Wednesday, August 6, 2008

We're in Hanoi

We arrived in Hanoi yesterday afternoon. Noi bai airport is actually 30 km from the Old Quarter where we are staying. We paid $25 for our ride which was probably too much but half of what our hotel charges - so whatever. Our taxi driver was driving a very nice Toyota minivan - kind of like being at home. It was nice to see neighborhoods in Hanoi on our drive in.

Our hotel is incredibly luxurious! We have a 3-bedroom suite at the Somerset Grand Hotel. Madeleine loves the hotel. I think she likes the added space. She spent the afternoon running around the living room giggling.




The view from our hotel room.
That's West Lake in the back.
OK. Here's what you've really been waiting for -- pictures of Madeleine from yesterday right after we arrived at the hotel.



She was even happy enough to eat yogurt from Eric. :) We will try the fish suggestion today (Thanks!!).

Last night she didn't sleep well but I think it was the change in scenery. I can only imagine how confusing it must be for her to change locations so often. This morning we applied for Madeleine's passport. She was kind of cranky but then again it was also during her nap time. After her 3.5 hr nap, she was a very happy baby!







9 comments:

Jessica Alvarez said...

She's precious! The photo with the scrunchy face is adorable. Enjoy your time in Hanoi!

Hank said...

Great pictures! Glad you all are doing well. We can not wait until we are in the same position as you all with our Sophie! Enjoy the time in Hanoi!

robandchristel said...

Maria and Eric-
So glad to see that everything is going so well. Thanks for letting us follow along!

maxhelcal said...

Wow! What great pictures! Your Madeleine is gorgeous!!!! She looks so happy!

We stayed at the Somerset too! Everyone is so friendly there. Have you been down to the bottom floor with all the stores? (where the grocery mart is) There is a jewelry store down the end that we found silver charms depicting Vietnam symbols meaning "happiness" and "longlife" there. I believe they were only $10 each and make great keepsakes for her or even gifts. We searched hi and low in the markets but could not find anything like them except for at that shop. I believe they also pocket books and silk clothing hanging on the side walls.

Glad to hear everything is going so well!

~Michelle

Rebekah Wilson said...

Again, she is just so beautiful! I cannot wait to meet her in person! I am glad you are settled in such a nice suite with tons of room. It makes me want to jump on the next flight out there and see all of you :) of course, that is quite impossible on a grad student budget. I will just settle on seeing here in the states. I am so anxious to read your daily updates!!!

Suzanne said...

Madeleine is adorable and looks like she is doing just fine.

Congratulations!


Suzanne

Annette said...

How beautiful! We love her great smile!

~Annette & Dustin

Stevens Family said...

OMGness, what a cutie patootie. Looks like she's full of spunk. Great fun :)

Anthony and Rebecca said...

She is so precious! I love it! Such a cutie! It sounds like things are goings well! We are so happy for you!