Vietnam. The plane touches down and my first thought is 'here we go again' it isnt a bad thought or even a good one it is just history repeating a new adventure.

I've been lucky so far and my guide is on time and I am Whisked away to my hotel where I must admit I had problems falling asleep. No doubt because I slept most of the trip over. For those of you new to my adventures I generally write in my little notebook my impressions, thoughts and feelings as I go and when I have time and internet access I type it into the blog.

On my way down to breakfast I meet a couple in the elevator from Cold Lake Alberta. What are the odds? They have been volunteering in Cambodia as dental assistants even thiugh back home he is a principal.

I dig into some lovely eggs, chow mein noodles and fried bananas for breakfast. Yummy. It was so good that after I went outside for a walk around I went back for more.

It is day one of the tour and we have just stopped at a 'tourist' rest stop. A tropical oasis on the side of the highway with American toilets and cold beverages. I assume they sell over priced souvenirs in the gift shop but I dont go in to investigate. It is hot but not overwhelming and so far the drive has been pleasantmy guide is pointing out lots of things along the way and while his English could use some work it is passable and I am learning enough.

I just bought a diet coke and bottle if water fir 40,000vnd which is about $2cdn. The money is hard to wrap my head around and I realize much later in the day that I tipped my boat driver fifty cents which doesnt seem like enough. But handing out 10000 and 20000 at a time is hard to swallow.

Much more to write but at least you know i have arrived and am safe.