Vietnam: Part One, Shoes

OOps! I didn't want this to be a kbeauty blog because I am seriously the dumbest when it comes to make-up, and also there are hundreds of other, more knowledgeable people that can help you out. So, moving on from my limited beauty product knowledge for now. Moving on to my FANTASTIC VIETNAM TRIP!! I have been on a lot of vacations, but this past one I took to Vietnam was damn near perfect. There were a lot of aspects to the fabulousness, so it's overwhelming and irrational to try and tackle it all in one go. I am also not going to try and organize it in any way, I'm just going to randomly post things trip related every now and then. First up, shoes!

Last year, I went on a two week tour of Vietnam and made a two day stop in Hoi An, which is on the east coast in the middle of Vietnam. It is famous for silk lanterns and tailor shops. I LOVE paper lanterns (not kidding, they are tattoed on my body), so this place like the little magical, softly-lit paper wonderland of my dreams. Two days was not enough, so I convinced SY to go back for our summer vacation. I had ulterior motives, though, because I wanted a new wardrobe (and a wedding dress, another post!) made. Plus, I wanted to experience the romance and magical-ness of the city with SY and not random strangers I met in the hostel. So back we went at the end of July! So many fantastic things happened but for now, shoes!

Like I said, Hoi An is famous for tailors, as well as handmade shoes and other leather goods. After I got fitted for a dress, the shop recommended a shoe store down the street. I am so incredibly lazy and hate bargaining with people, so instead of trying to look for anywhere else that might have been better or cheaper, I just went with this first option. I don't recommend doing this because I'm quite certain there are better options out there. While I am relatively happy with my results, I feel like things could have been better, and cheaper. Also I second guess every decision I've ever made in my life, so this is no exception.

The place was called VANS shoes and the ladies were nice enough. I showed them what I wanted and got fitted and was on my way. When I came back the next day (so fast!) they were ready but I wanted them to tighten the straps on the sides of the sandals. Long story short, I came back to the store 3 more times and they were never tightened. Finally on the last day, they suggested tightening the back strap to make them tighter and because I am easily convinced, don't like arguing and they legit seemed tighter, I just went with it. Now, being home and wearing them around town, I am pretty pissed I didn't make them tighten the straps on the sides. Because now they flap around when I walk and it's so annoying. They are SO cute and I love them, but god dammit, they are flappy and annoying.


I also got some heels made. I am pretty happy with them, but I recently wore them and damn, they were crazy uncomfortable. I only wore them for a few minutes, so maybe they will stretch out and feel better but at the moment they are pretty pinchy. But, they photograph well and are pretty to look at so that's a plus. Also, they were about $150 cheaper than what they go for online.

Well shit, this turned out more negative than I thought. I loved most things about Vietnam, and these shoes are, in theory (and in pictures) are pretty fabulous. But, they were more expensive and less satisfactory than I was hoping. So, yeah, if you decide to go and get some shoes made, channel your inner strength and stick to your guns about what you want and how they feel. Don't be like me and just give up so you can leave with your shoes you paid money for. Yes, they are cheaper than anything you will ever buy or have made at home but still. They're yours and you're paying so get what you want or get out. For Part Two, I'll find something more positive to write about!