Did america getting its ass kicked mean friendship? I hear alot that vietnam likes america more than china which doesnt sit right with me is that actually true, also they like america but hate the french? I heard vietnam be called the mexico of asia. Maybe its my own personal left wing bias but I literally cannot see any reason why vietnam would respect america and hate china.
I feel a bit embarrassed to tell personal anecdotes, but here I go...
I visited Hanoi in 2005. Most people very nice, but I did feel random animosity from older men (were they vets?). Occasionally they would insult me (I assume, I speak zero Vietnamese). I'd get a the ground near my feet spat at. It was fine, but I felt the vibe.
I went last year, and felt none of it. I can't get over the level of interest and respect that I got, a very mediocre middle aged white dude. Multiple times I had people far beyond my level of cool trying to be my best mate. Also I got beaten in chess by 7 different people who were super humble about their ability.
Edit: I forgot the add, people complained about China a lot.