It was a decent flight on China Southern. Comfortable, a lack of movie choices, but I was too tired to appreciate them anyway; sleeping fitfully most of the way.
A two day stopover in Guangzhou to ease myself slowly out of the jetlag. I don't have a China Visa, but a 10 day "transit visa" is available on arrival. I didn't realise this was organised at a separate arrivals desk and I was denied entry at the regular immigration control. A nervous moment when I thought maybe I was wrong about the transit visa!
Guangzhou is a nice enough city to wander around. Pleasantly warm and dry at the moment and still some history which has yet to be demolished.
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| Shamian Island |
Leaving Guangzhou didn't start great: the very full flight was delayed, cramped and uncomfortable. After touching down in Saigon, the immigration queue was looooonnnnng! Finally through and I decided to change some money, only to realise once I'd reached my hotel, that they'd short-changed me out of about £30........ rookie mistake on my part, but still: bastards!!
So, Saigon. A lot better than I remember, very vibrant and interesting city. I had a wander over to the bike rental shop (Style Motorbikes) to sort the paperwork and rental fee. Had a quick test ride around the block. All good. It also appears that the (reported) awful weather is improving. Only some slight drizzle so far today.
Hopefully the weather will continue to improve, but the bike rental guy asked if I had my own waterproofs, as I "will need them!" So, picking up the bike tomorrow and heading East; the best direction!
Soundtrack: "Eject" - Senser
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