Awoke Wednesday after a peaceful sleep, except for those lucky enough to sleep near the anchor who could hear it clanking all night. Most of us joined in a 6 a.m. tai chi class on deck as we drifted among the islands that were appearing from the morning mist. You must try balance poses on a moving ship.

After coffee and three kinds of pastry (this is a cruise afterall so constant food is required) we went to a floating village of over 300 fisher folk . The village has been there a long time and the government would like to move the people to the mainland. However, they don't want to leave. They have a simple life without many things we're used to but the place is so beautiful we don't blame them.

Each home was different, definitely not a development. A few did have antennae or satellite dishes and several had makeshift gates to keep toddlers from wandering into the water. We rowed among the homes in woven boats and ended at a pearl farm for a demo of implanting oysters to create pearls (takes several years) and a trip through the fairly modern gift shop at the end. They accepted credit cards and had beautiful jewelry so we did our part to help their economy.

Returned to the ship for a lavish brunch (again with the food) then back to the mainland for the bus back to catch an evening flight to Da Nang and Hoian. Although we enjoyed the area, it's sad to realize most vietnamese don't have the money or the time for such a magical cruise.
Judy