Otter's Outings

Due to some logistical issues, I was relieved to have arrived in the village.  In theory, it was all actually going to work out now!  Thankfully there was a man with my name on a sign waiting to take me to Oxalis (basecamp).  We drove in the uneasy darkness of early morning and were blessed with the sun rising as we got closer to the village.  The mountain was emblazoned with the name of the national park.  The best way to explain my day in the village is through photos.  The caves were an experience to remember, but a day in Phong Nha was just as intriguing and the relaxation I needed. Entrance to the village. Song Con River Pancakes - Vietnam Style! (I also consumed bread with jam, bacon and water galore). Village puppy who ended up being my best meal time companion.   After breakfast, I borrowed a bicycle and decided I was going to go see it all.  I'm not sure how far I journeyed, but I went through residential a...

You know you've organized a good adventure when on the flight over you compose a letter in your yellow waterproof journal for the possible eventuality of your death or disappearance.  I didn't think either option was likely, but I like to be prepared.  I had over-considered ever option, possible risk and logistical complication, but once you are heading to a new foreign country where you don't even know how to say hello in the local language, you simply must press on.  I landed in a cloudy, subdued Hanoi, found my 30 Lbs ruck and headed towards the front door.  In a moment of shame and fear of hungriness, I did this: Yes, food that I would never eat at home was safe and happy and amazing.  Then I realized there was ice in my Coke.  Daily Cipro intake starting in 3, 2, 1..... After my last civilized meal, I took a cab 15 miles towards the train station knowing I had a full 6 hours to pack the last 3 miles and explore.  The city was busy, but n...