Hanoi to Lao Cai - Vietnam's far north 1

The regrettably named Livitrans Ratraco counter at Hanoi railway station was unmanned for the departure which ensured maximum confusion for all foreign travellers.

The cabin. Clean, comfortable and at this point occupied only by me.

Then the screaming baby arrived. Baby, mother and grandma had travelled the enormous distance from Lai Chau to Hanoi for medical care for the infant who has a serious liver condition. My self pity at having to share the cabin quickly evaporated. They were great travel companions and I had a good night's sleep.

Sunrise at Lao Cai railway station.

Lao Cai is on Vietnam's border with China so lots of the enormous trade between the two countries happens here. These small traders are moving the most enormous bunch of jackfuit I've ever seen.

Bicycles packed tight for the journey across the border.

The border crossing.

Looking over the river to China.

Lao Cai's old Catholic cathedral.

Lao Cai from the French era bridge across the Red River.

Contemplating Hanoi? The Red River flows from here to Vietnam's capital Hanoi.

Lao Cai

French era Red River bridge Lao Cai.

This woman insisted I photograph her. I duly did.

Streets of Lao Cai