Hanoi

Arrived at Hanoi airport - fairly confronting - guards telling us where to go, where to stand etc. Language barrier huge. Made it thru without any hassles, hailed a cab and proceeded to Bros & Sis 1 hotel. Cabbie drove like a maniac, not fast but on the horn all the way, which is apparently just normal. Checked in, but problem with our room, had to be located in other hotel. This was organised without too much hassle and was fine.

Took to the streets on foot to explore Old Quarter. Thought being french may be sophisticated, neat, clean and charming (SO NOT). It is in fact filthy dirty, smelly, confronting to all senses. Negotiating the streets was difficult. Only saw about four other western looking people all afternoon. Spoke to two of them (had to give directions to them - which was rather funny really). I have no idea where I am, Allan is fairing a lot better. I just hang on to him and away we go... rather clingy really.

Coffee is great - think they add a dash of tia maria in it - which is good for the frassled nerves when you cross all the roads in front of buses, taxis cyclos and a zillion mad motobike people all going different directions. Just keep walking is the best way and don't look.

Shops are old fashioned, cheap rip off brands. Have not seen anything I would buy - like the worst stalls at Carrara markets - no even worse. Think I may be too big for the clothes - they do not try to help - just follow like I am going to steal the stuff.

Went to the markets on second morning - didn't really need to go as the general streets are just one big market. Did manage to see lots of fish, eels, dried products and freshly prepared dog with head, tail and teeth still attached.

Dinner first night was interesting - never sure if ordering just one spring roll or a whole meal - we have mucked up a fair bit - but well I guess that isn't too bad. Personally I would find it hard to eat too much on the streets - it is so unhygenic.

The flowers are pretty!

The people are very poor and it is a hard life - but here they seem not to push and beg too much - just get on with their own livings. A few try a bit more, but not too bad.

We both like the beer!

Moved back to our accommodation today - they think we are honeymooners - brought us a big cake and upgraded our room (how embarrassing). Allan is going along with this for financial reasons.

Went to a training restaurant for disadvantaged students and had a really good meal there - the building was so lovely - all french and about three levels. We enjoyed that.

Thought might head out on the streets tonight - it seems to never shut, just markets start up all over the streets. Will probably wander and grab another coffee out. The walking boots are terrific - the streets are pretty gross.

Heading to Halong Bay tommorrow - which should be good.