Landed into overcast Hanoi, and it started to drizzle. We made the decision to head straight to Ha Long Bay, because even if there isn't sun we can at least get some some sea! Got a taxi from Hanoi to ha long (was convinced by the travel agent not to take the bus, and by the sound if it it was a good idea, bus sounded horrific!) taxi driver tried to put us in a hotel in HL, but way too expensive, so he put us in a cheaper one and we stupidly committed and handed over out passports, changed our minds because it was rubbish but leaving was very hard (30 mins of demanding our passports before we got em back). finally found a good hostel, shared with 3 other guys who gave very good advice on further travelling. Then finally found a beach, even had nice sunny weather, and great view into ha long bay. Had a good meal with the 5 of us, and headed back to the hostel for happy hour... Free Beer!! for an hour while playing cards. Maybe head out later, see what the others are thinking.