We are searching for a few interesting speakers in Vietnam to give presentations regarding social, political or historical issues to a group of approx. 35 people in Feb.'06. The group is comprised of professionals in a leadership development program from throughout CA. Topics such as orphans fathered by American soldiers during the Vietnam war, the future of VN in the world economy, changes since American tourism opened up, agricultural practices or any other relevant topics presented by qualified speakers would be most helpful.

If you know of anyone that we could connect with there during our scouting trip Sept/Oct. '05, please contact us ASAP.

Send an email to the writer of Noodle Pie Noodle Pie is a very fun read of food adventures in Vietnam. He is a brit that has lived there for many years and seems to be very well connected.

good luck!

Apologies for delay of thanx, Riana. Have been busy making other travel plans & forgot about this one!

Will let you know how it goes with Noodle Pie. I'm also searching for some cooking classes to keep me occupied while my husband works on a project for a few weeks. Sounds like this will put me on the right track, thanks to you!

Craftlink is an organisation that fosters the development of Vietnamese crafts and ensures people get paid properly for it. They have a showroom and office in 43 Van Mieu street in Hanoi. 843 7710

Another organisation worth following up is KOTo, which has a number of restaurants where very poor young people are trained in hospitality. They have a restaurant in 61 Van Mieu street Hanoi also. wwwstreetvoices.com.au