Leaving Hanoi

Well, I'm just about out of here. I have to say that I will be glad to be home tomorrow. I returned to Hanoi from Sapa on the overnight train yesterday. Major problems were averted when an English speaking guide helped me with the process to get my bike on the train. I would have never figured it out. Through a locked gate, wait for the right person to issue the tag, pay, take the bike to the luggage car at the back of the train, find the attendant, give him the bike and the proper ticket and then keep the correct ticket in order to pick the bike up in Hanoi. It would have been almost impossible. The ride on the train was ok, and I slept well. After arriving in Hanoi, I rode my bike to the hotel and then was met by my guide to explore in town. We went to the Museum of Ethnology and the Military Museum. Both were extremely interesting and both helped deepen my understanding of Vietnam and her struggles. For dinner I went to an Indian restaurant where I was joined at the table by two incredible nice gentlemen from Dehli. I was sitting there just killing time until I left, which was quite in contrast to my intention when I left the hotel. I asked myself what it would take to have a great last evening in Hanoi. I didn't come up with anything, but then these guys joined me at my table and we had the best conversation. India, America, health insurance, the caste system, etc... I will go to India next. I am now going to pack and head for the airport. See you all back home! Love, Geoff