Hue

Life On The Water

At first you don't actually realise how big Vietnam is. But it is big. The overnight bus, taking 12 hours from Hanoi to Hue, whilst barely appearing to move on the map - quickly puts it into perspective for you.

Hue is far quieter than its northern city neighbour. It has a relaxed feel to it and some parts by the river really are very pleasant. In the main town, towards the Citadel and its Forbidden Purple City, it becomes very much like you would imagine a Vietnamese town centre to be, but still holds a perfectly chilled atmosphere. I spent a day walking the streets and through the Citadel.

There are also many temples and tombs around the city too, most of which are reachable by boat along the Perfume River and then via motocycle taxi to the places of interest. I thought it best to do the trip for a bit of cultural enlightenment and it was just that.

I also picked up a Cambodian Lonely Planet guidebook here too, given by two nice American's (Amy and Kim) who had no use for it anymore - a real bonus (and so if you ever read this - thanks again)!!! I continued down south, to another place where UNESCO has been busy stamping their mark......