Another week nearly done and the days at work go quickly although sometimes have very little energy by the time Friday and the prospect of a whole day with grade 1 rolls around. This week even taught the same set of classes twice one day after the other as one of my schools was off. No idea what effect this had for the children as I was not teaching them anything new but I just do as I am told and go with it. We were 5 strong at the school that day with 4 company TA's also, was like a take over. Practised my Vietnamese with 2 of the TA's who say my pronunciation is very good - only problem is 30 seconds after learning something I've forgotten it. The longer I'm here the stronger the urge to stay is getting (sorry mum) or at least to continue to teach abroad somewhere. I'm glad I want to travel as it will give me a break after this semester to really think about what to do next. Think I am more or less decided that I do not want to teach in the UK anymore I have felt so relaxed here and actually have time to do the things I want to do - not just feel like I'm constantly working.

(Definitely going to set up some kind of dance class here with the interns the noodle and vodka diet isn't the best and made the mistake of getting on some scales yesterday!)

Last weekend some Vietnamese friends got us free tickets to a play which turned out to be 3 hours long. After a long day at work I managed an hour and a half before starting to fall asleep. I enjoy most things at the theatre and even subtitled films but when you can't follow a story at all that length of time is a real struggle (turns out the guy I thought was her dad was actually her landlord). Reggae night afterwards was more of a success - walked in and there were only around 6 people (thought this was going to be another mistake) but after us a steady stream of people started arriving including other interns. The music was good and made a nice change and some of us even got into a dance off with a Vietnamese group. Dat came out to meet us and told me if I like Vietnam I should stay and find a Vietnamese husband (what is with everyone trying to marry me off!).

Picked up mums parcel of essentials including blu tack - sad but very exciting, spent a chilled day near home and bought some shoes for work (starting to have severe shopping withdrawal). Saturday evening the 'Nguyen Thi Dinh' cinema opened for more chick flicks. A few of us went to a Vietnamese youth group festival Sunday where traditional food turned out to be doughnuts, cakes and pastries??? It showcased Hanoi's answer to Turbelle's (kind of) and had lots of traditional games to try out as well as information about interesting areas to visit.

Another day off Tuesday (school still not started) so went for a few games of pool Monday night and was narrowly beaten by one of the boys 4-3. One of the girls working there said I was beautiful and fashionable; didn't have the heart to tell her I was wearing my pj bottoms! Explored West Lake further on Tuesday and found the Western street with lots of imported goods. We have done really well so far without many home comforts but cereal bars and proper chocolate is a godsend. They also had after eights and giant marshmallows - defo a return trip needed around xmas. Must have walked around ¾'s of West Lake (about 10-12K) before we gave up. There's not a great deal to do around there especially on the far side but still a lovely place to relax in the day.

Off to Halong Bay this weekend although some activities have had to be cancelled due to the state funeral of General Giap and all entertainment venues being ordered to close by the Government. Sure it will still be a good trip though with all of us going and a chance to get to know the Vietnamese teachers better. Fingers crossed the weather stays sunny!