First day in Hanoi

I arrived at the Hong Ngoc Hotel in the Old Quarter of Hanoi about 1 a.m. this morning, having come almost exactly halfway around the world in about 28 hours. Happily, they were 28 mostly uneventful hours. Part of travel is practicing gratitude, and last night, I was grateful for a firm bed. What joy to stretch out from head to toe after being folded into a seat on a plane for so long!

Morning came quickly. The alarm clock was beeping horns, interspersed with birdsong. Since I didn't have two hungry dogs waiting impatiently for breakfast, I had the luxury of lingering in bed and enjoying the sounds of the morning in Hanoi. Our hotel, recommended to me by my friend Julie Wagner, is delightful and friendly. Breakfast was warming congee (even in a hot climate, hot food is nourishing and comforting), fresh fruit, and delicious coffee.

My friend Renate Wehner, from Germany, whom I met via the listserv for the Thich Nhat Hanh trip, came to my hotel later in the morning. How wonderful to meet her at last! We wandered around the city, dodging the infamous Hanoi traffic, for several hours and then had a restful lunch. The weather is overcast and humid, but very pleasant. Everyone we met was friendly and eager to speak English. There are many tourists here, so we don't stand out too much in the crowd.

My friend Sandra Russell should arrive momentarily from Scotland. The three of us--Sandra, Renate, and I--will go out for dinner later.

I don't know how often I'll be able to update this blog, but I will when I can, so if some entries are long, bear with me. It's a great pleasure to be able to share little moments from this beautiful city with friends and family far away! (For more photos, visit http://www.dotphoto.com/go.asp?l=jumpalagi&AID=4398711&Pres=Y)