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After a very over priced taxi we arrived at out accommodation which wasn't the best (I'm sure we will get better at this travelling malarkey at some point). We dumped our stuff and headed out for the customary stroll. Hanoi is not quite as hectic as Saigon but it did feel alot more compact, especially in the 'old quarter' where our hotel was. Hundreds (not actually sure how many) of small roads criss-crossing each other, each lined with thin, tall shops, houses, hostels and street vendors - you basically pick a road and stick with your decision, this is what we did.
We managed to get hold of a map which definitely helped, and after a reduced number of wrong turns (thanks to the map) we made out way down to the open and found the lake in the middle of town. This was alot more spacious and breezy than the 'old quarter' which was a welcome relief. We wondered round the lake, hired a 'tuk tuk' for a hour long tour and then found some new accommodation. Quite a productive day we felt and after we were both fed and watered we headed back for the night.
The following morning we packed up our things and began the supposedly straight forward walk down to our new hostel, simply following our route from the previous day....easier said than done. With map in hand and a rough idea of directions, we managed to take possibly the longest route to our new accommodation. This was an especially good idea in 35 degree heat with a backpack which weighed the same as doberman on our backs. I think it is fair to say by the time we made it to the hostel we were slightly sweaty. I actually think I was persperating so much it looked like I had just come from the new years celebrations in Bangkok. After sweating out the previous few days beer we thought it was only right to reward ourselves with a refreshing cold beverage, i.e. Beer. We found a lovely roof top terrace where we could sit back and watch the mayhem of evening rush hour unfold.
Our new accommodation (Hanoi Backpackers) was a hostel and after we were priced out of a private room we opted for a dorm. This decision was also based on the fact we were booking our trip to Halong Bay through the backpackers, and would give us a chance to meet those who were doing the same trip. We booked up our trip and headed for the dorm. Turns out we didn't actually meet anyone doing the same tour as us (same dates) but we did meet a mix of nice people, who it turned out, also enjoyed the odd beer. We even met a girl from Reading - who like me, when asked "where are you from?" used the same 'you won't know this place' tone of voice when she answered "Reading?"
Our third day was a pretty lazy affair as we had a early start the next day. I did however decide to get my hair cut, this wasn't the original plan (original being wait until Oz) but my medium length hair was too much in the heat. I headed out from the hostel and managed to find a 'Toni & Guy's, I wasn't convinced of how genuine the sticker in the window was, however I went for it. A friendly Vietnamese woman sat me in a chair with a towl around my neck and gown for my clothes. I was slightly concerned when the hairdresser came over and asked "haircut?" I nervously agreed to his statement / question and he went about his work. I am VERY pleased to say he did a fine job and what a steal at about £4.
That evening we met somone who was coming to Halong Bay, Gustav (from Sweeden) and a French Canadian called Vincent. Whilst enjoying 'happy hour' Vincent told us how he had ridden his pushbike from Bangkok to Hanoi, via Cambodia. I think it was fair to say we were all very impressed!....but at the same time wondering 'how mental is this bloke?!'
After the happy hour promotion had finished and a Italian buffet dinner, we decided to retire for the evening, in eager anticipation of our 3 day visit to Halong Bay...
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