I (Don't) See

[Vung Tau, 5/21/25]

Incidental reading and overheard conversations always help. Your inability to do these overseas are severe handicaps, but at home, there’s no excuse.

On Thống Nhất this morning, I passed a help wanted sign for a “FEMALE EMPLOYEE UNDER 25-YEARS OLD.” This couldn’t have been posted in the USA. Below this sign was a five-gallon water dispenser with plastic cups. Though they exist all over Vietnam, the inattentive never see them. These free refreshment stations are particular useful for itinerant vendors who must walk for hours in extreme heat.

On Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, I snapped a sign showing a blonde haired white man under the NBA logo. “FASHION STYLE FOR YOUNG,” it announced. No, they’re not selling bball sneakers or Old Navy type clothing, but eyeglasses. The business was ISee Optical. Even without any Vietnamese writing, it’s easy enough to guess this was in Asia. ISee used to be in an alley, but business must be thriving. They’re in a much bigger building on a busy street.