Day 2 - had the most amazing day in this fantastic city. Went to the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh which was very moving - a whole country queuing up for hours to see a dead man they respect and admire. Then had a cyclo ride around the Old Quarter of Hanoi which was mind blowing - a place full of smells and colour and life - some of it upsetting but basically vibrant and alive - I will never forget that hour of my life. Then went to the Hanoi Hilton pow prison - thoug...

Arrived in Hanoi after two very long flights. Absolutely knackered but got a second wind at the hotel bar with a nice cold Tiger beer! There are some lovely people in the group - I know which ones to avoid already but there are four of us who are having a great laugh - in fact we were told to be quiet on the plane! Had a minor walk around Hanoi when we arrived and it's a bustle of people on motorbikes and bikes. Cats and birds in cages and people sitting on the p...