Sunday (chủ nhật)

Sunday was a relaxing, fun day. I met Chuong and we went out to another little cafe, one right next to Khuc Ban Chieu/Serenata Cafe, called Cafe Soi Da. It looks very similar, even with the same set up, but I like Cafe Soi Da more because it is more open and you can get a better breeze on the second floor. Both cafes are kept cool by huge trees, fans, and large breezeways, and both offer live music and a variety of drinks and food.

And both have super cute steps and sitting areas:




Then the rain clouds started to come in, and we didn't want to get stuck without raincoats, so we left.

After dinner, I went out with Chu Dung and his friend Cindy to Casbah, a Moroccan themed Cafe and Lounge. We parked near the Opera House and walked along the streets, this area is very fancy and has many high end stores and hotels. (Picassa photos - find the one with the Louis Vuitton store!)

Then down a little alley...through a doorway...up the stairs...and there we are! Casbah! Complete with Arabic writing on the walls, Moroccan music, rooftop garden, hookahs, and belly dancers! Though this didn't stop Chu Dung from ordering french fries and chicken wings ^_^



We left at midnight but there were still people in the lounge, and even more people outside eating at the sidewalk restaurant (apparently one of the best, and only about $2 a meal, but we'd just eaten so that'll be another day). And I saw more and more people on the roads and sidewalks as we drove back to the house, prompting my post about the nightlife in Saigon. Even on a Sunday night, people are still eating, talking, and getting together - what a vibrant, active city!

(Picassa photos updated)