Hue, Hoi An and Whale Island

Well, we had drizzle in Hue but enjoyed a day on a river boat dodging showers when we got off to see various mausoleums of long dead emperors and magnificently decorated pagodas and had a great time. It is amazing how dry one can stay under a plastic bag mac! Iain took a spectacular slide down some slippery steps but fortunately didn't even have a bruise to show for it - just more dirty washing! We then travelled to Hoi An - a lovely relaxing riverside resort with several interesting temples and halls where we stayed for two nights enjoying excellent seafood and relaxing in the riverside bars after having done the cultural bit. The sun came out for us so it was very pleasant especially as the hotel had a nice pool - in which we had a swim at 10.30pm despite the coolness of the water it was very refreshing! I also took the opportunity to have a bit of a haircut (which Iain perfected), and a massage - the lass was a much better masseuse than hairdresser! Then we had a ten hour coach drive to Whale Island which we reached via a boat journey of 15 minutes. A beautiful place which we all found very relaxing and no-one wanted to leave. Snorkelling was not great as the sea was plankton soup but many broght blue starfish and spiny sea urchins. We had a lovely 2 hour walk around the island as well. Now we are in Nha Trang for a day (look it up, Alan!) on the coast before taking the overnight train to Saigon tomorrow. Lots of love to everyone - Ann and Iain

Good to hear from Hils and Lizzy - can you get Iain to check in?
Lizzy - we're not sure about your music system - if you don't find it we'll take a look when we get home (on 25th Jan). Your Dad thinks it may be in his office. I've run out of credit on my phone but will try and get a Vietnamese Sim Card and ring soon if I can. The main problem is the time difference! Iain - we'll try and ring you on your birthday but if we don't manage it because we are in the Meekong Delta then, take a look at your bank balance on 16th and have a very happy birthday. Give Erin and Phoebe a hug from us...missing you all even though we are having a great time! loads of love Mum and Dad