Day 695-699 (month 23): August 21-25, 2026 – Ha Long, Vietnam

Strolling through the streets of Ha Long, I spotted this group of young people in front of a seafood market burning fake money, both U.S. dollars and Vietnamese dong. I stared at them quizzically until they communicated via Google Translate that they were “burning money for the deceased.” The replica currency is known as “joss paper” and is a widely practiced ritual offering money and wealth to the dead. The practice reflects respect and gratitude for ancestors.

A few other scenes from the streets of Ha Long:

Vietnam’s official national flag (gold star on red background) is often displayed alongside the ruling Communist party flag (hammer & sickle).

Statues along the bay marina: