a veg life

Hi all— It’s been a while since we’ve blogged on our travels, and, due to popular demand (read: peer pressure from a few friends), we’re back. I’m not committing to a post everyday, but one round-up of highlights from each city we visit seems very do-able to me! Hope you enjoy reading them! ------- The locals here call it Saigon, and you'll see both names used interchangeably. We think it's a traditional identity thing, similar to Leningrad/St. Petersburg. EAT : Bông Súng - Vegetarian restaurant near Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral. We ate pho (that had some great tofu) and spring rolls (which were so-so). Tons of options, and a menu with images, so you can see what you’re ordering! Decent WiFi, too! My Bahn Mi - The Banh Mi is a classic Vietnamese sandwich, traditionally served with pork, pickled veggies, herbs, and mayo on a baguette (gotta love that French colonial influence). Tofu and egg banh mis are also common vegetarian options. My Banh Mi...

(posted by Emily) 29 June 2015 Istanbul, Turkey 39,766 steps (18.23 miles) Monday was another early morning for us. After another great breakfast at Black Tulip, we walked up to the Hagia Sophia area in order to be on time for the opening of the Basilica Cistern at 9am. We wandered the neighborhood a bit, taking in another calm morning and views of the museum. While we waited for the istern to open, we found a spot on a bench nearby and made a new friend, who followed us over to our seats. Almost as soon as Rick said, "I don't think she'll jump up here," we had a seatmate. The Basilica Cistern is an underground water storage area named for a basilica that was once in existence on top of the subterranean cavern. Of all the museums and exhibits we've seen here, I think this one was my favorite. The lighting was spectacular, and it was quiet and calm so early in the morning. There is music playing inside, adding to the mystical mood.  In the back corner of the cister...