Feb 19-24: Ha Long Bay & Sapa
Ha Long Bay, Vietnam (Unesco World Heritage Site)We signed up for a tour this time to go to this famous site in Vietnam. Northern Vietnam doesn’t really seem set up for independent travelers; sometimes it’s just easier to do a package tour. So we took a minivan up to the jumping off point for Ha Long Bay, which is a bay full of limestone pillars and islands – similar to what you’d see in China at the Three Gorges, where they’re building that big dam. We took a pseudo Chinese “junk,” which you can see the pictures. Spent one night on this junk, being wined and dined. (Actually, just “dined;” wine was extravagantly extra!) It was a relaxing time, just looking at beautiful scenery and being with other foreigners (almost all Australians), but maybe a little slow for our tastes. The kids enjoyed jumping off the boat and kayaking, although, believe it or not, it was actually COLD!
Snake Wine – they believe it has all kinds of medicinal and strong powers – sorry – but I couldn’t get myself to try it – the whole idea is a little revolting
Outside of the tour and visitation of the islands – the French found this incredible cave and now it has become the focul point for all the tours – it was very impressive – very deep, long, high
in the bay – capitalism at its best again – these ladies would row their boats out to the different “junks” to see goodies – they must have strong arms
Josh enjoyed the climbing up and down of the ropes
Girls – trying their hand at squid fishing at night – you set up a light off the bow of the boat and then with your fishing rod its like bobbing for apples – the squids attack the bate as you pull it up – just watch out for them blowing their ink at you.
as you can see below – their are a lot of tours taking place
BELOW: Sapa, Vietnam February 23, 2009
I’m sitting here at the Cat Cat View Hotel on the top floor of our hotel on our balcony looking out over the “Tonkinese Alps,” aptly named because these mountains are high and jagged, like the Alps. (The sea near here is the Gulf of Tonkin.) Could almost feel like we’re in the Alps, except there’s no snow and it’s warm! We took a night train from Hanoi, to this area in northern Vietnam, leaving on a gloomy, rainy night around 9:00 pm. This was another new experience for the kids – sleeper cars, 4 berths to a room. Very small, but cozy in the rain. We arrived in Lao Cai, which is right on the border with China. I don’t know why, but it really freaks me out that we’re this close to China. China must still exude that sense of the exotic and inaccessible, for some reason, even though we could easily catch a train or bus from here into China if we wanted to! We arrived in Lao Cai at 5:30 am and then caught a mini bus up to Sapa, which is about 6000 feet higher. Took about an hour. It really is stunning and surprising to look out and see these craggy peaks, with terraced rice fields below. Today, we took an extensive “trek” through some of the local villages. There are several tribal groups living up here. They are indigenous people who live across several borders: Laos, China, Thailand and Vietnam. The predominant group here whose name people at home would recognize, are the Hmong, but there are several others. They still farm in the terraced rice paddies and wear their traditional colorful clothing, but it’s not like we’re out in the middle of nowhere on our own – there are a lot of foreigners who come up here, including a LOT of Vietnamese people! (Tourists in their own country!) It’s a lot like our Native American reservations, except these people live here of their own accord! We walked most of the day through different villages and terraces. The kids were real troopers – no complaining even though we walked miles! It felt a bit overrun with tourists to me, but for the kids, it was a completely different lifestyle than they’ve seen so far: subsistence farming, bamboo homes, no roads, open sewers and animals living freely with people. However, there are still cell phones and satellite dishes! This trip seems completely worth it when I think what Josh said to me last night as we got on the train: “This trip makes me have a lot more respect for different people.” And I think it’s just because we keep seeing so many different kinds of people, living their lives and obviously having full and complete lives so different from our own! We stay here one more day, when I hope to do some bargaining in the market for the beautiful weaving that’s done here. We then head down on the night train again to Hanoi, arriving at 4:00 am this time! Not sure where we’re going from here. Figuring it out as we go…!New Experience: Sleeper Train – Tim had to go bunk in other cabin 🙁
arrived on train to Lao Cai (5:00am) – 4 miles from China Border. Took bus up a winding road to Sapa – memories of traveling up the road to Murree, Pakistan where I grew up – quite surreal, listening to Enya as we wind up the fog clouded road and hills to the town – to arrive and get this sunrise picture as it just peaks over the mountains – the town of Sapa – the first time in roughly 2 months were we felt cold and had to put on jackets – yea! (Tahoe family)
Trekking into a village – hiked 3 hours – our guide below in traditional outfit of Black Hang Tribe – 16 years old – already been proposed to twice – great English – on the cell phone like any teenager.
Annika – brought a stuffed animal – dog “tank” in memory of her real dog. She decided to take her day bag and place “Tanks” head out of the top so he would not miss the scenery.
Hiking in: We had convoy with as as we hiked. This is true persistance capitalism – yes after they hiked with us for 2 hours we did buy some of their crafts – they then gave the girls little handmaid wrist bands – we thought that was so nice – we now believe it to be a sign – “they are taken” – because when we arrived at the village we were not hassled from all the ladies trying to sell us their goods.
Rice terraces – not in season – too bad otherwise the whole hillside would be awash in green
We decided to go off the beaten track and approach the village from a different path – we climbed up the side of this hill and then down – yes – that is the tip and the next picture is looking straight down off the ride side – vertigo?
This is the valley our guides village isSteep getting down – Josh enjoyed it sliding down the dirt like he was skiing 
Village shots – Josh eating sugar cane – I have given them stories of the times we ate sugar cane in Pakistan and it is the greatest desert – well – they got to experience it. 
Memories: like off-roading in Kaghan, Pakistan – 25 years ago. My kind of road
Village – cultural dance and the girls with the dancers
how would you like that kind of job? – hiking up a down mountain to get firewood
corn grinding mill – by hand
the old artesian water well to get water up from river and dropped into bamboo to run down to the crops
Kids are the same everywhere – went to a classroom – the desks are all marked up like you may see in the US
Pigs – notice the hill behind. That was the last part of the trek where we came from.
Tags: Travel
tahoejohnson
Если вы ищете экономный вариант, наша точная копия AirPods PRO будет отличным выбором.
Viagra gГ©nГ©rique sans ordonnance en pharmacie: Acheter du Viagra sans ordonnance – Viagra vente libre allemagne
pharmacie en ligne livraison europe: kamagra livraison 24h – Pharmacie en ligne livraison Europe
Заказал реплика Airpods PRO онлайн и был приятно удивлен быстрой доставкой.
п»їpharmacie en ligne france: acheter kamagra site fiable – pharmacie en ligne france fiable
florinef pills express – protonix pills add lansoprazole pills lose
pharmacie en ligne avec ordonnance: acheter kamagra site fiable – pharmacie en ligne livraison europe
pharmacies en ligne certifiГ©es: cialis sans ordonnance – acheter mГ©dicament en ligne sans ordonnance
п»їpharmacie en ligne france: Pharmacie Internationale en ligne – pharmacie en ligne france livraison belgique
п»їpharmacie en ligne france: cialis generique – Achat mГ©dicament en ligne fiable
how to ger 1xbet promo code: Unlock Bonuses for New Customers
The promo code for 1xBet is 1XBOX777. When creating an account, players in India can utilize this code to receive a bonus of 100% up to ?42,900 or $/€130. As a new customer at 1xBet, you have the opportunity to enhance your betting experience by using our special promo code. By entering the code during registration, you will gain access to an exclusive welcome bonus of 100% up to $100 on your first deposit. The bonus amount will be equivalent to your local currency if you choose to play in a different currency.
To claim this enticing offer, there are a few steps you need to follow. Firstly, create your account using the provided 1xBet promo code and ensure the validation of your account through the “My Profile” menu. Once that’s done, enable the feature that enables you to participate in the welcome bonus. Finally, make your initial deposit and start enjoying the benefits.
The terms and conditions for the welcome bonus are similar across all countries where 1xBet operates. However, each country may have specific requirements, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the details specific to your location.
A more detailed description of how to correctly use a promotional code when registering with 1xBet — https://arenafan.com/ads/list/?1xbet_promo_code_ghana_is_144___for_registration.html
pharmacie en ligne france fiable: Acheter Cialis – pharmacie en ligne fiable
pharmacie en ligne france pas cher: kamagra livraison 24h – pharmacie en ligne france livraison internationale
Viagra homme sans ordonnance belgique: Viagra sans ordonnance 24h – Viagra gГ©nГ©rique sans ordonnance en pharmacie
vente de mГ©dicament en ligne: Cialis sans ordonnance 24h – Pharmacie en ligne livraison Europe
1x bet promocode: 1XBOX777 offers a VIP bonus of 100% up to $130 for sports betting and a casino package of €1,950 + 150 free spins. This bonus is valid until December 31, 2024. The promotion is valid for new customers only. The bonus promo code must be used during the registration process.
A more detailed description of how to correctly use a promotional code when registering with 1xBet — https://ogloszenia.bialystokonline.pl/pliki/index.php?1xbet_promo_code_420.html
1xBet Bonus Package for Indian Casino Customers
Experience the ultimate excitement of online casino gaming with the exclusive Casino Welcome Offer at 1xBet India 2024. Get ready for an immersive and thrilling journey filled with a wide variety of live dealer games and a vast selection of captivating slots. Unlock this amazing offer by using the 1xBet promo code and take your casino adventure to new heights.
1xBet casino promo code: 1XBOX777, bonus 100% up to $1950 and 150 free spins at the casino. Gain access to an exceptional casino welcome package worth ?130,000. This bonus can be claimed across four separate deposits, allowing you to maximize your rewards and extend your gaming sessions. Prepare to be enthralled by the exhilarating gameplay, stunning graphics, and immersive sound effects that will transport you to the heart of the casino action.
Whether you’re a fan of classic table games or prefer the excitement of spinning the reels on slots, 1xBet has you covered. Explore an extensive collection of live dealer games, where you can interact with professional dealers in real-time for an authentic casino experience. Additionally, the slots section boasts a diverse range of games, ensuring there’s something to suit every preference and style.
Attention all casino enthusiasts! You definitely don’t want to miss out on this incredible opportunity to elevate your casino journey. By using the exclusive 1xbet free bet code: 1XBOX777, you can unlock a remarkable ?169,000 welcome package along with 150 free spins for the year 2024. Immerse yourself in the excitement of the casino, make the most of the bonuses, and embark on a gaming adventure like no other at 1xBet India.
For our valued Indian customers who have a keen interest in the casino section, 1xBet presents an enticing alternative welcome package. This package is designed to enhance your gaming experience across your first four deposits, allowing you to receive a whopping ?169,000 in addition to 150 free spins.
Here’s how the bonus package is divided:
1st deposit: 100% matched bonus + 30 free spins on Reliquary of Ra
2nd deposit: 50% matched bonus + 35 free spins on Chieftain Buffalo
3rd deposit: 25% matched bonus + 40 free spins on Stampede Buffalo
4th deposit: 25% matched bonus + 45 free spins on Rich of the Mermaid Hold and Spin
Embrace the Excitement at 1xBet
With these enticing promo codes and bonus offers, 1xBet ensures that new customers can kickstart their betting journey with a thrilling advantage. Whether you prefer sports betting or exploring the casino games, 1xBet has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to elevate your gaming experience—join 1xBet today and unlock a world of excitement.
A more detailed description of how to correctly use a promotional code when registering with 1xBet — https://www.u-ma.co.jp/pag/?code_promo_1.html
Приветствую. Подскажите, где почитать полезные блоги о недвижимости? Хочу больше узнать про темы аренды и купли/продажи недвижимости. Сейчас читаю https://alfapromnn.ru
Добро пожаловать на наш портал о недвижимости!
Здесь вы найдете интересные статьи и новости о рынке недвижимости, правовых аспектах продажи жилья, аренде коммерческих помещений, инвестициях в недвижимость и многом другом.
Мы стремимся поделиться с вами полезной информацией и помочь вам принимать осознанные решения в сфере продажи недвижимости
http://afmtel.ru.
Больше интересной информации о строительстве и ремонте можно прочитать на сайте https://stroyka-gid.ru. Только самые популярные статьи и обзоры процесса ремонта помещений и строительства зданий.
Приложение акдере бет приложение без регистрации позволит вам быстро начать делать ставки.
Рекомендуем скачать акдере приложение для легкого доступа ко всем возможностям сайта.
1xbet: 1XBOX777. By using the 1xBet bonus code 2024, you can take advantage of a 100% bonus of up to €/$130. This bonus can be claimed when you register at the sportsbook. Make sure to enter this exclusive code when creating a new account on 1xBet to receive the most VIP welcome bonus available. The bonus funds you receive can be used in various sections of 1xBet, including Sports, Live Cricket, Live Casino, 1XGames, ESports, TV Games, and Bingo.
A more detailed description of how to correctly use a promotional code when registering with 1xBet — https://www.meyermachine.com/wp-content/pgs/1xbet_promo_code____388.html
1xBet Bonus Package for Indian Casino Customers
Experience the ultimate excitement of online casino gaming with the exclusive Casino Welcome Offer at 1xBet India 2024. Get ready for an immersive and thrilling journey filled with a wide variety of live dealer games and a vast selection of captivating slots. Unlock this amazing offer by using the 1xBet promo code and take your casino adventure to new heights.
1xBet casino promo code: 1XBOX777, bonus 100% up to $1950 and 150 free spins at the casino. Gain access to an exceptional casino welcome package worth ?130,000. This bonus can be claimed across four separate deposits, allowing you to maximize your rewards and extend your gaming sessions. Prepare to be enthralled by the exhilarating gameplay, stunning graphics, and immersive sound effects that will transport you to the heart of the casino action.
Whether you’re a fan of classic table games or prefer the excitement of spinning the reels on slots, 1xBet has you covered. Explore an extensive collection of live dealer games, where you can interact with professional dealers in real-time for an authentic casino experience. Additionally, the slots section boasts a diverse range of games, ensuring there’s something to suit every preference and style.
Attention all casino enthusiasts! You definitely don’t want to miss out on this incredible opportunity to elevate your casino journey. By using the exclusive 1xbet: 1XBOX777, you can unlock a remarkable ?169,000 welcome package along with 150 free spins for the year 2024. Immerse yourself in the excitement of the casino, make the most of the bonuses, and embark on a gaming adventure like no other at 1xBet India.
For our valued Indian customers who have a keen interest in the casino section, 1xBet presents an enticing alternative welcome package. This package is designed to enhance your gaming experience across your first four deposits, allowing you to receive a whopping ?169,000 in addition to 150 free spins.
Here’s how the bonus package is divided:
1st deposit: 100% matched bonus + 30 free spins on Reliquary of Ra
2nd deposit: 50% matched bonus + 35 free spins on Chieftain Buffalo
3rd deposit: 25% matched bonus + 40 free spins on Stampede Buffalo
4th deposit: 25% matched bonus + 45 free spins on Rich of the Mermaid Hold and Spin
Embrace the Excitement at 1xBet
With these enticing promo codes and bonus offers, 1xBet ensures that new customers can kickstart their betting journey with a thrilling advantage. Whether you prefer sports betting or exploring the casino games, 1xBet has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to elevate your gaming experience—join 1xBet today and unlock a world of excitement.
A more detailed description of how to correctly use a promotional code when registering with 1xBet — https://arenafan.com/ads/list/?1xbet_promo_code_ghana_is_144___for_registration.html
The SASSA status check https://srdsassagovza.co.za/ service is also beneficial during times of change, such as when updating personal information or transitioning between different types of grants. By monitoring your status, you can ensure that your records are accurate and that you continue to receive the correct amount of support.
курсовые работы на заказ https://zakazat-kursovuyu-rabotu7.ru
Попробуйте akdere stavka и слоты, чтобы получить максимум удовольствия от игры.
Добро пожаловать на информационный портал о недвижимости!
Здесь вы найдете полезные статьи о аренде недвижимости, а также о налогах на недвижимость.
Мы расскажем вам о тонкостях покупки вторичной квартиры и поделимся другими секретами.
For the reason that the admin of this site is working, no uncertainty very quickly it will be renowned, due to its quality contents.
@@G@@
https://www.go68.ru/list/340924
решение задач на заказ https://resheniye-zadach7.ru заказать онлайн
рефераты на заказ https://kupit-referat213.ru
Для пользователей Android доступно скачать akdere для андроид бесплатно.
https://bicrypto.exchange – crypto exchange software. White label, open-source exchange solution with a focus on a super-fast, pixel-perfect interface and robust security. High-performance platform with a robust internal architecture. Leverages the capabilities of Nuxt3 to create a cutting-edge user interface.
Используйте промокод акдере ставка на фрибет для получения бесплатных ставок.
Приветствую. Может кто знает, где почитатьразные статьи о недвижимости? Интересуют темы аренды и купли/продажи недвижимости. Пока нашла https://iter21.ru
Comment verifier la pertinence du code promo 1xbet?
Pour verifier la pertinence du code promo pour parier gratuit dans 1xbet, le joueur doit se connecter a son compte. En utilisant les parametres, vous devez entrer dans la section «verifier le code promotionnel et entrer la combinaison copiee.
depakote oral – buy generic depakote over the counter order topiramate 100mg pills
I admire your creativity in problem-solving. You bring fresh ideas to the table that inspire us all. Check my page for other related articles ipltata
buy zofran online cheap – buy detrol generic ropinirole pills