Yesterday was quite a relaxed day, our group leader Hai took us around to look at some of Hoi An’s historical locations such as a famous temple and an ancient Japanese bridge. Later in the afternoon we were given free time to look around the city and have a long swim in the pool before going to a cooking class at Ms Vy’s cooking school. We learnt about the traditional methods of cooking typical Vietnamese style foods such as chicken skewers and spring rolls. We were surprised by the number of ingredients. We then went downstairs where we ate what we had prepared along with some additional dishes for dinner. It was fun, not to mention delicious.
Today we broke our slumber at the dawn of 7. We hastily pounced out of bed and bounced to the complimentary breakfast in which we broke our fast. We dined on sweet fruits such as watermelon and mango. We commenced our journey towards the fabled ‘Marble Mountain’ to which we participated in the thrilling activity of abseiling. We all took turns scaling down the sheer face of the cliff approximately twenty five meters high and then inside a cave which was admittedly shorter but many agreed as exhilarating of an experience as the higher counterpart. After a nutritious lunch provided by our talented abseiling guides, we headed on our four hour bus trip to Hue in which much banter was had. Midway though our journey we were met by the stunning view of the coast of the eastern sea and a bunker which marked the boarder of north and south region Vietnam in the past. Many photos were taken.
Once we arrived our weary eyes were met with the sight of the hotel which was way above the standard we expected (4 star). After the chance to shower, freshen up and relax with our new roommates we headed down the clustered streets of Hue to a palace like restaurant. Hue was the former imperial capital of Vietnam, and in this tradition, we were given a privileged opportunity to dine like royalty. Tanner and Hannah were selected as the King and Queen for the evening. We all put on traditional robes and hats and took out places at the table. There was ample traditional Vietnamese musical entertainment which consisted of age old cultural Vietnamese instruments such as a two stringed guitar and a marvellous Vietnamese singer. Many dishes were served to us throughout the dining experience and we were all sure that this night we would sleep with full tummies. I love you mum and dad 😀.
Tom and Lewis
