Bob and Ann in Vietnam 2005-2006 Eldertreks Tour

Cyclo Ride


Costumes at Royal Park Restaurant

On the way to the airport we were notified that our flight to Hue was delayed so we detoured to a Vietnam War site where a B52 bomber crashed in a lake and is still there. We then walked through a Botanical Garden, nice but under a slight drizzle we were glad to be leaving gloomy Hanoi. Grabbed sandwiches and pizza and beer at the airport for lunch before boarding our flight. Thuy and Roger supply us with a constant supply of snacks and treats which keep us in line. Smooth flight to Hue though those of us with colds had ear problems, especially poor Kathleen, Ann’s seatmate. She is very savy about ear pain, but did not expect lack of pressurization on our short flight.

After checking into the Festival Hotel we were immediately whisked away on a Cyclo ride through the city. Dark at 6PM by the time we returned to our spacious, clean but slightly mildewy room. (We got used to it)

By 6:45 we left for dinner at the Royal Park Restaurant. Surprised by attendants who escorted us to a big closet, all 12 of us were dressed in elaborate robes and headdresses of the elite, educated 19th century ruling class. Jim and Linda were appointed king and queen and dressed in silk splendor. The rest of us were either concubines or mandarins in colorful fancy robes and matching traditional headwear. In our separate banquet room we were served a feast and entertained by splendid musicians singing and playing classical Vietnamese music. Ann brought home their CD. Photos were taken of the royal party and given to each of us. Good intro to delights of Hue.

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