Well we are getting used to the routines of Vietnam. Tourist = $ therefore, Rip-em-off! After all it is the international tourism code. Now that we have acclimatised minus a few Dollars we have settled down to enjoying ourself more. Santa with Vodka in hand kept us merry on Xmas Eve. On Boxing day we travelled by night train to the mountains west of Hanoi near China to and area called Sapa where a number of ethnic minorities live. Beatiful misty hillsides covered in rice paddies. Wonderful friendly people.
Caught up with old friends Mark, Vivien and kids unexpectedly. they checked into the room next to us.
We arrived back at Hanoi 5.30am and walked down to the lake and were overawed by the activity. Tai Chi, Badminton shuttlecock, unusual exercise routines, people strolling in the PJs. Found a nice cafe by the lake and just slowly welcomed the morning.
