Phu Quoc

Hi everyone

Well we have had quite an experience on our remote island. Indeed remote it is!

The locals are just operating as if tourism has never been here. The place is so sleepy. The beach is just beautiful. Out accommodation is on the outskirts of the township and we need to taxi in for everything, but at least the beach in the front is very clean and unpolluted. The same can't be said for the fishing village. The water is just disgusting. Cleaning up the waterways should be top of the list for this country.

We have, however, found the best seafood restaurant in vietnam. The Zen is just devine, beautiful gardens and the freshest food. We love it so much and have been back twice. Apparently (the cabbie said) it is the most expensive place on the island to eat. We have dined for approx $30 each night and that includes wonderful seafood and about three beers each. We went to another place last night where the locals go - only one menu available in english - we had to share. This was similar and definitely interesting experience.

Yesterday we took a boat trip for the day and did snorkelling at a few spots up the island. It was great. The water is so warm and the air temperature as well. No need for towels and clothing after. Really relaxing. A few people from many different parts of the world there too, althought they were not that friendly really.

This place forces you to do very little. We probably should be leaving tommorrow as there is not that much to do unless you want to tour the fish sauce factory!

As it is we leave on the 13th for Ho Chi Minh and I have booked The Rex Hotel. Which is pretty posh for our last night. We have slept on some shocking mattresses the whole way - hope The Rex has thicker ones (absolutely praying really). My back is stuffed!

This has been such an adventure, the language barrier is so extreme. I think I will talk everyone's head off when I get back. Poor Allan's ears are worn out!

Anyway - more later ---
Love Sue