Sorry it’s been so long since I updated, don’t come across internet cafes that often! I’m currently waiting for a bus to Lao Cai, where I am going to catch a sleeper train back to Hanoi.
I’ve been in Sapa for the last few days, which is so beautiful it is unreal. The locals are so pushy though – on my first day a woman with a baby strapped on her back followed me around for 3 hours, even waiting outside a café when I stopped for a drink! It’s also the first place I’ve been where you can’t barter in shops and restaurants.
Yesterday was my favourite day of my travels so far. I was in Bac Ha, and went for a motorbike ride up into the mountains so I could go for a hike. I came across a stream with crystal clear water, so I stopped and dunked my head in. It was amazing as it was absolutely baking hot!
So guess what I ate yesterday…DOG. I went to this restaurant near my hotel for dinner last night; it was packed out with locals so looked like a safe bet. Problem is, there is no menu and no English-speaking locals but a guy from the hotel has come to be my “translator” despite him not speaking English either. A beer arrived for me, then a local sits down with me, he doesn't speak English but seems offers to share his rice wine. It was horrible and I felt really queasy when he poured another. When my food arrived, I looked at the guy from the hotel questioningly, and he drew me a picture of a dog!
So there I am, faced with a plate of dog, some spinach and rice. I am now glad of the rice wine as it gave me the dutch courage to tuck in. The lighter part of the meat has the texture of duck, but by god, it tastes like dog! I try and distinguish if the hair is still on but decide not to think too much, just eat it. I got through the dish by bravado alone. I'm glad to try real locals dish, but I will not be rushing to eat it again! Gross.
I can see my bus at the station, so time for me to sign off. Love to you all, and especially to Bear. I can’t believe I ate one of his kind! I suppose as they say…when in Rome!
