Halong Bay

We have had a wonderful time in Halong Bay. Sailing around spectacular limestone karsts rising out of the South China Sea, on an excellent boat with private double cabins with tiled bathrooms. After a lunch of fresh tiger prawns, crayfish, octopus and grilled fish we relaxed on deck and then when the boat stopped we all went kayaking - our first time but it was very stable and we enjoyed it. Sea kayaks are apparently bigger and more stable than the small ones you see on TV doing white water racing. Unfortunately Iain had decided not to risk losing his glasses so couldn't see much and I had to yell steering directions but he still veered to the right! The sea was warm but there are so many boats in the bay it is beginning to get polluted and the current was strong so we didn't swim much. We had sea food again for dinner including stuffed crab and various prawns and fishes prepared in different ways and after a fairly reasonable night's sleep we sailed on to moor up and visit the largest cave yet discovered in the karsts. Unfortunately the boat had to dock at Halong Bay before midday so that was all we were able to do - we were hoping to go kayaking again! We also had to have lunch at 10.45 which seemed a bit strange but the food was so good that we coped! Once back in Hanoi (3.5 hrs drive) we repacked and sent a parcel of clothes etc to Hilary (just in case it turns up before we get home) and all went out for a meal in the evening. Today we went to say hello to Uncle Ho (Ho Chi Min) as he is now returned from his makeover in Russia. He looks good for someone dead for forty years! Then we visited the Museum of Fine Arts and the History Museum - both excellent and very interesting. We're back at the hotel again now and going out for a meal together before we catch the train at 11pm, so that's all for now. Lots of love Ann & Iain