Hi from Hanoi, the northern city. We had a long, tiring 17 hour train ride to get here but have had a brilliant few days in Ha long Bay and Cat Ba Island which makes any journey worthwhile. A world away from the hustle of the city is Halong Bay, where 2000 limestone cliffs rise from the sea. We spent a day and night on a old fashioned wooden junk boat- it was luxury (especially compared to the train carriage we'd got to know so well!) We kayaked in caves, cruised around the bay and watched the sun go down, it was so peaceful, apart from the boys jumping off the top and me and Ruth on jellyfish watch! The next morning we were back on land at Cat Ba island. Most of the island is national park and we were looking forward to a "light trek" Well thats the biggest understatement ever!! It was a MISSION climbing through forest and jungle in the blazing heat to a view point 250 meters high. Katie was almost on her hands and knees wanting to be air-lifted by helicoper - typical beauty therapist!! But we all made it and it was worth the hard work with some amazing views and great sense of achievement. After a night on the island (resting!) we are back in the craziness of Hanoi and the heat is unreal reaching 40+ degrees. Off to a water puppet show this evening and then flying into Laos tomorrow- have wimped out on the 24hr bus across the border for a 1hour flight! Looking forward to a new adventure and country but we've all really enjoyed Vietnam and are sad to be leaving.