Tiger Tops: Pioneering Nepal’s Conservation Tourism

On June 10, 2011, In Family Vacation Adventures in Asia, Outdoor Adventure Travel, Wildlife, By Sylvia Arad

Royal Chitwan National Park, one of Asia’s most spectacular wildlife sanctuaries and a UNESCO World Heritage site, located some 75 mi. southwest of Kathmandu, is home to Tiger Tops, a treetop jungle lodge.  Situated in the heart of the park, in a lush sub-tropical jungle setting, Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge is THE pioneer and the prime model for sustainable ecotourism in Nepal, offering a host of adventures into Chitwan’s diverse and fascinating natural world.

Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge

Tiger Tops’ programs of wildlife exploration include jungle safaris in environmentally friendly vehicles, river boats and kayaks, as well as fascinating jungle walks.    By far, the most popular adventure activity here is a tiger spotting elephant safari – nothing can quite capture the magic of traveling through the primeval grasslands of Chitwan atop an elephant in a custom-made “cab”.  From this height, Chitwan’s animals come alive, as you spot some of the park’s 43 mammal species and 450 bird types up-close.

Sunrise Elephant Trek

Catch a glimpse of the majestic and rare Bengal tiger or the endangered mammoth one-horned rhino, as you tread softly along on an elephant’s back.  Unique breeds of bear, wild Asian elephants and chital are only some of the animals to come into view.  Gaur or Indina Bison, four-horned antelope, striped hyena, leopard and golden-backed jackals are among the more common creatures to be seen.  Among the 45 species of reptiles and amphibians who make the park their home, you’ll delight to scenes of gharial crocodiles loping on the banks of the Rapti and Narayan Rivers, which form the park’s natural boundaries.

Tiger Spotting from An Elephant's Back

Morning View on Elephant Trek

Spotting the One-Horned Rhino

 

Gol Ghar

In common with the entire Tiger Tops Mountain Group of lodges and camps, Tiger Tops Lodge practices environmentally responsible conservation tourism.  The tree houses and bungalows are built in local style with sustainable natural materials such as reeds.  The lodge’s photovoltaic power plant is the largest in Nepal, providing the camp’s solar-powered heating and energy.  The Gol Ghar, the circular dining hall, with its huge domed roof and central open hearth, serves local cuisine, utilizing fresh organic products from Tiger Mountain’s Organic Farms.  Here, travelers can relax with friends and family after a long day of adventuring and wildlife viewing.

Inside the Gol Ghar

In addition to the elephants that take you through the towering grasslands, the lodge focuses on other wildlife safaris such as river trips in traditional canoes and kayaks, which offer the unique opportunity to spot the park’s array of water life.  Other highlights include rare bird watching and jungle walks with expert naturalists to explore the diverse plants used for culinary and medicinal purposes. Short jaunts to nearby villages offer a personal introduction into the unique culture and traditions of the villagers and include local cultural and musical entertainment.

Crocodiles in the River

Beyond Tiger Tops Lodge, Tiger Tops Tented Camp affords the ultimate in-depth jungle experience.  Poised above a broad plain, the idyllic, tranquil tented camp is sited in perfect wilderness, with safari tents set to maximize the sweeping panoramas of the river, the hills and the snow-capped Himalayan peaks beyond.  Outside the Gol Ghar, raised viewing platforms maximize arm-chair wildlife viewing as you relax with a cold drink in hand.  With over 40 year’s experience, Tiger Tops Tented Camp is undoubtedly Nepal’s ultimate luxury adventure travel experience.

Tiger Tops Tented Camp

View from the Camp

Tiger Tops, set in the dense tropical rainforests of Chitwan’s nearly 1000 sq. km. of natural park, offers a range of wildlife, adventures and panoramas to quench every nature lovers’ thirst for wildlife exploration.

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Top 7 Tips When Traveling to Vietnam

On October 9, 2010, In Family Vacation Adventures in Asia, Uncategorized, By Sylvia Arad

You’re just a few days away from your Vietnam adventure travel holiday and scrambling to find out as much as possible before you go.  With the tips below, the only thing you’ll feel before you go on your family adventure vacation is excitement!

When to Go:  Know the Climate

Vietnam’s climate is complex and seasons vary depending on your destination.  The north is warm, dry and sunny between September and December, though you’ll need warm clothes for chilly evenings in the mountains.  December to February can be surprisingly cold with temperatures as low as 10*C (50F).  The rainy season starts in June with heavy downpours.

The Central region has a wet climate, though the dry season lasts from February to May, after which is humid and rainy, with temperatures around 30*C (86F).  Between November and January, the rains subside.  The dry season in the lower east coast and South lasts from December to May and is followed by a rainy season.  Daily temperatures here rarely fall below 20*C (68F) and mostly rain falls in short downpours.

Money and Valuables 

Store Cash, credit cards and valuables in a safe place.  Most 4-star hotels have in-room safes; otherwise ask the reception to store valuables in their safe deposit.

  • Never carry more money than you need nor wear large amounts of jewelry when walking along the street.  In Vietnam, it’s considered impolite to flaunt wealth and you’re more likely to be a pickpocket’s victim.
  • Monetary transactions are best made in cash in the local currency, the Dong.  Vietnamese merchants will also gladly accept USD, but bring along small bills.  ATM’s dispense only large bills which can be difficult to break.
  • Credit cards are used in the large cities, but may be difficult to use in smaller towns.

What to Wear 

In Vietnam, the dress code is casual but conservative.  Unless you plan on dinners at ultra-upscale restaurants, there is no need for formal clothes.  When packing, the main thing to consider is the weather, as it can be cold in the northern mountains and at the same time, hot and humid on the central coast.

  • For winter months in the mountains, long jeans and a warm coat are necessary.  For the more tropical areas, lightweight, quick-drying clothes are appropriate.
  • Rain can catch you anywhere in Vietnam, so lightweight raingear is essential.
  • Good hiking shoes for treks are a must, and sandals and flip-flops are good for coastal destinations.
  • Dress appropriately so as not to offend local people.  Clothing should be kept simple and discreet.  Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops or low neck-lines.

Additional Useful Accessories  

  • Bring along a good sun-protectant as local products are unreliable.
  • A wide-brimmed hat to shade your face and neck, and sunglasses with high UV protection are necessary.
  • Though there aren’t really mosquitoes in the towns and cities, a bug repellant based on natural ingredients is recommended for itineraries including treks and forested areas. ‘Deet’ based repellants can cause rashes in humid climates.
  • To be safe, bring an extra pair of reading glasses or orthopedic shoes, if you wear them.
  • For conventional cameras, plenty of film and extra batteries are necessary, as these have virtually disappeared in Vietnam.  For digital cameras, equipment is readily available.

Follow Local Customs  

  • Remove shoes when entering temples, pagodas or Vietnamese homes.
  • It is considered extremely rude to wear shorts or dresses and tops with low neck-lines and bare shoulders to temples and pagodas.
  • Handshaking is the normal way of greeting in Vietnam. But Vietnamese people should not be touched on the head.

 Shopping in Vietnam  

Vietnam is a bargain hunter’s haven with Hanoi, Saigon and Hoi An top shopping destinations.

  • Hanoi’s Old quarter is excellent for visitors, its streets filled with small shops selling clothes, fabrics, gold and all manner of articles.
  • Hanoi’s Dong Xuan Market and Saigon’s Ben Thanh Market are both worth visiting.
  • For “designer-styled” clothing, Hoi An is the place to go.
  • Hill tribes in the north and Central Highlands sell colorful hand-crafted goods and silk paintings.
  • Bargaining is a cultural ‘must’ and should be good-natured as “saving face” is very important in Vietnam.

Tipping in Vietnam  

Tipping is not expected but very much appreciated.  A good guide may receive $10 per day and a driver $5 per day. It is considered proper to make a small donation when visiting a pagoda, especially when accompanied by a priest.  Most pagodas have contribution boxes for this purpose.

Did you find this post helpful?  If so, let us know in our comments section below

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Short City Breaks: Hanoi Vietnam

On October 5, 2010, In City Breaks, Family Vacation Adventures in Asia, By Sylvia Arad

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam for nearly 1000 years, possesses an eclectic East-West blend.  A city with a backdrop that breathes history, Hanoi provides a fascinating kaleidoscope – an empire that absorbed the Cham and other cultures, a Southeast Asian Colony followed by a French colony and finally home to a Communist regime.  Hanoi’s diverse neighborhoods reflect its history and lend it much of its flavor and charm.   Its tiny, local colonial cafes, its numerous noodle soup stalls everywhere, its group of exercising elders by the lakes – all are scenes that greet you here.   

 

The Red River, a part of Vietnam’s heritage, is the setting for Hanoi.  Known as the “city of lakes”, Hanoi’s center and outskirts are interspersed with lakes.  Set between the city’s Old Quarter and its French Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, in the city’s center, houses the Turtle Tower Pagoda and a lovely park surrounding its banks. Known as the “Lake of the Restored Sword”, it takes its name from an ancient legend where the emperor Le Loi returned a magic sword to the golden turtle god who resided in its depths, the pagoda honoring the swords return.  On the lake, the Water Puppet Theater is held.  A traditional   form of art, puppeteers stand waist-deep in the water performing a variety of traditional plays with wooden marionettes.  Near the lake’s northern shores, Ngoc Son, the Jade Mountain Temple, can be reached via a magnificent red bridge.

Red Bridge

Ngog Son Temple

Ho Tay, West Lake, is Hanoi’s largest lake, spanning 17 km along its shores.  Located in the very heart of the city, the lake is surrounded by manicured gardens, elegant villas and palaces and temples including Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest in Vietnam, and Quan than Temple, on the ancient Hanoi’s four sacred temples. A central part of Hanoi life, it is a popular place for recreation. Other lakes, including Thien Quang Lake and True Bach Lake dot the city and include historic sites such as the Vien Truc Lam Palace, originally a place of worship and later a women’s prison, the Holy Mandarin Temple and the Chou Long Pagoda.

More than 2000 years old, Hanoi’s Old Quarter, or 36 Streets Market, is the vibrant center of life here.  The hustle –bustle begins at dawn here and slows down at around 10 pm. The first area settled in Hanoi, the Old Quarter adheres to the guild concept, where artisans gathered together in an area to share resources.  As such, many of the streets here are named after the products sold – s bamboo is sold on Bamboo St., and on Silk St. silk is sold and so on.  Life here spills out to the streets from the tunnel homes, long, narrow buildings, which line the streets and extend deep beyond the store front, housing an inner courtyard and behind, residential quarters.

Lively Old Quarter

The House on stilts

The Old Quarter is also home toHo Chi Minh\’s Mausoleum , a replica of Lenin’s mausoleum, and the House on Stilts, Ho Chi Minh’s simple home representing his communist ideals. The  Van Mieu or Temple of Literature is probably the most impressive site here.  Considered a most important spot, it originally functioned as an elite university.  One of Hanoi’s holiest sites since its beginnings in the 11th century, the complex houses 5 interconnected courtyards, manicured lawns and ancient temples and monuments of Confucius scholars and is  undoubtedly one of Hanoi’s most beautiful  landmarks.

St. Joseph's Cathedral

The French Quarter teems with beautiful colonial buildings and wide boulevards.  Many French buildings from the 19th century remain.- the Opera House, a replica of the Palais Garnier in Paris; the Governor’s Palace, an ornate colonial style building, the Presidential Palace and St. Joseph\’s Cathedral to name just a few.

Hanoi, at its best at dawn, is a hive of energy, the markets ablaze with color and movement, armies of women doing aerobics and early morning wedding parties posing for photos.  As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi’s lovely tree-lined boulevards, lakes and parks, its French colonial buildings and elegant squares all meld to lend  Hanoi a  distinctive ambiance  that makes it unique in this region.

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Get Ready for Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventures in Vietnam’s Best Eco Lodges

On October 2, 2010, In Biking & Hiking, Family Vacation Adventures in Asia, Outdoor Adventure Travel, Uncategorized, By Sylvia Arad

Renowned for hiking, highly qualified local guides, stunning backdrops and a rich cultural heritage, Vietnam’s northwestern highlands are a prime destination for travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure like no other.  Making the region even more attractive are the spectacular eco-friendly accommodations built on a vision of community sustainability.

Mai Chau Valley

Mai Chau Lodge

Nestled in the stunningly beautiful mountainous region of Hoa Binh Province, 135 km south of Hanoi, Mai Chau Lodge strives to preserve local traditions, culture and the natural surroundings of its lush valley setting.  The lodge is built from a socially and environmentally responsible vision.   Using sustainable local materials, Mai Chau Lodge boasts a natural beauty, blending perfectly into its surroundings.

Mai Chau Lodge

Set among rice fields, misty mountains and fascinating hill tribe people, this community-minded gem boasts 24 immaculately maintained rooms.  The thoughtfully appointed quarters offer unique charm with cozy wood furnishings and local décor, some offering private verandas which open onto views of the lily pond and the setting sun.  Waking to the scene of lotus flowers and farmers grazing their water buffalos in the nearby rice fields is an unbeatable experience which reflects the authentic character of the region.

Activities at Mai Chau

In addition to sustainable building practices, Mai Chau Lodge offers excellent adventure trips.   Local qualified guides lead travelers to Thai hill-tribe communities in the region for a highly authentic experience, immersing them in the traditions and lifestyles of natives.  A community effort, the well-designed tours to Pu Luong Reserve, one of 5 natural reserves in the area, for wildlife and bird watching, a visit to nearby White Thai village, or to the lodge’s Mo Luong Bat Cave and to the local Black Hmong market, fishing at Mo Luong Lake, kayaking, cycling the green countryside and returning in the evening after a fun-filled day to relax in the sauna, jacuzzi or steam room – all round out the activity offerings at this unique lodge.  

Set amongst some of Vietnam’s most stunning scenery, a trip to the northwestern highlands of Mai Chau Lodge offers a mix of off-the-beaten-path eco adventure and culture in an up-close encounter with some of Vietnam’s most colorful inhabitants and traditions.

Native Dancing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Victoria Sapa Resort

Verdant Views from the Resort

High in Vietnam’s remote northwestern highlands near the Chinese border, the former hill station of Sapa, famous for its pristine verdant environment, unparalleled scenery and cool climate is home to more than 30 colorful ethnic tribes and to Vietnam’s highest peak, Mt. Fansipan.  Perched on a hill overlooking the valley, the Victoria Sapa Resort provides an excellent base for those seeking adventure on a road less traveled in close harmony with nature and an authentic cultural experience.

The Resort

Built as a traditional mountain chalet with warm wooden décor and a cozy stone fireplace, the Victoria Sapa Resort perfectly blends into its natural setting, surrounded by lush green gardens, rural terraces and breathtaking mountainscapes.  Guests feel at ease in the mountain chalet atmosphere where welcoming accommodations bring together the elegance of traditional local ethnic handicraft with the comfort of French colonial style in earthy tones, hardwood floors and vibrant embroidered native tapestry.  Each unit features a private terrace with spectacular views in all directions.   This child-friendly resort offers spacious studios ideal for families of 4-5 as well.

The most exciting adventures at the resort center on mountain trekking, cycling and excursions to the foothills of Mt. Fansipan, and to the area’s authentic hill tribe villages and markets.  Russian jeep safaris to the more remote markets and ethnically diverse areas, boating on the Chay River, trekking around Ta Van area and overnight homestays in local villages are also on offer. 

Trekking in Mt. Fansipan Foothils

Reserved for in-house guests, the romantic overnight train rides from Hanoi to Lao Cai (Sapa) aboard the resort’s own Victoria Express train is an experience in itself. Kids will especially enjoy the sleeping carriages with berths, the plus-red dining carriage, comfortable seats and exotic landscapes en route.

Victoria Express Train Berths

Committed to environmental protection and local tourism sustainability, the Victoria Sapa Resort served as an ideal base for exploring the wonders of Sapa’s enchanting surroundings and very authentic hillside tribes.

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Halong Bay: A World of Mystery Awaits You

On September 29, 2010, In Family Vacation Adventures in Asia, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

If you were to fall asleep and wake in an Asian brushstroke landscape, Halong Bay is probably where you would find yourself.  Majestic and mysterious, Vietnam’s Halong Bay is a breathtaking location with over 2000 incredible jagged islands and islets rising from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.  This superb panorama of limestone peaks enshrouded in mist, tumbling into the gently lapping sea and enclosing within its folds striking hidden caves is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

The near-perpendicular pinnacles conceal the remains of many grottos and caverns, created over millions of years ago through a complex process of erosion whereby water trickled through limestone cracks enlarging them to create spectacular caves and resulting in the distinctive towers seen today.

About a 3 hour ride south of Hanoi, Halong Bay draws a steady stream of travelers year-round, who mostly opt for several days of cruising on a typical Vietnamese junk.  Beyond the breathtaking seascapes on a boat trip through the bay, an amazing range of adventure travel opportunities are on offer:   Travelers to Halong come to explore the spectacular caves, among them the amazing “Surprise Cave” with its 3 enormous caverns, where illuminated stalactites grow down to touch the rising stalagmites;  to kayak and scuba dive around the islands and in and around some of the more remote,  less accessible caves, such as the Dark Cave;    to get to know “real-life” Vietnam, cycling through farm fields and remote tiny villages,  where self-reliant locals raise and prepare their own food;  to experience one of Vietnam’s most fascinating cultural features – the floating villages, nestling in the sheltered bays, where houses are set atop barges and year round, inhabitants catch and cultivate fish. 

Surprise Cave

Cruising on a typical junk is in itself an adventure, and experiencing the star-studded night sky and lapping sea waves with the outlines of dozens of  limestone towers silhouetted in the backdrop makes for a surreal picture. Halong Bay’s breathtaking splendor, enormous scale and unique geomorphology make it one of Vietnam’s most spectacular experiences.

 

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Ninh Binh, or “Inland Halong Bay”, north of Halong is a paradise of lotus-covered ponds, meandering waterways and lush green rice paddies where contorted limestone pinnacles, caverns, spires and hills, shaped like mythical creatures provide the setting.  Here, ornate temples, pagodas and Buddhist shrines rise from the center of small lakes and rustic homes perch under natural overhangs or nestle into the living rock.  The steady rhythm of traditional Vietnamese village life continues here as women tend to the rice fields while men in wooden boats cast nets into the tranquil waters.  A motorbike ride into the nearby mountains is a great adventure and a half-day boat trip to Tam Coc or Trang An into caves and old temples is well worth the journey.

On the Way to Tam Coc

What make this entire region unique are not the towering cliffs themselves, but rather their sheer number and unique shapes.    Halong Bay, translated as “where the dragon descends into the sea” is the stuff of myths.  Legend has it that the islands were created by a great dragon that lived in the mountains.  As it charged towards the sea, its tail gouged out valleys and crevasses, and as it spat out jewels and jade, these turned into ,the dramatic towering pinnacles for which the bay and its surroundings are renowned

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Da Lat: A World of Romantic Adventure Awaits You

On September 25, 2010, In Biking & Hiking, Family Vacation Adventures in Asia, Outdoor Adventure Travel, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

Le Petit Paris

Perched high in the Southern Central Highlands amidst valleys, lakes and waterfalls, Vietnam’s Dalat is known for its mountain scenery and delightfully cool weather.  Originally inhabited by the Lat and Ma Hil tribes (Da Lat meaning “stream of the Lat People”), who now live in nearby Lat and Chicken Villages, Dalat became a holiday resort for commanders who tired of the tropical Vietnamese climate during the French Colonial era.  It remains Vietnam’s “Le Petit Paris” and its “city of eternal spring”, its colonial mansions and over 2000 remaining French villas still reflecting its French influence.

Dalat has a lot to offer travelers interested in trekking, motorcycle trips and natural sights – its surrounding lakes, waterfalls, and parks offer boating and windsurfing.  This is a great place to get to know Vietnam’s highlands.

Around Dalat

Dalat is home to Emperor Bao Dai’s summer palaces.  Built in 1933 and set in a lovely pine grove near Lake Xuan Huong, this art deco style palace houses portraits and sculptures, and   royal living quarters of the deposed imperial family.   Nearby, Lake Xuan Huong stretches for nearly 5 km., offering windsurfing and boating adventures, though long walks around the lake seem to be most popular.

Emperor Bao Dai's Palace

Crazy House

Dalat features several interesting buildings and lovely pagodas, among them the Lin Phuoc Pagoda , a contemporary structure with a gold Buddha and a spectacular garden.  The Hang Nga House and Gallery, nicknamed “crazy house” by locals, is probably one of its most fun sites, especially for youngsters.  The house is designed with cave sitting rooms, a concrete giraffe tea room, helter- skelter hallways and stairways and fish heads containing guest rooms for overnight stays.    Its bustling, lively central market is unlike most Vietnamese markets, characterized by a highly unusual open promenade for shoppers and passers-by. 

Crazy Houe

Just out of town, a lovely park, Thung Lung Tinh Yeu Park , known as “The Valley of Love” is a popular spot for honeymooners and lovers who stroll through its paths or sail on its small lake.  The region around Dalat is punctuated with coffee farms and colorful small villages.  Lat Village and Chicken Village are home to several hill tribes who were enticed down from Dalat.  Chicken Village, where peoples of the Koho minority reside, is famous for its giant concrete chicken, caught mid-strut, in the village center.  In the highlands, there are opportunities to visit coffee farms, sing karaoke or just enjoy local drinks at some of the small inns perched on the valley’s hills.

Indoor Market

Further afield, there is much to see and do for nature lovers.  Several scenic waterfalls dot the area:  Prenn Falls, located about 10 km. from Dalat, at the foot of the dramatic Prenn Pass, is a great spot for enjoying a brief hike, its breathtaking waterfalls cascading from above to create a silver sheet pouring into a pool below.   Behind the falls, a bamboo bridge enables visitors to cross the waters.  Gouganh Falls, some 40 km. from Dalat offers an amazing view of waters splitting at the center to create numerous falls, each streaming in a different direction.  Lan Bien Mountain, its five volcanic peaks rising to 2100-2400 m., is a trekker’s dream, as is Tuyen Lake, known for its emerald green waters and backdrop of mountains.

 

Dalat and its off-the-beaten-path surroundings and many wonderful natural sights are very different from Vietnam’s popular coastal areas and are well worth the visit for the countless adventures and natural sights it has on offer.

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Hoi An : The Legacy of the Champa Kingdom Revealed

On September 21, 2010, In Archeology & Culture, Family Vacation Adventures in Asia, By Sylvia Arad

Rich in history and culture, Hoi An has remained a well-preserved model of a traditional Vietnam port city of an earlier era.  Named a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hoi An remains a charming, small riverside town with its history intact.

Historically, Hoi An was the commercial capital of the powerful Champa Kingdom, who built the city in the 1st  century AD and ruled it until the 15th century.  Hoi An quickly became the largest harbor in Southeast Asia and one of its most important seaports. From here, the Champa gained control over the highly-lucrative spice trade,   generating great wealth for Hoi An.  A key stop on the silk road, Hoi An became the dominant power in the spice and silk trade spreading its influence as far as Baghdad.

French Influence in Hoi An Architecture and color

The Japanese Bridge

In the 15th Century, when the Champa Kingdom fell to the northern Viet people, Hoi An gradually lost its primacy as a seaport, though in the next century it was briefly restored to its glory by the Nguyen Dynasty, following the settlements of Japanese, Chinese, Dutch and Indian merchants in the city.

Chinese Pagoda

Today, Hoi An is a popular travel destination.  Its beautiful old buildings and architecture, its quiet narrow lanes (cars and motorbikes are mostly banned from its streets), its many craft shops including local ceramics and fabrics and its history as a central ancient seaport all draw travelers to this lovely city.  In addition, Hoi An is renowned as the tailoring capital of Vietnam, with its hundreds of skilled tailors whipping up custom-made clothing at great value.

My Son Ruins

Not far from Hoi An, the Champa’s commercial capital, lies My Son, its spiritual capital.  Once a holy valley of impressive Hindu temples and burial grounds of the Champa kingdom’s royalty, My Son is often compared to Cambodia’s Angkor Wat and Egypt’s Valley of the Kings.

Temple at My Son

My Son dates back to the 4th century AD when the Champa King Bhadravornan created the first temple on the site and appealed to following generations to honor the temple and respect the site.  Over the centuries, more temples were erected and at its peak, My Son embraced more than 70 temples and monuments.  With the disappearance of the Champa Kingdom in the 15th century, My Son gradually deteriorated and fell into ruins.  In the 1930’s, the French restored the site only to have it destroyed during the Vietnam War.  In spite of that, the site remains an impressive monumental site of the Champa Kingdom and an icon of the early heritage, history and culture of Vietnam.

Centered around Hoi An, this is a region to enjoy life at a slower pace than elsewhere in Vietnam.  Nearby, the Marble Mountains offer a taste of adventure, where hiking and cycling opportunities abound,  and the long stretch of lovely China Beach close by features white sands and turquoise waters for the best water adventures around.  Most of all, walking around Hoi An’s  quiet streets, visiting the city’s museums, merchant houses and neighboring My Son, and sitting quietly by the banks of the river in the relaxed atmosphere here make Hoi An a top destination in any Vietnam adventure.

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Preserving the Heritage of an Imperial City: Hue

On September 18, 2010, In Archeology & Culture, Family Vacation Adventures in Asia, Outdoor Adventure Travel, By Sylvia Arad

Main Entrance to Citadel

Hue, the imperial capital of Vietnam until 1945, when the last emperor, Bao Dai abdicated, is a city steeped in traditionalism, culture and art.  Hue and its surroundings feature impressive monuments, ornate temples and pagodas and foremost, the imperial palace.

Perfume River Divides Hue

Renowned for its heritage, Hue’s residents are known throughout Vietnam for upholding local customs, traditional dress and the local cuisine, undoubtedly some of the best in Vietnam, as special delicacies were created here for emperors.  Divided by the Perfume River, with the imperial city to the north and the newer center to the south, Hue remains relatively small.  Getting around is easy by bike, cyclo or motorbike, though motorized vehicles are forbidden inside the imperial city.

Imperial throne in Forbidden City

The imperial city, built in the 19th century by the Nguyen Dynasty emperor Gia Long and commonly known as the “Citadel” is a remarkable place. Built in 3 circles of ramparts, the Citadel encompasses 3 “courts, covering a total area of 6 km, with open courtyards, beautiful gardens and private apartments.  A 10 km. moat and thick stone walls created the citadel’s outer perimeter.   The second circle enclosed the imperial city, the country’s administrative center, which was built along the same lines as Beijing’s Forbidden City.  At the heart of the imperial city, a smaller moat and thick walls bounded the third circle of the Forbidden Purple City.   A sole entry gate led to the Forbidden City where various palaces and the emperor’s private apartments lay, and where only members of the royal family were allowed. 

Gate to Minh Mang's Tomb

Near the citadel, royal tombs dot the banks along the Perfume River and include the burial places of Nguyen Dynasty rulers Minh Mang, Khai Dinh and Tu Doc.  Built in traditional Vietnamese fashion designed to comply with a certain directional orientation, straight lines and supernatural forces, these tombs are walled compounds each containing temples, palaces and lakes. A boat ride up the Perfume River is a “must-do” not only to view some of these spectacular sights, but also to enjoy the sculptured beauty surrounding Hue.  Made all the more magical for its sites, the countryside around Hue is stunning.

Sailing up the Perfume River

Inside Khai Dinh's Tomb

 

Thien Mu pagoda

Among its architectural wonders, a multitude of Pagodas dot Hue’s landscape, among them the Tu Dam Pagoda, the Tu Hieu Pagoda and the Dieu Du Pagoda, each with its own unique history and architectural features.  The symbol of Hue and its best known pagoda is the Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven story structure started originally at the beginning of the 19th century and built upon thereon by subsequent rulers.

View of the River from Pagoda

Steeped in the culture and traditions of Vietnam, imperial Hue offers not only a glimpse into Vietnam’s history and heritage, but a step into the adventure and romance of travel through its awesome surroundings.

Hue Vietnam, family adventure travel, adventure travel holidays Vietnam, Vietnam culture, adventure hiking, biking routes, motorcycle trips,  Hue Citadel, Hue imperial palace, Nguyen Dynasty, Perfume River boat trips

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Nocturnal Adventures: Shopping in Saigon’s Night Market

On September 14, 2010, In City Breaks, Family Vacation Adventures in Asia, Uncategorized, By Sylvia Arad

One of the best parts of traveling abroad is the opportunity it gives us to be adventurous.  This includes doing usual, everyday things in unusual settings – shopping, for instance.  Nothing compares to shopping in Saigon’s night market, where the setting is definitely unusual.

Saigon Night Market

Saigon’s largest night market is located next to its iconic Ben Than Market, one of the city’s landmarks established by the French in 1859.   Around sunset each day, when the doors of the Ben Than Market close, the night market comes alive.  Open till midnight, this open air market is an out-of-the-ordinary shopping experience.   As dusk approaches, vendors scramble to set up their vibrant stalls; out of nowhere, tents, shelters, display racks and colorful wares appear quickly to create a brightly vivid, extensively decorated riot of color, displaying anything and everything.

Spilling over into the neighboring streets, the night market is filled with clothes, fabrics, souvenirs, kitchenware, handbags, spices and produce, and jewelry – these are just some of the colorful items on offer.  While the night market may not be as glamorous as malls or supermarkets, these markets have a distinct character of their own and are popular both with locals and travelers.  For travelers, the cooler nights present an ideal time to do some shopping while for locals it is a good time to meet friends and socialize.

Shoes, Shoes and More Shoes

The enormous variety of goods on offer make this a shoppers’ haven where great bargains are to be had.  To boot, the market features numerous semi-permanent restaurants and a great range of food stalls, with many street vendors setting up shop to take advantage of the passing trade.  At sunset, the area is transformed into a roadside eatery that won’t disappoint.   A wide range of some of the best Vietnamese food, from the far north to the tip of the south is churned out nightly here.  Artistically-presented delicious local delicacies, barbeques and fresh seafood are served by professionally attired workers.  Without the frills and prices of a posh setting, food connoisseurs here can experience the 5-star quality of exotic dishes at reasonable prices.  In fact, food here is a downright bargain!

Saigon’s night market is a vibrant, lively place whose sights, sounds and scents awaken the senses after the heat of the day.  Here, you can rest in the cool evening air, try some Vietnamese food and unwind after a long, hard adventure-packed day.

Vietnamese Delicacies

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Floating Markets of the Mekong Delta – Get a Glimpse into Vietnamese Culture

On September 10, 2010, In Archeology & Culture, Family Vacation Adventures in Asia, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

Vietnam is incredible and still authentic – it’s not “spruced up” for tourists.  Nowhere is this more obvious than in the Mekong Delta, with its floating markets, where locals live, work and earn a living from the many tributaries of the river.  You can easily get a feel for the real workings of this country and how things are done.  Here, everyone is an entrepreneur of sorts!

Planting Rice in the Mekong Delta

As the food basket of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta covers an immense area winding its way over 3000 mi. from Tibet through Cambodia to Vietnam’s Peninsula, where it spills into the South China Sea.  It is marvelously fertile, and views here are all related to riverside life, orchards, rice paddies and any food-related small industry.  From snakes swimming in whisky to coconut candy, everything here reflects the flavors of Vietnamese culture.

The floating markets  in the Mekong highlight the shape of life here, where people live, shop, sell and eat from and in their vessels and homes on the water.  Getting to the area involves a lot of boat/bus/ferry/foot combinations, but its well worth the effort.  We arrived from Saigon on our 3-day trip, which included Can Tho and Vinh Long.  The journey down was a long, hobbling, creaking bus ride, passing paddy fields and other fields with every variety of food being grown here.  We stopped for lunch in Vinh Long.  We walked around the “land” market of local shops with their goods set up in baskets on the street, where all kinds of colors and scents greeted our senses.    A small motor launch took us along a peaceful tributary (away from the madding crowd of the main river) where each bend brought a new surprise and gorgeous scenery before we reached the home of a local farmer for lunch.  

Can Tho Riverside

 

We arrived in vibrant Can Tho, the delta’s largest city, in the late afternoon and spent the time exploring this busy and lively port city.  We rose the next morning at 4 am in raw anticipation.  The day on the river begins at the crack of dawn and floating markets are held every morning from about 5 am till noon.  We got into a small motor boat and made our way up the river to our first “stop” – the Phung Hiep market, the largest of the floating markets, located at the crossroads of 7 major canals.

The picture that greeted us was like laundry hanging out to dry.   A maze of hundreds of sampans spread out on the busy river, hoisting samples of their wares on towering bamboo poles, to be seen from a distance.  Coconuts, melons, mangoes, a heap of turtles, snakes, vegetables, fish, urns and vases and so much more all piled high on the vessels.  A beehive of activity where traders snapped up everything by the bushels to resell at local markets; where smaller merchants weaved their way between larger boats and suddenly, a spectacle of pineapples or cabbage flying through the air between vendor and shopper.  In between, floating restaurants, floating bars, floating gas stations and many other floating shops winding deftly between the boats.  The lively, near –frenzied pace here was an unmatched view into local culture.

Snakes in Whisky

We made our way to land for an afternoon cycling trip through the quiet lanes near Can Tho, biking through small villages and beautiful countryside, and in spite of the language barrier, meeting some very pleasant and friendly people. 

Early the next morning, we visited the Cai Rang floating market for a second taste of this experience.  Primarily a produce market, it is always busy, bearing all the characteristics of local life. After the market, we visited some small home industries where villagers made everything from coconut candies to rice paper.  We ended our trip with a trek through lush orchards and bee farms.  The highlight of the afternoon was a visit to the Dong Nam snake farm, where over 20 varieties of venomous snakes are used in drinks and food for medicinal purposes – some soaked in large flasks of whisky!

Making Rice Paper

 

The Mekong Delta, with its hustle-bustle, its genuine locals, its overgrown streams and great scenery, and above all, its characteristic floating markets is one of the most fascinating parts of this fascinating country and a springboard for getting to know Vietnamese culture and its people up close.

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