Wanderlust Tips Team, Author at WANDERLUST TIPS • Page 176 of 195

Kenya: Home of the wild

(#wanderlusttips #Kenya) Kenya is an East African country on the shores of the Indian Ocean. Visitors are given the opportunity to explore a wild and exotic natural world. The country is a popular travel destination thanks to its rich history, natural wonders, unique geographical features, and abundance of wildlife.

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The paradise that is the Maasai Mara

The most famous attraction in this African country is the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Located in the Southwest of the country, it is a safe haven for a variety of wild animals. The vast green prairie and the abundant amount of food make it the perfect migration destination.

Africa is home to the best wildlife reserves in the world. The most convenient way to visit them is to book a tour with a tour operator that can take visitors deep into the park where they can witness wild animals in their natural habitat and see spectacles usually only seen on the Discovery Channel and in National Geographic. The most popular tourist season is during the migration season from July to October. On the plains of the Serengeti visitors can witness spectacular scenes of countless zebras, wildebeests, Thompson’s gazelles, and buffalos crossing the Mara river to reach fresh grazing ground. However, being peak season during this time the costs are more expensive, and popular spotting places are crowded, so we decided to visit in February, when the immense Maasai Mara prairie is a lush green, stretching across the horizon. Being nature lovers, we booked a 3-day tour, slept in tents in the reserve, and went on game drives, determined to find the Big Five, the most iconic of the African animals.

We sat inside a specially designed vehicle as it drove among the never-ending savannah, and I felt like I was on the set of “The Gods Must be Crazy”, surrounded by the majestic natural world, witnessing the wildlife right before my eyes. We were in awe as this was the first time we saw a herd of lionesses and their young feeding on a giant buffalo carcass, only a few dozen meters away from our car. The animals followed their instinct, as mother nature intended. The predators hunt their prey, which in turn survives and flourishes on the immense green grass, or feeding on insects. Without humans, their ecosystem could go exist in this way in harmony. I considered the trip to the Maasai Mara quite successful because we encountered all of the Big Five: elephants, leopards, lions, buffalos and rhinos, even if it was from afar as you cannot directly approach them. During our three days in the Maasai Mara, we went on three game drives one at dawn, one at noon and one at twilight to understand the wildlife here, and experience the most beautiful moments of nature.

In addition to the Maasai Mara, Kenya is home to a number of other nature reserves protected by the government, as well as zoos created by the private sector. If time allows, visitors can travel to Lake Nakuru National Park in Central Kenya, Mount Kenya National Park, Amboseli National Park or Aberdare National Park, a rainforest hidden deep inside marvellous glaciers.

Kenya’s indigenous tribes

Africa is one of the oldest continents on Earth, and is considered the cradle of human civilisation. Consequently, Kenya is home to many indigenous tribes, including the Turkala, El Molo, Kikuyu and the Maasai. For generations the Maasai have lived on the grasslands around the Great Rift Valley, which formed 20 million years ago when the Earth’s crust weakened and started tearing apart. The tribe lives in harmony with nature, and is known for its centuries old customs and colourful outfits, which adds to the attractiveness of this African country.

After leaving Maasai Mara National Reserve, our driver took us to a traditional Maasai village upon our request. We were warmly greeted with a traditional welcome. The women wore traditional costumes, and lined up at the front of the village to sing their traditional songs to the beats of drums and trumpets, as the tall Maasai men danced along. A traditional Maasai village is round. At the centre of the village is the cattle farm, fenced with dry twigs. The houses are made of clay, and stand side by side to form a circle around the centre. The Maasai plant grass on the outer layer of the circle as a barrier to protect the village, keeping wild animals at bay.

Each village is made up of about 6 to 8 households, but tourist villages have up to 20 households who live and farm livestock together. There are nearly 50 ethnic groups in Kenya and the Maasai don’t have a large population, but they live on vast lands with rich resources. They live in the Mara grasslands of the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

Our driver told us that the Maasai mainly make a living by farming livestock. The Maasai men often carry spears, small knives or sticks. The weapons not only help them defend themselves, but are also needed to protect their livestock from being attacked by predators.

As they live very close to wild animals, the Maasai are considered the bravest of all the tribes in Kenya. Maasai boys, used to have to kill a lion upon turning 16, a ritual to demonstrate their skill and maturity. Today however, that lions are on the verge of extinction, the people here are forbidden from killing them. Hats made of lion fur are still a symbol of courage in the Maasai tribe.

Most Maasai women shave their heads and wear a lot of jewellery. The jewellery a woman wears depends on her age and role in the family. Young girls have their ears pierced at the age of 9 and start wearing colourful earrings.

Due to the development of the tourism industry, traditional Masaai items including jewellery or apparel have become commodities, and even their oldest traditions have become tourism events helping to create a substantial income. The arrival of foreign tourists like ourselves have changed the lives of the Maasai people, and modernised their ways.

I asked if they ate the wild animals. Without hesitation, their answer was no. Despite living in the grasslands alongside wild animals, they rarely hunt them. The buffalos and sheep that they farm are the main source of food for the locals, and they use donkeys to transport food and supplies.

Home of the Rothschild giraffe

The Giraffe Centre is located in Karen, about 16 kilometres from the centre of Nairobi, Kenya’s capital. This is a paradise for animal enthusiasts. The centre was built in 1979 to educate visitors about and protect the Rothschild giraffe, a highly endangered species. My days wandering in Nairobi after visiting all the famous national parks in Kenya turned out to be my favourite experience of this trip, as I had the opportunity to meet and pet the tallest animal on earth.

The Giraffe Centre is located in a fairly modern building, with an area where tourists can meet and feed the giraffes, a small auditorium to introduce the conservation efforts of endangered species, a gift shop, and a café shaded by green trees. Opposite the centre is a nature reserve, which is home to “underprivileged” giraffes that need attention and care.

By force of habit, I used public transportation just like locals, to reach the Giraffe Centre rather than buying a one-day tour from our hostel for the price of about 1 million Vietnamese Dong. From downtown Nairobi, I caught bus No. 24, which departed from the Kencom House building parking lot. Before getting on the bus to reach “Karen – Hardy”, I asked the driver to tell me where my stop was and even showed him a brochure of the centre to confirm the destination. It only cost me about 50 Shilling (about 12,000 Vietnamese Dong) to reach Hardy shopping mall, the most convenient bus stop, and from there we travelled to the Giraffe Centre, which was only 1.5 kilometres away. If time allows, you can walk, but we chose to take a piki piki (similar to Vietnam’s motor taxis) to reach the home of the giraffes for another 50 Shilling. To return to Nairobi, we only had to return to the bus stop and catch the same bus.

Upon reaching the Giraffe Centre, we bought visiting tickets for 1,000 Schilling (about 220,000 Vietnamese Dong and students can buy tickets for only 500 Schilling). Visitors can listen to a short and interesting introduction about Kenya’s giraffes and the endangered species of Rothschild. The staff gives visitors a packet of food to feed the giraffes. The small packet contains processed diet supplements for the giraffes, as they eat mostly leaves. The staff here jokes that the giraffes have an interesting rule: “no food, no friendship”. This is absolutely true! You should always have food in your hands when you approach them. Otherwise, they might ignore you, and even give you a knock on the back when you turn around.

Feeding the giraffes definitely makes for an unforgettable experience. If you are bold, you can even take a bite of the food and lure them towards you for a lovely kiss. After taking a few pictures with these beautiful creatures, visitors can continue to meet warthogs and turtles, buy something from the gift shop or get some light snacks at the café. If time allows, you can even take a walk around the nature reserve across the street. Here, you can explore many native plants and countless species of birds, on cool and fresh walking trails.

After a wonderful day that could not get any better at the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, I thought of Matt Monro’s song “Born Free” with its unforgettable lyrics. The song reminds me that humans and animals are creatures that were both born free, and can only be happy when we are free.

TIPS

Applying for a visa to Kenya

Since September 2015, Kenya offers two ways of obtaining visas for Vietnamese visitors: which are e-visas or a visa on arrival.

– Visa on arrival are issued upon arrival at an international airport or border gate into Kenya for a fee of about 50 USD (about VND1,100,000).

– E-visas allow tourists more freedom upon arrival. It’s quite simple; you only need to fill out your information online and make a payment online and you will be issued a visa after 7 days at the latest. Here are the steps to obtain an e-visa:

Visit: https://immigration.ecitizen.go.ke/index.php?id=5
Register a guest account and fill out the required information
Check your email (used to register the account) to activate the account. Check your spam box if you do not receive a new mail.
After successful registration, you will be directed to the DASHBOARD page.
Click SUBMIT APPLICATION//KENYAN VISA//Apply for a Single Entry Visa
Read the instructions and click on APPLY NOW (the orange button)
Follow the 8 steps and fill in your passport information, address, phone number in Vietnam, flight tickets, itinerary, arrival and departure dates, history of previous trips,…
Information that needs to be filled out:

– Point of entry by air: Jomo Kenyatta Airport, Nairobi

– Full name and physical address of hotels / places/ firms / friends or relatives to be visited in Kenya. You only need to fill out one address, and you can book hotels on agoda.com or booking.com

– Telephone or cell phone number of hotels/places/firms/friends or relatives to be visited in Kenya

– Email of hotels/places/firms/friends or relatives to be visited in Kenya (example of a physical address: Sentrim Mara Hotel, P.O.BOX 43436, 00100-Nairobi, Kenya; Tel: +254 20 3315680; fax: +254 20 2218314, +254 20 3343875 & e-mail: info@sentrim-hotels.com)

The most important thing is attaching your travel itinerary to complete the registration. Your visa can easily be approved, and visas are rarely denied. If your information is incomplete, you can lose the visa fee.

In our next Issue

Uganda – Upstream of the legendary Nile river

Footsteps | Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Autumn retreat with À La Carte Da Nang Beach

(#wanderlusttips #Alacartedanangbeach) Attractive accommodation packages, free wine, free beer are some of promotion packages from the hotel À La Carte Da Nang Beach to pamper yourself in the upcoming months.

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Book 2 get 4

Guests who book 2 consecutive nights at the hotel will enjoy 60-minute spa treatments at Spice Spa and 2 American breakfast at Delicious Café for two. Price is at VND2,650,000 nett/room/night.

Happy Hour at Deli Cafe

For those who come to enjoy peaceful time of afternoon tea from 4-6.30PM, the hotel offers the package buy 1 get 1 for international or local beer, and a package of tea/coffee and cake at VND105,000 per pax. It is time to enjoy the transquil ambiance of the coastal city of Danang in a sunny autumn.

Free wine at FishCa Restaurant

Family and friend gathering would become warmer and happier than ever with the promotion package which offer any group of four adults to enjoy meal at FishCa Restaurant a premium bottle of wine. The fabulous meal will serve at VND355,000/pax.

Spice up your day with Spice Spa

When you think you’d better slow down your lifepace and leaving all the stress behind, it is the time for you to come to Spice Spa where can rejuvenate and comfort your body and soul.

The exclusive package offered at the spa boasts 60 minutes of Body treatment, 30 minutes of Facial caring, 30 minutes steam-bath and sauna, A glass of fresh tropical fruit juice plus a piece of cake.

Delightful celebration

The end of a year always start a time to celebrate. The package which is valid from November 1, 2016 to January 20, 2017 for any booking from minimum three nights will feature accommodation in Light Studio, daily buffet breakfast for 2 pax at Fishca Restaurant, 1 time 60 minute Spa treatment for 2 pax at Spice Spa, 1 time Western set menu with one glass of wine for 2 pax, 1 time signature cocktail on The Top Bar for 2 pax and complimentary see off airport shuttle bus. Your holiday vacation will be celebrated in style with all things being cared by hotel staffs.

The price is at VND2,950,000/room/night. Surcharge VND1,500,000 nett/room/night will be applied on December 24, 25, 30, 2016 and January 1, 2017.

À La Carte Da Nang Beach

Add: At the corner of Vo Nguyen Giap Str. and Duong Dinh Nghe Str., Son Tra, Danang
Tel: (+84511) 3959 555

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Climber conquered the “broken fort” of Ireland

(#wanderlusttips #Dunbriste #Ireland) It is said to be the second time Dún Briste (which means “broken fort”) has been conquered for the last 26 years, according to the Irish Independent. The stack was summited in 1990 by three British climbers in what is believed to be the only previous ascent.

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About 5 km north of the village of Ballycastle in Mayo county near the Irish coast stands a striking headland called Downpatrick Head. Towering 126 feet above the sea, it offers fantastic views of the Atlantic, the Staggs of Broadhaven to the west, and high cliffs along the shore.

The name Downpatrick is derived from a time when St Patrick himself founded a church there. You can still see the ruins of the church building, a stone cross and holy well at the top of Downpatrick Head. This was once a popular pilgrim destination, and today the crowds still gather here on the last Sunday of July – known as Garland Sunday – to hear mass at this sacred site. During the Second World War a coastguard watch-house was constructed here which is now used to view the many species of birds that visit the high cliffs.

After that, they made their way along cracks, under overhangs and up sheer rock towards the summit. Bad weather conditions meant Kaniszewska was unable to complete the climb, but Miller – on his third attempt at climbing Dún Briste – made it to the small, vertiginous plateau at its summit.

The unpredictable sea forms the first obstacle. After researching the best time to approach the rock, Iain Miller and his climbing partner Paulina Kaniszewska were able to land their dinghy on a ledge at its base in calm waters.

“The climbing was hard, scary and for a section approximately 40 metres above sea level, falling wasn’t an option,” Miller, who runs an adventure company in Donegal, told the Irish Independent. The climb was cheered on by a small group of locals on Downpatrick Head. “Watching them was an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Marie Tighe, a Ballycastle nurse. “I’ve lived down here for years and I never thought anyone would be able to do it from the ground.”

Each year, Downpatrick is frequented by birdwatchers who come to observe and record the many different species which take up positions on the stratified face of the stack as the seasons change. In May and early June, the headland itself is a blaze of colour when the sea-pink comes into bloom.

Lonely Planet | Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

The stunning golden autumn in the Northwest

(#wanderlusttips #Vietnamnorthwest) If you have travelled to the mountainous Northwest of Vietnam during autumn you will have experienced the beauty of its people, the landscape, the golden terraced fields covering the mountains from their top down to the streams in the valleys.

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Road 32 has been expanded upward to Binh Lu junction, perfect for travellers wanting to discover the beauty of the Northwest. Every autumn, the scenery and the roads running through it exude a golden glow mixing with the colour of the sky and the rice fields below. The rice fields during harvest season are lit up, as are the expressions of travellers getting ready for their next adventure. After doing a careful maintenance check on their bikes and filling the gas tank, they are ready for their next trip. The smell of the season’s milkwood-pine flowers filling the air is the cue for them to start riding.

We chose a familiar route to explore the beauty of the mountains in autumn. Starting from Hanoi, we passed the tea hills in Thanh Son, and then found ourselves amid the golden rice fields of Mu Cang Chai, travelling up north to the legendary O Quy Ho, the ancient town of Sapa, and then along the difficult mountain roads in Muong Hum, passing Y Ty peak to return to Lung Po – where the Red River enters Vietnam.

The intoxicating aroma of rice in Mu Cang Chai

Mu Cang Chai is located about 300 kilometres from Hanoi, but seems much further away. It is a destination popular with visitors from both Vietnam and abroad. We have become familiar with the place as we visit it every harvest season. Despite having been here a few dozen times, this trip still made our entire group nervous and excited. We bid farewell to Hanoi, which was subdued in the soft sunlight of mid-autumn, while crowds of people rushed into the city centre for work. During the early sunshine, we quickly passed the immense green tea hills of Thanh Son, and then Khe pass and Ach pass. If you fancy a hot cup of Shan Tuyet tea stop at Suoi Giang, the ideal place to sip the hot beverage. Ancient tea trees with trunks as wide as an arm span grow atop a misty mountain and provide the finest tea. We travelled down Bo Hon hill toward Nghia Lo. When we could smell hay and ripe rice in the wind, we knew we had arrived in Muong Lo.

Despite being early autumn, Tu Le valley was chilly with cold air from the surrounding Khau Pa, Khau Than and Khau Song mountains, filling the valley. When we reached the valley, it was twilight. The last sunlight of the afternoon shone down on the rice fields, and we could smell glutinous rice. The Northwestern region is famous for its Tu Le rice, which is not available anywhere else and only planted during one season every year by the Thai and the H’Mong people. When cooked, the sticky rice needs no added flavours of beans, peanuts or coconut, but has its own tender sweetness that only this mountainous region can add. Its stickiness is not too wet and not too dry, satisfying even the pickiest eater.

The path to Lim Mong nestled among the rice fields is dyed a bright gold colour that make the earth and the sky shine during autumn. A stream runs through the middle of the valley, which adds a delicate touch to the magical landscape. We drove slowly towards Khau Pha pass (its name meaning “heavenly horn”) – one of the four greatest mountain passes in Vietnam, the sun had just retreated behind the mountains, leaving only a soft light on the road. From the top of the pass, we looked down to the valley to fully comprehend the prosperous life here. One can only praise the hands of the farmers who have lived here for generations and painted a beautiful image between the earth and the sky. Amid the golden glow of the rice fields pop up the beautiful, multiple colours of the traditional dresses. H’Mong girls in multicolour dresses were harvesting, and a Thai girl wearing white was threshing with some young men. The picture of harvest season has been colourful since ancient times.

We travelled down the wide Road 32, with nothing to rush us. We bid farewell to our bus at Kim junction, and rented motorbikes to go down La Pan Tan, and then followed the dirt trails of farmers to visit Ta Chi Lu. The steep, small dirt roads, which crossed small streams at some points, were extremely slippery. The small dirt trails were quite challenging for us. However, the Gods are always fair. Making up for the tiring travel is the beautiful scenery. Ta Chi Lu valley lit up under the sunlight, reflecting a golden sky. We were speechless in front of this landscape, and stopped by the roadside to admire its beauty. A travel companion of mind is a photographer, and after taking a few photos, he sat down quietly. It is simply impossible to fully capture this beauty, and even he could only retain a mental image. During this season, Mu Cang Chai is illuminated with the colours of sunlight, the golden rice fields, the dresses and the simple lives lived in this mountainous region.

Tu Le, Khau Pha, La Pan Tan, Ta Chi Lu are just small corners and if time allows, I recommend you ride deeper into Chu Cu Nha, Thao Chua Chai, De Xu Phinh to fully soak in the beautiful landscape and the talented hands of the H’Mong. For generations, they have painted and coloured the prosperous picture of the Northwestern region. Do not hesitate to stop by a home you pass on the roadside. The H’Mong are very hospitable. A bowl of freshly harvested rice will make it hard to stop eating, and even more impossible to forget.

Sunny Than Uyen

Our group started making the journey to Y Ty. We bid farewell to Mu Cang Chai, covered in golden rice fields, and visited Than Uyen. The recently renovated Highway 32 can make inexperienced riders “road sick”. This gateway into Lai Chau province does not have as many rice fields as Mu Cang Chai, but still fascinates travellers when its illuminated by sunlight. Those who have visited this place in autumn will understand why. The golden afternoon sunlight dyed our path and the surrounding paddy fields beautiful shades or yellow. The sunshine was not too intense. It was gentle and had the golden colour of honey. If you stand by the roadside pond at the border between Than Uyen and Tan Uyen, you can fully comprehend the beauty of autumn in the mountains.

This pond is not too big, but large enough to satisfy the thirst of passers-by. The peaceful atmosphere is evident on each branch of the trees and each blade of grass. A few groups of small rocks stand in the middle of the pond, and children play together in the clear waters. On the other side of the pond is a grassy hill where a few buffalos roam. A scene that we thought only existed in a meadow somewhere outside Vietnam, now appeared before our eyes. Everyone was surprised and silenced once again, and we could only admire the view and exclaim: “It is so peaceful!” We quickly unpacked our folding chairs and started boiling water on our travel stove. The smell of the Suoi Giang tea trees, enhanced by the autumn weather and the atmosphere, made us forget about having to journey home. It was only until my companions started rushing that I sluggishly started riding again.

The turning wheels brought us to more sun-filled places in Lai Chau Province, and the tea hills in Tan Uyen saw us off to Binh Lu. From there, we turned right and prepared to conquer O Quy Ho Pass. This is the highest mountain pass in Vietnam, with an average altitude of 2,000 meters and over 40 kilometres long. We slowly travelled on the pass in the late afternoon. Most of us had to use 2^nd gear or even switch to 1^st gear on our motorbikes to climb the hills. O Quy Ho Pass is known for its hills and curves. Despite the smooth road, the ride is still a difficult one for inexperienced riders, because a little mistake can mean driving off a cliff.

When we reached Heaven’s Gate, the sun was starting to set behind the mountains. We made a rest stop by a few roadside barbeque shops run by ethnic peoples, where we looked down onto the road we had driven. Looking back at the paths winding up the hillside we had just passed, we truly got a glimpse of time and space. My travel companions had already started a fire to make coffee and grill some dried food that we had. There is nothing more awe-inspiring than sitting atop a mountain pass in the twilight, enjoying a view of the magnificent Fansipan mountain range, sipping on a cup of coffee and chatting with travel companions. Life, as the late composer Trinh Cong Son said, “is too short to be indifferent”.

The golden Y Ty and the sacred Lung Po

Sapa welcomed us with the chilling breezes of early autumn, and the smell of grilled corn and sweet potatoes emitting from streetside shops. This small town, situated between the mountains and forests, is a frequent stop on our journeys. We stopped by a restaurant we knew and enjoyed the typical dishes of Sapa, along with a few sips of Thanh Kim rice wine to warm up, and relax after a tiring trip, followed by a dreamless sleep in Sapa.

Sapa tourism is now more developed, with more services for travellers. You can spend 2 – 3 days around this town and still not be done exploring. We travelled down the hills to Ta Van and May bridge to admire the view of the golden rice fields, and visited the homes of the Dao people in Ta Phin village to see the stitching of their colourful traditional dress. If you love history, the ruins of the church in Ta Phin can take up your whole afternoon. If you prefer adventure, you can conquer Fansipan’s peak – the rooftop of Indochina at an altitude of 3,413 metes. If you are feeling lazy, taking a cable car across the Hoang Lien Son mountain range is a worthwhile experience.

We travelled 10 kilometres backward on O Quy Ho pass and turned right to Ban Xeo village. We then passed Muong Hum towards Y Ty, and travelled back on the Khu Chu Lin – Lung Po path. Can Quy Ho pass greeted us with its gentle curves glistening in the morning sun, which seemed to lull us back to sleep. I still remember the path around Muong Hum a few years ago. Floods and landslides have made the dirt road bumpy. Motorbikes, despite being more mobile and flexible, still struggle to climb each hill. Cars and buses have an even harder time, because the road is only big enough for the width of one car. And of course, only four-wheel drives with strong enough engines can conquer this road.

The stones, rubbles, and sand made the bikes skid when turning. Often times, the passenger had to push the motorbike through the hills and the areas where subsidence was too dramatic. If you enjoy off-road travel know that Muong Hum used to be considered an interesting off-road path, before the road was renovated. Now, after it has been connected to Khau Pha and O Quy Ho, Muong Hum path is no longer difficult for riders.

If you are tired, you can open your car window and let the refreshing air in, the view of golden rice fields covering the hillside from Den Thang, Y Ty to A Lu will amaze you. Muong Hum Lake seems like a giant mirror, reflecting everything. The bustling atmosphere of the harvest season is evident in each rice field. Y Ty rice is different from Mu Cang Chai rice, because it ripens two or three weeks earlier, and usually covers a larger area. We followed this small winding road, and were once again captivated by the stunning natural landscape. It was a cloudless day in Y Ty, which was unfortunate for us, but perhaps not everything can be perfect. The dirt houses of the Ha Nhi people, made of dirt walls as thick as 50 centimetres, roofed with dried grass and green moss, which seem to only appear in cartoons depicting a wonderland, appeared before our eyes.

From Y Ty, we travelled to A Mu Sung and then turned to the border patrol path. The road runs through rice fields and heads straight upstream along the Red River. The golden rice fields along the roadside hug the winding road we drove along. China is only a river away, covered in highways full of roaring cars. On the Vietnam side, there’s only small dirt trails, with a few concrete parts. Anyone who has travelled this road will see the beauty of the border region during the afternoon. Not many people live near the patrol path, all you can see are banana tree fields and containers filled with their harvest waiting to be distributed throughout the country and exported.

Several parts of the road are eroded, and other parts covered in weeds, so we did not travel too quickly. We rode slowly to fully revel in the love for our country. Lung Po – where the Red River enters Vietnam – is the junction of a small stream from Vietnam and a big river from China. The two streams meet to carry their water into the Red River delta. We stood silently by Milestone 92 and conducted a small flag ceremony for our homeland. Our country has been invaded many times, but is now at peace. The milestone stands silently in this scared and noble land.

On our way back, we encountered Milestones No. 93, 94 and 95. Back in Lao Cai province, we followed Vietnam’s longest highway to get back to Noi Bai (Hanoi) in just five hours, concluding our mountainous journey. Mu Cang Chai filled with the sweet scent of rice, Than Uyen illuminated with the hue of golden honey provided by the sunlight, mighty O Quy Ho pass towering between earth and sky, quiet and peaceful Sapa, fairy-tale Y Ty, and sacred Lung Po on the border, all will leave us with a lasting impression and follow us through our next trips. Simply put, life is filled with journeys.

TIPS

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi – Thanh Son – Van Chan – Tu Le

Day 2: Tu Le – Mu Cang Chai – Than Uyen – Binh Lu – Sapa

Day 3: Sapa – Muong Hum – Y Rat – Lung Po – Lao Cai

Day 4: Lao Cai – Hanoi

Do not forget to pack well

If you are a travel enthusiast, you are familiar with the required necessities of a long trip. Warm clothes to protect you during chilly autumn evening in the mountains, a first-aid kit with basic medicine to prepare you for unexpected circumstances. Do not forget to bring personal IDs, because this journey takes through many border areas and you will need to report to the border police for guidance. A small pot to boil water for coffee, and a small notebook to document your journey. Do not forget your camera and charger. You will need to wear comfortable travel outfits, and trekking shoes, which allow you to comfortably explore every destination. If your group travels in several cars and buses, it’s best to be equipped with radios to communicate with each other quickly and easily.

Travel in your beloved car

Unlike motorbikes, a car can be more troublesome when it breaks down on the road. Thus, vehicle inspection and maintenance is required before any long journey. Do not ignore worn tires or think “I’ll change them after this trip”. You should change tires, engine oil, and check the coolant. Do not park too close to a cliff or weak spots. You should make a rest stop when you’re too tired. Do not drive when you’re tired and sleepy, as a few careless moments can cause you your life.

Article & photos: Tran Giap

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Hoi An Beach Resort appoints new Western Cuisine Master Chef

(#wanderlusttips #Hoianbeachresort) Chef K.M.Denzil Prasanna has been appointed to be Western Cuisine Master Chef of the resort who will oversees all F&B Kitchens on Western Cuisine of Hoi An Beach Resort such as River Breeze Restaurant, Sunset Grill Restaurant, as well as private dining services and the resort’s catering operations.

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Denzil comes to Hoi An with over twenty years of experience in F&B with his expert major in kitchen, he used to be an Executive Chef in the Golden Princess vessel in USA (a five-star cruise with 3500-Guest and crew members 1200), Chef Denzil has also gained remarkable knowledge and experiences of European cuisine recipes and secrets, therefore he will deliver a comprehensive culinary experience to local and visiting guests.

Known for his unrelenting creativity in the kitchen, Sri Lanka national Chef Denzil started his culinary career in the beginning of 90’s after graduating from hotel school in Sri Lankan and Germany hotel school Vier Jahreszeiten. With an accomplished culinary background that includes positions at some of the most celebrated dining destinations, Denzil is known for blending exquisite technique with modern cooking methods and artistic plating, creativity and innovation. He will bring deft artistry and a solid understanding of European taste to his new role.

“We’re delighted to have Chef Denzil join our team. With his international experience and deep understanding of European insatiable demand for delectable fare, I think our discerning clientele are in for a treat,” said General Manager – Mr. Tony Vatthanatchai.

Hoi An Beach Resort

Add: 1 Cua Dai, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province
Tel: (+84510) 3927 011

Wanderlusttips | Cinet

Windsor Plaza to host Oktoberfest Vietnam 12th

(#wanderlusttips #windsorplaza #Oktoberfest) Oktoberfest, the famous German beer festival, will be celebrated at Windsor Plaza from October 6-8 and continuing on October 12-15, marking the consecutive 12 years of the hotel’s hosting for this effevescent event.

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Windsor Plaza Hotel brings in the authentic atmosphere of the traditional Oktoberfest from Munich with an opening ceremony featuring the tapping of the first beer keg. Guests wear traditional Bavarian attire while dancing to favorite Oktoberfest songs. Throughout the event, there is an expansive buffet of traditional German specialties including sausages, sauerkraut, crispy pork knuckles, pretzels and much more. In addition, guests can indulge with freeflow imported German beer including Krombacher pils and Schneider Weisse. Partake in delightful activities, exciting games, prizes, and many other surprises.

New to Oktoberfest Vietnam this year at Windsor Plaza Hotel is the arrival of Partenkirchner Musikanten, a traditional Oktoberfest band from Germany which has played concerts worldwide. From beer tents to banquet halls, Partenkirchner Musikanten Band is famous for their beer-toasting medleys.

Last but not least, guests will be presented with a collectible Oktoberfest Vietnam beer stein and will have a chance to win the biggest grand prize yet, a Mercedes C200 worth of 1.4 billion VND and Vespa LX125 motorbike from the nightly lucky draws alongside many other exciting prizes.

Oktoberfest originally began as a celebration of the marriage of Crown King Ludwig and Queen Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen in the Bavarian city of Munich, Germany in October of 1810. Today, it is a festival featuring beer tents, entertainment, performances, and booths of gastronomic delights in cities across the world.

In Vietnam, the Windsor Plaza Hotel has been hosting the event since 2005. Oktoberfest Vietnam has been recognized by Reuters as one of the Top 10 Oktoberfest celebrations outside Germany, and has also been featured in the Chicago Tribune.

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Moscow to open a booth at the 12th International Travel Expo

(#wanderlusttips #Moscowtourism) The Department of national policy, interregional relations and tourism of Moscow will open a booth at 12 th International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City 2016, which will be held from September 8 to September 10, 2016 at the Congress and Exhibition Center Saigon (SECC).

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On the first day of the exhibition on September 8, the representative of the Department of national policy, interregional relations and tourism of Moscow city will give a presentation about tourism opportunities in the Russian capital. In addition at the stand all guests will find out how to travel and relax affordably and comfortably in the Russian capital.

Eventful business program is scheduled for all three expo days. Tourist companies and sightseeing tour agencies shall present their original projects and routes for Moscow (including water routes). Hotel spokesmen will acquaint visitors with comfortable and diverse infrastructures of their complexes.

Such famous companies as Intourist, Metropol Hotel, Tourist Hotel Complex Izmailovo, Tzar Voyage and City Sightseeing are announced to be presented at booth.

Various films about tourist and culture opportunities of the megalopolis are to be shown at the booth, multiple business meetings between co-exhibitors and partner agencies, hotels and other companies involved in tourist infrastructure shall take place.

For the past years Vietnam and Russia have been actively cooperating in tourism development. In 2015, Vietnam was visited by 321,000 Russian tourists. And the interest of Russians for Vietnam is increasing every year. According to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT), for the first half year of 2016 the country was visited by over than 204,000 Russians, which is 21% higher than year before.

Vietnam and Russia actively interact in the framework of relevant international organizations – forum “Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation” (APEC), the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and others, implement joint programs aimed to increase tourist flows, for example the language program “Russian language course for ASEAN tour operators” In 2016, the National Tourist Office Visit Russia has been opened in Vietnam. It is focused on the entire macro- region of Southeast Asia – in addition to Vietnam its area of responsibility includes Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, the Republic of Korea.

International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City 2016 – is one of the largest exhibitions in Asia in the field of tourism and travel. It covers a wide range of services; it is supported by various Ministries of Tourism in South-East Asia, including the Kingdom of Cambodia, the Lao People&Democratic Republic, the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, the Kingdom of Thailand and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. 250 companies and brands from around the world had participated the Expo in 2015, the number of visitors were over 25 thousand people.

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Aman offers guests three private experiences

(#wanderlusttips #Amanresorts) Aiming to bring the most special and exclusive stay to all guests, Aman has launched three new private experience program in Aman Venice, Aman Sveti Stefan in Montenegro and Amanjena in Marrakech which ranges from watching an enlightening Italian opera to an exclusive experience of wine tasting to arouse your taste buds and learning the organic herbs to empower your health in a natural way.

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Aman Venice Opera Series at Teatro La Fenice

Aman Venice has launched its Opera Series for 2016, which provides guests with exclusive access to seats in the hotel’s box at the Teatro La Fenice, one of the most renowned landmarks in the history of Italian theatre. With tickets something of a rarity, many claim that a night at the Teatro is an experience like no other.

As well as seats in the private box, guests will enjoy an aperitivo and either late afternoon tea or dinner at the hotel before or after the performance including round trip boat transfers in the hotel’s private boat.

Aman Venice is housed in a 16^th century palazzo on the Grand Canal with its own private jetty. The hotel has 24 rooms with breathtaking architectural and artistic details including ceilings by the 18^th century artist Tiepolo.

www.aman.com/resorts/aman-venice

Wine Tasting at the Home of Montenegrin winemaker

Aman Sveti Stefan, the iconic islet in the centre of Montenegro’s Adriatic coast is offering guests a private visit to the house of the Masanovics who have been making wine for generations from the Montenegrin indigenous grape variety Vranac. Grown for centuries in Crmnica, Vranac is just one of the ingredients used in the premium dry red wine produced by Mr Masanovic which has aromas of burnt oak, ripe raspberries and fresh cranberries. Guests will taste the vintages of 2009 and 2010, and the vintage of 2010 directly from the barrels as well as a dessert wine all of which will be paired with local Montenegrin cheese and served with dried figs and walnuts grown in the gardens of the house. Mr Masanovic will then take guests on a tour of the family vineyards and fruit orchards where they will have the opportunity to sample homemade plum, grape, kiwi and apple and pear brandies.

Aman Sveti Stefan was once a fortified village dating back to the 15^th century. The island became a hotel in the 1950s and was a high profile destination amongst celebrities from the worlds of fashion and film. The island has 50 rooms, and eight suites at Villa Milocer over the causeway as well as three beaches.

www.aman.com/resorts/aman-sveti-stefan

Organic Herb Garden Tour in the Foothills of the Atlas Mountains

Guests of Amanjena can discover Morocco’s first biological herb farm at the foot of the Atlas Mountains where the resort sources its bespoke organic bathroom products. Located in the valley of the Ourika River, guests will be led through the deeply aromatic organic garden by the owner and chief gardener and learn about the 50 species of aromatic and medicinal plants that are cultivated.

The visit also includes a tour of the distillery to learn about the processes used to produce the essential oils used in the bath and massage oils, soaps, salts and shampoos. The trip concludes with an organic lunch prepared by the farm owners.

Amanjena lies 15 minutes outside the Medina and central to the resort is a basin inspired by Marrakech’s 12^th century Menara Gardens. Surrounding the basin are 40 pavilions, pool pavilions and two bedroom maisons. The resort’s gardens are filled with olive and citrus trees, soaring date palms, orange-flame bougainvillea, hibiscus and pomegranate.

www.aman.com/resorts/amanjena

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Paradise Suites Hotel doubles its inventory

(#wanderlusttips #Paradisesuiteshotel) Paradise Suites Hotel, the first luxury boutique hotel in Halong, has introduced its latest extension with two additional blocks named as Hue and Saigon, doubling its inventory, with a total of 156 rooms covering 4 blocks of both classical and contemporary styled interiors, a shelter of grandeur lifestyle and sustainable living.

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Named after two iconic cities of Vietnam, Hue and Saigon, both rich in history, culture, and traditions, the two new blocks completely differentiate themselves with a trendier interior setting, inspired by the contemporary tastes of both the modern city and the imperial city. In this context, the additional buildings come as a perfect completion of the elegantly classic Hanoi and Halong wings. Rooms and public areas have been designed to provide a trendy atmosphere that blends Western modern style with Vietnamese cultural arts. Guests will feel this authentic combination of materials and textures through subtle touches like canvas painting Vietnamese most typical landscapes and living scenes, or traditional tile patterns, pairing with an inspiring selection of wooden furniture and a stylish blue dominant ambiance.

“We are delighted to be able to welcome more guests to experience our services here at Paradise Suites Hotel”, shares Mr. Edgar Canayan, General Manager for Paradise Vietnam, “we hope to exceed their expectations with this innovative expansion and that our wide range of upscale facilities along with our dedicated team will bring them the greatest time in Halong Bay.”

Indeed, Paradise Suites Hotel area also proposes many event spaces (including indoor, outdoor, by the beach, by the pool), boldly designed bars and pubs, great dining options (hotel restaurants, 1958 Vietnamese Restaurant), travel fashion shops and a warm beauty spa.

Paradise Suites Hotel

Add: Ngoc Chau, Halong City, Quang Ninh
Tel: (+8433) 3815 088

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Celebrate the September with InterContinental Hanoi Westlake

(#wanderlusttips #InterContinentalHanoiwestlake) A wide range of activities will be held at InterContinental Hanoi Westlake this September to submerge you in the delighgtful savour and vision feasts to celebrate the festive month.

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Cafe Du Lac

Vietnam’s National Day Treat – September 2

To celebrate the Vietnam’s National Day of September 2, a sumptuous buffet dinner will feature a great selection of international dishes in an idyllic lakeside setting, complemented with understated service. The special occasion will soon become the joyful moment of family and friend gathering for all the coming guests.

Price starts from VND1,100,000 net/adult excludes beverage

Mid-autumn Festival dinner – September 15

The fullmoon season will be the chance to delight your taste buds with irresistible buffet dinner, including fresh seafood, sizzling grilled meats and a mouthwatering range of desserts.

Price starts from VND 1,100,000 net/adult excludes beverage

Sunset Bar – Liquid Laboratory – September 9

The hotel’s first “Liquid Laboratory” night is the special chance to experience an unusual experience in Hanoi: scientifically created cocktails and culinary delights. Modernist cocktails maker Richard McDonough, or better known as a “Mood therapist” and the hotel’s executive chef Jeremy Lasserre will take you on their journey to sample 5 cocktails complemented with a mini 5-course menu.

Price: VND 2,500,000 net/person

Dilopmat Lounge – Pret-a- portea – September 10

As usual, Diplomat Lounge will become a elegent runway for contemporary fashion and classic afternoon tea.

a deliciously gourmet selection of fashionable treats inspired by your favorite designs, while sipping on the finest range of tea. On this occasion, you will be treated to a glamorous parade that showcases the latest collections by Chula và Luala Atelier. The event start at 3PM.

Price: VND390,000 net/adult

InterContinental Hanoi Westlake Hotel