Day 20: Mon 18 Nov - Hanoi

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22-34deg C

"Sightseeing tour including Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum; discover the unknown part of Hanoi Old Quarter and evening water puppet show." 

After breakfast, Wendy went back to bed while Greg went out with the mob to see the Ho 
Chi Min Complex. Security was a little OTT but we managed to pass the dress code and "the essential items only" requirements. Although the Mausoleum was closed today we did see the changing of the guard. It was then onto Uncle Ho's residence, his garden and his garage. All very simple and befitting a good communist.  

Next stop was Vietnam's First Uni which was established in 1070, initially to teach the elite but later expanded to included gifted common folk.  

It was then time for lunch. We have found the food here in Hanoi far superior to anything we experienced in Saigon or along the way. Today's lunch did not disappoint, although the fish dish was a bit on the oily side. After all that excitement it was back to the hotel for a well-earned rest, before venturing out to Train Street. After the guide had arranged our rail-side seats we settled in to wait the arrival of the star attraction: The Train. With our preferred drink in hand we waited. We knew something was about to happen as there was a flurry of activity, much whistle blowing and people moving chairs and tables back as far as they would go. With a few cm to spare the rather dangerous train lumbered past us and it was all over in no time at all. 

The Lotus Water-Puppet Show was next, a show that Greg has seen before, twice. However he really enjoyed it, especially the accompanying music. The 50 minute show was varied and good fun. Back to the hotel for a rest and freshen up before dinner. 

Dinner was very fresh and clean and tasty.

The rather long queue for HCM Complex

The Changing of the Guard

The Mausoleum 


The Presidential Palace (which HCM refused to live in due to the luxury) 




HCM's simple house




One Pillar Pagoda in the Palace grounds

The entrance to the First Uni




Current Students from a nearby Uni using the grounds to perform and practice




A temple in the Uni grounds



Train Street




The Water-Puppet Theatre









Hanoi celebrating something from 1954? 

Greg with his new Roller!

Dinner menu

Dinner venue






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