[Nha Trang, Vietnam]

After yesterday’s rain we really needed a break in the weather for the ‘Amazing Snorkeling Tour’ organized by our hotel. By the time we had finished in the shower the morning drizzle had stopped and the sun was coming out to play. We piled into a minivan with a couple of others and a wonderful Aussie couple (who were on honeymoon) for the ride across town to the docks. Our boat filled with around 20 tourists as our guide explained the changes in the plan. The heavy rain yesterday had clouded some of the dive sites but we were assured that the backup spots were acceptable. An hour long cruise got us out to the first spot passing under a massive cable car linking the mainland to a very expensive hotel and theme park on one of the larger islands (apparently Donald Trump has a spot around here). Today was V’s first time out snorkeling and my first time in 10 years, the last time being in Thailand!

Water is not really V’s element and I think she was dreading bailing off the site of the boat. A big (rather silly looking) rubber flotation ring and warm blue water made it easier for her to get over her apprehension. The first site was okay. Hard corals and possibly 7m visibility with loads of brightly coloured small fish. Beautiful silver lined translucent jellies floated around us – it was great. Unfortunately Peter, the Aussie guy, lost his brand new wedding band when he dived in. 30 minutes of scanning and a few dives to the bottom turned up nothing but shells. V and I felt terrible for him.

For some reason passing understanding some people were hungry and wanting lunch at 11am – our guide obliged. The bottom deck was decked out beautifully with a feast of fresh (I can only assume) and good looking seafood. Luckily they had also prepared an excellent chicken dish for me. The tour company had also decided to waive the cost of drinks (normally excluded) – free beers, cool drinks and excellent food – what a win !

The second dive spot was the most beautiful (we thought). V had found her gills and was loving it. Colourful hard and soft corals and loads of fish in shallow clear water. We really miss having V’s waterproof camera! My favourites were the long thin yellow tube fish and the angelfish always make me smile (and when you smile with a snorkel you get a mouth full of seawater). By the 3rd site V was the first one in the water and the last one out – she was thoroughly enjoying it. I managed to convince her to have a go without her rubber ring and try diving under the water. Well that was the end of that fear, she didn’t look back and I suspect we will be doing a lot more of this. It was great to see my V so excited. Awesome day out but it did have consequences (my own fault) – I’ve got a nasty sunburn on my back and an 11 hour bus ride tomorrow !

[Pictures: Us loving the water]

– Posted from my iPhone via WiFi