Happy in Hanoi

After schlepping through the old quarter to 5 different hotels we finally found a little place to stay in Hanoi. A young boy and his friend took us there on motor bikes and checked us in assuring that the tea, coffee and bananas were free and that this was the place to be (at least for $15 a night it was). Hanoi is a bustling city much like Saigon with motorcycles every where and bustling dirty streets, but with a big difference...It has exquisite character! Unlike Saigon, you can see the French colonial influence; the architecture in the old quarter, the little old men with fu man chus in the park wearing berets, and, best of all, the pastries! The city is has much more cafe culture than Saigon and, while chaotic, it has peaceful little pockets with parks and temples.

This morning we took in a water puppet show. I have to admit, I didn't expect much for the $2.50 ticket but was pleasantly surprised with an entertaining little show including live traditional music and singing. The short puppet performances were silly and fun, definitely worth the price.

Tomorrow we're off on a two day boat cruise in Halong Bay. Hoping the weather gets a little nicer....it's been cold (around 60?) and gray since we've gotten to Hanoi.