Wanderlust Tips Team, Author at WANDERLUST TIPS • Page 102 of 195

Wanderlust Tips | Self-drive travel tips

Be prepared to be fascinated by thrilling stories from experienced drivers on their self-drive adventures and better understand their sources of happiness and the difficulties they experienced on the roads. Whether travelling alone, in pairs or with the whole family, no matter the means of transportation, each trip has brought countless wonderful experiences.

NGUYEN THI KIM NGAN – FOR NGAN, CYCLING IS A JOURNEY OF THE MIND, NOT THE LEGS

As a cycling enthusiast, have you taken bike tours to many places so far?

My bike has accompanied me to travel through 19 countries and Vietnam for nearly five years. Two trips really stood out for me. For the first journey, I departed from An Giang in Vietnam to London in the UK for 10 months in 2015. The second journey was a 154-day tour across seven Southeast Asian countries in 2017.

I had read snippets of media coverage about unrest in the Xinjiang region. However, my experience in Xinjiang surprised me as this place is extremely safe for travellers and the locals are very kind and friendly. Additionally, the quiet roads underneath the burning sun where only a few trucks passed by made a special impression on me.

During my time in Turkmenistan, it took five days to cross the Karakum Desert or Black Sand Desert where the temperature reached 45^oC. We woke up at the break of dawn, sometimes we had to use a flashlight to light the way. At midday, we found a place to avoid the sun and had a rest until 3 pm. Afterwards, we continued riding until 8 pm because of the sunset at 10 pm and we got tired. At that time, water was scarce, so we had to be mindful and save it. The heat did not agree with me and I did not wash for three days during my time in Turkmenistan.

I felt nostalgic for my days cycling through Myanmar. I decided to take a hot air balloon ride in Bagan and watch the spectacular sunset at the Lei Thar Gone guest house located on a hill in Yenangyaung. Once we followed the map but it turned out to be the wrong map. We spent all morning walking with bikes to the top of the hill behind the army barracks.

Choosing a bike over other vehicles, what advantages and disadvantages are there?

Cycling is a physical activity which is good for the body. Travelling by bike is a slow experience that allows you to truly get a feel for a place. Through cycling, there have been occasions where I have accidentally discovered lesser-known destinations and have had the opportunity to become acquainted with the local people. There are certainly more advantages than disadvantages. Although, the harsh weather and steep mountainous terrain made our bike ride quite difficult and cycling requires determination and plenty of positive energy if you are not an avid cyclist.

Cycling requires both physical exertion and enormous willpower. How did you prepare and practice for these things?

I went on a self-drive trip without practising. During the trip, my body quickly adjusted to changes in climate and cuisine. Although cycling is a means to explore the world, I have to admit that cycling is a journey of the mind, not just the legs. Early on in my trip, I was sick when riding from An Giang to Ha Tinh because my body did not adapt from sitting in an air-conditioned room to cycling all day on the road.

Additionally, as the weather changed from hot in the southern region to drizzly in the central region both my mind and body became tired. I stopped in Ha Tinh for a few days and waited for my body to be stronger to ride back to Hanoi. During my cycling trip, the most dangerous moment was when I went down a mountain in Kyrgyzstan, my brakes were broken and this could have been fatal. After a near-miss, I now always check the brakes carefully whenever I go up and down a mountain.

After your journey, do you still have a true passion for cycling new roads?

After returning from a journey, I am always happy and proud of myself when thinking of the exhilarating experience. It is like a beautiful dream. I wish I could continue cycling across other continents to fulfil my dream of travelling around the world.

LE TRIEU DUONG (DU GIA) – TRAVELLING IS A WAY FOR ME TO CONQUER THE WORLD

Having spent 40 years travelling around Vietnam and across the border, Du Gia has got a lot of admiration and esteem in the travel community. He is also a pioneer and explorer of many dangerous roads for adventures, for instance, Tu San Alley in Ha Giang – the deepest alley in Southeast Asia, A Pa Chai – the westernmost point on the mainland of Northern Vietnam and Landmark 17 (1) – the upstream of the Da River where the Red River flows into Vietnam.

Could you share some memories of your self-drive journey?

A Pa Chai maybe my most memorable trip. Our team consisted of 9 people departing from Hanoi to A Pa Chai in Sin Thau commune, Muong Nhe District, Dien Bien Province along an 800-kilometre road. We rode 700 kilometres by motorbike and then walked along the rest of the way. At that time, A Pa Chai was not on the map and we were almost unable to find out any information about the place. Our team had to find the way via the forest roads. The authentic and epic journey is beyond the common tourism concept. After nine days and nights of conquering the westernmost point, we returned and shared useful information online so that more travellers could find this epic location.

Could you reveal more about solo travelling through Indochina?

I took the trip in early 2006. I went to Phong Sa Ly – the northernmost province of Laos adjacent to Dien Bien. I borrowed a motorbike in Dien Bien for my journey. However, the vehicle broke down in the middle of the road. As a result, I had to leave the motorbike and walk 7 – 8km to reach the village and call for help. I was not afraid to lose the motorbike, but there were still brigands in Northern Laos during this time. Therefore, our journey was quite dangerous.

Backpacking is not only about admiring the stunning landscapes but also about challenging yourself?

Definitely. In addition to riding on the road, I also have a passion for adventure games and exploring destinations that are off the beaten track. I am excited about heading upstream of Vietnamese rivers and crossing the border. I also like to go to remote areas to learn about the local culture and help disadvantaged people, I support them by taking clothes or helping to build schools so that they can have a better place to study.

Through many backpacking trips, must you have faced many risks?

Accidents can often occur when travelling. In 2012, I drove from Hanoi to Laos to attend the Water Festival during the Tet holiday. When I was riding just 40 – 50km away from Luang Prabang, I fell off of my bike because a bird flew into me. Moreover, just two months ago, I broke my ribs whilst driving in the Gobi Desert in Mongolia. Whether you are a new or an experienced traveller, I still recommend that you prepare carefully to minimise risks. A motorbike is a flexible vehicle for long journeys, but it requires the driver to have good health, skill and adaptability on the road. If you have an accident, you still need to remain calm and learn lessons from your mistakes for subsequent journeys.

Do you have any advice for young people travelling by motorbike?

I find that many young people today are losing the meaning of the term “backpacking”. Do not follow the movement or virtual life. You should learn thoroughly about the local culture or talk to the locals. After the journey, take the time to share with others about the roads, culture, food and behaviour in the places you have travelled through to help others be more aware. Through your travels, you will be more responsible for both the beautiful natural landscapes of the country and for your own safety.

VU MINH TRA, TRAN HAI YEN, HOPE AND HIP – MY WHOLE FAMILY LOVE ROAD TRIPS

Driving through nine European countries over 21 days last year and taking a 34-day road trip along the American West Coast in earlier 2019 provided endless inspiration for many families who love travelling. With your role as a driver, could you reveal your thoughts and feelings?

Around 10 years ago, I travelled to Europe on my own. At that time, I mainly focused on personal experiences. In May last year, when I went with my wife and two children, I wanted to give priority to my children so that they could learn and experience new things. We often travel to places that are not too crowded, we visit small villages, the countryside and have fun in Disneyland which is the children’s favourite place.

Returning from our European trip with an array of unforgettable moments, we found that road trips are extremely interesting. Hence, we planned a self-drive trip to America for the following year. In March 2019, my family made that goal a reality. We opted for travelling through the well-known national parks along the west coast of the USA. Travelling around the world with my children is my family’s goal. Life goes by in the blink of an eye, so we appreciate time as a family. There is nothing better than getting away from our work and spending time together as a family whilst exploring the world.

Could you share some memorable moments of your family from the self-drive trip?

During our time in Europe, I vividly remember travelling from Annecy to Antibes in France. The road running through the Verdon Gorge is known as the most beautiful in Europe snaking alongside the turquoise Verdon River. This is also a difficult road with zigzag bends. Another memory that sticks out was when our family visited the infamous Keukenhof flower garden in the Netherlands on the last day of tulip season, so the flowers had been harvested. However, because of travelling by car, our family luckily found one last field of flowers near Keukenhof that had not been harvested yet.

Western America is home to many stunningly majestic landscapes. While we were impressed with the surreal beauty of Antelope Canyon, our children were most fond of the Dinosaur Museum in San Francisco and the snow in Crater Lake. On this road trip, I drove 200km every day. I found that it was very difficult to travel through Dead Valley as our car could not cope very well with the peaks in the road. When there, we went out for a drive in the afternoon, so we had the opportunity to admire the brilliant red sunset behind the beautiful mountains. Although it was a long way, the road trip was definitely worth it.

Do you have any tips for taking this kind of trip with children?

For each trip, we often plan months in advance about where to go, eat and sleep. Aside from being an experienced driver, I am also a dab hand at refuelling, checking tyre pressures and changing tyres. Choosing a suitable car for travelling is particularly important. My family usually opts for new cars and we always buy car insurance for the entire trip to prevent any problems and always put safety first.

For children, we made sure whilst living in Vietnam that we got them used to sit in a car seat. We also prepare all necessary items, for instance, clothes, toys, diapers, milk and food in an insulated bag. What’s more, we always tell them about the trip and get them used to walk long distances so they know what to expect on the trip.

Wanderlust Tips

Van Life: Adventures with Romantic Souls

Instead of being satisfied with a seemingly stable yet narrowly confined life, many people are opting to live off-grid in a “mobile house”. It is undeniable that many people have grown to love this lifestyle that has been dubbed “van life”.

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FOSTER HUNTINGTON – THE GODFATHER OF VAN LIFE

When thinking of van life, many people imagine that it is the only option for those with insufficient funds to rent an apartment so they accept to live temporarily in a small vehicle. However, this is not true. With the motto “home is where you park it”, the lifestyle has very much become a thrilling experience for travel enthusiasts.

Foster Huntington is the pioneer of this exciting nomad life. He is the creator of the infamous #vanlife hashtag on Instagram. In 2011, he quit his job at the Manhattan Group in America, bought himself a van, turned it into a mobile home and began life as a nomad on the open road. He drove to many parts of the United States and freely did what he wanted from anywhere as long as there was enough vacant space for parking. On his journey, Huntington tapped into a community of like-minded individuals looking to explore nature at their own pace and live a freeing lifestyle.

In the book titled “Van Life: Your Home on the Road”, Huntington collected the best photos from the nomadic community as well as informative and topical interviews with a few members to learn more about their lives in vans. The posted photos describe a life where you are free to do yoga, watch the magnificent sunrise on the beach, spend the nights in the desert and watch the glimmering starry sky through the window.

Huntington currently feels that he is “too old” to continue this adventure, so he opted to settle down in western Washington. Although he has left the journey of freedom, his successors – the future generations – continue to follow and search for their ideal lifestyle on the vast roads.

VAN LIFE ESSENTIALS

Lucas and Willa, an American couple often share their impressive travel photos on Instagram @Viathebay and get many likes. Two years ago, Lucas and Willa began planning to travel throughout the United States after getting married. The inspiration for the trip originated as they stumbled across the #vanlife hashtag on Instagram with millions of related posts. To make their dream come true, the couple bought an old van that had more than 400,000km on the clock for a few thousand dollars. Afterwards, they refurbished the vehicle. From a van specializing in transporting goods, it was equipped fully with necessary facilities for a mobile house.

At that time, Willa was on a break before starting a new job in San Francisco. Lucas was working as a customer manager at an analytics firm, so he could work remotely. Therefore, they made a plan for a journey where they can live where they want and meet who they want to meet.

Departing from New York City, Lucas and Willa travelled through 14 states of the USA in 4 months, before stopping in San Francisco. Living in a van helped them save money on accommodation. They spent most of their expenses on enjoying food, visiting destinations or watching music and entertainment performances. The couple spends around USD30 a day on essentials, including fuel. It was estimated that Lucas fueled 33 times during the trip.

Lucas also gave advice for those who are also interested in living the van life. “There are lots of guidebooks on how to prepare for this lifestyle, but you just need to get out there and do it. Selling or packing up your favourite belongings, buying a van and planning an itinerary are the things that people find most difficult. As long as you prepare adequately for your trip, the rest will become clear. However, as long as you are ready to make your trip, the next steps will gradually be clearer. Ultimately, if you really want to hit the road, start saving to buy a van and get going as soon as possible.”

WANDER AROUND THE FAVOURITE DESTINATIONS FOR A FREE LIFE

It is undeniable that van life has always appealed to travel enthusiasts because the lifestyle offers a fascinating insight into the world. Hannah Jenkins – a Scotland girl and Oliver Whittaker – an Australian boy shared their travel experiences on Instagram @whoknowswwherenext. Their story is also an authentic example of this epic lifestyle that many people desire. Having the opportunity to meet while working in England, the couple later bought a Volkswagen Transporter T5 and renovated it turn into a small mobile home. Inside the car, they designed not only a lovely little sleeping area but also a kitchen and a dining table.

Hannah revealed: “A lot of our friends have started to buy houses and settle down. However, for us, it is not the right choice. We have a true passion for life on the road, not stability or daily repetition.” Hence, the couple began their own adventure. They took a four-week trip to Scotland, then travelled around England, France, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Belgium. During their journey, they had an amazing variety of fulfilled and unforgettable moments.

They started every new day relaxed, they drank cups of coffee and had breakfast together. Things that before van life they didn’t have time to do together. The couple travelled across European countries, sometimes they woke up in the cold snowy mountains or by a sparkling lake. What’s more, Hannah and her boyfriend often chose their next destination just two days in advance according to their interests, for instance, climbing, kayaking or swimming.

After seven months of travelling around Europe by van, the couple decided to move to Australia. Here, Hannah and Oliver embrace van life every weekend. Van life does not mean that you must spend your whole life travelling around the world. Van life allows you to explore and see the world differently. Driving around natural surroundings in a van at the weekends or taking a long journey to explore places on your bucket list, van life will show you a different side of life.

Thi Thi | Wanderlust Tips

Quang Binh: A hidden gem in Central Vietnam

After many trips, I have fallen head over heels with the coastal roads, the melodious tunes carried on the gentle breeze and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore. Most notably, I still feel nostalgic for Quang Binh as this beautiful undiscovered land beholds such a marvellously unique identity.

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QUANG BINH – THE LAND OF STRIKING NATURE

My friends and I arrived in Quang Binh at nightfall when the sun had not yet risen for the day and there were still thousands of little stars still sparkling in the sky. The central land captivated us with its modest beauty. My friend told me, “There is nothing new to discover in Quang Binh”. That is true. Quang Binh still bears its unique identity, an old yet thrilling beauty. Until now, retreating to this beautiful land was probably the most peaceful trip for me.

At Nhat Le Beach I wanted desperately to run barefoot across the smooth sand at the break of dawn. On that day, we sat and enjoyed the gentle sea breeze together. The clouds stretching out to the horizon in the distance. The dazzling rays of morning sunlight gradually shone through the clouds casting glorious sunlight onto the sand. Although the sun only shone briefly, its stunningly brilliant beauty was unforgettable.

After watching the picture-perfect sunrise, we moved to the Jumping Rock Beach, located about 25km from the city centre. This beach was even more beautiful than the last, with crystal-clear waters, fluffy white sand and the rocky mountain formations standing tall alongside the ocean in the sunshine. The wind and sunshine have eroded the rocks day by day, forming a marvellous sculpture at the hand of Mother Nature. The rocks are scattered along the shore, dancing with the waves through the four seasons of spring, summer, autumn and winter. If you take a closer look, you will feel that the inanimate rocks suddenly come alive. They bear a peculiar resemblance to buffaloes grazing leisurely or toads jumping on the waves.

The beach in Quang Binh is still untouched with white sand and clear azure sea. The dazzling sunshine shone through the water surface, creating a stunningly serene seascape. Sitting down on a ledge and letting my emotions drift away, I heard the gentle waves crashing against the cliffs. Additionally, Jumping Rock Beach left a strong impression on me.

Waving goodbye to the sea, we visited Quang Phu Sand Dunes. Around a 20-kilometre walk from the Jumping Rock Beach, a picturesque sub-desert landscape appeared before our eyes. The white sand dunes stretched across the coastline under the sparkling sunshine, sometimes dotted with wild greenery and trees. The sea breeze blows all day and night, so the sand formations change their shape every day and the colour of the sand also changes hourly. I could not hide my surprise as I had the opportunity to witness this miracle first-hand. When the sun climbed higher in the sky, the sand glistened a pure white but had turned bright yellow by noon. By dusk, the vast sand dunes were blanketed in a soft grey.

Don’t miss the super-fun sandboarding activity when taking a visit to Quang Phu. Sitting on a board and sliding from the top down to the bottom through the layers of smooth white sand is an excellent way to spend your day. Feel like you are flying whilst listening to the sound of the gentle breeze. Firstly, I felt a little scared and screamed loudly but the second time I quickly adapted and wanted to conquer the higher sand dunes.

We returned to the hotel as dusk fell and the sun was hidden behind the sand dunes. Standing in the opposite direction to the light and taking a look into the distance, I spotted some little shadows frolicking on the high sand dunes. The vastness of the sky and the sand dunes made me feel very small.

TESTING THE BOUNDARIES OF COURAGE

My Quang Binh trip continued in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park – one of the most infamous destinations of the North Central region. From Dong Hoi City, we travelled to Ho Chi Minh Road about 40km to the Northwest, we arrived at the Son River Wharf for an adventure around the natural masterpiece hidden amid the lush green mountains and forests.

The Son River boasts a peaceful and serene beauty. The undulating mountain ranges are silhouetted against the crystal-clear water. It is said that the emerald river water is likened to the rich green of the grasslands, but it is called the Son River because, in the rainy season, the rain has eroded the rocks from the mountainsides and crashes down forming an ocher colour.

The azure-painted boat took me on a thrilling journey. I could not take my eyes off the breathtaking natural surroundings. Thanks to the charmingly mysterious beauty of the arid and harsh land, travellers seemingly leave their heart in Quang Binh. The Son River is the main route to take visitors to the Phong Nha Cave. The magnificent caves are nestled in the limestone mountains and sheltered by an array of tropical forests.

It seems that Mother Nature has carved out the untouched structures in an amazing variety of shapes. Phong Nha was recognised by UNESCO as the most magnificent and magical cave in the world. I was blown away by the sight appearing before my eyes as the boat started to enter the cave. The cave gate is about 20m wide and about 10m high the impressive stalactites. The further the boat went, the cooler the air got. The light faded and then disappeared, leaving only the rhythmic sound of the paddles and the tourists’ voices on the boat. Sometimes, droplets of water from the stalactites fall, making everyone both surprised and excited.

The stalactites hanging from the roof of the cave and the stones protruding from the bottom are as dense as a lush green forest. The large stalactite blocks in countless unique shapes have inspired the human imagination, for instance, people argue that there are lion-shaped blocks or giant colourful chandeliers. This exhilarating cave adventure inspired a different outlook on this multifaceted and colourful world. If you want to test your courage, Quang Binh offers plenty of opportunities. I vividly remember the moment when I took the leap and went on the zipline. My heart seemed to skip a beat with fear and my legs flailed in the empty space. Only when I came out over the Chay River, did I fully relax. I not only admired the panoramic view of the Chay River from above but also took a dip in the cool stream.

I thought that I would never have the opportunity to admire a stunning emerald river like the Chay River. The watercolour at each river section is strikingly different with a myriad of turquoise and green. The riverbanks are home to many limestone beaches. The water flowing tirelessly through the limestone ranges year on year has created plenty of peculiar shapes. The ancient trees are reflected in the stunning river. Amidst such an impressive surrounding environment, we broke the silent atmosphere by howling with laughter whilst kayaking on the Chay River.

A WAVE OF NOSTALGIA

Quang Binh has the simplicity of the salty sea, the scorching sun and the friendly people. I still remember when dusk fell on the sandy beaches, the river seemed to be more striking than the sky as we sat together and shrieked with laughter. I was filled with longing for my fulfilled and unforgettable days in Quang Binh.

W.Tips

CLIMATE IN QUANG BINH

Quang Binh is divided into two distinct seasons. The rainy season begins from September to March, mainly in September, October and November. Notably, there are many storms in September and October. The dry season starts from April to August with an average temperature between 24oC and 25oC. June, July and August have the highest temperatures. During this time, the weather in Quang Binh is influenced by the Southwest wind which brings a hot and dry feeling.

TRANSPORTATION TO QUANG BINH

>> You can take a flight from HCMC or Hanoi to Dong Hoi City by Bamboo Airways, Vietnam Airlines or Jetstar Pacific Airlines.

>> Dong Hoi Railway Station is the main station of the Thong Nhat Railway, so travelling by train is also a great choice. The tickets are reasonable for VND300,000 to VND700,000.

>> The buses usually depart between 5 pm – 6 pm from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi and arrive in Dong Hoi the following morning. If departing from Hanoi, the ticket costs between VND200,000 and VND250,000. If departing from HCMC, the ticket costs between VND500,000 and VND550,000.

POPULAR SIGHTS

>> Jumping Rock Beach is home to many unique rock formations.

>> Quang Phu Sand Dunes host sandboarding. Each board costs VND30,000.

>> Phong Nha Cave: The admission ticket costs VND150,000 per adult and is free for children under 1.3m. The Phong Nha Cave boat tours cost VND360,000 per boat with a life jacket and the boats can carry up to 12 people including children. In the high-water season, the water level of the Son river will rise, as a result, the cave entrance could be obscured and tourists may not be able to take the boat tours.

>> Chay River – Dark Cave: There are two tours for you to choose. Firstly, the Discovery Tour includes the zip line, taking a mud bath, exploring the Dark Cave, kayaking and an array of thrilling underwater games. The tour costs between VND250,000 and VND450,000. Secondly, the Universal Tour includes the zip line, kayaking and plenty of thrilling underwater games for VND170,000 to VND270,000. Notably, the fares may vary according to the tourist season.

>> If you have a lot of time, you can explore many other attractive places in the Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, including Paradise Cave, Mooc Spring, Tien Son Cave, En Cave, Va Cave and Nuoc Nut Cave. Alternatively, if your budget allows and you are in good health, you can take a visit to Son Doong Cave. Additionally, Quang Binh is home to a variety of famous landmarks such as Vung Pagoda – Yen Island, Quang Binh Gate and Than Dinh Mountain.

Thi Thi | Wanderlust Tips

Embarking on a road trip through western USA

A few years ago, I went on a road trip around the United States, Arizona was one of the destinations on my travel bucket list. My three-week road trip departed and ended in Los Angeles. I spent my time wandering around an amazing variety of beautiful national parks in the Southwest desert, also known as the Grand Circle.

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PAGE – A JUNCTION BETWEEN NATIONAL PARKS

From Monument Valley, the classic backdrop for Western Cowboy movies, I left the territory of Navajo Indians in Utah and entered Arizona, stopping at Page. The page is a small city with a population of over 7,000 and was established in the middle of the last century to serve the construction of Glen Canyon Dam. Today, it is home to a lot of hydropower plant personnel and welcomes nearly 3 million tourists to the surrounding area each year.

Tourists have such a special impression of Page because of the exotic Lake Powell Boulevard. The place is home to twelve churches of twelve different religions standing side by side, which people often call “Church Row”. However, anyone travelling along the Grand Circle must-visit Page because this is a place where the roads connecting Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Arches National Park, Monument Valley and Grand Canyon National Park all intersect.

The deserts surrounding Page are not as famous as the national parks, but they still boast an undeniable beauty. The Vermilion Cliffs National Monument bordering Page to the west is famed for hundreds of layers of the stunning rocky stratum. Bordering to the north the Grand Staircase-Escalante, National Monument possesses a wild beauty and is home to an array of bizarre and vast stone pillars. Located in the Northeast, Lake Powell is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the United States. It is derived from the Colorado River and the Glen Canyon Dam. Located within a stone’s throw of Page, you will find Horseshoe Bend – a magical stretch of the Colorado River and Antelope Canyon which has been dubbed the most orange and red rocky canyon in the West.

ANTELOPE CANYON AND ITS INCREDIBLE BEAUTY

True to its name, people often encounter many antelopes around the Antelope Canyon in the winter. Antelope Canyon is divided into two separate parts, including Upper Antelope and Lower Antelope. The Navajo name for the Upper Antelope is Tsé bighánílíní, which means “the place where water runs through rocks”. The Lower Antelope Canyon is also known as Hasdestwazi or “The Corkscrew”. Both canyons are considered wonderful natural masterpieces, proving that the creativity of nature is far beyond human imagination.

The Antelope Canyon is made up of several layers of interwoven sandstone and limestone. The water derived from the flash floods and the tiny grains of sand carried by the winds have made the cliffs erode away, creating a diversity of curving stone stratum which resembles a soft silk scarf of a graceful dancer.

It is best to visit the Antelope Canyon on a sunny day. Rays of sunlight cast over the sandy floor in the valley, space light up in the dazzling sunshine and the light reflects on the surface of the pink stone. The rock, sand and light mix together to create an unbelievably magical scene before your eyes.

It can be said that the Antelope Canyon is the emerging star of the American West. In the 1980s, many people had not heard of the Antelope Canyon. Adventurous travellers could comfortably enjoy their haunting beauty for many hours. Today, the Antelope Canyon is proud to be one of the most attractive destinations in the Southwest due to its beauty. Thus, the number of tourists is increasing day by day, making the narrow canyon buzzing with crowds.

A far cry from the national parks under the control of the US government, the Antelope Canyon is owned by the Navajo Indians and has been a Navajo Tribal Park since 1997. Therefore, the sightseeing tours of these two canyons are constantly changing and the fares are growing exponentially in response to the number of travellers here.

UPPER ANTELOPE OR LOWER ANTELOPE

The Upper Antelope was formerly more famous than the Lower Antelope. The Upper Antelope is the one you will see plastered across postcards. Identified by their striking colours and the light bouncing down from the top to the bottom of the sparkling sand streams. Measuring a 200-metre stretch, the Upper Antelope is an unrivalled wonder.

Taking stunning pictures in the Upper Antelope can be easy yet a little difficult. Classic shooting angles are quite easy to achieve. However, the Upper Canyon is quite dark because it is formed in an inverted V-shaped structure. Thus, when the midday sun shines through a gap in the canyon, hordes of tourists follow. So even if you spend a lot of money on photography tours, you only have a very short time to capture those distinctive frames without interruption from others.

Located a stone’s throw from the Upper Canyon is the Lower Antelope Canyon. It is called Lower because the canyon is submerged underground, distinguishable from the Upper Canyon which is at ground level. Compared to the Upper, the Lower has a V-shaped structure, the top is wide and the bottom is much narrower, but it is bright enough to take beautiful pictures.

When the Lower Antelope was a lesser-known destination, it was truly a smart choice for those interested in getting away from the crowds and admiring the mystical beauty of the red sandstone canyon. However, the spiral stone arches of the Lower Antelope have become an exotic attraction. Tourists come to the Lower Canyon increasingly, but the canyon is too narrow, so from 2018, tour operators have completely removed photography tours in the Lower Antelope.

Although the Lower and Upper Antelope are not far apart and they are similar in structure, they boast their peculiar beauty in different colours and shapes that Mother Nature bestowed. It is best to choose which of the canyons you want to visit as visiting both these canyons takes a substantial amount of time and money.

HIGHLIGHTS

Upper Antelope Canyon

– The V-structure is upside down, its bottom is wide and flat, so it is easy to move around.

– Children under 7 years of age are not allowed for the General Tour and children under 13 years are not permitted on the Photography Tour.

– For photography enthusiasts, it is best to visit at noon.

– The space is very dark, so it is difficult to take stunning photos by smartphone.

– In 2019, only the Upper Canyon has a Photography Tour, but the price is expensive and it must be booked many months in advance.

Lower Antelope Canyon

– The terrain is narrow, bumpy and difficult to move, but it is truly an interesting experience for adventurers.

– Children are allowed to visit.

– Inside the canyon is tight so it can easily get crowded.

– There are many tours, so tourists need to queue up.

– It is easier to take pretty photos because the V-shaped structure receives a lot of light. Personally, I find the Upper Antelope better suited to the public and families with children. The Lower is suitable for those who are passionate about landscape photography and those who have a large budget.

DISCOVERY TOURS

Upper Antelope Tour

A few years ago, when I first came to the Upper Antelope, tourists only needed to drive to the gate and buy tickets on the spot and they could freely choose the time to visit during the day. In 2019, in order to visit the Upper Antelope Canyon, you will have to book online. The best time is between 11 am and 1 pm from April to October.

There are two tours that take place at the Upper Antelope including the General Tour (USD66 and USD77 for the golden hour) and Photography Tour (USD158). The prices are applicable to 2019, excluding taxes and other fees.

The Photography Tour costs twice as much as the general tour, but you will be able to visit with a small group of 8 people during the best hour, have more time to take pictures and appreciate this natural wonder whilst staff help you prevent other tourists from standing in your frame. However, the Photography Tour also has stricter requirements for photographic equipment and the age of participants, so you remember to read carefully before booking. Two reputable tour companies for the Upper Antelope include:

– Antelope Slot Canyon Tours – the General Tours.

– Adventurous Antelope Canyon Tours (AACT), for the General Tours and Photography Tours.

Lower Antelope Tour

There are two types of the Lower Antelope Tour. Firstly, the General Tour for 10 people (USD40/ adult, USD20/child, free for children under 7 years old) and the Deluxe Tour for 4 people (USD80/pax), excluding taxes and other fees.

With regards to the Deluxe Tour, there is a smaller number of people but you will still have to queue with other tours, there are no additional priorities, so you should consider this when booking this tour.

The two companies that offer tours into the Lower Antelope Canyon include:

– Dixie Ellis ’Tours – the General Tour.

– Ken’s Tours – the General Tour and Deluxe Tour.

Before travelling to the Lower Antelope, you should note that:

– The Lower Antelope is very cramped and there is only enough space for 1 person to enter, so be in good health and check that you will be able to move around easily in the space.

– Do not bring selfie sticks, bags or backpacks.

– During peak seasons, you may have to wait for a long time in the desert heat, so you should pack hats, towels and drinking water.

– Absolutely do not enter the Lower Antelope by yourself without a local guide, as this is a canyon slot. If it rains within a radius of 15km around the canyon, the water will rise extremely fast and it is very dangerous.

PHOTO TIPS FOR THE ANTELOPE CANYON

Capture RAW files

Always shoot in RAW. Especially in the Antelope Canyon with low light conditions and the significant difference between the light and dark areas, the RAW file will be very effective in postproduction. Try it and see the difference right away.

Tripod or no tripod?

You can only use a tripod if you take the Photography Tour. If not, you will have to move with a huge crowd. Inside the Antelope Canyon is extremely narrow and there are many people, if you do not have a guide, you do not have time to mount a tripod and take pictures.

Choosing your lens

Inside the two canyons is very tight, so for interchangeable-lens cameras, you should choose a wide-angle lens or an ultra-wide-angle lens of 14 – 35mm. All the photos in this article were taken with two lenses including Samyang 14 mm f/4 lens and Canon 17-40 mm f/4 on 2 full-frame cameras.

Adjust ISO and aperture

If you have a tripod, you can close the aperture to f/8 and set the ISO as low as 100 – 200 for an automatic speed.

If you do not have a tripod, you should open the aperture all the way (f/2.8 or f/4 depending on the lens), set the shutter speed in the range of 1/30s to 1/40s so that the image will not be blurred and ensure that ISO is set to an automatic mode.

Manual focus or automatic?

The Antelope Canyon, especially the Upper Canyon, is very dark and cameras can often not focus on the light conditions. Therefore, if you find it difficult to focus, you should completely switch the camera or lens over to manual focus mode.

Equipment preservation

The Antelope Canyon is very dusty inside. Fine sand is carried in the air. Thus, you should wrap your camera in plastic bags or a rain cover to prevent sand from making its way into any small gaps. Make sure not to change the lens inside the canyon unless both the camera and lens are switched off.

POPULAR SIGHTS AROUND ANTELOPE CANYON AND PAGE

– The Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is renowned for its spectacular rock formations of The Wave.

– The vast and wild Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

– Lake Powell, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the United States, emerges from the NCL Colorado River and Glen Canyon Dam and is home to many underwater activities.

– Stud Horse Point is home to the odd Hoodoo rock formations.

– Horseshoe Bend is the most beautiful bend of the Colorado River.

Bui Huyen Chi | Wanderlust Tips

Self-drive and see the world

Travelling by car, motorbike or bicycle allows you to explore beautiful roads freely. Take a meander around the bustling streets, vast forests and stunning valleys under bright blue skies. Self-drive really makes the world your oyster and with your own mode of transport, all of these tours will be at your fingertips.

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1. A SELF-DRIVE ADVENTURE IN SOUTH AFRICA

In a classic 4×4 pickup truck, you and your companion can travel across the beautiful land of South Africa. Departing from the charming city of Cape Town, the journey will take you to an amazing variety of destinations, for instance, the coastal fishing villages, the high passes, the ancient towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, the Western Cape wine region stretching endlessly along Route 62 and you will have the chance to enjoy many exhilarating games at Jeffreys Bay Addo Park. What’s more, during this long journey, you can also sample a whole host of fine wines whilst admiring the splendid flower fields.

Itinerary: Cape Town – Stellenbosch – Franschhoek – Garies – McGregor – Die Hel – Addo – Cape Town

Duration: 28 days

Price: ~ AUD12,535

Website: selfdriveadventures.com

2. FROM NEW YORK TO LOS ANGELES ON THE LEGENDARY ROAD 66

This is a tour designed to take you on an exciting adventure through important American cities by car along the legendary Route 66 while visiting impressive historical sites along the way. The most special thing is that you can make the most of independent travel, you will not have a fixed tour guide (you can opt for a local guide) or team leader and you can experience the freedom of travelling alone. You can go where you want to go, meet the people you want to meet and do what you want to do. The tour also includes an overnight service at four-star hotels, meals and many other professional services.

Itinerary: New York – Chicago – Springfield – Tulsa – Las Vegas – Los Angeles

Duration: 14 days

Price: ~EUR2,199

Website: discoverynomads.com

3. CROSSING THE WINDY MOUNTAINS AND RIVERS IN HIGH HIMALAYA

The tour will take you from the bottom of the Himalayan Range, near Shimla – the capital of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh to the spectacular Spiti valley by a stylish Royal Enfield 500 motorcycle. The journey will continue taking you through the windy passes of Khardung La and Chang La which are home to an amazing variety of stunning natural landscapes, for instance, charming lakes, cold deserts nestled amidst the towering snowy peaks and ancient monasteries standing out against the blue sky. The motorbikes are able to deal with the remote terrain and many challenges to be able to meet nomads with white sheep or rare camels in the distance. With such special experiences, the tour promises to help you fully explore the natural and cultural beauty in Northern India.

Itinerary: New Delhi – Narkanda – Kalpa – Tabo – Kaza – Sissu – Sarchu – Leh – Nubra – Delhi

Duration: 16 days

Price: ~USSD4,350

Website: extremebiketours.com

4. A SPECIAL CYCLING TOUR FOR BEER LOVERS IN BELGIUM

This special journey is a gathering of Belgian beer and sports enthusiasts. You will be provided with high-quality bicycles before starting your self-drive journey to explore the cool taste of beer from at least 8 breweries and monasteries with the famous Trappist beer. On this tour, you have the chance to share inspirational stories of your true passion for beer with other beer enthusiasts. Meeting traditional and creative brewers will help you better understand the brewing process and the beer culture that is associated with the unique local tradition, whether a vibrant city or an idyllic small village. All of these will definitely captivate and fascinate you. The accommodation is also enhanced to ensure its quality and comfort. The tour groups stay in three-star hotels located a stone’s throw from the breweries. The participants’ luggage will be transported on a truck to each place, so you can be more comfortable on your bike ride.

Itinerary: Antwerp – Westmalle – Hasselt – Leuven – Mechelen – Aalst – Ninove – Buggenhout

Duration: 8 days

Price: ~USD2,650

Website: beercycling.com

5. A BIKE RIDE ACROSS HA GIANG – CONQUERING THE NORTHERMOST POINT OF VIETNAM

From Ha Giang – a remote land located in Northern Vietnam, you could begin a thrilling adventure on a compact bike. This place will bring you a plethora of interesting experiences allowing you to get the best insight into nature and the unique culture of ethnic minorities. Cycle through the breathtaking winding roads with different terrains to discover the picturesque natural beauty at Quan Ba Heaven Gate before reaching the magnificent Dong Van Stone Plateau or visiting the unique mansion of the H’mong King. Additionally, you can enjoy delicious local specialities during the self-drive adventure.

Itinerary: Ha Giang City, Yen Minh, Meo Vac, Tam Son, Ha Giang City, Vietnam.

Duration: 5 days

Price: ~USD1,590

Lan Anh | Wanderlust Tips

Travel around Vietnam: Discover the simple beauty from behind the windscreen

One afternoon on our journey, we passed through an unexpected thunderstorm which hit the coastal area of Tuy Hoa City. The highway snaked through a small fishing village with colourful roofs and boats scattered across the beach. The speedometer ticked down gradually as I slowed down to admire the town and the sky after the rain. One side was crystal-clear blue sky, but the other was adorned with a myriad of colours as the sunset stretched across the horizon filtering through the windows of my car.

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During our two-week adventure, we travelled almost 1500 kilometres. We realised that the most magnificent memories were, in fact, the most fleeting moments of the trip. For instance, capturing a stunning photo whilst driving through an unknown village at sunset.

A BRILLIANT BLEND OF BLUES

When I speak of the journey across Vietnam, people think of my trip as a once-in-a-lifetime experience to discover many special landmarks. However, our journey was not arduous or anything out of the ordinary. We simply enjoyed sitting in our familiar little car every day, listening to our favourite songs on the radio whilst soaking up the serene atmosphere and marvelling at the lush green scenery.

Following Highway 1A, we travelled along the central coast with many roads swooping down towards the sea. On the other side of the slope, we passed many well-known beaches on the tourist trail, for instance, Nhat Le, Lang Co, Non Nuoc, Vinh Hy, Bai Rang and Cam Ranh. Before departing, we were worried that we might get bored of long days just watching the sea as we travelled through popular destinations. However, I soon realised that I had been worrying unnecessarily because each destination has a unique beauty. The sea beheld an astonishing array of blues before the horizon.

The Da Nang Sea glistened under the iridescent sunlight. In the morning, a number of rays of dazzling sunshine danced gracefully on the water. The azure shade of blue rippled through the waves and broke against the shore of the Da Dia Rapids in Phu Yen a little like the shade of blue that children would use to paint the sky in their art classes. In Nha Trang, the sea appeared turquoise. My friend suggested that the magnificent colour was thanks to a unique layer of black sand reflecting the gentle sunlight on the Southern Central Coast. When leaving from a destination on our coastal journey, the thing that I was most excited about was not the delicious food or the next famous tourist destination but which shade of blue was hiding in the depths of the sea.

I once read a novel about a painter obsessed with barley fields in his hometown. Thus, all the paintings in his gallery focused on the fields adorned with barley in various environments. For instance, under the moon or the sun, in the heavy rain, during the harvest, when the rice begins flowering and the fields after the harvest. The splendid paintings placed next to each other created a seamless panoramic view of the field during the four seasons. Every stage of the day was reflected in his art. I felt nostalgia for the gallery when I compared the vision of the barley to my vision of the sea and its many shades of blue. My car would stand out against the different layers of blue in the picture. I had to admit that the azure of the ocean is the most beautiful colour that an artist can mix.

LESSER-KNOWN DESTINATIONS ON THE MAP

Not every famous destination offers an experience worthy of its fame. Contrastingly, there lies undiscovered beauty in lesser-known places and it amazes me that no one has yet discovered it. With the maps on our phones and satellite navigation in the car, our self-drive adventure took us through destinations that are hard to find on the pages of travel reviews. Self-drive adventures open up a world of opportunities that plane or train journeys cannot.

A few people have told me that the shortcut from Tuy Hoa City to Mang Lang Church takes the form of a beautiful road running through the vast casuarina forests. Just a few steps from the road, you could end up lost in surroundings that resemble Alice’s enchanting wonderland. Layer upon layer of dusty white sand and row upon row of casuarina trees towered into the sky. During the changing of the seasons, the trees are bare, creating a rather unique scene. We spent more time here than on the famous Da Dia Rapids and then traversed through the ancient trees, inhaled the pleasant smell of dry leaves and let the fine sand nestle between our toes.

On this pretty epic road, I experienced a big problem when my car hit a pothole and two tyres burst. It took three hours and a fair bit of courage to find a way to change the tyres in the middle of the road in the pitch black. We cracked jokes and told funny stories in an attempt to overcome our fears and pass the time. At least we could change the tyres whilst admiring the beautiful starry sky.

The casuarina forest in Phu Yen is truly beautiful, but the most alluring scenery throughout the journey is along the Dran Pass running from Dalat Plateau to Phan Thiet. If people think that it is difficult to seek out beautiful scenes like the European countryside in Vietnam, they have not driven through the Dran Pass during ripe persimmon harvest. In early October, Dalat is home to many ripe persimmons, so you can find an array of red persimmons everywhere. The garden persimmons are large and colourful standing out against the dark green foliage. The bunches of yellow-orange persimmons were dangling on top of mountainous slopes.

Driving through the bends on the Dran Pass, I saw a small colourful house enclosed with white wooden fences. In the garden, there was an old persimmon tree laden with ripe fruits. Under the golden sunshine of the highlands, I could almost taste the sweetness of the fruits in the persimmon garden. There is a roadside station in the middle of the Dran Pass offering picture-perfect views overlooking the charming valley. From here, you can indulge in the fresh Dalat air and be invited by the host to eat ripe and fragrant persimmons before travelling to Phan Rang – the land of sunshine and winds. I said to my friends that driving through this pass was dangerous and we could easily be distracted not only because of the hair-raising bends but also because of the charming mountainous scenery.

The Dran Pass follows the Ngoan Muc Pass – its name bears a close resemblance to its shape. The pass is truly a great challenge for drivers because it is home to countless terrifying bends. The lush green pine forests also lay at both sides of the mountain. If you have an excellent observation ability, you could explore the endlessly magnificent beauty of the Dran and Ngoan Muc Passes when travelling to Dalat by bus. However, these “hidden gems” are not always easy to find. We were fortunate to find another exhilarating destination, which is not well known on the tourist trail while wandering around the Western rivers.

Hong Ngu Town is located a stone’s throw from Chau Doc City which is famous for Ba Chua Xu Temple and the unique fermented fish stalls. Passing the So Thuong River, we saw the beautiful town of Hong Ngu before our eyes and then immersed ourselves in the buzzing atmosphere. Located close to Hong Ngu market, there is a crowded neighbourhood. At the end of the afternoon, the market is bustling with long lines of street vendors selling fragrant food. A wide array of street food was on offer, spread out on the street stalls, for instance, salted chilli bread, grilled rice paper, skewered chicken wings and legs, roasted duck, roasted pork, rice vermicelli served with fermented fish, Pha Lau and grilled fish.

There was a joyful atmosphere with laughter buzzing from every corner as traders and shoppers went about their business. The gentle smiles of Western women and the pungent smell of delicious local delicacies are just two reasons why I adored this land. Wandering along the vibrant streets, savouring street food and watching the hectic surrounding environment made me realise the exquisite beauty of Hong Ngu. Sometimes you can find joy in the simplest of things and the most ordinary goings-on can easily captivate you.

FOND MEMORIES OF OUR TRIP

At a coffee shop in District 1, Saigon, we enjoyed a relaxing moment together whilst reminiscing about our journey. My friend said we should camp by the sea one night, take a photo of the beautiful milky way, spend two days trekking, take a boat to the island, drive at night and continue to have many more amazing adventures.

Everything we mentioned is worth trying, but no one can tell you which moment is the most valuable. Every road passing by the window of the car is unique. Each natural masterpiece we catch a glimpse of is beautiful in its own right. For instance, the shimmering silver sea stretching to the horizon, the long rows of towering trees forming a dark-green dome, the ancient tower silhouetted by a spectacular sunset, the houses with sloping roofs and climbing roses nestled amidst the pine hill, an impromptu thunderstorm or the deserted fields at night. Who dares to say that each of these things is not miraculous wonders.

USEFUL TRAVEL TIPS TO QUANG BINH, VIETNAM

PRIOR TO DEPARTURE

>> Check your car thoroughly, change the oil, adjust the tyre pressure, update the map system, check the lights and petrol gauge, install the Black Box and sensors and check the spare tyres.

>> Plan your itinerary thoroughly, be aware of the distance between locations to arrange travel and rest times appropriately.

>> Divide the driving shifts fairly.

>> Prepare some snacks and coffee to have in the car.

>> Be sure to take medication if you suffer from motion sickness.

>> Pack cold food and instant noodles in case the local cuisine does not match your taste.

>> Search in advance and save phone numbers of rescue teams and repair-shops on long routes far away from residential areas.

DURING THE JOURNEY

>> Only drive a maximum of 400km/day to have time to visit, rest and recover.

>> Limit driving in the evening because there are many potholes which are very hard to see and can cause tyres to pop.

>> The navigation map always shows the shortest and fastest route. However, some detours are close to the coast with beautiful panoramic views. You should check every route in advance for the best option.

>> The warning signs of the speed-limited routes set on the car are not 100% accurate. Pay close attention and follow the signs on the roads.

>> Combine discovery and relaxation to ensure that you are healthy for the duration of the trip.

>> Look up the road penalties nationwide at website vr.org.vn by vehicle registration number.

>> For the return journey, you can send your cars via railways or container trucks. In spite of the high cost, this means of transportation saves a lot of time after a long trip.

Khiet | Wanderlust Tips

Be captivated by the roads in Vietnam

Travel through Vietnam and take the scenic route all the way from the North to the South. The surroundings along the roads are very rich with bustling towns, peaceful villages, vast plains, sea views, majestic mountains and forests. After each leg of the journey, we feel our worries begin to evaporate making room for more memories. Every region that passes leaves a unique impression on us. This adventure through our country made us realise how fond we are of our homeland. Accompany Wanderlust Tips to discover the most spectacular roads in Vietnam.

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HA GIANG – YEN MINH – LUNG CU – DONG VAN – MA PI LENG PASS – MEO VAC

Ha Giang Province – the northernmost point of Vietnam, is home to picture-perfect panoramic views of majestic natural landscapes. For instance, Yen Minh Pine Forest, Tham Ma Slope with nine hair-raising bends, the jagged mountain ranges shaped like cat’s ears, the spectacular Ma Pi Leng Pass, the towering Tu San Alley and the alluring Nho Que River or the legendary Happiness Road. The 300-kilometre journey departs from Ha Giang City to the Lung Cu Flagpole promising to bring an array of unforgettable experiences.

THANH SON – PHU THO TEA HILL – NGHIA LO – MU CANG CHAI – KHAU PHA PASS

Looking for the beautiful terraced fields that stretch as far as the eyes can see then you should plan a trip from Thanh Son Town in Phu Tho Province to Mu Cang Chai District in Yen Bai Province. In particular, the early rainy season or ripe rice season is the best time to take a trip to Mu Cang Chai. In May, the rice terraces filled with water reflect the glistening sunlight creating a captivating and magical picture. When the fields are ready for the harvest in September, the terraces boast a picturesque beauty as the green and yellow layers of rice intertwined with the hillsides. Taking a drive along the zigzagging 100-kilometre road, you can admire the stunningly beautiful scenery. For instance, the green tea hills in the gentle breeze, the magnificent mountains and forests, the vast blue sky with fluffy white clouds and the idyllic villages nestled amongst the rice terraces.

SAPA – O QUY HO PASS – MUONG HUM – LAO CAI CITY – Y TY

Located in Lao Cai Province, the 70-kilometre route running from Sapa to Y Ty is very rugged and difficult to travel. However, the scenery here is totally worth it. There is a fantastic variety of idyllic villages shrouded in mist adjacent to the undulating terraced fields. Commencing from Sapa, you can drive an additional 12km to reach O Quy Ho Pass – one of the four great peaks of the Northwest. Afterwards, you should continue your trip through the mountains and forests to visit the Y Ty cloudy paradise. The clouds here swirl thickly around the villages, pass over the lush fields, the winding roads and fill the hearts of travellers. The following day, the 80-kilometre road from Y Ty to Lao Cai City brings an entirely different experience. You can take a drive along the border road between Vietnam and China where the Hong River is considered the natural boundary.

HUE – LANG CO – HAI VAN PASS – HOI AN – DA NANG

Commencing from the charming Hue Imperial Capital, your itinerary will take you through Lang Co Beach, the Hai Van Pass – an unrivalled wonder, modern Da Nang, finally stopping at Hoi An – an ancient town famous for rows of quaint yellow houses, tiled roofs and brilliant paper flowers in the sunshine. There are many surprises along the 120-kilometre stretch that will allow you to admire beautiful and majestic nature, valuable historical heritage sites and impressive architectural structures.

HOA BINH CITY – CUN SLOPE – MAI CHAU – DIEN BIEN PHU CITY – PHA DIN PASS – MOC CHAU

November is the time when white cauliflower blooms along the Moc Chau Plateau. This is also the best time to pack up your belongings and set out to conquer the road from Hoa Binh Province to Son La Province finally reaching Dien Bien Phu City in Dien Bien Province. This journey is a pretty epic route at nearly 500km. Be prepared for a hair-raising journey with the bends of the Cun Slope winding through the abyss. Indulge in the tranquil atmosphere when passing through the peaceful green Mai Chau Valley. Moc Chau has made a great impression on every traveller with its beautiful rows of white cabbages. After crossing the Pha Din Pass – the “four great passes” of the Northwest region, you will feel victorious.

QUY NHON – TUY HOA – DIEN CAPE – DOI CAPE – CA PASS

The 100-km coastal road from Quy Nhon City in Binh Dinh Province through Phu Yen Province to Doi Cape in Khanh Hoa Province will captivate every driver. One side is the verdant mountains and forests, the other side runs beside the sea. Before your eyes, the road runs straight to the horizon where the sky and the sea intersect. Along the way, you can stop to visit the Ghenh Rang Tien Sa with many mysterious legends, the Ky Co – Eo Gio beach paradise, the mysterious pristine Da Dia Rapid, the Nhat Tu Son Island with its unique passage in the middle of the sea, the alluring Xep Beach associated with the famous movie “I see yellow flowers on the green grass” or the magnificent Dien Cape. After conquering the spectacular Ca Pass, you can continue trekking through the Doi Cape – the Easternmost landmark in mainland Vietnam.

CAM RANH – VINH HY – CHUA MOUNTAIN – NINH CHU – PHAN RANG-THAP CHAM – PHAN THIET – LA GI

Dubbed as the most spectacular coastal road in Vietnam, the 300-kilometre road runs through the three provinces of Khanh Hoa, Ninh Thuan and Binh Thuan. Commencing in Cam Ranh City, you can follow the road towards Ninh Thuan through the pristine Vinh Hy Bay and explore the beautiful Nui Chua National Park with the winding mountain roads and picturesque beaches. You can also drive along the crystal-clear Ninh Chu Beach then stop to rest in Phan Rang Thap Cham City. Over the course of the following days, head to Bau Trang (White Lake) with rolling sandhills swooping down to the sea, then go straight to the vibrant city of Phan Thiet, through the pristine Ke Ga Cape and end up in peaceful La Gi. Along the road, an array of lush natural surroundings appears before your eyes. The magnificent shades of blue, intertwined with the grey of the mountain rocks, the brilliant red of the sun or the yellow and white sand dunes, creates beautiful scenery that is hard to describe in words.

CAM RANH – NGOAN MUC PASS – DA LAT – NHA TRANG

Nha Trang and Da Lat are both on the list of famous tourist destinations, so many people opt to visit these two places on their itinerary. With a 300-km stretch between Khanh Hoa and Lam Dong Provinces, travellers will have the opportunity to admire the fascinating natural surroundings. In particular, the experience of conquering Ngoan Muc Pass – the most beautiful mountain pass in Vietnam promises to bring countless unforgettable moments.

DA LAT – BUON MA THUOT – PLEIKU – KON TUM

To fully appreciate the beauty of the sunny and windy Central Highlands, nothing is more wonderful than a self-drive adventure. The 500-kilometre road along NH20 – NH27 – AH17 running through the four Central Highland Provinces of Lam Dong, Dak Lak, Gia Lai and Kon Tum is a long journey on the basalt red soil roads. The more you travel, the more you love the stunning land which is home to wild mountains and forests, the immense coffee hills and quaint little houses in the sunshine.

LONG AN – TIEN GIANG – VINH LONG – CAN THO – CA MAU – KIEN GIANG – AN GIANG – DONG THAP

Starting from Tan An City in Long An Province then My Tho City in Tien Giang Province, your journey continues travelling through Vinh Long City in Vinh Long Province to Can Tho City – the capital of the West. Afterwards, you will move to Hong Ngu Town in Dong Thap Province then take a ferry to Vam market to admire the Mekong River. From Chau Doc City in An Giang Province, you will have two options. Firstly, taking a visit around Ha Tien, Rach Gia in Kien Giang Province and then move to Ca Mau. Secondly, travelling straight down Rach Gia and enter Ca Mau. The 600-kilometre journey travelling across 8 western provinces and conquering Ca Mau Cape – the southernmost point of the country will make for countless fulfilled and unforgettable moments. The immense fields full of storks, lush fruit gardens on the islets, interlaced canals, floating markets with bustling boats and the ancient green forests are truly remarkable. Throughout the journey along the river, you will not forget the warm and friendly smiles of the locals with nicknames such as the Biggest brother, the Second sister, the Third uncle, the Fourth aunt or the Fifth uncle.

Ly Nguyen | Wanderlust Tips

Appreciate the tranquillity in Chiang Mai

I have always thought that the infamous lantern festival held annually in November was the only reason that my friends had fallen in love with Chiang Mai. Only when I actually arrived in this city, dubbed the “northern rose of Thailand”, did I realise that I was completely wrong. Chiang Mai does not boast the bustling atmosphere with dynamic shopping and entertainment centres, instead Chiang Mai offers spectacular natural surroundings and a peaceful way of life. I certainly fell in love with its exquisite beauty. Sometimes, the simplest things in the daily life leave us feeling mesmerised.

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A PEACEFUL STROLL AROUND THE STREETS IN CHIANG MAI

After two days in vibrant Bangkok, I moved to Chiang Mai early in the morning. As the plane was coming into land, the panoramic view of the serene city appeared before my eyes. The weather was very cool and pleasant on that day. The Tuk Tuk drove me through the tree-lined streets. An amazing variety of quaint shops was built side by side with modern buildings. Taking a stroll around the city and you can easily encounter a whole host of anciently sacred temples. The more I discovered, the more I was surprised by how deserted Chiang Mai was. Definitely it was not the thing what I imagined of a famous tourist destination in Thailand.

A far cry from the bustling Bangkok where traffic is chock-a-block with cars, the streets in Chiang Mai are quiet and sparse. Most of the beautiful houses only have three or four storeys, the vast rice fields dotted with wires and the peaceful Mae Ping River reflected the vast blue sky. During the daytime, the pace of life in Chiang Mai played out almost in slow motion, gently passing me by. When the brilliant orange sunset spread across the horizon and the streets lit up, Chiang Mai put on a different show that was a little more hectic than the daytime.

My friends and I decided to visit the walking street where we both shopped for trinkets and souvenirs whilst immersing ourselves in the buzzing nightlife of this beautiful city. Chiang Mai night market boasts a hectic ambience with an amazing variety of stalls and items, for instance, souvenirs, clothes, shoes and especially street food draws the tourist’s attention. Wandering from stall to stall made us lose track of time.

Just as I was looking to buy some more colourful T-shirts and try some delicious snacks, my friend reminded me that it was 10 pm and it was the time to return to the hotel. The Tuk Tuk took us away from the market and only a short distance away the houses had closed their doors and turned out their lights. We headed back to the hotel for a rest so that we could wake up early the following morning. At sunrise, I was sure that Chiang Mai would welcome us with more interesting things on the roads we had just passed through.

AN ADVENTURE TO THE PEACEFUL LAND

When travelling to Chiang Mai, be sure to visit the temples imbued with ancient cultural values. We began our adventure by visiting Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep or Doi Suthep – one of the most sacred temples in Thailand. The temple was constructed in 1383 on the summit of Doi Suthep Mountain and towered 1,676 metres above sea level. Standing on Doi Suthep Temple, visitors have a great vantage point and can admire a breathtaking panoramic view of Chiang Mai city spanning out under the bright sunlight.

Legend has it that Doi Suthep temple was constructed by King Nu Naone of the Old Lanna Kingdom with the aim of enshrining Buddha’s relics. Upon arriving at this sacred temple for the first time, I was completely overwhelmed by the monumental architecture and the exquisitely golden structures. Most prominently, the largest gleaming golden Chedi located in the central area is a real masterpiece standing out against in the bright sunlight. Visitors here are truly amazed and mesmerised by its impressive design. Additionally, the golden statues in an amazing variety of sizes and colours are placed all around the temple, making visitors feel that the Chedi stupa is being guarded carefully. The beautiful bells produce an enchanting and relaxing melody allowing visitors to indulge in a tranquil atmosphere.

Taking a wander through the zigzagging roads to the bottom of the city, I visited Wat Umong temple. We meandered along the tree-lined path to the temple gate, the peaceful and serene space seemingly took us back in time. A far cry from the sparkling Doi Suthep, Wat Umong located at the bottom of well-known Suthep mountain boasts an idyllic and ancient beauty. The 700-year-old temple is considered one of the oldest temples in Thailand.

Wat Umong is imbued with ancient imprints hidden in the crumbling façade and green moss of each stone wall. I took a stroll around the ancient brick tunnels leading the way to the temple’s main hall. The deeper I went inside, the quieter it became. The space here is shrouded by a faint smell of smoke and there are statues hidden in the stone walls. Without the tour guides’ guidance, it might take a long time to find the exit. One of the most prominent places at Wat Umong is the stupa at the top of the mound.

The stupa is home to many precious statues in an array of amazing shapes. They were designed skillfully and deftly due to the cultural and religious beliefs of the Thai people. More interestingly, I had the opportunity to hear many historic stories about the establishment as well as the thriving development of Buddhism in Thailand. There are many other sacred and beautiful temples in Chiang Mai that I have not yet had the chance to visit. I will definitely come back not only to discover more of the stunning landscapes but simply to fall further in love with the peaceful and charming land. I waved goodbye to Chiang Mai but I hope to return one day.

W.Tips

TRANSPORTATION

From Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you can take a direct flight to Chiang Mai. Alternatively, you can visit Bangkok first because it is easy to travel to Chiang Mai from Bangkok. You can opt for Bangkok Airways with a wide selection of flexible flights. In Chiang Mai, you can opt to travel by taxi, motorbike, bicycle or Tuk Tuk.

CLIMATE

Chiang Mai is an ideal tourist destination because the climate is cool and pleasant, suitable for visitors to have an exhilarating adventure.

CURRENCY

The official currency in Thailand is Baht, symbolised by THB. THB1 = VND752,69. You can exchange money at the airport or major shopping centres in Thailand. However, you should exchange money before travelling to Thailand to save time.

CUISINE

In addition to the traditional culinary delicacies, Thai cuisine in the Northern provinces is blended with the rich flavours of spices and the distinctive tastes of neighboring countries such as Laos, China or Myanmar. In Chiang Mai, you should try some delectable delicacies including Khao Soi, Sai Qua, grilled chicken and Khanom Jeen Nam Ngeow.

Thu Ha | Wanderlust Tips

Share the love with travel: Colours of the markets

[Wanderlust Tips September 2019] With the theme “Colours of the markets”, Share the love section in September 2019 will take you to an amazing variety of famous markets in Vietnam and around the world.

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LE HONG QUAN – BANK CLERK, HCMC | VAKIL BAZAAR IS NOT JUST A TRADITIONAL MARKET

Wanderlust Tips | Share the love: Colours of the markets

In the Iranian dictionary, the term “Bazaar” refers to markets featuring vaulted ceilings in a sophisticated architectural style. A bazaar is a commercial exchange centre in urban cities and one of the typical ancient cultural features in Persia. When people think of bazaars in Iran, the Grand Bazaar in Tehran – one of the largest bazaars in Persia often springs to mind. Additionally, Iran has many other unique markets, notably Vakil Bazaar in the west of the country – a not-to-be-missed destination when travelling to Iran. The Vakil Bazaar has beautiful courtyards, fountains, public baths, old shops and a number of mosques in the vicinity. According to the locals, many tourists cannot discover the bazaar completely and find it a tough nut to crack because of the labyrinth of interlaced stalls and aisles.

From my perspective, Vakil Bazaar is not simply a bazaar but also an exhibition centre for countless diverse and high-quality goods from the Middle East. For instance, delve into a treasure trove of woven carpets, antiques, jewellery, gemstones, perfumes, vegetables, dried fruits and spices. Each stall is arranged methodically and professionally. In Iran, it is commonplace for the salespeople to be male, with the notable absence of females throughout the bazaar. Traditionally, merchandising is reserved for men. Be sure to pick up some souvenirs of your trip, the merchandise on offer is worth every penny and the Iranians are always hospitable, happy and thankful for your custom and intrigue.

LE THUY – KINDERGARTEN TEACHER, SWEDEN | AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE AT LA BOQUERIA MARKET, SPAIN

When setting foot in a new place, I often head to the local markets after visiting the bigger tourist attractions as I think they showcase traditionally cultural characteristics. I have a true passion for enjoying local delicacies, admiring lovely artisanal crafts or simply strolling around to absorb the hectic atmosphere. I have to say that Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, known as La Boqueria is one of the best markets I have had the opportunity to visit. Located along La Rambla in Barcelona, La Boqueria is one of the most distinguished food markets in Spain.

When I walked into the market, I was completely mesmerised by a diversity of stalls bursting with an array of produce from delectably pre-cut fruits to signature jamón serrano. It can be said that travelling to La Boqueria is to enter the world of food and you can find everything at La Boqueria. There is a wealth of options to sample including noodles, seafood, lamb, cakes, delicious jams, nuts and dry ingredients. Additionally, there are a wide array of unique cafes and bars meeting the entertainment needs of visitors. Located in the heart of the city, the market is always bustling and crowded with people toing and froing. Due to the hectic nature of the market, be mindful and keep an eye on your belongings to ensure a pleasant trip.

LE BINH – ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE, HANOI | EXPERIENCE THE MORNING AND NIGHT MARKETS IN LUANG PRABANG, LAOS

Nowadays, shopping malls are becoming more and more popular and I am afraid that markets will gradually be forgotten over the course of time. Hence, I always try to spend a lot of time perusing the markets during my travels. Among the markets I have visited around the world, I was most impressed with the Luang Prabang market in Laos.

I woke up at 5 am to experience the early morning buzz in Luang Prabang. The morning market here does not sell many souvenirs, instead, there are many different foods for sale. You can easily buy vegetables, meat, fish and shrimp for instance. It is similar to self-established markets in Vietnam; however, the food was very rich, to name a few, whole grilled fish, barbecued meat, noodles and Pho. Moreover, there were a variety of fresh vegetables which made me extremely excited.

There is also a night market in Luang Prabang. Although it is called the “night” market, trading actually began at 4 pm. At this time, you will see people arranging goods along both sides of the road. The food available in the evening is more diverse than that in the morning, I also discovered a small alley selling typical Lao cuisine. Luang Prabang night market also has many unique souvenirs for visitors to buy for their friends and relatives.

NGUYEN VAN THANH – TRAVELLER, HANOI | VISITING DONG BA MARKET IN HUE ON A RAINY DAY

A friend once told me that when travelling to a new place, we should visit the central market to better understand the local culture and people. Thus, I popped by Dong Ba market in Hue on a rainy day. Dong Ba market made a great impression on me as the authentic scenes of life in Hue in the early morning were extremely peaceful. The vans got wet and sparkled in the headlights; people wearing red, blue and yellow raincoats walked quickly through the shops adorned with all kinds of brilliant colours; the muscular rickshaw-pullers greeted me with a friendly smile rather than yelling or getting annoyed when we held up our cameras to take pictures.

All of these things made me appreciate the familiarity and kindness of Hue people. People would often prefer it not to rain on their trips, but for me, the rain is precious. In other words, the fleetingness of nature and how suddenly it can change are something really rather magnificent. It is during this time that I can experiment with perspective, movement and the ability to capture ephemeral moments through photography. I often find these photographs full of emotions, like those of the Dong Ba Market on a rainy day.

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