Chapter 7.4 - The first 'Eric pamper day'

2.3.

10:11am

I'm sitting in the most expensive restaurant so far for breakfast. But today I treat myself. It's my pamper day. I'm booking my ticket for Ha Long tomorrow with pickup from the homestay. Hotel room is booked. 275k per night, including breakfast. I think it's totally fine. It was more expensive in Ninh Binh without breakfast.

I'll get some money and a bottle of water and then head to the beach. It's time for me to work on my tan.

11:36am

It's just perfect today. I almost regret leaving the city tomorrow. But the journey is far from over :)

2:43pm

Hunger is driving me back to the restaurant in the center. I ordered grilled squid with rice and a lemon juice. Then I'll go back to the beach. After that, I'll take care of some business matters at the homestay and then I'll go back to the center and explore the city at night. Maybe I'll meet James again, the Spanish guy from Ninh Binh who's on his way to Cat Ba. There's also an old fort that's supposed to be beautiful at sunset. But I think after swimming, I prefer to get rid of the salt with a warm shower at Hapy.

5:18pm

Back at the homestay. I'm going to relax for a bit now, take care of my bills, and take a shower. Later, I'll be in the city for dinner and I'll probably meet James and even Michael, the American guy. Looking forward to it :)

8:21pm

For the crowning finale of the last evening on Cat Ba, I'm sitting at the Indian restaurant.

James and Michael left me hanging because they're going on a boat tour tomorrow morning at 7:00am, which I've already done. But it's totally fine. After dinner, I'll walk along the shore with my battered foot. I got some new cuts while swimming earlier. I got caught on an old rope on the way out. It was so stiff and buried deep in the ground. Damn it!

But socks and sturdy shoes are absolutely bearable at 17°C.

9:41pm

With cleaned teeth and a full stomach, I'm lying in my bed. It was a very relaxing and beautiful day. I'm also looking forward to exploring a new corner tomorrow. Pickup is at 1pm, until then I'll spend time packing my bag, paying the bill, and maybe going for breakfast again. Now I'm just chilling and dealing with my bills.

See you later antenna 👋