In northern Vietnam part 1

So, we've managed to arrive in the worst winter in northern Vietnam for 50 years - cold and cloudy but no snow. Spent our first two days in Hanoi booking tours and wandering the streets.

Visited the Temple of Literature and watched the Water Puppets. Ate lots and enjoyed plenty of beer. Hanoi is mad with all business on the pavements, scooters and mopeds everywhere and no space for pedestrians. But buzzing. The overriding sound is horns - ignored by all.

Now on a 6-day tour in the mountains north of Hanoi: Ba Be lakes where we are staying in a village homestay (pic) and trekking, then Ha Giang, then 2 days trekking in Sa Pa. Have personal guide (the mad Hien) and driver (Mr Phong who talks to keep awake) for 2 days, then being joined by 2 French people. Countryside from Hanoi changed constantly so the 7-hour drive was really interesting. Could only do about 50kph because of traffic first then road quality and obstacles - oxen, goats, ducks and chickens. Quick boat trip on Ba Be lake which is really beautiful, even in winter.

Great walk on day two. One hour straight up into the mountains then a couple of hours through small farms. Lunch in a small town where we became the main attraction. Judy took lots of pics of the local people especially kids. Back after 6.5 hours.