Wednesday arrived mercifully bright, and by the time the 6.40am Tai Chi lesson was complete, we were treated to a clear morning. At last the weather gods are on our side.

It was beautiful and peaceful on top deck at 6:30 am listening to the screeching of the monkeys on one of the nearby islets. I joined in Tai Chi which was quite difficult with  my lack of balance, but I persevered. 

After a buffet breakfast we were tendered to the shore of one of the islands  to visit a  cave with it's stalagmites and stalactites. 

Then it was time to check out of the cabin and spend the next couple of hours relaxing on the top deck watching the world of Halong Bay go by. Yet another meal was served at 11. We did not think we could eat any more, but then decided that there was always room for deep fried squid and the beautiful salads that they create.  

Immediately, on disembarking, we were informed our driver was ready to take us back to Hanoi airport. It was the same psychopath who had driven us here yesterday. The usual eventful 3 hour drive back to Hanoi airport. Lots of expletives, gasps and shutting of eyes. He waved us off with a cheery smile at departures and we are now sitting in the Business Class Lounge, sipping beer, eating snacks and waiting for our evening flight to Hue.

After a mercifully uneventful transfer from Hue Airport, we arrived late evening at the Indochine Palace Hotel. Jayne has done it again! Our second hotel, and our second room uprade, this time to a small suite, and it's lovely. Amazing what you can get with a quick email! The room is huge. There is a bouquet of red flowers, yet another cake and rose petals and heart shaped swans on the bed. The shower is what we call a 'A G&T Shower' - a shower with a ledge to keep your drink dry whilst you shower! I've just realised that I have omitted that feature from our new bathroom design at home - Darn!

Strange Things Seen Today?

We are also going to include in this section, bizarre things to see transported by scooter, here's a couple of contenders...

Yes, I think those are/were pigs!