Made it to Hanoi

Well 24 hours on a plane is actually doable. Who knew? We arrived at the Golden Wings II Hotel at night so it was difficult to see the city. I hear that the businesses and buildings were taxed for the amount of frontage space they occupied on the street. As a result, the buildings are skinny, long and tall. They remind me of the shot-gun houses in New Orleans, though they are much, much taller. I am anxious to get out and see the city tomorrow. (You will finally get to see photos then!) The myriad of gifts, beanie babies, and treats made the journey safely through our connecting flight in Tokyo.

The most astounding part of the flight was looking out over the Alaskan mountains and Berring Straits. The frozen mountains, glaciers, ocean and tundra below was a sight to behold. The speeches about grabbing your life jacket and learning how to inflate it are of little value when flying over this part of the world.

International travel is so much like backpacking. Once I started packing my carry on bag I realized I was an old hand at trying to bring only what you need in the smallest amount possible. I am amazed that I am sitting in this hotel in Hanoi writing to you in this blog.

The world is a very small place.