12/3/06

Hello, A twenty eight hour bus ride from Cambodia, and I am in Mui Ne. I was wandering if it would be possible to Western Union me 150-200$. We were shaken down at the border(the entire bus-by the border patrol, and police)and They got my last American dollars. The bus driver took the front wheel off the bus, and the border guards told us we were not moving until we paid up. As they had our passports, we all had to. I am not out of money, but they charge you about two to one to convert VND back to dollars. If this is possible, let me know. There is a western union 3km down the road, and I will e-mail the info. It would be cheaper for me to pay you back, than to convert that much. Visa matters are only handled in dollars, and I am stuck here until mine gets renewed in four days, and I need a Laoation Visa as I head back north. The trip is overall going well, and Cambodia is beautiful, but it is not safe after dark. I am excited to be going back north, and am starting to look forward to being back home where I will not be sweaty all the time. I will enjoy these last two weeks. I am starting to tire of being cheated out of money, and being asked to buy things all the time. I understand that's part of the deal in poor countries, but the border incident has left a poor taste in my mouth. Sorry to ask, and if you can't do it I'll convert VND. I'll check my e -mail tomorrow. Hope all is well in Montana,