What About Vietnam – S5-E8 – Empowering the Traveller: In the fight against Human Trafficking

Hello, I'm Kerry Newsome, and welcome to my podcast, "What About Vietnam." In this episode, I'm thrilled to introduce you to a mini-series "Out & About in Vietnam" that will take you along on my holiday adventures in Vietnam. Over the next 60 days, I'll be sharing my experiences, destinations, and the fascinating people I meet along the way.

Today, we're starting with "Out & About in Saigon", my first stop on this journey. Vietnam is a country that benefits from research and preparation, and through this podcast and series, I aim to help you navigate the overwhelming amount of information out there. I also wrote an Ebook and self published it on Amazon to help guide your plans. Cheap as chips, you can buy HERE, and read it in a day.

As a precursor, as you will hear in the show, please double-check your visa details meticulously. See my Link HERE  which explains the process for E-Visa to ensure you get it right FIRST GO!

In Ho Chi Minh City, I recommend taking the first day to orient yourself. Use Apps  ( See You Tube I did talking about Apps here ) like Grab for transportation, Exe for currency conversion, and Google Maps for navigation. Decide whether you want to hit the top attractions, explore the outskirts for a taste of history and nature, or simply wander the streets and get lost in the local scene. 

Stay tuned for more episodes in the "Out and About" series, where I'll take you to my next destination, Hoi An. You can find all episodes on your usual podcast channels and on whataboutvietnam.com.

Thank you for joining me on this adventure, and I look forward to sharing more of Vietnam with you.

00:01:02 - Purpose of the Mini-Series
00:01:44 - "Out and About" Series Context
00:02:06 - Starting with Ho Chi Minh City
00:03:19 - Importance of Research for Vietnam Travel
00:11:10 - First Day Orientation Advice
00:15:28 - Approaches to Exploring Ho Chi Minh City
00:18:39 - Exploring Ho Chi Minh City's Attractions
00:21:12 - Day Trips Outside Ho Chi Minh City
00:23:37 - Personal Approach to Experiencing the City
00:27:26 - Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City

I hope you find this series interesting and helpful.
Follow along with our social pages as I will post during my journey.
My "Full trip planning"  services will resume in July 2024. 
Please send me your feedback and questions vai the message App on the WAV website.

Thank you for listening.
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Let me design your customised private tour of Vietnam - See our new Travel Services

We have a new partnership which is helping support this podcast.

If you have a Dental Procedure why not find out what’s possible through What About Vietnam’s beauty travel partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital.

Check out our website here, contact us direct; speak to Kelley at WAV, as she has been a dental patient for 10 years, or mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

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Join us for an insightful journey into the pressing issue of human trafficking in Vietnam, and discover how, as a traveller, you have the ability to effect real change.

In this episode, I'm joined by Kim Miller, who offers firsthand insights into the challenges and the remarkable efforts undertaken by Blue Dragon, an organization dedicated to combatting human trafficking. As a listener, you'll gain a profound understanding of the poverty and vulnerabilities that fuel human trafficking, along with practical guidance on recognizing and responding to situations where individuals are exploited or in need of assistance. 

We start off by talking about Kim’s experiences of Vietnam since 2016—Kim shares her deep affection for Vietnam, recounting her experiences living there and highlighting her favorite Vietnamese cuisines like Phở chiên phồng and destinations you may not have heard about just outside of Hanoi called – Ho Dong Do lake district 

Kim shares her bold ambition of raising $200,000 by swimming the English Channel this July to support Blue Dragon's vital community initiatives.  Lets get behind Kim in this endeavour. See link to donate and support her swim  here

Tune in as she outlines actionable steps travellers can take to aid vulnerable individuals they encounter. From simply reaching out or alerting organizations like Blue Dragon, travellers can ensure prompt assistance for those in need, empowering them to play an active role in combating human trafficking.

This is an episode that I'm confident will offer you valuable insights and takeaways.

Finally, you are one click away from supporting Kim's cause, please check the link here and let’s unite in making a positive impact during our journeys through Vietnam.

Thank you for listening.
Give us a review on your podcast channel - Apple is easiest.
Follow our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
Let me design your customised private tour of Vietnam - See our new Travel Services

We have a new partnership which is helping support this podcast.

If you have a Dental Procedure why not find out what’s possible through What About Vietnam’s beauty travel partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital.

Check out our website here, contact us direct; speak to Kelley at WAV, as she has been a dental patient for 10 years, or mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

What have you got to lose? Get your FREE consult today.

Today's episode is particularly special as we delve into the vibrant celebration of Tet, the Vietnamese New Year and what that means for Vietnamese and you as a traveller during this time period.

Drawing from my personal experiences in Vietnam, I've compiled 8 essential tips for travelers to help you navigate and appreciate Tet's rich traditions while planning your trip effectively. 
Tet is a time of giving, gratitude, and family, marking the advent of spring and a fresh start. It's important to note that Tet dates vary each year according to the lunar calendar, with upcoming years being February 10th for 2024 (Year of the Dragon), February 29th for 2025 (Year of the Snake), and February 17th for 2026 (Year of the Horse).

In this show I highlight my most important tips for travellers to ensure they enjoy their stay during this time and manage their expectations.

Here are the TOP 8 tips I discuss on the show:- 

1. Buy Travel Tickets Early
2. Arrive Early for Departures
3. Carry All Travel Documentation
4. Manage Expectations
5. Check Hotel Services
6. Use Facebook for Communication
7. Be Cautious with Restaurant Choices
8. Ensure You Have Enough Cash

Find out my own personal advice on how best to manage your travel arrangements. If you do plan your trip to be in Vietnam why not embrace the local customs, try traditional foods like chung cake or Tet cake, and learn a few festive greetings to show your respect and appreciation for Vietnamese culture.

For those planning a trip in 2024 or beyond, consider these insights to decide whether traveling during Tet aligns with your preferences. Personally, I prefer traveling before or after Tet to allow the Vietnamese to celebrate this significant time without the intrusion of tourism.

For more details and assistance with trip planning, check the show notes or reach out to me directly. Wishing you a fantastic travel experience in Vietnam!Remember, Tet is not just a holiday; it's a profound cultural experience that offers a glimpse into the heart of Vietnam. Whether you choose to travel during this time or not, understanding and respecting the local traditions will undoubtedly enrich your journey.
See future years, dates and Zodiac signs below:

| TET New Year 2024 | February 10th | Year of the Dragon
| TET New Year 2025 | January 29th | Year of the Snake
| TET New Year 2026 | February 17th | Year of the Horse
| TET New Year 2027 | February 6th | Year of the Goat
| TET New Year 2028 | January 26th | Year of the Monkey
| TET New Yea

Thank you for listening.
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Follow our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
Let me design your customised private tour of Vietnam - See our new Travel Services

We have a new partnership which is helping support this podcast.

If you have a Dental Procedure why not find out what’s possible through What About Vietnam’s beauty travel partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital.

Check out our website here, contact us direct; speak to Kelley at WAV, as she has been a dental patient for 10 years, or mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

What have you got to lose? Get your FREE consult today.

In our show today we get to explore the evolving food culture in Vietnam, with a focus on the growth of new culinary experiences and the expansion of dining options beyond just street food. Don’t get me wrong, Street Food is still something you must try, but don’t stop there! 
Stick around to find some of the up and coming places to eat in Vietnam.

My wonderful guest, Jovel Chan a food writer and consultant, shares her insights on the influx of chefs from Vietnam and abroad, the rise of upscale establishments, and the overall refinement and enhancement of the dining scene in cities like Saigon and Hanoi.

Listen to the end as as you will want to know about Jovel's favourites in those 2 cities.

Many talented chefs have come to Vietnam, particularly in cities like Saigon and Hanoi, to set up their own restaurants and cater to both tourists and locals looking for something different. These chefs bring with them their expertise and creativity, introducing new flavors, techniques, and cuisines to the Vietnamese food scene.

Additionally, the rise of five-star hotels and the opening of more malls in Vietnam have further diversified the dining scene. This has led to a wider variety of cuisines being available, catering to different tastes and preferences.

It was pure joy to have this time with Jovel as we laughed and agreed on so many topics and shared experiences. I hope you can forgive the slight ‘cross talk’ in places, but I think if I didn’t leave that in, you would miss out on the connection we had, and wanted to share with you.
Listen to the end as Jovel shares her favourites in Hanoi and Saigon.

You can find all about Jovel’s Saigon Social, dining guides and so much more on her website here

Follow Jovel here:

• Website: https://jovelchan.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jovel.chan/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jovel.chan.7/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joveleugeniachan/

We wish you a happy festive Christmas season and a Happy safe New Year.
This is the last show for 2023, but I am back in February 2024 with a new style of show that I hope you will love.
Stay tuned and check out over 90 shows on this podcast channel.
Thank you for being such wonderful listeners.

Thank you for listening.
Give us a review on your podcast channel - Apple is easiest.
Follow our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
Let me design your customised private tour of Vietnam - See our new Travel Services

We have a new partnership which is helping support this podcast.

If you have a Dental Procedure why not find out what’s possible through What About Vietnam’s beauty travel partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital.

Check out our website here, contact us direct; speak to Kelley at WAV, as she has been a dental patient for 10 years, or mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

What have you got to lose? Get your FREE consult today.

Bac Giang, is a picturesque place that often remains under the radar until the Lychee Festival, typically featured in social pages and news around June. This lively event commemorates Bac Giang's distinction as the "Land of Lychees."

In today’s episode Bac Giang and the subject of lychees are front and centre, as I get to share the story of a photographer named Jessie Pearlman, a previous guest on the podcast, who embarked on a return trip to Vietnam, driven by his love for the country and his desire to reconnect with friends and explore new experiences. 

This show delves into the motivations behind his journey; the significance of the lychees to the region and the community, and how best to navigate a visit there. Jesse has a wonderful gift for self-expression and description which will immediately transport you to the experiences he had during his time in the heart of Bac Giang province, Luc Ngan, the township designated as the biggest growing township for lychees.

He provides valuable tips on organizing your trip and strongly recommends it as a destination to visit, just a short 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi, especially for photographers and tropical fruit enthusiasts.

This is an off the beaten track location and experience, so information is as Jesse describes, hard to find. Therefore, we have the following links to the people who helped him create his trip, which we hope will help you too.

Phung Lan, Tour Guide for Luc Ngan Lychee Harvest in Bac Giang Province: https://www.facebook.com/kalydao.phung

Lan's Tour Company: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076182891385

By visiting lesser-known regions like Bac Giang, we can contribute to the local economy and make a positive impact on the community. Let's make a conscious effort to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and give back to the places we visit.
Please feel free to reach out if you would like a trip plan to include this region, see Request a Trip Plan HERE

Follow Jesse or get in touch via his IG page here - https://www.instagram.com/pearlmanj1/?hl=en

Thank you for listening.
Give us a review on your podcast channel - Apple is easiest.
Follow our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
Let me design your customised private tour of Vietnam - See our new Travel Services

We have a new partnership which is helping support this podcast.

If you have a Dental Procedure why not find out what’s possible through What About Vietnam’s beauty travel partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital.

Check out our website here, contact us direct; speak to Kelley at WAV, as she has been a dental patient for 10 years, or mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

What have you got to lose? Get your FREE consult today.

If you're planning a holiday in Vietnam and have a penchant for motorbike rides and scenic routes, your quest will inevitably lead you to the iconic Hải Vân Pass (Đèo Hải Vân).

The Hải Vân Pass is more than just a road; it's a legendary motorbike route nestled in the heart of central Vietnam. In 2008, it garnered global recognition as the BBC and the Top Gear crew ventured through its winding trails, cementing its reputation as a must-visit destination for motorbike enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

But what sets the Hải Vân Pass apart is not just its breathtaking landscapes. It holds a pivotal place in history as a crucial route during the Vietnam War, bridging the north and south of the country. Today, it stands as a symbol of Vietnam's resilience and progress.

To uncover the hidden gems of the Hải Vân Pass, I had the privilege of speaking with Chris Moonie,  a seasoned media professional, and traveller, with over eight years of living in Vietnam and multiple explorations of the Hải Vân Pass, Chris's first-hand experiences and deep understanding of the region make him an invaluable source of information for anyone contemplating a journey along this iconic route.

Together we unpack all the ways to explore this route, and all the hidden gems along the way. Travelling by bike is not the only way to do this route.

Chris's own odyssey in Vietnam began in 2013, when he ventured to Hoi An with his son. He was instantly captivated by the country, its people, and the irresistible charm of Hoi An. A chance encounter with a special lady during his visit further cemented his decision to relocate to Hoi An. Since then, he has been a resident of An Bang, a once-sleepy village that has transformed into a bustling tourist destination only 10 mins out of Hoi An.

The Hải Vân Pass, no doubt, is a paradise for Instagram enthusiasts, but what sets it apart is the array of unique stops along the way. From oyster farms to the Dream Springs, this motorbike excursion offers more than just scenic beauty. But we will let you decide after listening.

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast, leave us a review, and share it with your fellow adventurers.

You can reach Chris directly here  https://www.facebook.com/chrisminvietnam

Watch Chris's Video here - https://www.facebook.com/chrisminvietnam/videos/866528168426706/

Thank you for joining us on this exciting episode, and until next time, may your travels be filled with adventure and wonder.

Thank you for listening.
Give us a review on your podcast channel - Apple is easiest.
Follow our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
Let me design your customised private tour of Vietnam - See our new Travel Services

We have a new partnership which is helping support this podcast.

If you have a Dental Procedure why not find out what’s possible through What About Vietnam’s beauty travel partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital.

Check out our website here, contact us direct; speak to Kelley at WAV, as she has been a dental patient for 10 years, or mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

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Welcome to another exciting episode of The What About Vietnam Podcast.

In today's episode, we're diving deep into the world of expat life in Vietnam, shedding light on the importance of doing your homework before taking the plunge into this vibrant Southeast Asian nation.
Vietnam is a country that's been capturing the imaginations of many with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and a rapidly growing economy. But, before packing your bags, it's crucial to consider the vital aspect of due diligence.

Our guest today, Kate Boardman, an experienced expat in Vietnam, shares invaluable insights on the need to verify job opportunities and ensure that you meet the legal requirements for working in the country. The last thing you want is to encounter legal troubles or job scams.

However, it's not all cautionary tales in this episode. Vietnam's expat landscape is changing rapidly. The rise of digital nomadism has opened up new avenues for professionals to explore Vietnam while working remotely. With its booming tech industry and dynamic startup scene, Vietnam has become a hotspot for those looking to combine work and travel.

Kate takes us through the journey, highlighting the incredible opportunities this evolving expat scene offers. From sipping Vietnamese coffee in Hanoi's quaint cafes to exploring the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, there's so much to discover in this diverse country.

So, if you're considering a move to Vietnam or are simply intrigued by the idea of combining work with wanderlust, this episode is a must-listen. 

Join us as we uncover the nuances of becoming an expat in Vietnam. Tune in now!

NEW:_ Please contact us here for more detail about the beauty and dental surgery travel services we are just launching - whataboutvietnamtcservices@gmail.com

If you need an easy guide to the new Evisa Process  go here
Book now for the 2024 Girls Getaway

Follow Kate and her travels here:
IG -https://www.instagram.com/wildkat.wanders
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wildkat.wanders
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@wildkatwanders

Thank you for listening.
Give us a review on your podcast channel - Apple is easiest.
Follow our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
Let me design your customised private tour of Vietnam - See our new Travel Services

We have a new partnership which is helping support this podcast.

If you have a Dental Procedure why not find out what’s possible through What About Vietnam’s beauty travel partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital.

Check out our website here, contact us direct; speak to Kelley at WAV, as she has been a dental patient for 10 years, or mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

What have you got to lose? Get your FREE consult today.

In this podcast episode, I have the opportunity to introduce you to Vicki Thai, a Health Care Sales professional living in Utah, USA, with Vietnamese heritage. 

Vicki's family immigrated to the United States from Vietnam when she was four years old, and during her growing up, she had never given much thought to her Vietnamese background. However, a moment of vulnerability in her mother's health led her to realize the importance of experiencing her heritage. She decided to plan a trip to Vietnam with her mother and reached out to the "What About Vietnam" podcast for assistance.

As I knew the background to the tour, I took great pleasure in planning this trip for Vicki and her mum, which included visits to Saigon, the Mekong Delta, and Dalat. These locations held special significance for Vicki and her mother, allowing them to explore their roots and connect with their heritage. Unexpectedly, the trip evoked strong emotions and a newfound appreciation for their Vietnamese identity.

During their stay in Vietnam, Vicki and her mother engaged with the local people, immersed themselves in the country's culture, and marveled at the landscapes. This experience transformed Vicki's perception of her birthplace, instilling a deep sense of pride in her heritage. She also praises the warmth and thoughtfulness of the Vietnamese people, particularly their tour guides, and one in particular in Saigon, Ms Thuy.

The episode highlights Vicki's journey through Saigon, the Mekong Delta, and Dalat, showcasing her awe and discovery of these places. I think for those who don’t live in their country of birth, you will relate to Vicki's story. 

Despite the trip going mostly smoothly, there was a minor glitch, illustrating that while many aspects can be controlled, some factors remain unpredictable. 

From the bustling vibrant city of Saigon, Vicki takes us by the hand as she describes her love of the bustling city of Saigon, to her awe and disbelief cruising through the Mekong Delta and then to discovering through the forests, the city of Dalat. A city she totally didn’t expect, while being her mothers’ birth city.

At a deeper level this episode offers insight into the transformative power of heritage exploration and the deep connections it can foster.

 Time stamps:
02-00-  History and background to Vicki's reason to visit Vietnam
27.00 - Saigon 
30.00 - Tour Guide review of guides in general - starting with Saigon
35.06 - Happy Birthday Vicki
36.06 - Mekong Delta
40.29 - Dalat 

Thank you for listening.
Give us a review on your podcast channel - Apple is easiest.
Follow our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
Let me design your customised private tour of Vietnam - See our new Travel Services

We have a new partnership which is helping support this podcast.

If you have a Dental Procedure why not find out what’s possible through What About Vietnam’s beauty travel partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital.

Check out our website here, contact us direct; speak to Kelley at WAV, as she has been a dental patient for 10 years, or mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

What have you got to lose? Get your FREE consult today.

I’m thrilled to have such an engaging conversation with our guest today about the digital nomad lifestyle. Whether you're a seasoned nomad or just curious about this exciting way of life, this episode is a must-listen!

I am fortunate to be joined with Florian Rucker who inspires nomads by providing a unique, friendly, and well fit out co working space in Hoi An called The Hub, to perform this kind of work. If you can imagine having high speed internet, in a glass workspace, in the middle of rice paddy fields, you have it right there!

 We get down to “tin tacks” as we talk through the evolving landscape of digital nomading and the transformation since Covid. No longer is it just for the youthful adventure seekers, employers are now funding some people to work this way, as they now recognise working remotely doesn’t have to impact output given the right set up.

Hoi An and the The Hub provide workers a unique experience in Vietnam and now that the E-Visa stays are being extended to 90 days this looks like being a very viable option for more people.

Flo is uniquely qualified to speak to this topic having lived abroad since he was 16. Originally a Berliner, he has a Cambridge education, and has lived in 7 other countries throughout his life. With a background in Development Aid and a IT Agency owner he fell in love with Hoi An after being a customer of the The Hub back in 2017. He bought the space in early 2021 and rebuilt it nearby, in the middle of the rice fields in ‘22/’23.
If you would like to know more about The Hub – You can contact Flo here –
 Website: https://www.hubhoian.com/
The Hub social links:
https://www.instagram.com/hubhoian/
https://www.facebook.com/hubhoian

[00:01:39] Digital nomading in Vietnam.

[00:04:07] Whats great about  the community in  Hoi An.

[00:09:14] Internet connectivity surprises digital nomads.

[00:11:15] Remote work and diversity.

[00:19:27] Border runs and visa situations.

[00:28:29] Ice bathing with the members.

[00:40:03] Life as a digital nomad in Hoi An

Thank you for listening.
Give us a review on your podcast channel - Apple is easiest.
Follow our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
Let me design your customised private tour of Vietnam - See our new Travel Services

We have a new partnership which is helping support this podcast.

If you have a Dental Procedure why not find out what’s possible through What About Vietnam’s beauty travel partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital.

Check out our website here, contact us direct; speak to Kelley at WAV, as she has been a dental patient for 10 years, or mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

What have you got to lose? Get your FREE consult today.

In this episode of "What About Vietnam," Kerry Newsome shares some exciting news about the visa situation for entering Vietnam. As of August 15th, travelers will be able to extend their stays from 30 days to 90 days. Kerry recommends using the official immigration website here to apply for your visa and shares the details in the show. However as this change is NOT effective till 15th August, the website has not been updated to reflect this change. See source here for full announcement.

Welcome to Series 5 of the the What About Vietnam Podcast! 
In this episode, we invite you to sit back, relax, and embark on an exciting journey through Vietnam by train. We'll not only explore the beautiful landscapes this country has to offer but also introduce you to various overland travel options available in Vietnam as in the city of Hue, Phan Thiet, and HCMC. By hopping on and off a train, you can experience the country in a rewarding and cost-effective way while connecting with locals in their own backyards.

Our guest today is Simon White, an expert in bilateral business between Australia and Vietnam. Despite his professional background, Simon is a passionate advocate for Vietnam's travel scene. He loves discovering new venues, sampling street food, and exploring local food markets. Together, we'll delve into the option of booking just the first couple of days upon arrival and then improvising the rest of your trip. We'll discuss how easy it is to utilize local transport, such as Grab, to get around and the joys of strolling through towns, trying local cuisine, and immersing yourself in the culture.

Simon will share his experiences in various locations, including Hue, Phan Thiet, Quy Nhon, and HCMC. From recommending restaurants to exploring the diverse range of foods and uncovering hidden alleyways, we'll uncover the vibrant and colorful backyards of Vietnam. Simon's own brand of experiences, starting from early mornings at 5:00 am, will surely entertain and inspire you.

Make sure to listen to the entire episode, as we'll reveal some valuable insights that will make you fall in love with Vietnam, its people, and, most importantly, its food. Simon's advice to not fear scams and understand that most people are simply trying to make a living resonates throughout the episode. This is a must-listen for anyone who craves an in-depth exploration of a country to uncover its hidden charms.

Thank you for listening.
Give us a review on your podcast channel - Apple is easiest.
Follow our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTok
Let me design your customised private tour of Vietnam - See our new Travel Services

We have a new partnership which is helping support this podcast.

If you have a Dental Procedure why not find out what’s possible through What About Vietnam’s beauty travel partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital.

Check out our website here, contact us direct; speak to Kelley at WAV, as she has been a dental patient for 10 years, or mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

What have you got to lose? Get your FREE consult today.