Ha Long Bay, North Vietnam

This is a vast expanse of islands dotting the north end of the South China Sea. Poor weather and cool brought out our warm jackets for the first time!

Many of he limestone formations have names such as "rooster and hen". Floating fishing villages with their own one-room schoolhouses exist in relative isolation. Beggars in woven (porous) boats accost tourists mercilessly.

An amazing limestone cave in a mountain provided spectacular, multi-colored views (many steps up and down!!). Here in the north English is less well spoken or understood but everybody loves US$$!