overnight train from hanoi to lao cai

28 may 2007, 9.15pm
sp 1 overnight train (10hrs) to lao cai train station, heading up to sapa.
soft sleeper AC, usd 15

after bidding family and friends goodbye at the Budget Terminal in singapore, I realised that my DBS internet token wasnt with me. i had left it in another bag at home. what a spot to start with. we arrived on time at hanoi's airport and we asked around where to get a local bus to the city. after much walking, we finally found the bus stop located underneath a dark flyover.

it was an hour's ride to the city and after alighting, we had to walk 45 mins to the old quarters. it was really hard work and our clothes were soaked with sweat. :p