Traveler's Café: Indochine February 9

This morning we went to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. We have tried to get into it several times in the past and have never been successful. It's only open certain days of the week and only in the mornings. On top of that, HCM is sent to Russia frequently for a makeover so the mausoleum can be closed for months at a time.

In any event, after trying 3 or 4 times, we finally made it in today. The mausoleum itself is a building that is all marble pillars and has guards all around. You have to check your cameras and they are returned only after you exit. I assume the belief is that people could not resist taking a photo and I suspect that belief is correct. Truth be told, there is not much to take a photo of. HCM is in an open casket behind glass and I suspect he looks the same way he did 30 odd years ago when he left this earth. Still, it really isn't much of a photo op.

The HCM museum was much more entertaining. It is a surprisingly avant garde affair and has very "with it" displays dealing with the life and teachings of HCM. It was interesting to read about where he spent his time in China and to see the "declaration of independence". It was surprisingly short. Certainly no longer than ours.

I am glad we finally got in.

In the afternoon we built up bikes for Chantal, Gwyn and Robin. They take the overnite train for Lao Cai tonite. Tomorrow morning they will ride their bikes up to Sapa and then the next day hike up Mt. Fansipan. They will be joined by the Mack's, who have yet to arrive, and are taking the train tomorrow night (talk about a long trip!!!...they arrive late at night from the US and then get on a train the next night...and hike in the morning they get off the train). Everyone else arrives (or should arrive) over the next two days and we take the train the night of the 12th.

Anyway, the adventure is about to begin.

Here are a few photos from the day:

This morning from our hotel: