisticated, and the other is still a little rough around the edges. Which is fine. So far we’ve eaten out several meals, and none have been over $20 for dinner, and I can breakfast for less than $5. Gotta like that