Well, from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi, we drove 3 and half hours out of the city, up into the glorious mountains, and its like a different world. We spent 3 hours walking further up into the mountains, which are just so spectactular, to find our first little village. I just can't get over how friendly and accomodating the people are, especially the children. I just want to wrap them up and take them home. They are just like how children really should be: happy, smiling, energetic, curious and slightly mischeivous! I was begginning to feel like one of the explorers from TV whose goes to live with these remote people, and it felt great. The only thing you have to worry about getting run over by here, is water buffalo. There is still the odd motorbike though....they have even made it here. If there is one western custom i would quite happilly stow upon the whole world though, it would be...the toilet. Here it became known as the happy house; a hole in the ground with planks over it. I will leave it there. It felt weird because as soon as the sun goes down, you feel ready for bed even though it's only seven o'clock, because you are living by a solitary light bulb! Back in Hanoi now, i am feeling the strain from the second days 5 hours walking steep downhill. My legs are aching to high heaven. Good job the sea kayaking over the next few days is only arms, else i'd be bu*****d. Wish you were here. Keep in touch. T x