Vietnam 4 - Phu Quoc - Rach Gia - Can Tho

Rach Gia to Can Tho
Booze, cigarettes and a minibus

On Thursday we got up early (yeah, seeing a pattern here?), grabbed a quick breakfast and rented a moped. Ken taught me to ride a motorbike one afternoon in Bulawayo but that was one afternoon years ago. And I didn't have anyone on the back. Nevertheless, off we went, trying not to crash into anyone! Lucky the roads were quiet and we quickly headed through the town and up the road into the jungle. The jungle was cool and quiet, only saw one tour group. Walked around and enjoyed being out in nature so far from civilisation. The trees were cool, Phu Quoc was relatively untouched by agent orange.

Back on the bike, zoomed down the new roads out past the north eastern beaches and back into Duong Dong. I think that whilst everyone laughed at them the Italians were always right - they way to a mans heart is on the back of a Vespa! Looking back at the port at Phu Quoc I was sad to leave. If I ever return this quiet little island will be completely changed by things like the new roads and airport. Hopefully it can retain it's charm and tranquility.

Back to Rach Gia and things were far from peaceful, all the proper buses were full so Ryan, Matt and I ended up going to My Tho in a big minibus, surrounded by people and their chickens, smoking and drinking. Apart from fearing for my life, and the cramped conditions it was actually fun! Got into Can Tho late and found a cheap place in the backpacker area (Ninh Kieu). Decided on a big long dinner of Shabu shabu (so so so good) and Vietnamese wine (umm.. so so cheap!). Booked a boat tour of the floating markets (for early of course!) and headed into bed.

Vietnam 2 - Phu Quoc

Monday - Slept quite well on the night bus.  At first we thought that the tiny little minibus we were dropped off at was it, luckily it wasn't and the coach was comfortable.  Woke up when the bus took a short ferry across the Mekong river and again as we got into Rach Gia.  Befriended Ryan on the bus so we ignored the taxi people and walked the short distance between the bus station and ferry terminal. The ferry took almost 3 hours due to rough seas (they really should have designed the bathroom to withstand the constant rocking.  Gross).

Most of the resorts are located on the far western side of the island just south of Duong Dong (the biggest town).  Matt bartered down the price of our hotel and got us a room upgrade to one with a balcony and sea view!  After unpacking we grabbed a few beers and took a walk along the beach.  Napped on a lounger with a beer and book.   Talked to a few places on the way back to town and managed to book a Christmas snorkelling trip for about 5USD.  Explored a temple in a lighthouse and the night market where we ate an amazing fish supper.