Same Same but Different

Everywhere in Hoi An you hear the same thing: "Hello" "Where you from?" As you answer, the ladies bring their wares and try to sell you something. Anything from water to bookmarks, beads to hats. When you say no thank you they explain that it's free to look and when you say I already have they say "Same same but different" or sometimes "same same but better". Everybody says it so much that I find myself saying it all the time. I've dropped the phrases that I use in Canada because I've stopped hearing them. Instead I find myself slipping into Brit speak. (The boys are from London & Darby, Julie is from Glasgow). I say things like chuffed and never mention my pants in public. And then I say the local phrases. Using strange terms that Vietnamese people have adapted from tourists. In the market Julie and I are often asked if we're sisters. When we say no just friends they say we look the same. Our response? Same same but different. They think that's hilarious and we all have a good laugh. A beautiful young girl made me a pair of shoes today that I can't wait to get home and show off. These girls are amazing. I picked a design, leather, pattern, heel, etc. And in a day I had the most beautiful shoes that fit perfectly to my feet. Went to the beach the last two days. The beach is so beautiful. Palm trees and blue surf. It's amazing. My pale Canadian skin burnt, but already it's turning into a brilliant tan. That's right folks white Bethany is getting a tan (first time for everything). Hoi An is about pampering. I got a mani/pedi and a massage. Then lay on the beach for two days. I spent more here than in Hanoi and Hue combined, but I'll be living off sticky rice and noodles for the next two weeks. :) Shout out to the greatest lady on Earth: my mom. Happy Mother's Day! I miss you I love you and I can't wait to see you. Pamper yourself today! You are such an amazing person and there should be more days to celebrate you. xo