Vietnam really did take me by surpise as to what a wonderful country it is and how we could get by there with everything being great value for money. A few things noted while I wave goodbye :-

- Always agree a price beforehand with anything that isn't written down

- In the south (Ho Chi Minh) every othe shop was selling bridal dresses and we never really found out why!

- In the north is was more artwork and painting which were beautiful.

- The most enjoyable experience for me was the Ha Long Bay trip.

- I'm glad I learnt how to eat a full meal with chopsticks.

- My favourite city was Hoi An, even if it did rain.

- Shocking sights were the amount of women that casually carry small children/I even saw a tiny baby slung around the front of a woman on a motorbike in rush hour traffic mayhem.

- The Vietnamese are usually 30 minute late than the time they tell you.

- Never expect to get your food at the same time as anyone else on your table - and many times your drink can appear after your food as well!

- Never make out you've just arrived somewhere as you are more likely to get ripped off.

- The men communicate by shouting at one another.

Overall Vietnamese are very laid back and helpful people, the many experiences we had of them wanting to speak English to us was really welcoming and lovely. Places I'd like to visit if I go back are Sapa and Hue. We are sad to be leaving you Vietnam!