Arriving back in Halong Bay saw a complete change to the previous time. There were still all the pirate boats but the sun was shining, the boat was luxiourious and I had my first meal with the vegetarians, due to my dislike of seafood, Tofu is disgusting! After another visit to a cave (spectacular but start to look the same) we went kayaking, the sunset was breathtaking but the kayaking itself was hard work, so Jon did most of it! Back on the boat it was Johns bi...

After a small trek in the morning lasting only 2 hours we left Mai Chau province and headed back to Hanoi, again stopping at Lac village for lunch. We arrived back in Hanoi, had a long awaited shower some of the group went to Goldenland Cafe. My meal consisted of a BLT, garlic bread, mars cheesecake and yoghurt with honey. Random and unhealthy but really delicious!

Leaving Hanoi at 8.30 we arrived at Lac village for a local lunch at 1, after a brief stop and the chance to play table tennis with the locals. After lunch we drove to our trek starting point and started to climb. We arrived in Hong Kia the village of our homestay just before dark. The homestay was basic but comfortable (mats surrounded by a fire) so after supper everyone headed to bed, mainly to try and combat the cold. An early wake up, needing to use the love...

Arriving at Hanoi at 5 Am we made it to the Hang Ngoc hotel before 6. From there we walked round Hoam Kien lake to watch hundredspartake in tai-chi.After a lovely buffet breakfast we slept all morning, before I again walked round the lake soaking up the first signs of sun for a few days. Later that evening we met our tour guide and our group for the first 6 days, older than I thought but Charlie (Vic Reeves lookalike) is hilarious! So after dinner at Little Hanoi...

Leaving the train at 7 was too early for my liking but the bus to Sapa was a good chance for sleep. We arrived at the Cat Cat hotel to a free breakfast before hitting the sack for the rest of the morning! That afternoon we went to a so called village to meet the locals but all they were interested in was trying to sell us things! The hike back up the hill was knackering but I still decidede to go and explore the town! The weather was wet and miserable so after an...