Top 5 adventure destinations in Vietnam

According to Bootsnall travel network, there are 5 adventure destinations Vietnam recommended for tourists to travel.

Vietnam seems to be one of the new hotspots in Southeast Asia. Vietnam’s new slogan is “it’s a country, not a war”. Currently Vietnam is experiencing a massive influx of tourists not only interested in it war history, but also interested in the immense amount of soft adventure trips available throughout the country.

Below are a few of our favorites and recommendations:

HALONG BAY

Halong bay, Vietnam

Often touted as Vietnam’s number one tourist destination, Halong Bay, literally means “where the dragon descends into the sea.” This is an area of more than 3000 islands, where tourist come to swim, explore, and visit a natural, scenic areas recognized in 1994 on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. This is a scenic area not to be missed!

Many of the islands are uninhabited, but some have floating villages of fishermen. Most travelers rent boats and spend multiple days exploring the tiny islands. There are some great caves and inlets to explore. The great way to experience this is on sea kayak, and sleeping in a tent at night, instead of taking the main tourists boats like everybody else.

BACH MA MOUNTAIN
The highest point in Bach Ma National Park, the mountain is only 140 meters above sea level and about 18 miles from the coast. Although the mountain is steep and dense, it makes a good day hike to the top. There are great view on the way.

WESTERN CENTRAL HIGHLANDS
Using Dalat as a starting point, head west toward the border of Cambodia and Laos. If you go far enough west, this is a great way to get somewhere way off the typical Vietnam traveler circuit. This is home to a bunch of ethnic minority villages.

Some traveler’s report that tourists are not welcome, but other report to have truly remarkable experiences.

DALAT

Dalat, Vietnam

If you don’t have time, energy, or the will power to visit the Western Central Highlands, then the areas around Dalat are perfect for adventure. Dalat is a hill station in the central highland. There are mountain highlands with tiny villages scattered around throughout the area. It makes a fascinating area worth exploring.

There are a number of standard expensive tours you can arrange in the city, but it’s much better to hire your own guide, usually one that approaches you in the streets. Then, you hire a moped, and he will take you to little villages in the middle of bascially nowhere, staying a night or two and having a real cultural experience.

There are some villages in the area that is off limits to tourists – just look for the sign that has a C.

MEKONG DELTA

Market floating in Mekong Delta, Vietnam

In southern Vietnam near the border of Cambodia lies Mekong Delta. Known as “Vietnam’s Rice Belt,” the Mekong Delta is a huge system of canals of all sizes that flow into the Mekong River, one of the longest rivers in Asia. This picturesque area is almost all under cultivation, and produces enough rice to feed the entire population of the south and the central regions of Vietnam. This is a great place to relax away from the big cities, taste good fruit and vegetables, and meet local people.

There are a number of interesting adventures through the Mekong Delta. You can take a boat through some of the rural waterways. Most people hire guides but you can also attempt it on your own. The Mekong Delta is also a fascinating place for cycling. You can get a true glimpse of rural life and interact with locals, although conversations are difficult.

Source: bootsnall

Recommendations for tours in Vietnam:
Kayaking Halong bay 3 days
Biking Adventures Mekong & Centre Highland

Escape and explore Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam

A vacation is a great escape from the drudgery of everyday life. So even if it is for a short break, it’s time to say Goodbye Vexation and Hello Vacation. Where better to go than Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam just an hour’s flight away.

Notre Dame Cathedral front side, Ho Chi Minh (Sai Gon), Vietnam

An intoxicating mix of colonial past, ancient civilisation rich in tradition and culture, architectural splendour, exotic food and friendly locals makes Ho Chi Minh City (HCM) an ideal getaway.
On the banks of the Saigon River, the Khmer people established a civilisation extraordinaire — having warded off invasions, won a war against a superpower and constructed a city of commerce. It’s a tale of courage under fire, a saga of people prevailing against the odds.

Earthly beauty

From old colonial wonders to gleaming skyscrapers, HCM gleams at night. Home to almost seven million people, the city is the financial and economic hub of the country. During the day, HCM grips you with its heady scents and stupefying sights. A lingering aroma of jackfruit and coffee fill the air everywhere you go.

It’s a city of gaiety; you can inevitably sense its soulful presence everywhere you wander — in the various lanes, cafés, and markets and in the eyes of its smiling people.

The best place to stay is in District One. It is dotted with prominent tourist attractions Some famous hotels here include Hotel Continental, Rex Hotel, Hotel Majestic, Grand Hotel, Park Hyatt Saigon, Riverside, New World and Sheraton Saigon.

City highlights

There are many ways to commute here, but a good way to see HCM is on foot.

The Vietnamese are very amicable and hospitable. Asking for directions is never too hard. With its wide boulevards and magnificent French villas, HCM is truly the Paris of the Orient. Some examples of splendid French architecture include the General Post Office, Reunification Palace, City Hall, the Municipal Theatre and the Notre-Dame Basilica.

Begin your tour around the city by visiting the History Museum. It houses an incredible collection of artifacts from Vietnam’s 2000-year history.

The museum also houses a water puppet theatre. The show about mythical goddesses, dragons and talking fish goes on for about an hour and will enchant the kid in you.
Outside, hop on a colourful cyclo. The ride is sure to bring peals of laughter and excitement as you go sightseeing.

Architectural beauty

One of the most interesting spots is the General Post Office, the biggest in Vietnam.

Built in the early 20th century when Vietnam was part of French Indochina, its interior is a sight to behold. Resembling a European railway station with a huge clock in its central pavilion, this fascinating building is an outstanding display of design influenced by the Renaissance era. The elegant interior with its glass canopy and huge ceilings will charm your senses.

General Post Office, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Attracting tourists to its neo-Romanesque style architecture, the Notre-Dame Basilica was anointed by the Vatican in the 1960s when an archbishop was assigned to Saigon. Its red bricks were imported from Marseilles which still glow bright until today. Do not fail to walk around this magnificent structure that has survived WWII.

Chinese influence

Next, stop by Cho Lon, HCM’s Chinatown. Built by Chinese immigrants in 1778, Cho Lon meaning “big market” is a riot of colours where Ben Thanh Market is situated. This shopaholics’ paradise needs haggling skills. Patience will find you great buys in footwear, bags and accessories.

For a dash of “fabulosity”, walk along Dong Khoi Street; a paradise of high-end fashion stores like Gucci and Louis Vuitton.

Apart from the Roof Top Garden Restaurant at the Rex Hotel, one of the best places to dine is at Ben Thanh. Numerous sidewalk restaurants serve authentic Vietnamese food; deep-fried fish and spring rolls are some of their specialties. Also, try the dragon-boat dinner cruise and enjoy glittering views and scrumptious seafood.

A few kilometres out is the revered Emperor Jade Pagoda, known for its symbiosis of Tao-Buddhist traditions.

Although entrance is free, a donation will be appreciated. Whilst there, don’t forget to purchase a few birds to be released as offering to the Gods.

Explore & excite

If you have kids, escape to Suoi Tien Amusement Park. The park that includes a zoo and a man-made beach features a beautiful waterfall. It displays the spiritual imagery of the Vietnamese people through sculptures of dragons, lions, turtles and the phoenix.

No trip to HCM is complete without experiencing the Cu Chi tunnels; a labyrinth of underground tunnels leading all the way to Cambodia. Built by the Viet Cong, these tunnels played a vital role in the Vietnam War.

Only a 30-minute drive from the city, the 121km complex network of tunnels is a war memorial park. If you are up to it, crawl through the tunnels and sample the simple food of the Viet Cong fighters.

Also, fire off an assault rifle at the shooting range for an adrenaline rush.

Visit this captivating city — pleasant surprises await around the bend.

Source: the star

A Tet holiday in Vietnam for travel

"Traveling has kept many people busy at this time of year, including myself." The author said

Traveling has kept many people busy at this time of year, including myself. My first destination was Halong Bay with some friends visiting from Singapore.

We were fairly disorganized with our travel plans which usually makes for the best trips. Getting to Halong turned out to be no problem. Traveling and everything involved with Halong Bay is very efficient and trustworthy.

People journeying here don't need to worry about much other than packing their bags. We took a minibus from Hanoi towards Halong Bay that took about four hours and some change. The feeling at Halong Bay is quite comfortable.

The bay was busy, and tourism is clearly the economic force here, but it wasn't overcrowded. Despite the holiday, plenty of poeple had flocked to the area to enjoy the holidays. When we arrived, 16 of us packed a boat and set out to sea.

After meeting some of our fellow travelers we boarded a boat and began the journey. There were plenty of stops including caves and beaches, but the highlight was likely jumping into the icy water from the 3rd level of the boat.

We were adamant about doing this, and our captain refused to let us unless we went further out to sea. "Further out we shall go," was our reply. We made the leap, and eventually about half of the people on the boat did as well.

We enjoyed the tour although it can be a little much to be with a large group of people. Sometimes, I just want to soak in the sights for myself. The Sung Sot cave is large and well-worth seeing, although you hardly need a guide to do so.

Unfortunately, it appears to be the only option. Dragons were the main topic for our guide and eventually I wandered off to listen to my own sounds.

There are peaks scattered throughout the bay, giant rock formations, randomly spread out as if God took a can of paint and splattered it across the sea. There are certain peaks that you can climb to the top, and the view is wonderful.

The seafood here is amazing and fresh, the company was great, and staying on a boat in such a large body of water is a unique experience. It was cold and clouds prevented us from having a clear view, but this created a certain nostalgia about the place. Halong Bay certainly lives up to its reputation as one of the many amazing places one must visit in Vietnam.

Tet has been off to an amazing start and the next stop is Sapa.

Source: dinews

Recommendation in Vietnam:

Kayaking in Catba

Travel to Sapa

Special Vietnam Motorcycle Tours with Taste of the Ho Chi Minh Trail 2010

This trip offers a stunning motorcycling route with great exploration of nature and culture of northern Vietnam. The trip is organized for first time riders and easy adventure travelers.

Motorcycling tour with Activetravel Asia

The legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail was the supply line used by North Vietnam to link North and South Vietnam during the American War. Soldiers, ammunition, and supplies were carried by hand, bicycle and truck for hundreds of kilometers through the otherwise impenetrable jungle that covered Vietnam's mountainous border with Laos. A testimony to the ingenuity, fortitude and commitment of the northern Vietnamese, the trail slipped from use at the end of the war and was taken back by the jungle. Recent road work that follows original sections of the trail has changed this.

Start this trip in Hanoi, travelers have Hanoi city tour to visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the "Uncle Ho" house and other famous sight-seeings and a relaxing cyclo tour through the ancient part of Hanoi.

Next day, travelers take a short bus drive the Ho Chi Minh Trail Museum on the outskirts of Hanoi. After the visit to the museum travelers will jump on Minsk and spend sometime to get familiar with the bikes. Crossing two short mountains passes then descent to the mountain valley settlement of Mai Chau, travelers will have dinner and overnight in a stilt house of the Thai people.

Following day, travelers then head South on a beautiful winding road which follow the banks of the Ma River. After 2 hrs riding along the river travelers have a stop to see Fish Ferry Stream which is a great mystery of nature. It is a stream with thousand of big fish peacefully swimming in sallow water. Travelers jump into Ho Chi Minh Highway and head to Khanh village, which is home to Muong ethnic minority and overnight in a local house.

Last day, travelers we ride to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital on Vietnam which date back from 9th century. After here travelers have a stunning ride on village road to Tam Coc, which is called “Halong Bay on the rice field”. Travelers will have a relaxing boat trip on river. After lunch travelers ride back to Hanoi

Promotion Validity is from May 1 to September 30, 2010

Promotion offers:
- Free-of-charge add on boat trip on Ma River in the afternoon day 1
- Free-of-charge traditional Thai musical show for group from 6 persons
- Free-of-charge silk sleeping bag
- Discount 40% of bike rental fee if upgrade to dirt bike 175CC, 250CC

More information click here
More motorcycling tours click here

Halong Bay, Vietnam - the Most Beautiful Place (Return Halong Bay Travelogues)

I went to Vietnam recently for my first visit and, while I was there, I took a two-day trip to Halong Bay. Known in Vietnam as Vinh Ha Long, it is one of the natural wonders of the world and one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

We were picked up by mini van at our hotel in Hanoi early one morning and taken out of the city with a group of around 20 other people. As often happens in Vietnam, we discovered they were a real mixed bag, students, backpackers, people who were doing a trip around the world, a retired teacher, a woman who was a nurse for six months of the year and then traveled for the other six months.

The mini van trip to Halong Bay took around three and a half hours with a couple of stops for the bathroom and a shopping opportunity. Eventually, we stopped at the side of what looked like a large lake. It was then I had my first glimpse of Halong Bay.

The air was damp and misty. A light fog was curling off the water and coming inland and, out in the bay, poking eerily out of the water and mist were enormous limestone crags.

Halong Bay is more than 1,500 square miles, and has over 1,600 of these limestone islands and islets. It’s also dotted with caves and underwater grottoes, and sailed by traditional Vietnamese junks and sampans. To this day, it still looks like something out of another world.

As we were walking down to the water, our tour guide told us that Ha Long meant “dragon descending” and was named after a dragon who was asked by the Emperor to help him stop his enemy who were invading. So the dragon spat out jewels, which turned into rock formations and stopped the enemy in their tracks. To this day, it is believed the dragon still lives at the bottom of the bay waiting to help again.

Source: associatedcontent

Recommended in Halong bay:
Kayaking in Halong bay
Kayaking in Catba

Sapa – the trekking wonderland in Vietnam

The mountainous town offers a glimpse into a world of mysterious minority cultures and luscious landscapes. The Red Dao, named for their colorful headdresses, take a break during the long trek to the market.

The Queen of the Mountains in Vietnam, Sapa, overlooks a beautiful valley with lofty mountains towering over the town on all sides. The spectacular scenery surrounding Sapa includes cascading rice terraces which spill down the mountains like a patchwork quilt. The mountains are often shrouded in mist that rolls back and forth along the peaks, offering tantalizing glimpses of what lies in wait on a clear day. The valleys and villages around Sapa are home to a host of hill-tribe people who wander around town buying, selling and trading.

Trekking in Sapa, Vietnam

Finding Neverland

It is quite easy to undertake day hikes through the valleys around Sapa without the assistance of a guide. However, for overnight stays in villages and longer treks into the mountains, it is advisable to hook up with a minority guide. There are endless beautiful places for trekking. The villages and the surrounding landscape are now part of Hoang Lien Reserve Park.

The nearest village within walking distance is Cat Cat, three kilometers to the south. Like other amazing inhabited areas, it’s a steep and very beautiful hike down. This is a fantastic spot to witness the daily activities of minority group residents and admire the magic of nature while shopping for local handicrafts.

Another popular trek is to Ta Phin Village, home to Red Dao and about 10 kilometers from Sapa. There are also overnight community-based tours to the nearby H’mong village of Sin Chai that offer a chance to learn about textiles or music and dance. Other popular communities to visit include the Giay village of Ta Van and the Black H’mong village of Matra.

Trekking to Fansipan Mt, Sapa, Vietnam

Surrounding Sapa is the Hoang Lien Mountain range, named the Tonkinese Alps by the French, at the tail end of the Himalaya. These mountains include Fansipan, not only Vietnam’s highest peak but also the Indochina Peninsula’s “roof” at a height of 3,143 meters.

The summit towers above Sapa, although it is often obscured by clouds and is occasionally dusted with snow. The peak is accessible all year to those in good shape and properly equipped but don’t underestimate the challenge. It is very wet and can be perilously slippery and generally cold. However, some local wildlife such as donkeys, mountain goats and birds plus the unique beauty of nature offers explorers a memorable expedition.

Just a stone’s throw from downtown Sapa to the foot of Ham Rong (Dragon Jaw) Mountain, the journey up to the peak provides a panoramic view of the whole Sapa where colorful wildflowers bloom almost all year round. Visitors to Ham Rong Mountain also have the chance to admire the orchid garden and numerous caves and stones in extraordinary shapes.

The incredible road between Sapa and Lai Chau crosses the Tram Ton Pass on the northern side of Fansipan, 15 kilometers from Sapa. At 1,900 meters, this is the highest mountain pass in Vietnam. Even if you are not planning to fully explore Vietnam’s unique northwest, it is well worth coming up here to experience the incredible views from the top of this pass.

Alongside the road, about five kilometers toward Sapa, is Thac Bac (Silver Waterfall). With a height of 100 meters, it is one of the highest waterfalls in the country, and the loop track is steep and scenic.

Unique distinctions

The main attraction of this area, apart from its natural beauty, is Vietnam’s largest concentration of ethnic groups including Red Dao, H’mong, Giay, Tay, Xa Pho, Kinh and Hoa. Their dress, buildings, traditions and lifestyles are a big magnet for visitors.

Sapa would be of considerably less interest without the H’mong and Dao people, the largest ethnic groups in the region. The billowing red headdresses of the Red Dao are visible all over town, a surreal sight amid the accelerating development. The H’mong are more numerous and canny traders. Their villages may look medieval but most will have a mobile phone and an email address to stay in touch. Traditionally, they were the poorest of the poor but have rapidly learnt the spirit of free enterprise. Most of the Montagnards have had little formal education and are illiterate, yet all the youngsters have a good command of English, French and a handful of other languages.

Sapa is also famous for its love market, which takes place on Saturday evenings. This cultural highlight used to be the place for tribal locals to find a partner and get married.

Tradition has it that young Red Dao hill tribes used to come to Sapa to sing songs to find their partners. Girls sang hidden in the dark and when a boy found them - if they liked each other - they disappeared into the forest for three days. Some of them got married after that.

But with the development of tourism, the real love market does not take place anymore. Currently visitors can only see a representation of the love market. Do not miss it, however, anyway if you are staying here on Saturday night.

Food, drinks and souvenir stores can be found near the stone church in the downtown area. The restaurants here offer a wide range of interesting Vietnamese and European meals at very affordable prices. The food is delicious and well-presented. The dining establishments also have respectable wine lists with French, South American and Australian wines, also at reasonable prices. The staff are very friendly and welcoming and usually speak quite good English.

With its beauty and unique lifestyle, Sapa is a rewarding destination where all the hustle of daily life vanishes.

Source: TN News

Recommendation in Sapa, Vietnam:
Sapa Travel Guide
Sapa trekking and homestay
Trek Fansipan Mount, Sapa, Vietnam

Halong bay cruises by Indochina Sails Vietnam attends ITB Berlin 2010

Indochina Sails will participate in the largest International Tourism Fair "ITB Berlin 2010" in Berlin, the Capital of Germany.

With Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, Indochina Sails (http://www.indochinasails.com) will participate in the largest International Tourism Fair "ITB Berlin 2010" to be held from Mar 10 to 14 in Berlin, the Capital of Germany, 2010.

Indochina Sails express the desire to promote Luxury Cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam in the luxury segment, which is addressed to people who want to live a unique experience, with personalized service, privacy, tranquility and simplicity in World Heritage of Vietnam.

Indochina Sails is a subsidiary of Huong Hai Junks, one of the first companies to offer tourist cruising on Halong Bay, Vietnam.

Backed by 10 years experience hosting international guests on the tranquil waters of the bay, Indochina Sails have set a new standard for luxury cruising. The first company to offer overnight cruises on the bay, Indochina Sails is now widely known as the number one choice for discerning travelers, operating a fleet of four newly built wooden junks designed in time-honored traditional style, with contemporary and luxurious cabins and facilities.

Indochina Sails had the opportunity to serve President of Vietnam, Miss Universe Contest in 2008 as well as Indochina Sails have served so many travelers to Halong Bay.

ITB Berlin 2010
Attendee: Ms. Nguyen Thu Trang - Sales Manager
Booth Number: Booth 127, Hall 26A
Email: customers-care@indochinasails.com
Website: http://www.indochinasails.com

The Great Red Spider Vietnam Motorcycle Tour with ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA - Part 2

Continue with Red Spider Group motorcycling 16-day in Vietnam. This entry told their days in the centre and centre highland of Vietnam. Let check it out!

Saturday January 23rd
Today was a day of many experiences. We rode from Dong Ha to A Luoi, via Khe Sanh, the famous and deadly USA base in the mountains of mid Vietnam just south of the DMZ. We started our ride in a shower, then a steady rain and then a downpour. Clearly today was our most challenging ride of the trip in terms of the weather.

Ethnic people village, Khe Sanh, Vietnam

We arrived Khe Sanh after a long and wet ride. All of us recall the name Khe Sanh, one of the toughest and worst places for any soldier of either side during the VN war. The ride up was steep, cold and wet. Upon arrival the sun came out and at least started to dry out those of us who did not have rain gear. We visited the war museum there. It had an impression on all of us but probably Bruce Wingman the most. We saw the Huey helicopters like the one Bruce Wingman Gouldsberry jumped out of and we saw pictures and stories at the museum that were heartbreaking.

Khe Sanh, Vietnam

One of the most disturbing things was the locals peddling the dog tags of American, British and Australian servicemen who lost their lives in the place commonly referred to as HELL. While the people we have met along the way so far could not have been nicer or more friendly, to see the dog tags of our lost troops being sold as meaningless pieces of metal was disturbing to all of us. Several of us bought tags, only to get them and find the rightful owners.

After the visit to Khe Sanh, we headed back across the mountains again for about another 100 KM's. The weather improved and was dry and we followed a beautiful river the entire way through winding roads and spectacular views of a river valley that was simply stunning. We visited an ethnic village and were greeted....as we have been all week, by very friendly people. Interesting contrasts of poverty, but satellite dishes for TV viewing. We had earlier in the day decided on a picnic lunch....much to the dismay of our Vietnamese team. We stopped by a bridge and enjoyed bread, peanut butter, cheese and mandarin oranges washed down with freshly made coffee.

contrasts of poverty, but satellite dishes for TV viewing

We continued our travels to the east south east for the balance of the day and made it to A Luoi around 4:30 in the pouring rain after another day of roughly 200 KM's of riding.

Tomorrow we head for Hội An, on the coast in mid Vietnam. And we are hoping for a dry day!!

Sunday January 24th
Today we start day 6 of our 10 day ride and we are headed for Hội An on the coast just south of the DMZ and near Da Nang. Our 240 KM trip gives us a total now of about 1,100KM's or about half, give or take, of our 2,200KM trip. Today's ride was advertised as "the most beautiful ride of the trip" and we must say it lived up to that while at the same time being quite an experience and very challenging at times as you will see in the videos and pix.

Beautiful day on road to Hoi An, Vietnam

In the morning we headed out of A Luoi under a partly cloudy sky which was a relief after the two days of rain. but as we drove into the mountains the slight fog, turned into a huge fog and visibility went down to about 1 tenth mile at many points. We were climbing, climbing, climbing up the mountains but beyond the guardrails we could see nothing but fog. We knew it was a long way down and the view spectacular but no dice.....could not see a darn thing. Going was slow in the fog and the moist winding roads. To top it off, we ran into several landslides which had totally wiped out the normal road and passing was through a mass of mud and debris. Actually running the bikes through the mud as you will see in videos was a quite a lot of fun....and we did not lose anyone down the mountain in the process.

It was slow going and then about noon the sun burst through the fog and lit up a mountain landscape in a half dozen colors of green. The views were spectacular and the ride for the rest of the day was indeed the best we have had....just a bit better than yesterday. We followed several rivers up and down through the mountains for several hours and went through a number of landslide areas, to frequent to count. Some easier than others but overall some impressive sights.

Hoi An hotel, Vietnam

We stopped in Thang My for a lunch of Noodles at one of Kenny's (our guide) favorite restaurants. Then we made it into Hội An which is a major coastal city and a major tourist area. For the first time since we left Hanoi on Tuesday we saw other westerners and, to be honest, we did not like it. We have enjoyed our adventure in the absence of the normal tourist trappings and to see the touristy Hội An was a bit of a shock to our systems. We took our weeks worth of clothes to the laundry across from the hotel and headed out for dinner. There were many options and this is clearly the best area for dinners we have seen in a week and we enjoyed it very much.

The really big news for tonight is that we will get our laundry done!!!! Tomorrow we head for Khum Doc and a short ride of about 190 KM's.

Monday January 25th
Today we left Hội An, a beautiful port city and headed for Kham Duc a small city in the mountains. Our ride today was about 180 KM's so rather short compared to several recently. Weather excellent today, sunny and puffy clouds to cool us from time to time. Overall, we would say today was the least interesting of the trip....other than the drive through Hội An and several other cities where our driving skills were tested to the max dodging bikes, trucks, people, road muffins, cattle, and you name it.

My Son, Vietnam

Our first stop were the ruins at My Son where in ancient times the Cham dynasty lived and built all sorts of temples to honor their Hindu god Shiva. After the visit to the ruins we headed south to Kham Doc for a nice ride in the foothills and lower portion of the mountains. There is a massive dam and road relocation project on going in this area so the biking was challenging again at times much like the mud of yesterday but now gravel.....which is actually lots tougher to drive on. But we all made it with no problems.

Kenny took us to the usual local restaurant for lunch and we hit Kham Doc about 4 PM just in time for a cold beer.

Kenny taking us out for some local food tonight....just like most nights. We hear that we are having venison tonight, and maybe a little pooch on the side!!

So stay tuned and we will keep you up to date. Tomorrow we head about 250 KM's straight south along the Cambodian border to Kon Tum. Should be a nice ride if the weather stays nice.

Tuesday January 26th
Greetings followers of the Red Spider Vietnam Bike Trip. A couple statistics to catch you up on. Today, Tuesday finished our 8th day of riding. We have traveled just short of 1,400KM's since leaving Hanoi. We are about 1,400 KM's from Ho Chi Minh City. We have two days of biking remaining that will cover about 500 KM's. The last part is our one hour flight from Nha Trang to HCMC on Friday mid day. The trip has been awesome overall and everyone has enjoyed it.

Dave & waterfall

Another couple of statistics. We have been having an ongoing 31 Card Tournament and so far Bruce has won 3 matches, Kenny one and Bill one. The Burrows brothers have bowed out early in each round. A match is worth $120.00. Also, our room situation is that there are 5 travelers and three rooms. This means that each night somebody gets a single and the others share rooms. That contest is decided nightly by a cut of the cards and so far Bruce has two wins....including one super suite with a Jacuzzi. So on the side games, Bruce is clearly in the lead......but we have a few days left.

Today was two days built into one. We awoke in Kham Doc with a downpour. It had been raining since about midnight. Our trusted guide Kenny assured us that our rain would only be on the west side of the mountains where we were and as soon as we got on the east side of the mountains, it would be sunny. So off we went, in our rain gear headed for Kon Tum.

We traveled in the mountains, with a steady rain, a foggy mist and everything looked like a place where King Kong would step out at any minute. In spite of the rain, we enjoyed the ride, beautiful waterfalls and lush jungles on all sides.

Then as we passed over the tops of the mountains, just as Kenny said, the skies cleared the sun came out and the temperature warmed considerably. We shed our rain gear and into our short sleeve shirts and away we went. Not only did the sun shine, but we actually went from a tropical jungle environment into a desert. It became very dry and dusty and much like the area like southern California around Palm Springs.

In this area we went through a long area where the infamous Agent Orange was clearly used. Across the mountains in nearly all directions we could see areas that are still bare with the exception of a bit of grass. Old dead trees dot the landscape in these areas. And, to compound the initial damage that Agent Orange did, the new problem created is that these large barren areas cannot stand up against the rain and therefore collapse into a landslide very easily. Throughout this part of our trip we saw many new landslides like a few days before, but at least this time we did not need to bike our way through mud.

After a nice lunch of BBQ we motored down the road and headed for Dac To, a location where one of the worst battles in the war took place. Hundreds of US soldiers were killed, more than 30 planes shot down and thousands of South Vietnamese solders were also killed. No telling how many soldiers from the North were killed. We paid our respects at the memorial and headed for our final destination Kon Tum.

In Kon Tum we arrived about 3pm, so we had time to go to the Banhar ethnic village and to a Catholic Church and Orphanage. We met with the headmaster of the orphanage and school and saw many happy kids there.

After this, we had just enough time to go to a sidewalk cafe and enjoy a cold one or two as the sun set over Kon Tum. Enjoy the video and pix for the day and wish us well on our next phase of the trip, a long ride of +240 KM's for our Wednesday to the next city which is Buon Ma Thuot.

Source: peterb.yolasite.com

Vietnam Motorcycling recommendation:
Motorcycling travel guides
Motorcycling tours in Vietnam

Road tripping through the hill tribe towns of Vietnam's Central Highlands

Exploring Vietnam's Central Highland's pine tree forests, waterfalls and coffee plantations by motorbike

"Nha san", or stilt house's K'Ho people in Lam Dong, Vietnam

Despite breathtaking mountain scenery and a rich diversity of hill tribe cultures, Vietnam’s Central Highlands remain one of the least 'tourorized' areas of Southeast Asia. This region of pine tree forests, waterfalls and coffee plantations is far from the coastal beach resorts where most tourists flock, and this remoteness is all part of the charm.

The narrow, winding roads of the highlands are strewn with potholes, some so deep and wide it appears as if elephants were dropped on the tarmac successively from various heights in some grotesque experiment. An equally poor bus system and lack of railways make exploration by more maneuverable motorbikes the best option.

Venturing Inland
This adventure starts in the coastal town of Phan Thiet, though the mountains can be approached from any adjacent city between Ho Chi Minh in the south and Danang on the central coast. The road from Phan Thiet winds through Hindu Cham villages and mountain rain-forests before arriving in the town of Dalat.

The K’ho of Dalat
Dr Alexandre Yersin (the noted explorer and scientist who discovered the cause of the bubonic plague) is traditionally considered the founder of the Dalat. The hill station, sanatorium and eventual resorts that developed more than 100 years ago have blessed Vietnam with one of the finest concentrations of French Colonial architecture in Indochina.

The city was named after the Lat clan, a subgroup of the K’ho tribe who inhabit much of Lam Dong Province. Though the K’ho have been assimilated by the dominant Vietnamese culture of modern Dalat, their bamboo stilt houses with thatched roofs can still be seen dotting hillsides in remote areas.
The entire K’ho family, including grandparents and extended family, all sleep together in a single-room "nha san", or stilt house. Cooking is done directly on the floor, without benefit of a chimney. The smoke preserves the structure and repels insects.

An Ede girl in traditional dress weaves textiles in her shop in Dak Lak Province.The M’Nong of Lak Lake
A day’s motorbike journey from Dalat will reach Lak Lake; the lake's shores are inhabited by displaced members of the M’nong tribe, relocated here from the north by the government. On my road trip, I spent the night in immense, wooden M’Nong longhouses. After a morning of elephant rides and canoe trips I drove to Ede territory in Dak Lak Province.

The Ede of Buon Ma Thuat
The Provincial capital of Buon Ma Thuat is the seat of Vietnam’s coffee-growing empire, its capacity now second only to Brazil. Due to tensions between the government and local hill tribes, the ability to travel without special permits can be restrictive. Travellers can be expected to only be allowed to travel between Buon Mat Thuat, which has a few major waterfalls like Drey Sap and Drey Nur, and Yuk Don National Park.

The Jai Rai of Pleiku
Heading north through Gia Lai Province traverses the territory of the Jai Rai, famous for their elaborate wooden funeral houses guarded by erotic totems. The capital city of Pleiku was an infamous battleground in the war with America. Politics in the area is complicated, and hiring a government-licensed guide is required to visit Jai Rai villages and nearby waterfalls, though travellers are free to visit the flooded volcanic crater known as Ho Bien on their own.

The Bahnar of Kon Tum
Just a few hours further to the North, the city of Kon Tum, and the surrounding province by the same name, holds the greatest cultural treasures of the central highlands. The town is populated by ethnic Bahnar, most differentiated from Vietnam’s other minority groups by the thatched communal lodges that tower above the villages surrounding the city. Like many hill tribes however, common cultural icons include musical gongs, “buffalo stabbing festivals” and ruou can (rice wine brewed in large ceramic vases.)

Out to the Coast
The final leg of the journey has almost as many options as the beginning. Roads lead north to Danang via the infamous Ho Chi Minh Trail, or out to coastal towns like Hoi An or Qui Nhon. I chose a remote route to Quang Ngai through villages of the indigo-clothed H’re, then loaded my motorbike on a train back to Phan Thiet.

Driving logistics
According to Vietnamese law, all foreign drivers must possess a Vietnamese driver’s license. Vietnam does not honor International Driving Permits, despite persistent claims by the agencies that issue them. Applicants need a driving license from their home country with a motorcycle endorsement, a translated and notarized copy, a validation form from the applicable embassy, a local health exam, and must pay a small fee at a Vietnam Department of Transportation branch in any city.

The process will take a minimum of one week. Without a prior motorcycle endorsement applicants must take a simple driving test, which could add a delay of several weeks. In truth, most foreign drivers do not have Vietnamese licenses and traffic police in the Central Highlands have regularly chosen not to enforce this regulation.

Motorbikes can be rented from many tour offices and guesthouses for US$5 - US$10 per day. Multi-day trips may require a deposit equal to the value of the motorbike.

Source: www.cnngo.com/explorations

Recommendation:
- Travel Guide in Vietnam
- Ride Ho Chi Minh Trail
- Bike Dalat

SaPa, Vietnam, a natural mosaic

Boasting sublime unspoiled beauty, from rolling verdant hills to spectacular terraced fields, Sa Pa is a mix of natural wonder.

Pa Cheo farmers cultivate rice

Near the Chinese border in the northwest province of Lao Cai and around 376 kilometers from Hanoi, Sa Pa, founded as a scenic resort by the French in 1903, is best known for its wild, unspoiled landscapes.

Sa Pa’s scenic highlights include Hoang Lien Son National Park and the awe-inspiring 3,143-meter-high Mount Fan Si Pan – the highest mountain peak in Indochina. Every year, the area attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world who come to marvel at Sa Pa’s lush vegetation and spectacular scenery.

Nestled around 1,600 meters above sea level, Sa Pa is cloud-covered and cool year-round, with occasional snowfalls in the winter.

It is said that visitors who come to Sa Pa in the summer can experience up to three seasons in a single day. In the morning and afternoon, the weather is cool like that in the spring and autumn, while at noon, it is as sunny and cloudless as a warm summer’s day.

Visitors often travel to the city of Lao Cai by train before heading by coach to Sa Pa. Upon arrival, tourists can learn about the area’s sprawling rice paddies and observe the ethnic H’Mong and Dao peoples who wear a brilliant array of colorful, traditional clothing.

Stunning terraced fields

According to a survey carried out by US-based Travel and Leisure magazine, Sa Pa’s verdant terraced fields were ranked among the seven most beautiful in the world.

The most beautiful terraced field area is Suoi Thau, which is cultivated by the Dao people.

The other fields voted most beautiful by the magazine’s readers include those in Banaye (the Philippines), Yuangyang (Yunnan, China), Ubud (Bali, Indonesia), Annapurna (Nepal), Mae Rim (Chiang Mai, Thailand), and Longji (Guilin, China).

Sa Pa’s terraced fields belong to the ethnic H’Mong, Dao and Giay people, and are located in the Muong Hoa Valley of Lao Chai District. The area totals around 10 square kilometers and tourists can visit to learn about the process of rice planting and cultivation.

The fields were described by Travel and Leisure as “Ladders to the sky” because of their astounding natural beauty.

“It’s the best place in Vietnam with a rich cultural heritage and splendid landscape,” said a Singaporean tourist.

“The scenery and people were amazing,” echoed a tourist from the UK.

Lao Cai’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism also proposed that provincial authorities and the culture ministry should carry out research and compile information on Sa Pa’s terraced fields, Hoang Lien Son National Park, and an ancient rock bank to submit to UNESCO for recognition as world cultural heritage sites.

“This is a difficult task but we are trying to turn Sa Pa’s terraced fields into a world heritage site for the many foreign travelers who love Sapa and Vietnam,” said Tran Huu Son, the department’s chief.

Cultural diversity

Home to several ethnic groups like the H’Mong, Red Dao, Kinh, Tay, Giay, Hoa, and Xa Pho, Sa Pa is a mosaic of cultures and traditions. Many visitors enjoy learning about the ethnic people’s daily activities, traditions and beliefs.

H’Mong ethnic girl brings the young rice plants to the fields

Tourists are often astonished by the many billowing red headdresses worn by women of the Red Dao minority, visible all over town.

The H’Mong and Dao people make up the largest ethnic groups in the region. Their villages may appear simple and old-fashioned from afar, but many people now own mobile phones and regularly access their email from communal computers.

While some of the older generations of the ethnic minorities have had little formal education and are illiterate, most of the younger generations receive schooling and have a good command of English, French and a handful of other languages.

Tourists can also choose to go on two treks while staying in Sa Pa. The first is a 7 km journey, which takes about four hours and includes a stop for lunch. The other is a full-day adventure, covering around 17 km and following the perimeter of the rice paddies, through forested areas, past the doorsteps of tribal people’s homes, and across rivers and waterfalls.

Watching the locals go about their daily business is also an interesting experience. The children in Sa Pa work extremely hard-tending buffaloes, working in the fields, and caring for their younger siblings. Many of the young girls learn the timeless art of embroidery from their mothers.

The ethnic girls often marry young, at around age 14, and depend on the skills learned from their mothers to start new families of their own.

Sa Pa is also famous for its “love market,” which takes place on Saturday evenings. This cultural tradition once served as a way for ethnic locals to meet, socialize, and find a partner to marry.

In the past, young girls from the Red Dao hill tribes used to come to Sa Pa and sing songs to find partners. The girls would sing while hidden in the dark and when a boy found them – if they liked each other – they would disappear into the forest for three days and would then marry at a later date.

But with the development of tourism, the original love market, with its purpose of uniting young couples, has faded away. Visitors can still visit the area on Saturday nights, however, and be treated to a lively market atmosphere.

With its astonishing beauty and diverse peoples, Sa Pa is a remarkable travel destination and well worth a visit.

Reported by Hoang Kien/TN news

Recommended Itineraries:
- Sapa trekking tours: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=listByCategoryId&catId=9
- Sapa tours & excursions: http://www.activetravelshop.com/?name=product&op=listProducts&subcat=SapaTours
- Fansipan trekking tours, Sapa: http://www.trekfansipan.com

Sapa tags: Trek Fansipan & Sapa Travel, SaPa Hotels , Sapa Tours & daily excursions , Trek Mai Chau , Sapa trekking tours, sapa tours, sapa travel, trekking in sapa