“It’s a relief living in a place where I don’t have to worry about guns on a daily basis. In the U.S., there’s always that undercurrent of fear, but here in Vietnam, it’s not something I ever have to think about.”

In this inaugural episode of Saigon Sunday Sessions, Niall Mackay sits down with his wife, Adrie Lopez Mackay, to explore what it’s like living in Vietnam as an American. The conversation delves into Adrie’s first impressions, the cultural perceptions surrounding Vietnam, and how they both adjusted to life in Saigon over the past eight years. The discussion covers everything from Vietnam’s growing craft beer scene to the impact of American foreign policy and even reflections on visiting the War Remnants Museum.

Key Highlights:

1. American Perceptions of Vietnam: Adrie shares her initial apprehensions as an American moving to Vietnam, reflecting on the long-standing stereotypes related to the Vietnam War and how those were challenged once she arrived.
2. Cultural Reflections: The couple compares cultural experiences in Vietnam with Adrie’s upbringing in the U.S., highlighting the Vietnamese people’s warmth, acceptance, and resilience, especially given the historical context.
3. Living in Saigon as a Foreigner: The challenges of adjusting to life in Saigon are explored, from navigating the local food scene to understanding Vietnam’s mix of modern and traditional elements. Adrie and Niall also touch on practicalities like transportation, shopping, and maintaining a connection to American culture while living abroad.
4. The War Remnants Museum: A visit to the War Remnants Museum stands out as a pivotal moment in reshaping Adrie’s understanding of the Vietnam War from a Vietnamese perspective, offering an emotional and sobering experience for both.
5. Comparing Vietnam and the U.S.: Adrie offers insights into how living in Vietnam provides a break from the gun culture and political turbulence of the U.S., emphasizing the sense of safety and community she feels in Saigon.

Introduction to the Saigon Sunday Sessions – [00:01:00]
Visiting the War Remnants Museum – [00:05:00]
Vietnamese People’s Forgiveness – [00:09:00]
Cultural Differences in Education about the Vietnam War – [00:11:00]
Living in Saigon: A Mix of Tradition and Modernity – [00:14:00]
Gun Culture in the U.S. vs. Vietnam – [00:40:00]

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Episode Sponsors:

7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!

Tenzing Pacific - I highly recommend them for their professional advice related to personal, family, and business insurance.

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