Travel guide to central Vietnam - Hue

Travel guide to central Vietnam - Hue
The central region of Vietnam is a showpiece of the country’s rich history, from the ancient Sa Huynh culture centred in Quang Ngai province to the devastation of war in the former DMZ, or Demilitarised Zone. At the heart of Vietnam is Hue, the imperial capital of the Nguyen kings. A few hours south, the charming old town of Hoi An makes for an exquisitely relaxing break. Centre Vietnam travel tours
Hue travel guide
An imperial citadel still stands proudly in Hue, despite violent bombardment during the Vietnam War (1954–75) by the Viet Cong and the Americans. Ask Vietnamese about Hue and they’ll often remark that it’s a sad and sleepy city. This may have something to do with the old architecture and crumbling ruins (many of Hue’s residents have built a livelihood based around the city’s past). Hue is also prone to exceptionally rainy weather compared to the rest of Vietnam, particularly in the second half of the year. Emeraude cruise
Once the capital of Vietnam and the seat of the Nguyen dynasty (1802–1945), Hue is located 12km (7 miles) from the coast on a narrow stretch of land in Thua Thien-Hue province, which borders Laos in the west. It's roughly midway between Hanoi to the north and Ho Chi Minh City to the south. Today, the city is one of Vietnam’s more noteworthy attractions, thanks to its eventful history as well as its cultural and intellectual connections, made all the more inviting by its scenic location along the banks of Song Huong – the Vietnamese name for the Perfume River.

Hue is a pretty city, criss-crossed by dozens of bridges, lakes, moats and canals. On the river’s north bank is the ancient imperial citadel and residential areas, while the new commercial area, the old French quarter and the hotel district are all on the south bank. Further south are several tombs that belong to the emperors of the Nguyen dynasty.

Hue is criss-crossed by dozens of bridges, (photo by Peter Stuckings)

What to see in Hue
Kinh Thanh - the Citadel

On the northern side of the Perfume River, Hue’s Citadel (Kinh Thanh) covers some 520 hectares (1,285 acres) and is enclosed by a wall made of stone, brick and earth and measuring 8 metres (26ft) high and 20 metres (65ft) thick.

Entry to the Citadel is by way of 10 fortified gates, each of which is reached by a low, arched stone bridge across the moat. In imperial times a cannon would sound at 5am and 9pm to mark the opening and closing of the gates. The area within the Citadel comprises three enclosures, the first of which was formerly used to accommodate various royal ministries and which today constitutes a pleasant area of parks, gardens and quiet residential districts. Here may be found the Sung Than Cong (Nine Deities Cannons), kept in buildings flanking the gates on either side of the Flag Tower.

Yellow City

A second moat and defensive wall within the Citadel guard the Hoang Thanh (Yellow City), deliberately modelled on the Forbidden City in Beijing. This inner city has four gates, the chief of which is called Cua Ngo Mon (Meridian Gate, also known as the Noon Gate). This majestic structure, built during the reign of Emperor Minh Mang in 1833, is among the finest surviving examples of Nguyen architecture. The central entrance, reserved exclusively for the emperor, is flanked by smaller passages for the use of mandarins and court officials; these in turn are flanked by two much wider passages intended for the royal elephants. Above the Cua Ngo Mon rises Five Phoenix Watchtower where the emperor sat in state during important ceremonies.

Beyond the Ngo Mon Gate, Kim Thuy Kieu (Bridge of Golden Waters), leads between lotus-filled ponds to Dien Thai Hoa (Palace of Supreme Harmony). This was the throne room of the Nguyen Kings, and is the best preserved of Hue’s surviving palaces. Built by Gia Long in 1805, its yellow-tiled roof is supported by 80 massive wooden columns, lacquered a deep red and decorated with imperial golden dragons.

Forbidden Purple City

Immediately behind the throne room, Dai Cung Mon (Great Golden Gate) once led through to Tu Cam Thanh (Forbidden Purple City). This used to be the sole preserve of the emperor, his queen, his many concubines and female palace servants. No man but the king could set foot here on pain of death – imperial sons were banished when they reached puberty, and the only non-females permitted within the inner sanctum were palace eunuchs. In imperial times the Purple City consisted of more than 60 buildings arranged around 20 courtyards, but it was seriously damaged by fire in 1947 and all but destroyed during the Tet Offensive of 1968. Restoration work, based on surviving photographs, plans and some degree of imagination, was begun in the mid-1990s and is now well under way.

Just southwest of the Forbidden Purple City is an area with numerous temples and smaller palaces. Cuong Dien Tho (Dien Tho Palace) was the traditional residence of various queen mothers and contains more than 20 structures, including the lovely Truong Du ?Pavilion, nestled against a small lotus pond. Completely restored, the magnificent Hien Lam Cac (Pavilion of Splendour), towers above the Cuu Dinh (Nine Dynastic Urns). The urns, cast during Minh Mang’s reign, are decorated with motifs of nature ?and daily life, dragons and historic events.

Perfume River

Any visit to Hue should certainly include a boat trip on the beautiful Perfume River. Boats are readily available for hire, either for a relaxing trip in the vicinity of Hue, or for a longer journey upstream to the tombs of Minh Mang and Gia Long. Night journeys on the river with musical ensembles playing traditional court music can be arranged and are an enchanting experience.

The Imperial Tombs

Scattered across the countryside to the south and west of the city, the Tombs of the Nguyen Emperors are, together with the Citadel, Hue’s greatest attraction. These seven tombs, all of which have features of outstanding architectural merit, are often strikingly different.

Saigon Diaries – A Day Trip to The Mekong Delta

Most flights to Vietnam land in its chaotic business hub – Ho Chi Minh City aka Saigon. Now we can definitely forgive you for staring at postcards with picture-perfect Vietnamese panoramas of rice paddies while you are surrounded by Saigon’s nightmarish traffic. These postcards seem to be selling a bucolic haven, enveloped by mist, that’s nowhere to be found. The only ‘mist’ you’ll see here is a result of the fumes arising from thousands of motorbikes on Saigon’s busy roads. If you have over a week or two, it’s possible to experience idyllic Vietnam in all its glory at Halong Bay, Phu Quoc, or Mui Ne/Phan Thiet. If not, then a Day Trip to the Mekong Delta is the perfect way to get a taste of the gorgeous Vietnamese countryside.

A 2-hour drive through suburban Saigon leads to My Tho, an important market town and the gateway to the bustling floating markets of the Mekong Delta. The Mekong River, known as The Mighty Dragon or The River of the Nine Dragons in Vietnam, is the life-line of six countries in Asia (Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, and China). It passes through temple cities, lush tropical forests, swamps, rice plantations and boasts of some of the richest and most fertile landscapes in the world. Jasmine Cruise

So we decided to go for a sampan cruise on one of the tributaries of the Mekong.
We opted for a private tour and had the entire boat to ourselves

Our guide Nam, a young university student, gave us a short geographical lesson before we boarded a small boat that took us to Unicorn Island, named after a Chinese mythological figure. We sat on a wobbly bench under a thatched roof as we sampled Vietnamese honey tea. Regular tea is flavoured with the juice of kumquats (a small citrusy fruit, similar to limes) and sweetened with home-made honey. Southern Vietnam Discovery

Bee pollen might be the newest health fad to hit the western world, but here in the backwaters of Vietnam, it is generously spooned into every cup of tea. We sipped on the tea and munched on the accompanying candied ginger, banana chips, and peanut bars as we observed the ritual being repeated for dozens of tourists around us.

Saigon Diaries – A Day Trip to The Mekong Delta

Moments later, we were treated to a rather weary song and dance routine by local musicians before being ferried to a neighbouring island, known as the Kingdom of Coconut. Ben Tre Island boasts of over 45,000 hectares of coconut trees, so make sure you carry an insect repellent spray or wear a mosquito repellent band when you venture to this part of the country. Every day hundreds of tourists visit this island, so the thrill of stumbling on something new is almost non-existent. But that doesn’t mean it’s any less fun.

We visited a local coconut factory and tried our hand at making coconut candy. We failed miserably, so we drowned our sorrows in snake wine- yes that’s a thing! Don’t believe us? Take a look

But we didn’t stop there – our guide treated us to a calorie-laden lunch comprising fried fish, scrumptious Pho, and Vietnamese rice-paper spring rolls. Once we were suitably stuffed, we decided to go on a bike-ride through the Vietnamese country side (yes, that’s how smart we are). As you might have predicted we were panting for breath in no time :-)

Towards the end of the day, we decided to go for a Sampan cruise on one of the tributaries of the Mekong. We stepped into our boat tentatively but started enjoying the ride almost as soon as our boat started making its way past lush palm trees and stunning green foliage. Day trips such as this are bound to feel ‘touristy’, but one look at the brightly-coloured boats bobbing along the calm waters of the Mekong made us fall in love with the river. We’ll definitely be back for more….

FACT FILE
A Day Trip to the Mekong Delta is the perfect way of getting a taste of the Vietnamese countryside if you only 1 day to spare. If you have 2-3 days, make sure you visit the floating markets in Can Tho as well.
We booked our Day Trip to the Mekong Delta with Impress Travels – their staff arranged everything well and promptly responded to all our queries within hours over email. Highly recommended.
The tour costs anywhere between $35-65/person depending on group size. Private tours cost $75/person.
We opted for a private tour – this gave us the flexibility of customising the tour according to our taste. Moreover this ensured we did not feel rushed at any time.

Top Things to do in Con Dao Island

Snorkeling
Con Dao is considered one of the best examples of marine conservation in the country. With over 340 species of coral teeming with a colorful array of marine life, Con Dao supports a high level of biodiversity including over 1,400 marine species. Snorkelling in the turquoise waters around the island gives you a chance to look at the colorful and exotic marine life. South Vietnam tours Packages

Con Dao Historical & Prison Tour
In 1861, the French colonial government built this prison to house political prisoners. Today, you can learn about that grim past at the Con Dao Museum, which was once the colonial governor’s residence. Exhibits also reveal details about the island’s natural and pre-colonial history.

Discover Sea Turtles
Con Dao is the only place in Vietnam where sea turtles come to nest and enjoy full National Park protection. From May to October every year, Green and Hawksbill turtles come to nest around one of thirteen beaches. During this period, female turtles come up on the beach at high tide during the night. It takes an exhausting two to three hours for the female to dig, lay and cover her nest before returning to the ocean. Paradise Cruise in Halong bay

Hiking in Tropical Rainforest
Venture into the rainforest behind the town and climb 260 metres above sea level to So Ray Plantation, where you might be lucky enough to spot rare species such as the Con Dao Long Tailed Macaque and playful Con Dao Giant Black Squirrel. Adventurous travelers can keep hiking through the less-traveled north side of Con Dao. BASSAC CRUISE

Rest at stunning Ong Dung Bay.
Trekking to the Lighthouse
A 30 minute ride by speedboat brings you to the beautiful island of Bay Canh, where this adventure begins. A two-hour trek through dense forest leads you to one of Con Dao’s most important landmarks. The Bay Canh Lighthouse was built in 1885 and is one of the highest points on the island, at 226 meters above sea level.

Top Things to do in Con Dao Island

Catamaran Sailing
Feel the soft breeze on your face and see the beauty and charm Con Dao has to offer, from the picturesque fishing boats to the point in the horizon where the sky seems to blend with the sea.

Fishing Trip
What better way to spend the early morning than on a boat feeling the sea breeze against your skin against the backdrop of Con Dao Archipelago? A simple fishing boat offers an ideal way to explore these picturesque waters - and perhaps capture some lunch!

Scuba Diving
With depths ranging from 5 to 20 meters for recreational diving, Con Dao offers a unique opportunity to explore the amazing variety of underwater life. Explore the untouched and pristine coral, and you might spot rays, turtles, giant barracuda, cobia, batfish and small bamboo sharks as well as a whole host of tropical reef fish.

Explore Local Life
A guide will take you around the island, through back roads, small dwellings and local agricultural plots that are peppered with livestock, so you can experience how local people live.

Da Lat – the city of flowers

The poetic city of Da Lat in Vietnam has a lot of charming name such as “city of love”, “City of thousands of pine trees”, “city of mysty”,… and the most impressive name is “city of flowers”.

Coming to Da Lat, you will be impressed by so many kinds of beautiful and gorgeous flowers. Flowers are in everywhere in the city, from large fields on the valleys to small corners or on the sides of the streets. Centre tours Vietnam
Da Lat Rose

Rose is not a rare flower in Vietnam, but roses in Da Lat are the most beautiful and preferable kind. The flower comes in all sorts of colors and shades, such as red, pink, velvet and yellow. Da Lat rose is grown as a agricultural products to export. MANGO CRUISE
Da lat city
Mimosa is a very popular flower in Da Lat city not only because it is found in anywhere in the city, but also because it has a special position in local people’s hearts. It has bright yellow flowers and leaves that are green with a silvery luster. The tree blossoms two or three times each year and flourishes during the sunny seasons. Da Lat has two types of mimosa trees: long and short-leafed.the flower has a sweet scent and be considered as the symbol of secret love. Jasmine Cruise
Da Lat – the city of flowers
Asteraceae flowers blossom all year round. There are more than 20 species of asteraceae in Da Lat, such as san-souci, hortensia, pansy, violette, immortelle, arum, etc. Lots of them have origin from Western countries or Africa, but many others also come from Vietnam. Some of them are cultivate on field to provide for market, and others are wildflowers which naturally grow on streets or pine tree hills or along the streams.

Da Lat – the city of flowers

Another unique species in Da Lat is purple flamboyant (flame tree). Instead of having red color like its brothers in northern Vietnam, the flower is purple. In the end of winter and through the spring, many streets in the city are covered up by a romantic purple of flame trees.
Orchid is another Da Lat attraction. Named “queen of the world of flowers,” the orchid is a common sight wherever you go in Da Lat. Among the world’s 100,000 species of orchids, Viet Nam already has many of which grow in Da Lat. Da Lat grows all four types of orchids found worldwide, including those on other plants and trees as parasites, those on high rocks and cliffs. Those are in leaves and mud. Those are on other kinds of vegetation.
Da Lat – the city of flowers
Lang Biang and Da Lat have a very interesting kind of orchid, Lan hai. In Vietnamese, “hai” is a beautifully embroidered shoe that used to be worn by noble ladies. The flower is so named as it has the shape of a “hai”. It originates from the species P. Delnatii. The flower received attention and praise at an international orchid exhibition in 1995 in Tokyo, Japan.
Da Lat – the city of flowers
A wild but beautiful flower which symbolize for Langbiang Highland is Japanese sunflower (or wild sunflower). On October or November every year, this glamorous flower blossom on roadsides, slopes, tea hills, pine forests, covering the whole city with a bright yellow.
Cultivating flower is a key sector in Da Lat’s agriculture. And these flowers make the city more stunning and shining. Moreover, thousands kinds of wild flower contribute to the outstanding beauty of Da Lat.
Da Lat – the city of flowers
Flowers in Da Lat can be found in every corners of the city, in the forests, pine hills, tea hills, on the roadsides, valleys, stream banks or in cultivated fields,… There are also a lot of flower parks and flower gardens in the city where a lot of species of flowers are planted and designed on purpose to decorate the city. And each year, Da Lat held Flower Festival to display and promote local flowers as a product.

Ban Gioc Waterfall: An Illustrated Guide

Chinese travellers, Ban Gioc FallsBan Gioc Waterfall is one of Vietnam’s most impressive natural sights. Located in the northeastern province of Cao Bang, the falls are 30 metres high and 300 metres across, making Ban Gioc the widest – but not the highest – waterfall in the country. The falls occur on the Quay Son River, a beautiful jade-blue body of water, flowing through a pastoral landscape of rice fields and bamboo groves, surrounded by limestone pinnacles. At Ban Gioc, the Quay Son River forms the border between Vietnam and China; consequently the falls are half in Vietnam and half in China. Both countries have bamboo rafts that punt visitors around the base of the falls for better views of the cascade; you can literally shake hands with Chinese tourists on the other rafts. Ban Gioc Waterfall is 350km from Hanoi. It’s reached via a good national highway to Cao Bang City, and then several recently upgraded provincial roads, leading through fantastic countryside to the falls. It’s now easier than ever to visit Ban Gioc, but still very few people – especially foreign travellers – make it here. A perfect destination if you’re on a motorbike road trip around northern Vietnam, or an independent traveller looking to get off the beaten track, this waterfall is a favourite destination of mine. Below is my illustrated guide to Ban Gioc Waterfall and my map of the area. Travel North Vietnam

Before reaching Ban Gioc Falls, the Quay Son River ambles through a sumptuous valley, studded with limestone karsts. I warm to this gentle landscape, and it’s been one of my favourite corners of the country ever since I first visited the area in 2009.

Quay Son River Valley, Cao Bang Province

The best time to visit the falls is from September to October, when the summer rains that feed the waterfall are less frequent and harvest is in full swing. Farming techniques can’t have changed much here in centuries; save for some mechanized rice threshers, most of the work is done by hand. One piece of ‘technology’ you’ll see along the banks of the river is the bamboo water wheel. This attractive, medieval-looking device scoops up water from the river, carries it up to the level of the fields, and drops it into earth gutters, which channel the water into the fields to irrigate the crops. It’s a hypnotic, peaceful and timeless sight. Vietnam Mekong river cruise

Bamboo water wheel on the Quay Son River

The serenity of this valley is dramatically broken when the Quay Son River reaches a 300 metre-wide limestone ledge, and drops sharply down several terraces, creating Ban Gioc Waterfall. Some brave (or foolhardy) fishermen stand in precarious positions, casting their lines into the cascade.

The cascade, Ban Gioc Waterfall

Because the falls are located right on the Chinese border, foreign travellers used to require a special permit to visit the area. But today (2014) you can just turn up and buy a ticket (20,000vnđ [$1]) at the kiosk without any documents at all, before walking down a gravel path to the waterfall. The path threads through rice fields, over wooden bridges above gurgling creeks, and onto an exposed grassy bank at the bottom of the falls. The wide, white cascade is fringed with foliage and framed by sharp tooth-like limestone mountains, which are partly obscured by drifting clouds of vapour from all the spray generated by the waterfall. Halong Paradise Cruise

Ban Gioc Waterfall: An Illustrated Guide

Ban Gioc Falls from the ticket kiosk

On the Chinese side of the river there’s a hotel on the hill, but the Vietnamese side has yet to see any significant development. A resort, run by Saigon Tourist, is under construction by the ticket entrance, but won’t be completed for some time. For now, the only tourist infrastructure here are a few unattractive wooden shacks covered by blue tarpaulins, selling snacks and trinkets. Almost all visitors to Ban Gioc stay in one of the dozens of good-value hotels in Cao Bang City, 90km west of the falls. However, there are two local guest houses (nhà nghỉ in Vietnamese) on either side of the road, about two kilometres before reaching the falls. Dinh Van II Hotel (Tel: 0263 602 789) and Nha Nghi Tung Duong (Tel: 0915 660 688) both offer basic but clean and inexpensive accommodation for a night at around 200-300.000vnđ ($10-15). There are also a couple of nhà nghỉ in Trung Khanh, the nearest town to Ban Gioc Falls, 25km to the west. This is a good option for intrepid travellers as Trung Khanh is a dusty, rustic border town with a wild west edge. There are several crumbling pastel-coloured shophouses and an interesting daily market with various imported goods from China. You’re guaranteed to be the only foreign traveller in town. Quang Uyen, a town halfway between Cao Bang and Ban Gioc Falls, also has a good guest house, called Duy Huong Hotel on Hoa Trung Street (Tel: 0266 266 888) for around 250,000vnđ ($12) a night. (For more about nhà nghỉ click HERE).

Shophouse in Trung Khanh town

There are lots of beautiful spots around the base of the falls on which to sit and take in the spectacle. Find a place on a pebbly beach or grassy bank, perch on a boulder in a stream or lay in the curving trunk of a tropical tree, and gaze in awe at one of Vietnam’s most romantic sights.

Taking in it

Bamboo rafts (50,000vnđ [$2.50] per person) punt visitors closer to the cascade for better views. The ‘ride’ lasts about 10 minutes and you’ll definitely get wet. In some areas signs in Vietnamese read ‘No Swimming!’ But it’s difficult to resist taking a plunge in one of the blue pools of water, especially around the smaller falls to the left of the central waterfall. There’s no one there to stop you bathing, and I’ve never encountered any resistance. But, of course, you should be very careful; stick to the placid rock pools and stay well away from the main cascade.

Punting on bamboo rafts

There’s a treacherous path leading up through jungle to the first and second tiers of the falls. Not for the faint-hearted – or for those without proper footwear – this track climbs steeply among vines and roots to several gorgeous pools of blue running water. Tread carefully because the rocks are slippery and soon you’ll reach the edge of a ledge, from where the water drops straight down into a giant limestone bowl below.

View from the 'treacherous path'

It’s possible to wander further and higher up the side of the falls for even more spectacular views of the deluge from above. It’s an ‘awesome’ sight – in the true sense of the word – but be extremely careful, and don’t even think about attempting it if it’s been raining. There are no handrails so if you slip there’s nothing to hold onto except exposed roots. You can find the start of the path behind the milestone marking the Vietnamese border, which is located over a rickety wooden bridge.

View from the top of the path

Considering the waterfall’s proximity to China – and the frosty ancient and recent history between the two countries – the atmosphere at Ban Gioc is very relaxed. Official presence on either side of the falls is minimal and, as seen in the photo below, Vietnamese floating vendors often approach Chinese rafts to sell their wares to Chinese tourists.

A Vietnamese floating vendor approaches a raft of Chinese tourists

It’s easy to forget that this province was one of several points along the Vietnamese border where, in February 1979, Chinese forces entered Vietnam under the orders of Deng Xiaoping. There were many reasons for the invasion, but ultimately it was an extension of tensions between the Soviet Union and China (Vietnam having signed a treaty with the USSR in 1978). Thousands of Vietnamese and Chinese were killed and, when the Chinese army departed (or retreated, depending on whose version of events you believe), they laid waste to the land they had briefly occupied. Along the road that follows the border just beyond the falls, there are memorial shrines dedicated to local Vietnamese who died during the 1979 war. Border disputes continued into the 1980s, and included the historic Nam Quan Gate, an ancient gateway between the two countries, which ultimately ended up on the Chinese side. The photo below shows a border marker on the Vietnamese side of the Quay Son River; just 20 metres away, across the river, is China. At some points along this road, the distance between the two countries is as little as 5 metres.

Coc Ly market in Sapa Vietnam

It is the colorful market in a mountainous area where the Flower H’mong mainly gathers to exchange their homemade products.
Coc Ly market in Sapa Vietnam
This Tuesday market is about 35km from Bac Ha. You can get here via a fairly good road, or by road and river; hotels in Sapa and Bac Ha can organise trips. Coc ly is a small village on the Chay river inhabited by the Flower H’mong Minority people. The Flower H’mong traditionally wear a distinctive and bright coloured costume. They are a gentle, softly spoken people who live in the steep mountainous country close to the Chinese border. Because Coc Ly is more remote than Sapa, the dress and way of life is more traditional than in the large centers. Sapa North Vietnam travel
The market deals in fruit, vegetable, pork and chickens, in addition to colourful fabrics and items of traditional dress. There is a buffalo sale in progress and many of these placid animals are tethered close to the market. Buffalo are still widely used in the growing process, especially in the mountainous regions. Horse are an important form of transport in the North West and a quite a few, sturdy ponies were tied to tree around the market. The horse carry a light timber frame on their back to carry produce to and from the market. Mekong Bassac cruise

Coc Ly market in Sapa Vietnam

There’s no dancing or singing, but Coc Ly Market in Lao Cai Province always turns colorful and festive on Tuesdays, when ethnic people gather there to buy and sell goods, dine and drink, or just wander to enjoy the ambience of the montagnard market. Halong Dragon Pearl Junk
Many ethnic traders from Bac Ha and other parts of Lao Cai Province dress up in colorful costumes and bring horses, chickens, buffaloes, vegetables or whatever they can sell to the festive market in the wee hours, and will not return home until 1pm.
Certainly, what catches the eyes of visitors most are the different colors of the costumes worn by ethnic people and the handicrafts they sell at the market, about 50 kilometers from Lao Cai City in the northern province.
You can see young and old Hmong women, wearing skirts and hats with different types of embroidered flowers, crowding the market during the opening hours of Coc Ly. Scarves, clothes, decorations and other items made of tho cam (ethnic fabric) on sale also add color to the bazaar by the Chay River.
The colorful items are put on sale not just for locals but also tourists, particularly foreigners. However, you should remember to bargain when you want to buy your favorites, and the items at the booths located at the start of the path you walk on always have higher prices. Keep walking toward the end of the traditionally ethnic market until you find a real bargain.
A good idea is to stroll every corner of the once-a-week bazaar as you listen to unexpected conversations, see nice surprises and learn how ethnic people sell and buy farm produce, life’s necessities and other things.
After visiting the market, which is the most fresh and unspoiled market of the region, offering a wide range of different colorful ethnic minorities such as Flower C’mon, Black Dao, Tay , Fula, Lachi, Sandui and Nung….there will be an exciting boat cruise winding you through a breathtaking, out of this-world landscape where the mountain grow from water presenting their most hidden mysteries, including caves and tiny minority …A picnic lunch box can be prepared for your most convenience..

Mui Ne Sand & Water

A friend of mine once commented, “So you live on a houseboat?” “Yeah, kinda… It’s an ocean of sand under us. It’s a sand dune beach.”

When you live in Mui Ne, you become more and more aware of living in a sea of change. Development, politics, tourism… but especially the environment. Everyone talks about the “microclimate” here, but we all keep trying to figure out what that really means. In Muine, we live on sand. Wet sand, dry sand, clean sand… dusty sand. We buy and sell it. We shovel it. We suck it up and spit it out with machines. We love it so much and when it goes, we miss it. Like an old and endearing friend, it always comes back. South Vietnam tours

Fifty kilometers inland sand seems to tip out of the mountains and in a sluice between the rocky points of the Cham towers to the southwest, and the peninsula that holds the town of Muine to the east and north, this sand pours into the south China Sea (called The East Sea in Vietnam). Wind picks up sand, grains at a time, and takes them up towards the mountains again. From the mountains to the sea, it’s a big sluice. We live on a fifty kilometer deep beach. Dragon Pearl Junk Halong

The sand gets hot and creates a “heat draught” that pulls air off the ocean and makes Muine one of the best and most predictable wind sport spots in the world. Even as sand inland gets hot, the wind from the sea keeps the temperature near perfect along the coast. If the temperature drops for some reason, the warm air over the sand dunes seems to fall back towards the sea keeping it perfect. The heat creates a bubble and a lot of the stormy weather that comes to the south of Vietnam just seems to wrap around us. We often sit in the sun during the rainy season watching dramatic storms over the ocean. Often when we drive to Phan Thiet, a line of water on the highway shows where the rain begins and motorcycles are pulled over to put on their raincoats. Overall, we have the dryest and best weather in Vietnam. BASSAC CRUISE

Mui Ne Sand & Water

The sand under us swirls and stretches and flows. There are days each year when a person sitting on a deck chair at Joe’s Café will be looking eye to eye with someone walking on the beach while at another time the beach will have disappeared completely and the ocean laps or crashes our patios and walls. The beach sometimes will go for a couple hundred meters out at low tide, at others it is gone completely. When you enter the sea, you might be able to walk through the shallow seas for a couple hundred meters or you might find yourself over your head in just a few meters. Where’s the beach? You’re on top of it. Nature thinks it just put it here and will pick it up later. We’re squaters to nature. We’re not going anywhere! Let the great contest and cooperation continue!

White sand dominates and what we call the “White Sand Dunes” is a special place and ecosystem. People stop at the “Red Sand Dunes” as well and the hike up the “Fairy Stream” is a must as a mixture of sands is cut by flowing water Grand Canyon style. Red sand we associate with iron ore. Black sand is heavier than white sand and is associated with titanium and titanium mining. Black sand stays out of sight until you walk on the white beaches, your feet sink in and a bit sticks to your feet.

One of the other great benefits to our microclimate is the currents that for most of the year keep all trash away and our beach pristine and water clear. There is no rip current here to take you out making our beach safer than many, but you might get a couple resorts further than you thought in a hurry as it takes you down the beach.

Phan Thiet beach and sanddune

It’s so confusing because even as the beach, the actual sand, will go up or down a couple meters in an hour, it’s hard to remember what it was like. People brag or lament. We hear about global warming, changes in rainfall, cutting down the mangroves in the Mekong, development… greening of the sanddunes with farms and golfcourses… we hear about the factories and watch long peirs, jetties or holding walls go out into the sea to control sand. We debate the designs of our seawalls and watch some fail. We think of the sand going up and down the coast and sometimes in and out of the sea, but of course it’s moving vertically as well as we build and change the ground water table.

I often think of a glass of water stirred and dropping a little blue ink in to watch it swirl up and down and around. I think the sand is doing that below us and around us. But of course that isn’t perfect either… sand when dry is solid or dusty, sand wet is even harder until it gets wet enough, and then it liquifies.

One thing is for sure, we love our microclimate. We love the heavily touristed winter months when wind and weather are perfect and people choose us instead of chilly Natrang and Danang. We love the rainy seasons when it rains- but rarely and we love how the air still has that after rain freshness. We love our beach and pine for it when it is gone. We live in constant change.

Attractions in Phu Quoc island

Phu Quoc (Phú Qu?c ), also know under the name Pearl island, is bigest island of Vietnam and is a district of Kien Giang. Phu Quoc tourism is famous for beautiful sea, beaches, primary forests and ancient fishing villages. This island is an ideal destination of Vietnam. Following is my experiences about Phu Quoc travel. Mekong & Phu Quoc island (5 days, 4 nights)

Attractions in Phu Quoc island
There are 3 main tourism areas in Phu Quoc: Northern island, Southern and Western. Usually, tourists come to Phu Quoc will spend 3 days to visit these areas.

Western

Western island is place locating Duong Dong town, seat of island, where is the first place you see when coming to Phu Quoc. BASSAC CRUISE

The first site you should visit is Dinh Cau (Dinh C?u ), that is very sacred temple with the locals.

Next is Ham Ninh fishing village. This is an ancient village with rustic and pristine cottages. You may also buy fresh seafoods and enjoy them on beach when ships of fishermens just docked.

Ham Ninh fishing village in Phu Quoc

After visiting Ham Ninh village, if it’s not yet dark, let’s visit Cuoi Nguon museum, where has been kept the stories and legends about Phu Quoc island. Dragon Pearl Junk

Evening, let’s come to bustling Dinh Cau night market and eat famous specialties, goods of this island.

Southern

The famous attractions in Southern Island is Phu Quoc prison (Nhà tù Phú Qu?c ). The prison was restored like a museum, with wondrous statues about scenes of torturing prisoners. I don’t like this place, it scares me.

Tranh stream (Su?i Tranh ) is derived from Ham Ninh mountain, has beautiful scene and cool air like Dalat city.

Painting stream in Phu Quoc

Khem beach (Bãi Khem ) is surrounded by mountains. This is a beautiful beach of Phu Quoc with bue sea, long sand and the pristine.

Next destinations in Southern are Kingdom of pepper (Vuong Qu?c h? tiêu ) with immense green. Fish sauce barrel houses, where produce millions litters of fish sauce every year. I’m sure, you will be overwhelmed by massive barrel systems. Pearl farms, where has been made famous pearls of Phu Quoc.

Northern

Northern island own Phu Quoc National park (Vu?n qu?c gia Phú Qu?c), where has the most beautiful beaches of the island, along with pristine landscape:

Ham Rong mountain (Núi Hàm R?ng ), Ganh Dau beach (Gành D?u ), Cua Can (C?a C?n, an estuary).

Ganh Dau in Phu Quoc Vietnam

Bai Dai beach (Bãi Dài), the most beautiful beach of Phu Quoc.

Da Ngon (su?i Ðá Ng?n ), Da Ban stream (su?i Ðá Bàn), streams have clear water and many small waterfalls.

Finally, Nguyen Trung Truc temple, the end of my northern journey, is where the locals remember a great hero of country.

Bai Sao beach in Phu Quoc

My advice: You should rent a motorbike to visit attractions in Phu Quoc. When travelling to Norhthern (by motor), quite far distance so you have to fuel fully if you don’t want out of fuel halfway.

How to go to Phu Quoc island

There are 2 ways:

1. Plane.

You may go from Ha Noi or Sai Gon (Ho Chi Minh city ).

- From Sai Gon to Phu Quoc. There are 6 – 10 trips every day. Fares are from $50 to $70.

- From Ha Noi, Fares are from $150 to $250, depend on times.

Planes to Phu Quoc also have cheap fares, but you have to book few months.

If you booked hotels, let’s tell them your plane trip, they will pick you up when arriving.


2. Road and waterway.

This way is very complex.

- First, from Sai Gon, you will go to Rach Gia by car. There are many cars to Rach Gia, you may buy ticket in bus stations. If going in night, you will arrive at 5am. Then, you catch a taxi or motortaxi to go to dock.

Notes: You should remember license plate of your car, beacause in the trip, car will stop few times for resting, you have to remember the license plate to climb the right car.

Best taxis in Rach Gia:

Mai Linh: +848 3929 2929

Phuong Trang: +848 3833 3468

Superdong ship to Phu Quoc

- Shavanna ship. Add: 12 Tu Do street – Rach Gia city, near the dock. Phone: +84773.692.888. Fares: Adult: $15, child: $10.

>> All hotels in Sai Gon city at Agoda.com


Hotels and motels in Phu Quoc

1. Kim Thanh Nga hotel. Add: 7 region (khu ph? 7) – block 20 – Duong Dong town. Prices from $18 to $25. Ok room, good hotelier. $7 for taxi from airport to the hotel.

2. Hong Tuyet hotel. Add: 14 – Bach Dang street – Duong Dong. Near the Duong Dong night market, and dock of night squid fishing.

3. Sea Breeze hotel is very clear, spacious, balcony face the sea. Prices from $18 to $43. The hotel is located on Tran Hung Dao street. Phone +8477 399 4920

4. Hiep Thoai hotel on Tran Hung Dao street, in center of the the town. Phone: +8477.398.1060. I don’t know specific price, but it’s affordable, you may call to ask the price.

5. Huong Giang bungalow hotel. I really like this hotel. It includes 16 bungalows, located in bustling area of Phu Quoc and only 5 walk minutes from beach. Prices from $25 to $30. Let’s try this hotel, i think you will like it.

Huong Giang bungalow hotel
I like Huong Giang bungalow hotel

Some cheap motels in Phu Quoc

6. Thien Vy motel at 6 – Ly Thuong Kiet, near Phu Quoc ariport.

7. Oc Dao motel has very cheap price, just be $10. Phone +8498.2111.232. I don’t remember address.

Specialties and restaurants in the island

Phu Quoc is famous for seafoods. With waters features, dishes of Phu Quoc cuisine are related to seafoods. Such as:

Types of raw: herring, snail, barracuda and few other fishes. Coi Bien Mai, muscle between 2 clamshells. Ham Ninh spidercrab is famous tasty in Phu Quoc. Sea urchin, abalone,…Phu Quoc fish sauce is also very famous.

You may enjoy these dishes at following restaurants:

In Duong Dong town (western island)

Breakfast restaurants:

Crab pudding - specialties of Phu Quoc
Crab pudding

1. Le Giang restaurant is near the traffic circle of night market. This is familiar breakfast place of groups tourist.

2. Quoc Anh on 30/4 street, near Thang Long hotel. I don’t try yet but some my friends said it’s good.

3. Banh canh cha ca is a popular restaurant close to Thang Long hotel. If you want to watch the streets and enjoy taste of the local, let’s come here.

4. Breakfast buffet at Huong Bien hotel. You may call the hotel to book breakfast.

Other restaurants:

5. Vuon Tao (Vu?n táo ), i like this restaurant most. They have raw herring, which is pride of Phu Quoc cuisine. Other restaurant also have this dish, but here is best. You should stay this restaurant in daytime, because it’s quite distant center of the town so deserted in night.

Herring salad of Phu Quoc
Raw Herring – A famous specialty of Phu Quoc

6. Zen is a luxurious restaurant on 30/4 street. Cool campus and Professional staffs. This restaurant also serves breakfast.

7. Song Xanh restaurant has nice view, overlook Duong Dong river.

8. Trung Duong has popular prices.

9. Huong Bien restaurant is located on terrace of Huong Bien hotel, where has view overlook the sea, very impressive. This is ideal place for dinner.

10. Ngheu So Oc Hen and Nghe So restautants serve seafoods with popular prices.

11. Dinh Cau night market has many restaurants close together and prices are also popular. Let’s enjoy Phu Quoc cuisine style very Phu Quoc.

Coi Bien Mai - Phu Quoc Vietnam
Coi Bien Mai salt and chili grilled

12. Gia Tuong is only restaurant in Phu Quoc does not have seafoods, it serves specialties from Phu Quoc forest.

In southern

12. Sao beach club is new restaurant, nice view, well serves. You may rent hammock or chair to eat on the beach.

In Northern

13. Mai Phuong restaurant on Vung Bau (Vung B?u ) beach. Mai Phuong also has over 10 bungalow.

14. Bien Hai Quan on Ganh Dau.

Top things to do in Hanoi

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam, its second largest city and is often called “Paris of the East”. Hanoi is an impressive and fascinating mix of old traditions and active modern lifestyle, where East and West are bound; where people have big hearts and warm smiles; where food is delicious and the streets are old… This is a pulse of modern Vietnam and we are about to tell you how not to lose yourself in the variety of things that Hanoi is offering! North Vietnam tours

How to Get There?

By plane: Noi Bai International Airport is about 35 km north of the city and is the largest airport in the North of the country. It serves domestic flights operated by VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines, international flights from major Asian airports and international flights from Helsinki (seasonal), Frankfurt, London, Moscow and Paris. The airport is relatively small comparing to its importance and size of the city. The new terminal is being under construction now and is expected to be put into operation in 2015.

• MANGO CRUISE

From the airport you can reach the centre of Hanoi by taxi. Before November, 2014 there was a fixed price for a ride. However, now most of the drivers use meters, so your total cost depends on the distance and is usually between $15 – 25 (350,000 – 450,000 VND).

• Bhaya Legend cruise, Halong Travel

Top things to do in Hanoi

Another option to get to the city is to use a public bus that departures from the airport. Bus #07 crosses the Thang Long bridge and goes to the Daewoo Hotel on the western part of Hanoi. Bus #17 crosses the Chuong Duong bridge and goes close to the old quarter, to Long Bien. It is actually not allowed to take your luggage with you to the bus, but you may take it as a challenge and try to negotiate with a driver!

By train:
Hanoi, is very well connected with the major big cities of Vietnam, so you can use the train to reach the it from other parts of the country. The price for the ticket will be different, depending on the type of the seat you choose. Pay attention that it is strongly recommend to avoid private travel agents. After all, you may end up in a hard-sleeper instead of the soft one, for which you have actually paid.
You can book a ticket on the website of Vietnam Railways System. Children under the age of 2 can travel for free. For children from 2 to 9 years old the price will be 50% of the adult price.

By car: Another option how you can reach the Vietnamese capital is to hire a car. When doing it, remember to hire a private driver also: in Vietnam visitors can’t rent a car and drive. It will cost nearly $50 – 60 per day.

What’s Next?
When you come to a big city, it is always hard to take the bearings and choose the right places to see and right things to do that are really worth your time and attention. That’s why we chose for you TOP activities in Hanoi for any taste and preferences in spending your free time. Everything you have to do is… to trust us!

Temple of Literature
Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu) is an impressive example of Vietnamese architecture that was built almost 1000 years ago. In the beginning of the XI century it became the first country’s university. In its courtyard you can see the tables, each mounted on the back of a tortoise, with the names of all its graduates. The admission is $1 (20,000 VND).

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake for Hanoi is the same like the Central Park for New York. Located in the very centre of the city, this is a favourite leisure spot of local people. In the morning you can even watch here people practicing the old martial art of ta chi on its shore. The legend of the lake says that gods gave to King Le Loi a magical sword, that he used to drive the Chinese from Vietnam. Later, a giant turtle grabbed the sword and returned it back to the gods. Since then the lake has a name Hoan Kiem, which means “returned sword”.

Vietnamese Women's Museum

The museum had been recently renovated and is indeed a very exciting place to visit, if you are interested in understanding culture and history of Vietnam even deeper. The museum presents the stories of the most prominent women in the history of the country. Also it has great collections that represent local traditions, customs, everyday life and problems of a Vietnamese woman from centuries ago till nowadays. Moreover, it has a brilliant collection of hand-made ethnic costumes. Admission is $1,5 (30,000 VND).

Hao Lo Prison 

The prison was built in the beginning of XX century by the French. Here the Vietnamese revolutionaries were imprisoned and executed. Nowadays, this is a museum that exhibits the brutal French colonial regime and focusing on Vietnamese struggle for independence. The place represents the black page in the history of the country and makes take another look on history itself. Admission is $1.

Hanoi Street Food 

Vietnam is famous for its unique and absolutely delicious cuisine all over the world and this is a fact. In Hanoi there is a plenty of fine restaurants, where you can have a dinner and taste any kind of local food. However, its streets are also full of small kiosks in the sidewalk, and we believe that it may be even a better way to explore the local cuisine! Take a walk through the Old Quarter and discover the diversity of the unique Hanoi’s street food!

Top things to do in Mekong delta

If you want to escape from your busy life, enjoy exotic fruits and learn about the life of the Vietnamese people, the Mekong Delta will give you the real taste of Vietnam. Coming to the Mekong, tourists have the chance to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by natural beauty, immense fields and rustic rivers.  Mekong river cruise

My Tho

Located about 2 hours from Ho Chi Minh City by bus. Here are some attractions that make this town very special. When you visit My Tho, the Cai Be floating markets a place you should not miss.

Everyday, there are about 400-500 boats with many varieties of fruit, vegetables and other products which are hung on a bamboo stick in front of the boat. The bustling activity here is mesmerising as you watch the merchants trade their goods in what could be compared to a ancient stock market. This floating market is unique to the Mekong, and you will not find anywhere like this in the world.

Dong Tam Snake-Breeding Farm
Located 12km from My Tho city is the Dong Tam Snake Breeding Farm, this place attracts tourists with snakes, birds and turtles. The farm also features a small island with a moat that has a huge number of green tree snakes constantly moving and intertwining. South Vietnam tours
When you Travel to My Tho, you must not miss this well-known dish :

Hu Tieu (Rice Noodles Soup)

Dried noodles in the wake of being splashed into bubbled water are put into bowls, then the juices made by pork bones, meat, dried squid and a variety of sauces added to warm the ingredients. After that, meat slices are added and the soup is then garnished with bean sprouts, lemon, chili and soya sauce. The noodles can be served dry with the soup on the side, depending on diners' different tastes.

Ben Tre
Ben Tre is perfumed with the scent of coconut              
In comparison to My Tho, Ben Tre is a smaller and less known town. However, this place is known for its abundance of coconut trees and fruit gardens. Ben Tre itself it a conservative little market town and we recommend you visit the following locations: Halong bay cruise

Coconut Candy

Coconut candy is a sweet dessert you can find in Ben Tre. Ben Tre Coconut Candy is sold both in local stores and exported to numerous nations around the globe. Guests can discover these items for the most part in Chau Thanh (Con Phung, Con Quy, A Hoa) and Giong Trom Districts. For coconut candy, guests can go straight to purchase from the local makers on Dong Khoi Boulevard in the Township downtown.

Top things to do in Mekong delta

Coconut Handicraft Villages

The making of fine hand crafted items are one of the many charms of Ben Tre. Being the land of coconuts, it is only natual that carved coconut is the main material used for this sort of handywork. In the hands of the a capable craftsmen, any single bit of coconut material can be transformed into incredible things such as animal statuettes, human face statuettes, cutlery and so on .

An amazing place for bike riding and sightseeing

Ben Tre is the perfect place for those adventureres who like to get off the beaten path. Rent a bike and explore the nature and rice fields in this unique pocket of the Mekong Delta. Most hotels in Ben Tre will help you find a rental bike or a guided bicylce tour.

The price for the bus ticket from Sai Gon to Ben Tre is 90.000 vnd ($4.5)

Can Tho
Can Tho is the center and “the green lung of the Mekong Delta”. You cannot say you haved traveled to Can Tho without visiting the Cai Rang floating markets.

The best way to go there is by boat from the water front on Nhin Kieu Wharf. The market starts at 6am and ends around 9am. On the boat you will not only see the hustle and bustle of the floating market merchants, but you will experience the life of the Vietnamese people who’s homes are dotted along the Mekong estuaries. It is superb to take a boat trek along the riverbanks on fine days.

The small boat for 1-4 people is about 200,000 vnd. ($10)

The bus ticket from Sai Gon is 130.000vnd (6$)

Ninh Kieu Wharf

Ben Ninh Kieu lies on the bank of the Hau River, at the intersection of Hau and Can Tho River. This is close to the core of Can Tho city. The river is constantly packed with boats, ships which are stacked with the produce of the Mekong River Delta.


Besides that, you can visit the lucious fruit gardens in Phong Dien distrcict which is only 10 km away from the city. The fruit types are seasonal so what you see will depend on what time of the year travel.

The Rice Noodle Factory

It is not exactly a factory, more like a family business. Most of the noodles are handmade . Whilst watching their daily job, most tourists are suprised at the labour and effort that goes into making rice noodles.. The owners allow tourist to join in on the rice noodle making process before enjoying the fruits of your labour. A special dish which is only unique to this place: rice noodles pizza.

Vinh Long
Located 136km from Ho Chi Minh city, Vinh Long is a primary destination in the Mekong Delta It is found at the heart of the Mekong Delta, and can be visited as a 1 or 2 day trip.

It is easy to travel to Vinh Long by bus with the price around 100,000 VND ($5) from HCMC

Things to do in Vinh Long?
Renting a boat to discover the vibrant life of local Vietnamese people, visit the orchards and try some seasonal fruits.
Visit the historic pagodas such as: Tinh Xa Ngoc Vien, Van Thanh temple, Long Thanh Communal House
Experience the daily activities of the Vietnamese by living with homestay family. Other = popular places that tourists like to go are Ngoc Sang, My Hoa Mekong, Ba Linh…
                 
Things to watch out when you travel to Mekong Delta
Avoid package day tours: sometimes your trip just cost will only cost $5 but they will stop at uneccessary places like souvenir shops, restaurants, and even bathrooms for you to spend money.
Pay careful attention to the currency you use.
Try to bargain if you think the price is too high.
Because most of the Delta region is rural, you should be careful with mosquitos and other insects.

7 Incredible Things to do in Vietnam’s Central Highlands Region

The Central Highlands region of Vietnam is a lush forested area home to indigenous tribes, traditional villages, the captivating city of Dalat, sparkling waterfalls and the odd elephant here and there!

Soak up the culture of Dalat

The Central Highlands is elevated at 1,500 meters and offer a welcome respite from the tropical humidity of the south of Vietnam and the landscape is dominated by lush rolling hills, punctuated with ancient villages. Few travellers make in this far inland, which is to your advantage. The main highlights are the former battlefield sites, the indigenous tribes and the charming city of Dalat, dubbed Vietnam’s original resort city. Central Highlands and Qui Nhon Beach 7 days

Dalat goes by several different names: ‘the Jewel of the Central Highlands’ and ‘City of Eternal Spring’ are just two. Whatever you choose to call it, Dalat is the very antithesis of Ho Chi Minh City 300km further south: it’s cooler and more laidback. The city was established as a hill station in the late 19th century, designed to offer respite for the resident Europeans from the oppressive heat and humidity of Saigon. Today Dalat retains its unique culture, from the exquisite French colonial architecture of the French Quarter, to the European villas and traditional farmhouses. In fact some of the larger Colonial properties have been fully restored and are in use today as hotels. BASSAC CRUISE

Don’t miss the gingerbread-style Dalat Cathedral (pictured above) which was built in 1931 for exclusive use of the French visitors and residents. Stop by the magnificent Crémaillère Railway Station, which is resplendent in bright yellow Art Deco style, although sadly its not used a great deal anymore. And gawp at the truly bizarre Hang Nga ‘Crazy House’ which was designed by a local war hero’s daughter and which has mystified travellers for years. Its architecture is likened to that of Antoni Gaudi and the grounds are said to be inspired by Dr. Seuss. Image Cruise

Dalat is also known as the ‘City of Thousands of Pines’ thanks to the abundance of fragrant pine trees that line the banks of the many lakes. Chill out with a trip on one of the lakes, both natural and artificial including Da Thien, Ho Xuan Huong and Tuyen Lam. The city is also famed for its beautifully fragrant flower gardens filled with roses, orchids, lilies and camellias. Don’t miss the delightful Dalat Flower Park, located towards the end of Xuan Huong Lake which covers an impressive 7,000 sq. meters. Also in the area are individual flower gardens set around an authentic reconstructed Vietnamese teakwood house. Give your legs a rest and opt for a brief cable car ride u over Dalat’s pine forests, which also takes in an impressive hill-top pagoda. Alternatively a 4×4 trip up the Langbiang Mountain offers spectacular views over Dalat’s mountains, valleys and cityscape. Get here for either sunrise or sunset for an awesome view.

Finally Dalat firmly cements its position as the honeymoon capital of Vietnam with its dreamy palaces and summer houses. The thirteenth and final emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty Bao Dai (1913-1997) resided at the city’s three heritage sites, which are known as Palace I, II and III. Together with the Dalat Palace Hotel and the Dalat Du Park Hotel many of the structures was established around 1922. The Emperor also perfected his swing at the Dalat Palace Golf Club, with its sprawling greens, built in European style.

7 Incredible Things to do in Vietnam’s Central Highlands Region

Try the world-famous coffee of Buon Ma Thuot

The capital of Dak Lak Province is Buon Ma Thuot, which is best known for its production of famous Vietnamese coffee. Catch the annual festival each March which is dedicated to the ‘black nectar’. The town also offers a gateway to the Yok Don National Park…

Hike in the Yok Don National Park

Head about 40km west of Buon Ma Thuot to explore the vast National Park of Yok Don. This biodiverse forest is an important conservation site and is home to nearly forty different animal species which are globally endangered, including the Asian elephant, leopard, red wolf and tiger. Established in 1986, the park is an excellent place to hike the forested hills and traverse the pretty waterfalls and Srepok River. Birdwatchers will also be in their element with over 250 different types of bird species to be found here.

Explore the heritage of Lak Lake

Ho Lak, aka Lak Lake, is the largest natural lake within Vietnam’s Central Highlands and visitors are treated to a glimpse of everyday traditional life that take place on the banks of the lake. Jun village at the southern end is home to the traditional M’nong settlement who still live in authentic stilt houses crafted locally from wood and rattan. As well as the M’nong, there are also other colourful minority hill tribes that call this are home, such as the Edeh and Jarai. Travellers can ride an elephant alongside the lake or take a dugout canoe (or a boat if you’re not feeling adventurous) across the lake to explore Emperor Bao Dai’s former hunting lodge.

Discover the minority hill tribes of Kontum

The quiet village of Kontum offers a fascinating insight into rural life. Centuries old Sedang, Rengao, Bahnar, Gieh Trieng  and Jarai minority hill tribes live in settlement which are centered around the ‘rong’ – a massive communal building where communities gather. Don’t miss the Tan Huong Church, the wooden Montagnard Church which was constructed in 1913 and the colonial-style Catholic seminary.

Chill out in Ngoc Hoi

The small town of Ngoc Hoi is close to the border with Laos on the popular Ho Chi Minh walking trail. Visitors can stay here and soak up the calm atmosphere prior to crossing over into Laos.

Experience Pleiku for yourself

The town of Pleiku is located in the Gia Lai Province and is home to communities of the Kinh ethnic group. The town has a pretty little pagoda, the Minh Thanh Pagoda, which travellers can wander around. Close by is the Bien Ho Lake where visitors can try their hand at fishing or hire a local boatman to ferry them across the lake.

Top 5 things to do in Halong bay

Parasailing in Halong Bay
Parasailing is an adventurous activity that recently has provided on Tuan Chau Island, Halong Bay as well as many beaches of Vietnam(like Nha Trang, Phan Thiet, Vung Tau). With parasailing, tourists will have chance to enjoy beautiful seascape and especially experience an excited feeling in the middle of open airspace. It’s really worthy to try once in your life. The time for parasailing is upon your request. Travel Halong bay

Halong Bay Mountain Climbing
Mountain climbing is most favored by tourists who like energetic activities. Seaside lime-stone mountains are interesting challenges for tourists to reach the top. All professional climbers coming to Halong agree that Halong Bay is the paradise of adventurous mountain climbing as it has thousands of islands with high lime-stone mountains. This activity is usually combined with kayaking to explore natural environment of Halong Bay. AMALOTUS CRUISE

Top 5 things to do in Halong bay

Halong Bay Scuba Diving
For tourists who love discovery, scuba-diving will be a favorite activity on Halong Bay. By scuba-diving, tourists will have chance to see the wonderful underwater world of Halong by their all eyes. It must be an amazing experience when you can explore various kinds of fish as well as pristine coral reefs at the bottom of Halong Bay; and even touch them. All facilities are regularly checked and match safety standard. Therefore, it’s unnecessary to worry about your safety. Ninh Binh – Halong 3 days

Halong Bay Squid Fishing
Squid fishing on Halong Bay at night is an interesting activity at which tourists can experience the feeling of being a fisherman. Tourists will have the instruction from local fishermen about how to fish a squid in the sea. The squids caught will be used to make dishes for tourists. This is also an ideal time to gaze Halong Bay by night. The sea water surface is sparkling with reflected light from cruises anchored on the bay.

Halong Bay Squid Fishing

Swimming in Halong Bay

Swimming in Halong Bay

Halong, the World Natural Heritage Site, was blessed with calm and clear sea water. Therefore, there is no better way to experience wild nature of Halong Bay than swimming. Dipping in cool jade-green water of Halong Bay, tourists will feel free and relaxing. This is also a good chance to enjoy the charming beauty of beaches on Halong Bay. Some suggested beaches for swimming are Ti Top Beach, Tuan Chau Beach, Bai Chay Beach, Quan Lan Beach, and Ngoc Vung Beach.

Things to eat in Danang

Danang Beo Cake, Danang Vietnam
The Da Nang likes the traditional cake on snack. “banh beo” is made simply: powdered rice soak into water for several minutes to have liquid. Then, mix with a little grease and pour into small cups. Enjoying “banh beo” properly is in each small cup, not in the bowl or plate as some restaurant, hotels.

The delicious “banh beo” is thanks to the shrimp, especially the sauce. Firstly, “nuoc mam” mixes with grease, sugar, garlic, chili and shrimp which create the unique flavor. When eating “banh beo”, people not use chopsticks but small bamboo stick. It is great when using it with spicy sauce. The sweetness of shrimp mixed with the flavor of garlic, chili… gives us unforgettable impressions.

Danang – Hue – Hoian 4 days

Quang Nam's Noodles,

Like Hue beef noodle soup and Hanoi beef noodle soup, Quang Nam’s noodle is made from noodle and broth too. However, noodles – the main ingredient of the dish have two types: white noodle is made of rice only and the yellow is made from rice and turmeric. The broth is cooked from pork bones for fatty flavor and high nutrition. The amount broth used is not as much as in Hue beef noodle soup and Hanoi beef noodle soup. That makes Quang Nam’s noodles differ from the other kinds of noodle in Vietnam.

Things to eat in Danang

Quang Nam’s noodle is served in a bowl that contains noodles, broth and variety of toppings. Toppings for Quang Nam’s noodles are very diverse: some slice of pork, beef, chicken, fish, shrimp or a half of boiled egg. Besides, roasted peanut, fresh vegetable and toasted Vietnamese sesame rice cracker are also added on the top of the bowl for authentic taste of Quang Nam’s noodles. That unique noodle can be offered as a fine dish for breakfast, lunch and dinner also.

• LE COCHINCHINE

Nam O Raw Fish Salad

Before scenting, the fish are pressed and people use it for sauce. Fish water is boiled and mixes with “nuoc mam Nam O”; we will have delicious sauce for Nam O raw fish salad.

Nam O raw fish salad can eat with vegetable. This is specious vegetable which only grows on the Hai Van Pass. Each piece of fish mixed with sauce, chili, forest leaves … creates special flavor that you have never had before. Pelican Cruise Halong Bay

Jelly-Fish Salad
It is more difficult and more expensive to prepare tentacle jellyfish salad. The jellyfish are cut into small pieces, washed in cold boiled water, and then mixed with cooked chicken or thin slices of pork, boiled eggs, chili, unripe mango, ground peanuts and mints. Ear jellyfish salad must be prepared by skillful hands. They are put in a bowl in layers until dry. Then they are covered by ground peanuts, thin slices of plantain, unripe mangoes, chili, mint and savory leaves. Now we have a delicious jellyfish salad.

Jelly fish salad can use with rice of “banh trang gao”, ginger sauce and wine. Now, this dish has in the menu of some restaurant as specialty.

Cách làm mặt nạ trị mụn từ tinh bột nghệ vàng

Nghệ có tác dụng rất tốt cho da: tẩy tế bào chết; trị mụn; hạn chế các vết chàm (eczema) trên da nhờ tác dụng sát khuẩn đặc biệt; giảm và chống sẹo, thu nhỏ lỗ chân lông, chống nhờn, chống lại những tác hại của ánh nắng.. Nhiều nghiên cứu khẳng định tác dụng đáng kể của nghệ đối với các vết thương nhỏ và vết thương do mụn để lại.
Chăm sóc da bằng mặt nạ tinh bột nghệ vàng hay nghệ tươi thì chị em nào cũng phải công nhận làn da sẽ đẹp hơn, trắng hơn và mịn màng hơn. Nhưng hầu hết mọi người đều lo ngại, sau khi đắp mặt nạ nghệ xong, làm thế nào để thổi bay những tàn dư vàng vàng của nghệ còn sót lại trên da?
Một giải pháp hữu hiệu cho các chị em phụ nữa đó là sử dụng tinh bột nghệ vàng.da sẽ hấp thụ tốt hơn mà không phải sợ da bị vàng.
1/ LÀM MẶT NẠ TỪ HỖN HỢP TINH BỘT NGHỆ +SỮA CHUA+MẬT ONG

Loại mặt nạ này thích hợp cho mọi loại da.có tác dụng trị nám da,giúp tái tạo da,cho làm da mịn màng hết mụn
Chuẩn bị :
- 1 hộp sữa chua không đường ( để sữa chua trong ngăn mát dạng sệt sệt)
- 2 thìa canh nhỏ mật ong
- 2 thìa lớn Tinh Bột Nghệ vàng (dùng loại này da hấp thụ tốt hơn và làm cho da không bị vàng sau khi đắp mặt nạ )
- 1 miếng bọt biển (miếng bông thương dùng để trang điểm )
Cách làm:
Trộn Tinh Bột nghệ với 1 thìa nhỏ cafe mật ong.

Cách làm mặt nạ trị mụn từ tinh bột nghệ vàng

- Cho từ từ sữa chua không đường vào hỗn hợp,tới khí được hỗn hợp sền sệt thì dừng lại(không cho hết hũ sữa chua nhé)
- Trộn đều được hỗn hợp mịn-nhuyễn.
- cho hỗn hợp vào hũ -để trong ngăn mát tủ lạnh để dùng trong tuần.
Lưu ý: Dùng hỗn hợp này tối đa trong 1 tuần. Hết 1 tuần, bạn hãy chịu khó làm hỗn hợp mới nhé.bảo quản bằng cách cho vào hũ để trong ngăn mát tủ lạnh.
Thực Hiện:
Bước 1: Rửa sạch mặt bằng nước ấm kết hợp massage mặt cho làn da để da tự khô
Bước 2 : Dùng miếng bọt biển đánh Thoa hỗn hợp lên mặt theo từng lớp từ mỏng -dày.
- Sau khoảng 20-30 phút mặt nạ khô .
Bước 3 : Rửa sạch hỗn hợp bằng nước lạnh.sau đó có thể bạn kết hợp thoa kem dưỡng da hàng ngày.nên làm vào buổi tối trước khi đi ngủ để da được tái tạo trong quá trình ngủ.
Tác dụng:
- Da trở nên mềm mại và giàu sức sống nhanh chóng,giúp làn da trắng hồng rạng rỡ. Đặc biệt đối với những người bị tổn thương da do mụn bọc có thể uống tinh bột nghệ với mật ong hoặc đắp mặt nạ vào các buổi tối, hiệu quả có thể nhận thấy rõ rệt.
- Đối với phụ nữ sau khi sinh kết hợp với đắp mặt nạ(tuần 2-3 lần thui ạ) và hòa 1 thìa với nước lọc pha chút mật ong, uống ngày 2 lần, giúp nhanh chóng hồi phục sức khỏe và nhan sắc, tránh hậu sản.
p/s: hỗn hợp với tinh bột nghệ sau khi rửa cách sẽ không bị vàng da như bột nghệ hay nghệ tuơi bình thường.Loại mặt nạ này không có hại, không lo dị ứng và nó rất tiện lợi.chỉ dùng dắp 2-3 lần/1 tuần thôi.đưng lạm dụng quá
Mặt nạ tinh bột nghệ đen, sữa chua sẽ khá mát lạnh và dịu nhẹ. Mùi tự nhiên của mật ong và sữa chua giúp bạn thư giãn tối đa trong quá trình đắp mặt nạ.

2/ MẶT NẠ ĐẮP MẶT GIÚP SE KHÍT LỖ CHÂN LÔNG :
từ nguyên liệu rất dễ kiếm,các chị em có thể tự cải thiện làn da thô ráp-lỗ chân lông lớn chỉ bằng cách đắp mặt nạ đơn giản.
Chuẩn bị: (chỉ làm cho 1 lần đắp)
- 2/3 thìa lớn Tinh bột nghệ.
- 1/4 quả bơ dầm nhuyễn.
- 1 thìa cafe nhỏ mật ong (nếu không có mật ong có thể thay thế bằng 1/2 thìa dầu dừa-bạn tự làm-pm mình chỉ cách làm dầu dừa rất đơn giản. hihi). Các bạn có thể làm đẹp bằng bột sắn dây
- 1 miếng bông gòn

Cách làm: - Bước 1: dằm nhuyễn 1/4 quả bơ (càng nhuyễn càng tốt nhé) - Bước 2: trộn BƠ +TINH BỘT NGHỆ + MẬT ONG (OR DẦU DỪA)=>được hỗn hợp sền sệt.

Thực Hiện:
- Bước 1: Rửa sạch mặt bằng nước ấm kết hợp massage mặt cho làn da để da tự khô
- Bước 2 : Dùng miếng bọt biển đánh Thoa hỗn hợp lên mặt theo từng lớp từ mỏng -dày.
- Bước 3:Sau 20-30 phút Rửa sạch hỗn hợp bằng nước lạnh.sau đó có thể bạn kết hợp thoa kem dưỡng da hàng ngày.
P/S:sau khi rửa sạch bạn có thể kiểm chứng bằng cách nhìn làn da qua gương đảm bảo các lỗ chân lông đã được thu nhỏ,da mặt rất mềm mịn. nên thức hiện mặt nạ này vào thư 7-cn :D
3/ LÀM MẶT NẠ  TỪ TINH BỘT NGHỆ+BỘT YẾN MẠCH+MẬT ONG+DẦU HẠNH NHÂN

 Cầu kì hơn một chút so với phương pháp trên.Chọn thêm yến mạch,mật ong,dầu hạnh nhân để làm tăng tác dụng làm trắng da của tinh bột nghệ.Thích hợp cho mọi loại da
Chuẩn bị:
- 2 thìa cafe tinh bột nghệ
- 1 thìa cafe bột yến mạch
- 1 thìa cafe mật ong
- 1/2 thìa cà phê dầu hạnh nhân
Tinh bột nghệ vàng mua ở đâu
2 thìa tinh bột nghệ vàng
bot yến mạch
1 thìa Bột yến mạch bán sẵn
Tinh bột nghệ
1 thìa mật ong

1/2 thìa dầu hạnh nhân
Cách làm:
Lấy 1 thìa bột yến mạch và 2 thìa Tinh bột nghệ trộn đều với nhau, cho thêm 1/2 thìa dầu hạnh nhân và 1 thìa mật ong. Đánh thật mịn là dùng được
Làm mặt nạ làm trắng da
Hỗn hợp sau khi trộn
Cách dùng: nên đắp mặt nạ này trước khi đi ngủ nhé
Bước 1: Rửa sạch mặt bằng nước ấm kết hợp massage nhẹ.
Bước 2: thoa hỗn hợp lên mặt khoảng 20-30 phút
Bước 3: Rửa sạch bằng nước ấm kết hợp massage nhẹ  nhang cho da mặt nhé.