Had a really great time in Sa Pa - the weather was unseasonably kind. We expected snow or at least fairly cold weather but this did not happen. We were sweltering. Took the tour to Bac Ha markets - again packed in like sardines (but what do you expect for around $12). This took a couple of hours there. The market was mainly food, livestock, dogs, pigs - the usual. The food is unbelievably clean considering the primitive resources they have. I still am struggling with the food - not like out of my recipe books. The food so far has been really bland - not a lot of herbs, not seen chillies or lime etc in any restaurant yet. Told Allan I am going to ask for some of this to plonk on myself - he just raised his eyebrows which I assume means he didn't think I should alter their ways to suit mine - so unfair!
Huge french influence everywhere so the bread is good.
The Hu Mong women have about 11 children - usually only five will live to adulthood - quite a harsh lifestyle. We went to a flower hu mong village - wow that was an eyeopener. I had corn wine - which would really knock you around if you had a few.
We caught the overnight sleeper back to Hanoi and arrived in around 5.30am. Zoomed out to the airport and have arrived in Hue.
Hue is a lot quieter - a bit boring really. Seen the Forbidden Imperial Palace which was heavily bombed and is being reconstructed. Wandered the streets - but honestly I am tired and may not be in the best frame to pick the positives. Most people have said the same though - too many pagodas and temples - not much else. The cyclos drive you absolutely mad wanting to drive you everywhere. We prefer to walk. The cyclos have a poor reputation as being pretty lazy and sitting around drinking and smoking most of the time. Hard to give them money when others do it so tough!
Have decided to move on to Hoi An tomorrow - may get a driver so we can stop off where we want - bit over being in the minivans. Apparently the coast line is great via China Beach and is only about 130km drive.
Allan and I have started speaking to each other in clipped English - must break this habit.
Anyway will let you know how we get on - take care all
