'Vietnam's not that far,' we said. After leaving York at 4am, it was mere 22 hours until we arrived at our hotel in the heart of the fascinating city that is Hanoi.

First impressions? Apart from the mind blowing disregard for any fathomable road traffic laws (my job would be a touch more challenging over here!), we were immediately struck by the incredible heat and dripping sweat-inducing humidity.

But we're getting stuck in and loving it so far. We've bought hats on Hat Street, sunglasses on Sun Glasses Street, and next stop is Shoe Street where Lynsey has eyed-up some knock-off Converse trainers. Not sure I'm keen on visiting Pickled Fish Street though! All genuine, by the way; say what you see, Mr Chips!

We've also spent time with some local students who wanted to practice their English with us. I left the Yorkshire slang out. That's day two's lesson.