I've met my bike group and wouldn't you know it, there is actually a woman I know! Her two children were patients of Dick Jones'. There are 14 in all and I think it will be an interesting group. All have rode a great deal, both in the US and abroad. All except one couple, a father and daughter, are from the northwest. There is a father and son, five women who ride regularly together, two men who are sharing the same room but just met, a husband and wife, and me! I think we're going to have a lot of fun.
After arriving in Hue and boarding our tour van our guide Nughn said with a disappointed face, "You're not staying in a very good hotel . . . " then pausing for dramatic effect he broke into a broad grin and exclaimed, " You're staying in the very best hotel!" Amazing is all I can say - this is truly one of the most luxurious hotels I've ever stayed in. I am so impressed by Pedatours. The hotel was built in 1901 and is an old European style with a large courtyard. It is located across the street from the Perfume River.
I had lunch at a restaurant called the DMZ. For $2.50 American, I had a squid, pineapple and mango salad that was so tasty with just a touch of spice. It is very hot here, 91 degrees Fahrenheit, and I was sweating up a storm. After lunch I took a quick swim at the hotel pool and just relaxed.
This evening we walked a short distance to a restaurant where we were literally treated like royalty. Their specialty is to dress you like ancient Vietnamese royalty, escort you down a corridor accompanied by musicians, and treat you to a meal that was both delicious and beautifully presented.
So far, so good . . . like I said, I am very impressed by Pedatours. Based on the first day I give them an A++. Tomorrow we take a half day tour of Hue and then get fitted for our bikes. Everyone is looking forward to begin riding and I'm no exception. But we'll have to wait until Tuesday.
I'll try to post my half day tour pictures and stay tuned, I'll let you know the color of my bike . . . I can't wait to find out!!
What a beautiful room! Every thing looks so exotic and wonderful--I am thrilled you are having a great time. Keep posting so we can all see your great adventure as it unfolds!
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Wow! I don't know that I've stayed somewhere so fancy. I love that you got to dress up as royalty. Did you get a close up picture? Sounds like you are having such a fun time- we are thinking of you!
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