First Day in Vietnam

Day 1: 17 Dec 2005

My first day seem like a nightmare from start. I caught a cold and had a running nose before I even board the plane. I paid for a bottle of shampoo at my neighbourhood convenience store and I forgot to take the bottle after I collect my change. I almost trip over the ICA officer who was scanning me.

After clearing the custom and immigration, I took a taxi to town. I intend to stay in the Queen Salute Café in the Old Quarter but this guy approach the taxi before I can even alight. He said that Queen is full and but I can stay in its sister hotel. He jumped into the cab and direct it to this place called Gold Dragon. Whether his story is true or not, I was too tired and hungry to protest. The room is clean, and come with TV, drawing table and attached bathroom. At US$12 a night, it is a welcome treat for the first night.

Later I also booked guided trip from Tom, the guy who brought me to Gold Dragon, for overnight trip to Ha Long and 3D/2N to Sapa at US$40 and US$70 respectively.

I will be heading to Ha Long the next morning.