Amazing, but challenging day.

Yesterday I woke with a horrible stomach ache that had me fighting the need to vomit. It was also the day we had an all day private tour of the city planned with a guide. As much as I wanted to stay on the rock hard bed, I hoped it would subside. It did not.

Though I was not feeling great, our tour was amazing. The tour would have been on the back of a scooter, but since it was two of us and Liu Ce, we took taxis and walked. Our first visit was to a huge series of temples that was over a thousand years old and was the first university. Beautiful landscaping and a wonderful quiet escape from the craziness of the city.

Next was a unique tour of the Old Quarter, Tuan (our guide) showed us more of the hidden and non tourist side. We were shown, and taken inside (with prior permission) very old French colonial homes. Most of them very rundown and what was once one grand home, is now divided into 8, 12 or more homes. It was the rooftop and back area that were the most amazing.

We were taken over to an area called West Lake, which was where most of the old and new government buildings are and many of the foreigners, tall buildings, development is. Unfortunately, a rain storm was beginning and had to find shelter so back in the taxi to one of the many wonderful cafe's in time to watch the downpour. It was time for some lunch, but the thought of eating was not appealing. Tuan took us to a very locals place, very small, sandwiched in amongst everyone, with our dog. Just try to picture that? Michael said the food was amazing. I attempted some chicken with mushroom soup and simply could not appreciate it.

When we stopped at the cafe earlier I had noticed that everywhere were bedding shops. I had written down the address for the shop that I found on an expat blog site for foam pads to improve our bed. It was intended to be an errand later that day, but when I looked at the address I had written down, it became clear that the shop was around the corner! This is an incredible coincidence when you consider how big this city is and the cafe Tuan chose was so close. Good news is that with Tuan's help we were able to get that damn pad and would be delivered to our home.

It was only half way through the day and I had to head home with Liu Ce. My stomach was not improving and as tough as I can be at times, I had to give in. Michael continued with the tour Nd I headed home with Liu Ce. I stayed in bed for the rest of the day, the pad showed up with Michael and we now have comfort in our sleep. I am thrilled to report that this morning my stomach has greatly improved. A good. Ought sleep helps enormously. Today it is time to get back to studying and go set up a bank account.

Until next time...Mark.