A moving day

It was a moving in both meanings of the word.

The photo is of the memorial to the massacre which happened at Son My in March 1968. We arrived there after four hours in the coach and a 15 km cycle in the wind and rain (a great contrast from previous days). The massacre was a terrible tragedy and it was a somber group walking around the museum and remains of the village.

We were stopping for a picnic lunch at My Lai (the new name for Son My). Unfortunately the wind and rain had got worse and everyone was getting cold.

The majority of the group opted to sit out the next section in the bus. I found myself with four elite cyclists (including one world class triathlete) and another guy of better ability than me. It was the first time I've really been part of a true peloton, and found myself cruising along at a very fast pace. Admittedly, I was the one cruising at the back while the others did the work at the front. I nearly got dropped on one of the hills but I was rescued and pulled back in. It was the fastest 30km I've ever cycled (we even opted not to stop when the bus was waiting with refreshments half way). I was really pleased I didn't opt for to stay in the bus as I ended it with another grin on my face, although knackered.

Unfortunately I'm back on the bus again for another two hour journey to Hoi An. We're travelling along Highway One which is an experience in itself. The roads here are designed to be driven on the right, but that doesn't mean that is what people do. It seems to be the case that if it is more convenient to stay on the left, that's what you do. We were in the outside lane at one point and a moped was coming straight towards us, not looking like he was going to move. After a beep from our driver he moved to the right and went by us.

The roads are so crazy but they seem to work, and there's no road rage. The general rule seems to be that you give way to a vehicle bigger than you and that vehicle will announce its presence by the use of its horn. This rule applies regardless of the direction of travel of either vehicle. Fortunately we have a great driver.

There's an argument about which moped wins the bingo today. It's a toss up between a full size wardrobe and a large fish tank with stand.

Now at the hotel in an enormous room. Tonight we're off to a private house for dinner. Should be interesting, if so will write about it tomorrow.