Day 5, September 30

 Wow, the last day of September. This month certainly flew.  Today we had nothing planned so after breakfast we walked a few blocks over to the Vietnam National Museum of History. There are a couple of buildings but the main one you are first directed to is the modern history of Vietnam from the 18th century forward. Vietnam was constantly at war during these times, first from colonial powers, especially the French, trying to take over, then the Japanese, back to the French, and finally the Americans and their allies. During this time, the Communist Party rose to prominence and took over the government from the feudal rule of the king. It was very interesting to learn the early history and then to read and see about the rise of Communism and about the Vietnam War. We then left there after a couple of hours and found the Quan Com Tay Can restaurant which was suggested by Tri our local liaison with Uniworld.  Alan had a catfish dish and I had caramelized shrimp.  Alan is walking back there right now to get banh mi sandwiches for dinner. It was worth crossing several streets to get to it. Crossing the streets is still taking your life into your hands.

Alan went out this evening and came back with a delicious assortment of dim sum. We ate them in the room.  Tomorrow, we leave Hanoi for two nights, three days cruising in Ha Long Bay.  Off to pack since we need to move out of our room for that time.

Above our heads on the wall at our breakfast each morning at the Sofitel

Dim Sum Place