Hi everyone,

Fog cleared a bit in Sapa so we got a motorbike and went around some hill-tribe villages. The views were incredible and we didn't fall off at all. Went back to Hanoi for a day to do some more eating ice cream by the lake and then headed down to Hue on an overnight bus. Got off the bus at a cafe and decided we were pretty close to Laos and it would be easier to just go straight there. So we did. Spent two days on Laos public transport. It was crazy. Eventually ended up at Tat Lo waterfall for a relaxing couple of days. Stayed at the most expensive place in the village (12 pounds). Had our own lodge looking out over some rapids. Yesterday morning we went elephant riding through the forest and across rivers. Saw some amazing views and went through a local village. The guide could speak to the elephant and tell it what to do, wicked. Did some swimming in the river and a lot of lazing around. Left there this morning and travelled down to Don Det in the Four Thousand Islands bit of the Mekong River. We have a little shack with a couple of hammocks and an amazing sunset view. At 1 pound a night, I think we might stay here a while. Found a sign that said 'Internet' and the bloke said "2 minutes, I'll just start the generator". Nice.

Thanks for all your birthday e-mails, texts and messages.

Love Katie and Matt