13th - Saturday I was expecting a major influx of tourists and visitors to Vung Tau today but the day was actually quieter than week days. We decided today was to be our explore day. Visiting all the major attractions.
Started by getting a cab to the Jesus Statue which as well as the stature is a major Christian pilgrimage site in Asia. The cab dropped us at the entrance. At the top of a very high peak was the statue looking down on us and between us and the statue was an amazing number of steps accessing different landings followed by more steps to the next landing. We went up the first and then the second set. Then common sense set in. It was 32 deg with 90+% humidity. We may have made it to the top but an emergency helicopter evac would have followed, so after a short rest we headed back down. Best decision of the holidays.
A short cab ride to the Saigon Silicone Hotel we were on the deck sipping a cold drink and having an ice cream, enjoying the sea breeze. We took in the view including the local fishermen working their nets. To our amazement the fishermen rowed their boats with their feet. Yep feet on the oars with great precision. Why the feet?? Well a lone fisherman deploying and retrieving the net needs his arms and hands. Controlling the boat with the feet on the oars makes perfect sense - after one has seen it in action. A first for me.
A walk back to the hotel proved the end of the big discovery day - just to bloody hot. We were drained completely so the air cond in the room was cranked up and we had a relaxing afternoon.
Not sure if I have detailed the cost of things here. Just amazingly cheap. Our restaurant meal that evening consisted of 2 entrees, 2 main meals, 2 deserts plus 1 whisky and coke and 2 beers - total A$45.00.  I was dressed properly for a good restaurant including my crocks and socks.
The weather is certainly hindering our getting around but we are captivated by the people, customs, language, politeness, and service.
Tomorrow we leave Vung Tau and head off to the next adventure.