We arrived in the north of Viet Nam yesterday, cruising along a spectacular and fascinating rather narrow Bay, just filled with limestone protrusions (tiny islands) of the most interesting and extraordinary shapes. It was difficult to follow the computer lesson, while the most extraordinary scenery was visible through the window! Finally, I (temporarily) left the class to go out on the deck to take some pictures. This Blog title is the true translation of the Bay, which is in the Gulf of Tonkin area.
Hallelujah! For the first time, since the Cruise started in January, I have been able to upload pictures. Periodically, i have kept trying, but until now, it just never worked.
Legend has it that a giant Dragon descended into the Sea, thrashing his tail and thereby creating many islands and islets (between 2000 and 3000 in all). They have curious lnames, like Cock Fight, Pair of Roosters, etc. Many have caves and grottos, and at least one included stalagmites and stalactities, which were available to be seen today, from the Junk Cruise that I took. However, it meant climbing uphill for over 100 stairs, then up and downhill within the cave, etc. and since I seem to be developing a problem with my left hip, I opted to remain on the Junk with a few others who also put caution before foolhardiness, and we had a nice social time together. In fact, it gave us the perfect opportunity to witness how the bargaining system works. I had just finished telling how I was able to get a jar of Tiger Balm in Da Nang for only $1.00 while others had paid as much as $5.00 for the same item. There were two young women on board who were selling jewelry, kimonos, table cloths, postcards, and anything else you can think of.... including Tiger Balm for $7.00 a jar! One of the men, who had just heard my story, said he would take one for $1.00, and the girl was shocked, and refused. He kept insisiting, saying that I had only paid $1.00, and eventually she reduced the price to $5.00, but the fellow held his ground and refused until she finally checked with her older companion, and agreed to sell it for $1.00. At that point, everyone at the table bought some, and later when the cave visitors returned to the Junk, she continued selling it for $1.00 and did I very good business.
I should have asked for a commission!
I have included a picture of a family living on a family raft, with fish traps, such that locals come out to buy freshly caught fish (mostly Grouper). There is also a picture of one of the Junks, and the picture of me on the deck was taken yesterday. Today was really cold and rainy all day.
Now, it's time to get ready for our Hong Kong Kabang party which is being offered to those of us on the World Cruise. In my case, it has to make up for the one I missed yesterday, because I fell asleep and missed the boarding time.!
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