We made it into Vietnam in the craziest of circumstances. We honestly thought for a moment at the border that our driver had gone off with all our luggage. But luckily, things were fine.
We drove straight into Dong Ha, a town near the beach from which we would connect to other cities. Feeling adventurous, Kara and I strapped on our backpacks in search of the train station with no map and terrible directions.
The search took over three hours, although the train station was less than two km away. It was boiling hot and we were both dripping with sweat, but the Vietnamese help we had along the way kept our enthusiasm running. Whole groups of people would literally come over and ask if they could help, patching together their English in an attempt to get us to where we were going.
Finally, a good English-speaker helped us out and we made it to the station, only to find out that all trains were booked for the next eight days,
Funny.
In the end, though, it was a great thing. We opted instead to take a morning bus out of Dong Ha, heading to the beach town of Hoi An. Upon arrival, the city was having its Full Moon Festival: the entire city turns off the lights and is lit by lanterns and candlelight. Both of us were hard-pressed to remember a place more beautiful and endearing. It was also extremely romantic, which was lost on the two of us girls travelling without our boys.
Still, though, a great place. We're in high spirits, despite the raging, raging heat. Oddly, everyone told us that we were coming in the rainy season, but we have only seen rain once - and only for half an hour. I could really use a little rain to cool things down...
That is so cool that you are in Vietnam! I'm sitting here in my cube, reading this. It sounds like you are having fun!
Where can I follow up for more information