One of my highlights in 2015, was traveling to Vietnam with my parents (their first time coming back since fleeing the country 30 years ago and my first time ever visiting). It was a very humbling experience. I wasn't used to seeing widespread poverty everywhere. It was a major culture shock for me. But I should have expected it since Vietnam is a third world country. It makes you realize how much we do have and how much stuff people take for granted. It was a special experience for me getting to see the house my mom grew up in until she fled at 15. It was bittersweet hearing my mom talk about how she used to climb on top of the stairs and look down at the living room, playing in the rooms, ditching school on vaccination day (she didn't want the fob shot scar), visiting my grandparents' old friends, meeting relatives for the first time, and just seeing Vietnam through my parents' eyes. I am really happy that my grandpa made my mom go, I can't imagine the life she would have if she stayed. I surprised my parents by hiking up many mountains, scuba diving, parasailing and not giving up. Even though I was out of breath every few minutes, I would rest and continue. There were times where they would tell me to stop and go down, but I insisted on continuing since I was so close to being done. I'm glad I got to see Ha Long Bay. It was truly spectacular. Everyone should see it at least once in their lives. Ha long bay is known for its emerald water and thousands of towering limestone islands topped by rainforests. Cheers to traveling in 2016! #unesco #unescoworldheritagesite #worldheritage #7naturalwondersoftheworld #bestof2015 #wanderlust #travelbug (at Hạ Long Bay)