Flew from Hanoi to denang then taxi to Hue. Had not realised how far Hue was from Denang so had to book a special transfer, live and learn. While on the flight we read an article on lighthouses, and St Mary's was top of the list, who knew it is built on Bait Island. Only problem however was the photos were all of Tynemouth pier and lighthouse. Some Vietnamese writer was lazy, I bet they thought nobody would notice. See cover photo for article. Hue looks good a...

Hotel in Cat Ba has a fantastic panoramic view of the harbour and just round the corner from a fab little beach. However it also had the worst breakfast so far. As normal there was a buffet with the choice of Western or Eastern. We always go East - noodles or soup are admittedly a strange breakfast but miles better than a Vietnamese attempt at a fry up. This time even the vietnamese was dire as the buffet was all cold noodles which are gross. We ate some and af...

Boat trip around Halong Bay but not the touristy bit or so the tour guide said to us and the boat load of our fellow tourists. There are 3 bays in Halong Bay. For all we know they have gone around and round in circles as its stunning but basically big bits of rock in the sea with the odd deserted beach. 12 on our tour including us; 2 German, 1 French, 2 Dutch and the rest British including 2 from Cumbria. You'd think that the far end of the world would mean you a...

Sitting on our balcony in Cat Ba Town watching the sun go down over the thousands of islands in Halong Bay. Travelling was the usual chaos but fun nevertheless. Just finished a traditional backpackers snack of crushed and melted minstrels served in the packet. Mmmmm looking forward to the other forgotten snacks at the bottom of the bag. Off out tonight to organise a boat trip around Halong Bay for tomorrow.

It's raining again. Well not true as it's the first time it's rained. Not bad for rainy season. We've put the weather to good use. David has been quizzing the receptionist Emily on how to get to Cat Ba Island and Yvonne focused on reducing the jet lag (went back to bed for a snooze). Had a walk in old town. Strolled around Hoan Kiem lake and the streets of old town today. Well I say strolled, around old town its dodge the mopeds but thats part of the adventure....