Around the world in 80 raves Chapter 5

Back in Hanoi again for one more night after the Halong Bay trip. I've never been on a tourist tour before in all my 60 years. I've always been a bit of an organised tour snob and considered that tours are for wimps, the unadventurous or old foggies. There's a lot of firsts on this journey and I have to say that this turned out to be a most enjoyable experience, a well earned rest and taste of luxury living after a month of almost constant travel. And it really was the only way open to get a taste of this particular stunning spot on our planet. I was picked up from my hostel by bus and driven with a mixed bunch of characters to Halong harbour, feeling rather apprehensive about the group and whatever might be in store. We arrived at the boat terminal along with loads of other groups, where many of these beautiful looking wooden boats waited to take us all on our cruises. The operation was pretty impressive altogether, masses of groups all with different itineries but the organisation was great, and we were quickly deposited in our correct places and whisked away from the mayhem into this beautiful blue bay dotted with extraordinary lumpy limestone islands. The boat itself was sheer luxury, a cool cabin with ensuite, fridge of drinks, crisp white linen etc. A restaurant where we were served the most delicious delicately presented food by smiley white gloved uniformed waiters and a sundeck above with potted palms for hanging out. It felt like a mini luxury liner; shades of the Titanic maybe, but then as a mist came in there was an image of the ancient mariner sailing into a timeless sea of fog. Next stop a kayaking trip into a crystal clear calm lagoon, a trek round some enormous caves and then back to the boat as it was gwtting dark for a swim in the gorgeously warm sea before supper. The company was a little subdued for my tastes and there was no rousing them for a party. I could hear fun and games drifting over from a few other boats nearby but my lot were all well behaved and early to bed. Oh well ..that's life. I was early to bed too, what else to do, but it did mean I was awake bright and early and got another swim in before breakfast as the sun was coming up. There's more to tell but not now, the night bus to Hoy An is calling and I must away, finish my supper and make a phone call before I leave..... to be continued