A long queue of people applying for visas soon dwindles down to nothing as the applications and passports are passed along a line of about ten guys who sit and self stick visas to passports all day. Immigration a breeze. Biosecurity and baggage checking even better as there was no one there. A voucher for a cheap sim gets me a SIM for $5 loaded with $10 credit so that cant be bad, whatever it is it should last me 4 days.
Golden Temple had arranged for a driver to collect me (part of the deal at no charge). Salat was waiting for me and escorted me to a very comfortable tuktuk which bought me into the township. Along the road we pass many beautiful looking resorts. Very much a resort town but beautiful. We go into thetownship which is full of pubs, restaurants, people everywhere. Hardly a motorbikle to be seen. Until I arrived here I hadn't really comprehended just how manic HCMC was. I look forward to exploring here tomorrow.
Down a wee lane in the tuktuk and we arrive at the hotel, through a jungle like setting to reception where Miss Sophie welcomes me and then takes me through to the restaurant for my free welcome drink. Ice cold lime jiuce. Divine. I also get a free massage and a driver alocated to me for the duration if my stay if I want to go somewhere. i have to pay for the driver but he will be made available for me whereever I want to go. Great deal.
I am escorted to my room. Somewhat smalller and more basic than I expected but it is clean, has a good sized bed, a safe, fridge, air con and a bathroom (basic but functional). I am paying the princely sum of $20 per night including breakfast (for which I got vouchers) so can't complain. My good friend Joy recommended the place and I am so glad she did. Her recommendation in HCMC was spot on as well.
Bags unpacked and I am ready for bed.
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