June 2006 was my first time returning to Vietnam since my adoption via Operation Babylift in April 1975. This was essentially an evacuation of around 3000 orphans at the Fall of Saigon. About 1700 of these orphans were brought to the US; I was one of them. This trip back to Vietnam was a 30-day solo journey into my past and present, which has no doubt affected my future.

I began in the south in Saigon; traveling first in nearby places such as Bien Hoa to visit Tan Mai Orphanage, Mekong Delta, Cao Dai Temple, and Cu Chi Tunnels. I then took a bus north and inland to Dalat. From there I hired a motorbike driver who took me up the coast to Cam Rahn Bay and Nha Trang. I bussed from Nha Trang to Hoi An and then to Hue. I then took a plane north from Hue to Hanoi. From Hanoi, I took a train near the border of China to Lao Cai and eventually the wonderful town of Sapa. Here I took a 3-day trek which was the highlight of my adventure. Last, I took a boat ride in Halong Bay. I finally returned to Hanoi and then flew back down to Saigon. This gallery gives a glimpse into what I saw in Vietnam. It shows a beautiful country, culture, and people. However, the pictures do not quite convey the kindness I felt from the people I met who opened their minds and hearts to me; I was a sister and a daughter to many Vietnamese I met. Enjoy the pictures!