VIETNAM                                                                                          

Legend has it that Vietnam's origin lays in the harmonious union of Lac Long Quan, King of the Sea, and Au Co, Princess of the Mountains.  Vietnam was under the domination of Chinese for an entire millennium, which was finally thrown off in the 9th century; therefore Vietnam's traditions and culture were heavily influenced by China.  External control was imposed once again in the 19th century when Vietnam was occupied by the French.  Although many westerners still imagine Vietnam through the lens of war, it is in reality a country filled with captivating natural beauty, newly restricted modern cities and tranquil village life.  Its highlands and rainforest regions, far from being devastated, continue to yield new species and team with exotic wildlife.  Its islands and beaches are among the finest in all of Southeast Asia, and its cuisine is very possibly the most delicious you will ever find.