Last day in Laos- what an eye opener: Tuesday 8th April

This morning we had a couple of hours before we had to make our way to the airport. We would be flying to Vietnam today! We used the time to go to the COPE visitor centre. This is a rehabilitation centre where they help those that have been injured by bombs. There is a museum also which sets the scene and provides facts. Laos PDR is one of the most heavily bombed country in the world per capita in history. More than 580,000 bombing missions were conducted over Laos PDR during the Vietnamese war. However up to 30% failed to detonate and remained in Laos PDR after the war. This leaves approximately 80 million unexploded bombies throughout the country after the war. As such, everyday there are explosions and more killed and injured. We tried to absorb the facts and also watched a short documentary. It was rather upsetting and the general mood in group was of sadness. Additionally, we were all appalled that it was kept so much underwraps. It was a shame that we would be leaving Laos today but at least we had the opportunity to visit COPE and learn of the horrors. The best we can do is support and create awareness.

I didn't feel like I had my share of this beautiful country just yet. However, time waits for nobody and Vietnam was waiting! It was a very short but pleasant flight. On arriving in Hanoi, the capital city, we were hit by the humidity and the fast pace straightaway. There were motorbikes and cars everywhere and the general atmosphere was more city bustle, much unlike the ultra laid back Vang Vieng. All of us were gawping out of the windows on the bus to the hotel, fascinated by the madness on the roads, the skinny buildings and the big names we saw.

We were staying in Hanoi's old quarter. After checking in to the hotel, we absorbed the neighbouring streets and kicked back a bit before this evening's meal. Today was Peter's birthday and to celebrate, we went to a very traditional, family run restaurant. We enjoyed good local food and tried to learn some basic Vietnamese words. There was a beautiful surprise cake lit with candles for Peter after our meal. He looked delighted and it was great to all celebrate together. We ended the day by a walk by the riverside to digest our food and admire the night views.