Wanderlust Tips Team – Page 110

Experience delightfully charming Hoi An in the rain

A far cry from a hectic Hoi An on a sunny day, the captivating beauty and tranquil ambience of the ancient city during the rainy season is something to behold.

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Hoi An is one of the most visited destinations for travellers to Vietnam. When thinking of Hoi An, visitors picture the beautifully ancient houses built side by side bathed in gloriously golden sunshine. Hoi An is not only magnificent on sunny days but it also boasts an enthralling charm during the rainy season.

STREETS IMBUED WITH A SERENE AND CAPTIVATING BEAUTY

The peak time to travel to Hoi An is between February and May. During this time, the number of tourists travelling to Hoi An is extremely high and it can be difficult to fully appreciate the charming beauty of the ancient city. During the Tet holiday, Hoi An is often met with scattered showers, making it perfect for a relaxing stroll to enjoy the tranquil and serene atmosphere.

Hoi An is a clean city, there are not any factories, industrial zones and there is an interlaced traffic system to ease congestion. When it rains, this beautiful city is not affected by any unpleasant smells. Instead, the pleasant smell of rain mingled with the smell of incense creates an extremely unique atmosphere in the ancient city.

During the rainy season in Hoi An you can spend your time wandering through the streets to catch a glimpse of the colourful lanterns gently dangling in the rain and watch the rickshaws running along the peaceful streets as the drivers’ raincoats flap in the wind.

The cool fresh air in Hoi An will soothe to the soul and make you feel relaxed. Whether you travel to Hoi An by yourself or with a loved one, the rainy days will always leave you feeling calm and at ease. Exploring Hoi An in the rain can be a comfort to even the loneliest of souls or can make you fall harder for that special person in your life.

The number of visitors to the city decreases notably on rainy days making it a great time for visitors to meander through the streets. Especially, visitors can also gain a better understanding of the history and culture of the ancient city as well as having easy access to the local shops and eateries to try delicious delicacies without the need for queuing.

Incredibly, people often do not appear to be in a hurry when it rains in Hoi An. Everything slows down and becomes more gentle and serene than the usual bustling pace. Thus, if you are a photography enthusiast, you can easily capture stunning photos at every street corner.

It cannot be denied that Hoi An becomes even more beautiful after the rain. As the sunshine peaks through the dense foliage and sparkles on the roofs, the surrounding environment becomes even more magnificent. The small roads snaking through the ancient city are buzzing with people toing and froing and the gentle sunshine casts their shadows on the surface of the puddles.

The striking yellow walls have long been a romantic symbol of Hoi An, but even they become more alluring after the rain. Additionally, the sky will become crystal-clear after the rain. If you are a keen photographer and love nothing more than to be in front of the camera then you will have the chance to take many beautiful photos.

HOI AN – “VENICE OF VIETNAM”

Hoi An is dubbed the “Venice of Vietnam” on rainy days, as the winding streets run alongside the river. Foreign visitors enjoy rowing and wading through the water.

Take a boat ride and explore the captivating ancient city from the water. It is said that taking a boat ride in Hoi An is the best way to experience the ancient city.

In the early rainy season, Hoi An boasts an exquisite beauty. In addition to the traditional yellow houses, Hoi An is adorned with lush green moss and lungwort plants, forming a natural masterpiece. Many foreigners opt to stand in the rain to take photos of the green moss on the ancient houses.

However, if you are interested in travelling to Hoi An in the rainy season, you should prepare all the necessary items including raincoats, umbrellas, waterproof shoes and bags.

During your visit to Hoi An in the rainy season, take the time to sip cups of hot tea at little cafés whilst listening to the gentle melodies and catching a glimpse of the ancient city nestled by the Hoai River. Your trip to Hoi An during the rainy season will definitely bring an amazing variety of fun-filled and unforgettable moments.

Wanderlust Tips

Ana Mandara Villas Dalat has launched “Festive Package” for the season greeting

Escape the bustle and hustle of the city during the Festive Season and head to the magnificent highland Dalat, gather with those who bring out your bright side and come to enjoy all the festive and nostalgic holiday moments at an antique French village – Ana Mandara Villas Dalat.

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Christmas and New Year are charmingly approaching. Ana Mandara Villas Dalat is going to craft a Christmas village in Dalat, sparkling with red ribbons, twinkling lights, and dressed-up the green of pine display from the entrance to around the corner of the resort.

On this jolly occasion, Ana Mandara Villas Dalat has launched a “Festive Package” with only VND 4.850.000 net for 2 guests including the following benefits:

Two-night stay at Villa room with daily breakfast (Mon- Thurs)
Complimentary 01 Asian set menu at Le Petit Restaurant
Complimentary one-way airport pick up
Complimentary 2 glasses of fruit juice at Le Petit Délice
20% discount on Spa

Terms & Conditions:

Valid to 20 Jan 2020 (except 21-31 Dec 2019, and 1 Jan 2020)
Applied for a new booking, at least 2 nights stay
Weekend surcharge (Fri – Sun): 300,000đ/night
Upgrading surcharge: 400,000đ/night/room category
Included of 5% service charge & 10% VAT
Not combined with other promotions

Contact us for further information:

Ana Mandara Villas Dalat Resort & Spa

Le Lai Street, Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province

Tel: 0263 3555 888 | reservation-dalat@anamandara-resort.com | Hotline: 034 525 9977

www.anamandara-resort.com

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Wanderlust Tips magazine November 2019: Self-drive adventures

Today, self-drive travel has become a popular travel trend around the world. Instead of taking the traditional travel agent route, self-drive adventures offer a different way to explore an array of destinations all over the world. With the theme “Self-drive adventures”, the November 2019 edition of Wanderlust Tips will take you on many self-drive journeys to explore the world.

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You can self-drive with a bike, motorbike or car. Whichever vehicle you choose, you will have complete control over your itinerary and the adventures on the roads will bring countless surprises.

In the November Issue, the article SELF-DRIVE ADVENTURES (Conversation section) will provide you with a wide range of exhilarating experiences. 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.

Afterwards, you can TRAVEL AROUND VIETNAM AND DISCOVER THE SIMPLE BEAUTY FROM BEHIND THE WINDSCREEN (Travel Inspiration section). Despite a 1500-kilometre trip, the most magnificent memories were, in fact, the most fleeting moments. For instance, capturing a stunning photo whilst driving through an unknown village at sunset.

Wanderlust Tips will continue to accompany you to discover the most spectacular roads in Vietnam through the article BE CAPTIVATED BY THE ROADS IN VIETNAM (Discovery section). Picture an array of scenic surroundings along the roads from the North to the South. For instance, the bustling towns, peaceful villages, vast plains, sea views, majestic mountains and forests.

Instead of being satisfied with a stable yet confined life, many people are opting to live off-grid in a “mobile house”. Through the article VAN LIFE: ADVENTURES WITH ROMANTIC SOULS (Trends section), you will have a better understanding of this unique lifestyle.

Additionally, a three-week road trip beginning and ending in Los Angeles will take you to an amazing variety of beautiful national parks in the Southwest desert, also known as the Grand Circle. The article EMBARKING ON A ROAD TRIP THROUGH WESTERN USA (Destination section) will completely conquer your heart. Antelope Canyon – a splendid natural wonder proves that the creativity of nature is far beyond human imagination.

Finally, you will come to THE IMPOSING STONE FORTRESSES IN HAITI (Culture section). Driving from Port-au-Prince to Province Nord will bring many surprises, especially when stopping in Milot to explore the largest fortress in the Americas.

Wanderlust Tips

Self-drive travel tips

Time flexibility, the ability to travel unlimited distances and control over your schedule are the advantages that have increased the popularity of self-drive travel among travel enthusiasts. There are many different options of vehicles, for instance, cars, motorbikes and bicycles. However, no matter how you travel, you should remember the basics for an effective and safe adventure. Be prepared to accompany Wanderlust Tips to discover all the important information for self-drive travel whether that be a car, motorcycle or bicycle.

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Lan Anh | Wanderlust Tips

Self-Drive Adventures

Self-drive trips are considered one of the most ideal ways to experience and explore a new place. Whether you choose to travel by bike, motorbike or car, you will have an exhilarating experience. Each mode of transportation offers a different experience behind the wheels.

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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