Halong Bai

We arranged an overnight trip to Halong bai from Hanoi which was picturesque as all the postcards depict. The problem is that there are literally 1000's of tourists which translates to 1000's of boats and much pollution. The amount of diesel fumes you breath in while waiting to leave the dock would put a small dog under and does tarnish a beautiful experience.

After leaving the docks you are really not bothered by the other boats as the bay is huge and you sail along soaking up the sun and cliffs that rise dramatically out of the sea.

Celia & I were lucky enough to be given the room next to the engine which pumped disel fumes by the gallon directly through the wooden wall boards. I guess this helped us to fall asleep but i did wake up with an almighty headache which could also have something to do with the rice wine the boat captain was poring down my throat. I only compare it to some of the schnapps my father has at home. An aquited taste i think it is called.

Day two on the boat and back to Hanoi. We booked into a cozy little guest house with balcony right where all the action happens near this busy junction full os streetside stalls and kids selling copied books and travel guides. There is a great atmosphere there with great food at a quarter of the price of the restaurant. Vietnam is by far the cheapest place that we have been so far and a dollar, or 16000 dong, goes a long way.