Hanoi the second time around

Despite the constant buzz of motobikes, honking of cars and hawking of stuff, Hanoi seems much less chaotic the second time around. I guess we're finally settling-in to the pace here in Vietnam. And just as we're getting good at it we'll be getting ready to head home!

We arrived last night to much cooler weather than we had left in Saigon and spent this morning roaming the Old Quarter, feeling like old pros at shopping in the markets and shops. Anna and Court bought pirated DVDs for about $1 each. We'll see if they work! There was also a good portion of time spent in a used book store but for some reason they don't bargain on books here -- about $7 each for a used John Grisham. Go figure!? Yet to do, a cyclo ride and some snack food shopping to share with folks back home.

Tomorrow we head off for our last adventure here--a two day cycling and trekking trip to the hill town of Mai Chau. We'll be "going native" with a stay in a traditional stilt house in a White Thai village.

Then on Wednesday we'll be back to Hanoi for our last day before our 11:35 p.m. flight to Seoul, South Korea where we'll then have a full 12 hour layover so we may see the town there pending our tired factor and bus navigation.

We strongly encourage folks to come see this part of the world. It really broadens your global perspective and appreciation for all the niceties we have in the U.S. And yes, it certainly strengthens family ties when you are together 24/7.

Thanks for everyone's support, encouragement and good thoughts from back home. We'll see you soon!