Hello from Sa Pa

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Just short entry as we await our train bck to Hanoi. We are in the northern mountains, right next to the Chinese border. Incredibly beautiful country side, with hill tribes who we have visited in their villages as we have trekked around: Black H'mong; Flower H'mong; Tay, Dao. The people wear traditional dress and the only was to communicate with them is through commerce, e.g. they are seeing their crafts and persistently. But it's been delightful walking with them for kilometers, that is the women and young girls. They have learned English from the tourists and are delightful to converse with. Of course, I have had to buy stuff, which is lovely, but the best part is the interaction. The rice paddies, water buffalo, pigs, chickens, and rustic homes complete the rural picture!

Our hotel was high end, high up in the fog and mist with fireplaces, a great mountain retreat atmosphere. We took the over night train to get here, now await the day train trip of 10 hours to get home. Vietnam is dressing up for Christmas too. Lots of Western influences. After a night in Hanoi at the Metropole we are off to Halong Bay for a Chinese junk overnight trip on the bay and some kayaking among the karsts. I send holiday greetings and will write again when I can. Love to you all, Donna

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