I want to say that it was just before my ride from Canberra to Singapore in 2023 that my friend, Winston Lancaster, who I worked with in Scotland and who played a significant part at my wedding with Cora back in the early 90's, asked if I would join him on a cycle tour when he retires in mid-2024. I also want to say that Winston suggested that we cycle in Laos - a country that Cora and I cycled through in 2011. I thought it all a fine idea oblivious of the fact that Winston had not spent time in Asia. But is there a better reason for thus going there? Haven't been; must go! Before heading north from Canberra, I suggested to Winston the training he needed to do not only to be capable of doing the ride but also to enjoy it.  I think on the day that I got back from Singapore, Winston emailed telling of his riding and that he had done a little more than I suggested. I was elated.

And so, in a little over a week's time, we're going to meet in Hanoi and set off on our loose plan of cycling to Ho Chi Minh via Laos and Cambodia. It's all very exciting and, if not for Winston's suggestion, I would not be going. Thus, it's very much Winston's tour and I am a privileged cycling companion. Who knows what we might experience along the way? The following stories - Dinner in Vang Vieng and Room 207 both from 2011 perhaps provide a clue.

But going back in time even more, it was in late 2002 that I last flew into Hanoi, with Cora, my elder brother, Clifford, and friend, James. It deserves a photo.

Heart

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