Sunday, 4 October 2009

Wow! what a day we have had in Hue, the ancient captial of Vietnam. First, sadly there are signs of the Typhoon which made landfall on this city last Monday. Piles of mud everywhere, the hightide watermark to be seen at over a metre in people's homes and people clearing up everywhere.
The poverty and subsistance living of the locals is humbling but they continue to smile, wave and say "hallo" as you pass.
After our feast of a breakfast Irene and I skipped lunch and enjoyed a walk in the town.
Happily Irene was persuaded to forego the Afternoon Tea and jump on a motorbike. She loved it. We spent three hours touring some sights -photos to follow - and then around the suburbs visiting some local families along the way.
We were out on the Perfume River Delta for sunset. The local fisherfolk were out casting their nets.
We are now heading out to dinner for some local delicacies.
Great news from Glasgow Louise has obtained her MSc
Much love and congratulations from Mum. So very proud of you.
Sunday 4th October 2009

Arrived in Hue this morning at 8am by overnight train from Hanoi.
The journey was unexpectedly fine. 1stClass sleeper. Not exactly European
1st Class but adequate.
Checked into beautiful hotel. Irene and I have enjoyed a truly yummy breaky
5* standard. While we have enjoyed the Vietnamese food we have missed
our Western style.
Off now to visit the sites/sights of Hue. Irene heading for 5* Afternoon Tea
while I ride motorcycle to see local countryside.

Saturday, 3 October 2009

We are just back from an amazing visit to Halong Bay. A 3 hour bus journey took us
to Halong City where we joined a traditional Junk boat for an overnight cruise on
the bay. We sailed amongst the limestone Karsts (very tall narrow islands). Had dinner,
fished from the boat and relaxed on a beach. My personal achievement was a climb of
400 steps to a viewing point on one of the islands. A special one, that Ho Chi Minh
visited - but he took the easy route to the top by landing in a helicopter.
More news and some of the hundreds of photos in next post.

Thursday, 1 October 2009

we met up with the guide and fellow travellers tonight.
All looks very well. We leave for the cruise of Halong Bay
tomorrow early. Guess it may be Sunday before you
hear from us again. Enjoy your weekend.
A mobile plumber amidst the chaos of Hanoi.