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Published: February 25th 2014
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25th - feb Tuesday
This morning we recalled a strange incident that occurred on our walk back to the Hotel yesterday afternoon. Strolling contentedly along a side street, a young Vietnamese cyclist pulled up beside us, removed his anti-smog mask and pointed at Leo's forearm. We thought he was warning about the dangers of skin cancer or sun damage until he whisked up Leo's t-shirt and patted his belly. Then he pulled up his own. Had he tried to do the same to Paula, he would have received a deft slap! However, with sign language we eventually understood that his excitement was all about body hair - his absence of any, and Leo's abundance. Much laughter ensued before we continued our walk home.
Leisurely breakfast, then took ownership of what must surely be two of the crankiest bicycles in the whole of Vietnam. We fondly remember our previous friends, Martin and Clarkson, these new pair leave a lot to be desired. Naming them as per manufacturer, they are reluctantly now known as Osama II and Osama III.
Paula's saddle points East (and so does her seat), while the front basket faces
West, which is very unsettling. We noticed that Leo's front tyre was fairly flat. After about 10km on our ride towards Thuan An beach, we spotted a Motorcycle repair shop and took the opportunity to top up with some air. The mechanics kindly obliged, then all started laughing, quite hysterically it seemed. On investigation, we discover the tyre and possibly the wheel, have a pronounced S shaped buckle and after re inflating, this becomes pronounced. So now Leo has a slightly wobbly gait, (not unlike his walking style back from the Brewery Bar in Peyia, some nigohts).
Writing today's blog from the beach, high surf, huge waves, lovely sound, as we cool our weary bodies in anticipation of our 16km ride home. Weather at least 28degrees, clear blue skies, cold Heineken, such a hard life! We take a good stroll along the beach for about an hour, delighting in it's sheer beauty and remoteness, very little sign of commercialisation, met only one other couple throughout the two hours, it would have rivalled anything that West Indies or Africa has on offer.
Long may it remain so, but we think unlikely. For our trip back we stayed mainly
on the small Tow Path type track which followed the river, enjoying scenes of riverside life in the many small Hamlets dotted along the track and being amazed by the huge flocks of Ducks. ( sadly thinking Crispy Duck)
Our only problem was that the Locals were so friendly, meaning that our progress home was slowed by the many greetings and chatter along the beautiful way home. Glad to hand the bikes back to their rightful owner, our Hotel Receptionist insists that we take a 5 minute break in the cool lobby and hands us chilled hand towels and glasses of iced lemon. She says that we look hot! For this evening's dining experience we have decided to revisit the Indian Restaurant that we enjoyed so much
on Sunday evening, so quick shower, and off we go, after last night's indulgence, this will be a relatively inexpensive evening, and very satisfying, we hope.
Tip of the Day :We have see some marvellous scenery and culture here in Vietnam, and been told to 'see it now before tourism and commercialism forever change it - we heartily agree !
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Ann
non-member comment
Helloooo
Wow you guys look like your having a great time, so glad it's all going well xxxx