simon and olga do s.e. asia

A short debate settled it, rather than trying to cram loads into the last week in Hanoi we would spend three days out in Halong Bay. Hanoi itself is yet another of the best cities we’ve ever visited. Hotel is excellent (thanks to Dr. Tanh). Food from around the world, mmm fresh pasta. Fresh beer, no chemical, at 14p a glass. Shopping fun and hassle free.

Purchasing travel tickets in Vietnam has proved “interesting” now we are on our own. All-in tours are the norm but we quickly got fed up with being shuttled by minibus. So local transport it is… Train tickets for tomorrow have to be bought the day before but after 2pm, handy when your at the station at 12. Get to the ferry 1 hour before departure and the office is shut, local ladies are happy to help but it’ll cost 50% more as they will have to “have a word with the captain”. Olga not impressed.

Halong Bay makes up for all

The third day was a 2-3 hour trek across the National Park. 5 hours and 5 peaks later… I have never sweated as much in my life and that’s something. Exhilerating (knackering) last adventure, well worth it and the sauna effect finally saw off our colds. Couldn’t wait to dive in the bay though.

Back in Hanoi now for a last bit of shopping and our last day. 🙁
See you all soon.

love Simon and Olga