Vietnam: The Gay Prince and His Fabulous Mausoleum

The 12th emperor of Vietnam's last royal family was a flamboyant man. Rumor has it he didn't even take interest in sex with his wife or concubines. GASP! I wonder why? 

Khai Dinh didn't play an important role in history. He was only in power for nine years and was hated by the Vietnamese who believed he was a puppet of the French government. Therefore, tour guides often forget to mention his one and only legacy: his fabbbuulouuuss mausoleum. 

Let me tell you, it's as flashy as the emperor's rhinestone embroidered ensembles.

It's the most expensive tomb in the country. Dinh raised taxes on peasants 30% just to fund its construction. It consists of two palatial buildings carved into the side of a steep hill in the mountains outside of Hue. 

The side walls are formed by the biggest dragon sculptures in Vietnam. The walls, ceiling and pillars of the main complex are an intricate mosaic of colorful glass and porcelain imported from France. 

While Khai Dinh's time as emperor might be easily forgotten by the Vietnamese, you surely won't regret taking a visit to the architectural treasure he left behind.