Standing on the platform watching the train roll up, already it didn't look quite as good. Nevertheless, I'm sure it would be fine. Our guide AJ had warned us that this train wouldn't be quite as good quality as the last, but as that one was uexpectedly good, we weren't to be easily put off. We expected used sheets at the most, but we weren't quite prepared for what was to come.
Climbing aboard Iwas pleased to see there was still a Western style toilet, however this time, there was no flush; it just went straight on through to the ground. Our rooms weren't quite as luxurious either, the top bunks barely looked like they would support our weight. That was fine, we even got past the used sheet, and the copious amounts of rubbish in our room, which had been left by other passengers. It was when bugs were spotted people started to really freak out. Luckily for me, I only spotted one, a baby cockroach, which I was very calm and collected about. However, others claimed to ahve sighted big cockroaches. Not cool. This made for a difficult night's sleep. Huddled under my sleep sjheet, with not an inch of skin showing, for fear that mummy or daddy cockroach might decide to make friends with me, I drifted in and out of sleep, swetaing from the haet, but still not daring to move. It was such a good feeling to step off the train at four thirty in the morning, to be rifd of bugs and the unpleasant hue of toilets.

Arriving at our hotel in Hoi An, we were given more bad news - we couldn't check in until ten o clock. By this time, it was 5 am, and ourtour leader wasn't much good either, just more interested in the receptionist than finding us a room, with a bed to sleep in. Nevertheless, there was little we could do to dissolve the situation, so Kate and I headed out for an early morning jaunt.

It was actually really nice to see the town quiet, but people still milling around and setting up their businesses and street stalls for the days trade. Children cycled along, on their way to school,a nd the market we passed was in full flow. I instantly liked Hoi An, which is one of the oldest towns in the country, and is famous for tailors, who can tailor make any peice of clothing to fit ypu perfectly. A real Japanese influence is present in this quaint little town, that only adds to it's charm and beauty.

After breakfast, and a dip in our rooftop terrace swimming pool, we culd finally check in. A quick change of clothes, and a shower to freshen up, we were armed with cash to spend, and shopping to do. Tailors are everywhere to be found. Literally hundreds of them. Some of the women come outside and attempt to lure you, and yells are everywhere to be heard: "Buy something", "Hello Madam, buy something", and "You, buy something". You get the gist. But somehow, it's not that annoying, they are simply trying to earn a buck.

After having successfully been measured up for two dresses, I felt pretty good - but I wanted more. Something had come over me and I felt compelled to buy. Then I spotted the shoes. A whole road dedicated to shoes, which can be designed and tailor made to fit your foor perfectly. I settled on a pair of 'Nike' trainers, and designed them using, pink, blue and yellow leather and five year old girl would be envious of. They are so retro and kitsh, I love them! Jenna, - you would love the trainers hers, and if I had room in my rucksack would have made you a pair up! I definately reccommend a visit, if for this purpose only! Quite a few people had suits made, which is saving them a small fortune.

That evening, all shopped out. we wnet to a gorgeous restaurtant for dinner, where I enjoyed a Greek Salad, and a hot chocolate brownie with ice cream. Amazing. There is only so much rice and noodles one person can take. Cute streets, lined and lit up with lanterns, this place has some kind of spell which it cast upon on. A captivating majesty, which you can't help but fall in love with. But that's Vietnam all over. This place is alluring, magical, and you crave for more and more.

The following day we awoke with excitement to pick up our new purchases, both dresses fit exact, and the trainers were cool as ever. We enjoyed a relaxed day strpolling around the town, and ended it with a boat trip along the river to watch the sunset. Wew passed fihermen reining in their final catches, but sadly saw only a half unset, as the clouds shrouded the view - a disappointment , as we haven't yet seen a sunrise or set. There's still time though.