Well, after all the planning and preparation we're finally off!
Adam dropped us to the airport around 5.30am for our 7.55 am departure so plenty of time - that was all needed - to enable claiming my tax on the new iPad purchase and checking out the duty free.
It's many years since I've flown Singapore Airlines and we weren't disappointed. The low numbers on board together with the impeccable service, meals and movies meant for an enjoyable 7hours and 40 minutes.
With just over an hour connecting time in Singapore we had to hot foot it to catch the shuttle bus from Terninal 3 to Terminal 2 with a decent walk to the gate to meet our Silk Air flight (Singapore Airlines regional carrier). But plenty of time! And a really impressive just over 3 hour flight - more food and drink!
Always awestruck flying into a brand new city ....Hanoi and environs seemed to be flanked by hills with meandering rivers and waterways and lush green rural areas.
Customs clearance was uneventful (so glad we had preorganised our visas!) and always a relief when your luggage is spotted! We were met by our Buffalo Tours representative for the drive into the city. An interesting 30 minutes as now dusk, lights coming on ....and our driver doesn't speak English!
Our little "Church Boutique Hotel" is located right in the old town area - what mayhem! Had a quick refresh and sort out before tackling the streets nearby. Didn't venture too far but overawed by the motorbikes and scooters beeping and meandering through the maze of streets. Single riders, girls riding "side saddle" with their stilettos and whole families of four! Mayhem! Tried to absorb it all with a couple of "Tiger" beers and some spring rolls at a cafe. Can't wait to see it all in the daylight!