Janice Horton's Blog, page 7
April 26, 2024
Vietnam: Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island
The Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island is one of the largest caves in the Cat Ba archipelago, which is part of the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Ha Long Bay in North Vietnam, and a popular tourist attraction on the island.
When the backpacking husband and I visited Cat Ba Island in November as part of our fabulous travels through Vietnam, it was at the very start of the tourist season, there were no other visitors or tour groups at the cave, which added to our experience of exploration and adventure.
If you are on holiday on Cat Ba Island and you don’t might climbing a lot of steps then I would urge you to explore the Trung Trang Cave. It’s well worth a visit and it’s really easy to get there.
HOW TO GET TO TRUNG TRANG CAVE ON CAT BA ISLANDWe took a taxi from Cat Ba Town which is just 15km away.
The entrance is just off the main road where there is a ticket box.
An adult ticket costs (at time of writing) 80,000 VND (approx. $3 USD).
From the roadside entrance you follow a paved jungle path and then you’ll need to climb a lot of wooden steps up to the natural entrance to the cave.
At the top of the steps, there is an elevated platform where you’ll want to stop to admire the breathtaking views of the steamy jungle canopy and the verdant vista of the Cat Ba National Park and Biosphere Reserve all around you.
EXPLORING THE TRUNG TRANG CAVEEntering the cave formed millions of years ago felt like a real adventure!
The Trung Trang Cave is believed to have been formed during the Palaeozoic (a word meaning ancient life) Era of 541-252 million years ago.
But it was actually discovered fairly recently, in 1938, by a local named Hồ Đức Hùng.
The cave was used as a secret radio base for the naval command during the war between 1964 and 1968.
It was known then as ‘Navy Cave’ after which the cave was opened to the public and became Trung Trang Cave.
The cave is now famous for its millions of year old stalactites and stalagmites, which are illuminated by artificial lighting installed along the pathway, so that visitors can fully appreciate the natural wonder of the formations.
The path through the cave is about 300 meters long and consists of three main chambers deep inside the mountain.
In each of these chambers there are incredible naturally formed structures.
Some look like tangible shapes and others look like giant alien beings!
The ceilings, some with cathedral like proportions, are spectacular.
Besides its incredible geological features, Trung Trang Cave – also known locally as The Bat Cave – houses a diverse cave-dwelling ecosystem in its dark and damp cave conditions, including various species of bats.
THE LEGEND OF TRUNG TRANG CAVELocal legend tells the story of two brave and noble born sisters called Trung Trac and Trung Nhi who during the 1st Century, when Vietnam was under the cruel and oppressive rule of China’s Han Dynasty, swore to avenge their father’s death.
Their father had been executed by the Han rulers.
In response, the sisters summonsed all the young men of the region and led an uprising and revolt against the Han Dynasty
The sisters’ leadership and bravery in fighting to free their country from oppression inspired many to join their cause and they quickly gained support throughout the region.
The Trung Trang Cave is believed to be the place where the sisters and their militia found refuge and made plans for their rebellion.
Their most famous victory came at the Battle of Dong Ma Vi, where they defeated a much larger Chinese army.
Despite their initial successes, they were eventually betrayed by a traitor within their ranks and, facing overwhelming odds, rather than surrender, the sisters chose to die together by drowning themselves in the Hat River.
But legend says that their spirits still reside in the Trung Trang Cave and the story of the Trung Sisters is deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture and history.
Today they are still celebrated as symbols of patriotism, courage, and resistance.
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT TRUNG TRANG CAVE
The best time to visit Cat Ba Island and the Trung Trang Cave is during the dry season, which runs from October to April, when you can expect clear skies and minimal rainfall, making it ideal exploring the island’s natural beauty.
The months of October and November (my visit was during November) are often recommended as they offer comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season.
Do keep in mind that Cat Ba Island can of course still be visited during the wet season (May to September) but you should always check in advance that the cave is open to visitors during wet season.
TIPS FOR VISITING TRANG TRUNG CAVE ON CAT BA ISLAND1. Footwear: Avoid flip fops, open toe shoes, and sandals for walking in the National Park and the Trung Trang Cave. I would recommend trainers or sturdy footwear as the steps and walking surfaces can be wet and slippery.
2. Clothing: You might appreciate having a light jacket with you while walking in the cave as it can be cool and damp inside the chambers of the cave.
3. Lighting: The cave has artificial lighting installed so you shouldn’t need to bring a flashlight/torch.
4. Accessibility: There is a lot of steep steps up to the cave entrance and a well maintained but often low or narrow passage and pathway inside the cave.
5. Time: I would allow an hour to walk through the cave slowly while looking at all the amazing natural wonders and beauty inside the cave.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT CAT BA ISLANDFind out more about Cat Ba Island and the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in North Vietnam in my comprehensive Cat Ba Island post which features Cat Ba Island as a fabulous destination in its own right and as an alternative and affordable gateway into Halong Bay.
Find out more about Cat Ba Island
USE GOOGLE MAPS TO LOCATE TRUNG TRANG CAVE ON CAT BA ISLAND VIETNAM
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Vietnam: Cannon Fort on Cat Ba Island
Cannon Fort on Cat Ba Island in Vietnam is an important historical site with a strategic significance.
The fort was built in 1942 by the Japanese during World War II and later used by the French during the colonial period as a vantage point to defend against possible attacks from the sea.
The fort is also known as Than Cong Fortress and Point 117 as the fort is 177 meters above sea level.
Considering its prime position as a lookout, perhaps the very best reason to visit Cannon Fort is to fully appreciate the elevated and panoramic views of Cat Ba Island, the less-touristy Lan Ha Bay, and the surrounding karst landscape.
Views of Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay, and the surrounding karst landscapeWe took a walk from Cat Ba Town and a steep hike up to the fort to explore the remnants of the fortifications, including old cannons and bunkers, and in great anticipation of the panoramic views.
Along the route we came across a family of wild pigs with their cute babies.
You can take a taxi or, if you wish, ride a motorbike up the paved path to Cannon Fort.
You should note there is a ticket booth where you can buy and entrance ticket.
At the fort there are military bunkers and war remnants to see such as long discarded helmets and well-preserved artillery and gun placements and empty wooden boxes of ammunition that add to the surreal feeling of visiting a wartime landmark.
Cannon Fort military remnants In addition to its historical significance, Cannon Fort has become a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit destination for travellers exploring Cat Ba Island and the larger Halong Bay area.
Cannon Fort is well signposted and easy to get to from Cat Ba Town so I recommend you add this military site with incredible views to your Cat Ba Island itinerary.
When I was there in November – during my fabulous travels through Vietnam, from Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta in the south then through Danang and Hoi An and onto Hue in Central Vietnam by train via the famous Hai Van Pass and then to the north and Cat Ba Island for Halong Bay – it was the start of the tourist season here and the café at Cannon Fort was closed.
But in high season I hear it’s the place to get refreshments and enjoy the views and a sunrise of sunset over Cat Ba.
The views from Cannon Fort are stunningly beautiful
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT CANNON FORT ON CAT BA ISLAND
The best time to visit Cat Ba Island and Cannon Fort is during the dry season, which runs from October to April, when you can expect clear skies and minimal rainfall, making it ideal exploring the island’s natural beauty.
The months of October and November (my visit was during November) are often recommended as they offer comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season.
Do keep in mind that Cat Ba Island can of course still be visited during the wet season (May to September) but you should be prepared for occasional rainfall and higher humidity.
I recommend sturdy footwear as the paved road is steep TIPS FOR VISITING CANNON FORT1. Footwear: I would recommend trainers or sturdy footwear as the paved road is steep and the rocky walking surfaces can often be wet and slippery.
2. Clothing: You might appreciate having a light jacket with you while walking in the wet season.
3. Sun Protection: You should carry drinking water and wear a hat and sun protection.
4. Accessibility: The road is steep but Cannon Fort is only about 2.5 km from Cat Ba Town so it’s a fairly easy hike if you are fit/moderately fit.
5. Time: I would allow a half day to see the fort and to explore the area.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT CAT BA ISLANDFind out more about Cat Ba Island and the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in North Vietnam in my comprehensive Cat Ba Island post which highlights another fabulous Cat Ba tourist destination at Trung Trang Cave and features Cat Ba Island as a fabulous destination in its own right and also as an alternative and affordable gateway into Halong Bay.
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April 20, 2024
Vietnam: Cat Ba Island – Gateway to Halong Bay
I want to share with you a gem of a destination – a beautiful island off the coast of North Vietnam – called Cat Ba Island.
Cat Ba Island is not particularly well-known by visitors to Destinations in Vietnam as many tourists will prioritise Hanoi and Sapa and Ninh Binh and head directly to the scenic and world famous Halong Bay.
Yet Cat Ba Island is the undiscovered gateway to Halong Bay and the largest island of a group of over 300 small islands in the archipelago that makes up the UNESCO sites of Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay.
Cat Ba Island, with its steamy jungle covered interior is a great place to hike and explore caves and grottos, and its shores are surrounded by emerald green waters with towering limestone karsts that soar majestically from the sea.
In Cat Ba Town there is an enclave of homestays and hotels and bars and restaurants and coffee shops and a pretty pedestrian promenade.
There is so much to do and to enjoy on Cat Ba Island, I recommend you spend at least several days there, being just as active or as lazy as you like.
The backpacking husband and I stayed on Cat Ba a whole wonderful week.
Stunningly beautiful Cat Ba Island. Photo by Janice HortonWe normally make a point of travelling slowly. This trip through Vietnam had started in the south in Ho Chi Minh City and on the Mekong Delta before we travelled onto the central regions of Danang and Hoi An and Hue.
We were so charmed by Cat Ba that it made sense for us to stay for a full week and enjoy everything the area had to offer us.
Most Halong Bay hotels can be booked online.
We stayed in a wonderful small family run homestay called (their FB Page) Bao Phuc Hotel.
We booked using (affiliate link) Booking Dotcom and our room with breakfast at a total cost of just over £100 or around $120 for the whole week.
Since this trip, I’ve been able to recommend Cat Ba Island to many other travellers as a fabulous travel destination in its own right, but also as as a little-known alternative and affordable gateway into Halong Bay.
Travel with me to Cat Ba Island!
HOW TO GET TO CAT BA ISLAND
It’s really easy to reach Cat Ba Island from either of the cities of Hanoi or Hai Phong.
If you have a fancy budget then you could take a seaplane or a helicopter but if, like me, you’re travelling on a budget then an affordable bus is a great option and easy to arrange with a local tour operator.
We flew directly into Hai Phong (Cat Ba Airport) on a budget flight and booked our onward transport by bus/ferry/bus to Cat Ba Town and to our hotel using a well organised local company I can recommend to you (not a paid link) called Good Morning Cat Ba.
When we visited last November, the new Cat Ba Cable Car from the Tonkin Gult on the mainland over to Cat Ba Island was starting up in operation and I’m sure it will be a popular way to get to Cat Ba Island in future.
Cat Ba Island – North VietnamCAT BA ISLAND – GATEWAY TO HALONG BAYIt’s important to know Cat Ba Island is not just about being the gateway to the world-famous UNESCO Halong Bay as there are many other fabulous things to do on Cat Ba Island. Let me show you!
HOW TO SPEND A WEEK ON CAT BA ISLAND1. Take a boat trip or a cruise out to Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay.Sailing on Halong Bay has been a dream of mine for many years. A couple of years ago, during my first time in Vietnam, I’d tried to make my dream of a Halong Bay cruise a reality but at the time found organising the trip prohibitively expensive.
This time, however, using Cat Ba Island as my gateway to Halong Bay and booking a day trip locally to facilitate my dream it became possible at last!
The experience of seeing one of the most beautiful sites on earth will stay with me forever.
2. Go kayaking through the sea caves on Lan Ha Bay.
Kayaking through the sea caves was a real highlight of our time in this area.
The sea caves were formed millions of years ago and have been sculpted into small grottoes, expansive caverns, and intricate caves and arches by the constant pounding of the sea.
Some caves are accessible by kayak or boat while others may only be accessible during low tide or by swimming or with favourable Halong Bay weather.
Many have hidden beaches or secluded lagoons inside them.
We explored the sea caves by kayak as part of an organised tour.
Kayaking through sea caves at Lan Ha Bay3. Take a hike through Cat Ba’s jungle interior and National Park.Cat Ba’s National Park was established in 1986 as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and covers a significant portion of Cat Ba Island. It offers access to lush tropical forests, limestone karsts, caves, and coastline.
The jungle Interior is teeming with a variety of flora and fauna and wildlife, including birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals.
The Nation Park is also a sanctuary for the rare ‘golden-headed’ Cat Ba langur – a type of monkey – now critically endangered and only found on Cat Ba Island.
Cat Ba National Park offers several hiking trails that vary in difficulty and a popular route includes the Ngu Lam Peak Trail, which leads to a scenic viewpoint.
4. Walk up the paved road to Cannon Fort on Cat Ba Island.Cannon Fort is a remnant of war and an interesting great place to explore. The fort was originally constructed by the Japanese during World War II and later fortified by the French during their colonial rule in Vietnam.
During the Vietnam War, it served as a strategic military outpost.
There is a network of tunnels, bunkers, and gun emplacements that once housed soldiers and artillery and displays of military equipment and artefacts from the war.
But what I really appreciated more than the fort were the sweeping views over Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Town from the top of the hill.
Lan Ha Bay as seen from Cannon Fort on Cat Ba Island. Photo by Janice Horton5. Visit the Trung Trang Cave in the heart of Cat Ba National Park.Trung Trang Cave has been carved out of limestone over millions of years by geological erosion. The cave is about 15 km north of Cat Ba Town so we took a taxi out to the cave and our driver was happy to wait for us while we explored inside.
The cave is reached via steep steps and stretches for about 300 meters through the jungle hillside. Inside there are impressive displays of rock formations and chambers and geological formations, including stalactites hanging from the cave ceiling, and stalagmites rising up from the cave floor.
The cave’s pathways are well marked and artificially lit and so it is relatively easy and safe to explore without the fear of getting lost. Highly recommended!
Trung Trang Cave in the heart of Cat Ba National Park6. Visit Cat Ba Island’s beautiful beaches.Cat Ba’s many beaches are stunningly beautiful. The sand is silky soft and pale golden in colour and the waves lapping the shore are calm and aqua marine.
We visited Cat Co 1,2,and 3 Beaches as they are walking distance from Cat Ba Town.
But there’s also Tung Thu Beach on the south-eastern coast if you need to get away from the crowds in high season.
Other beaches might be more of a challenge to enjoy and these include:
Monkey Island Beach – named after its population of wild monkeys – is accessible by boat and worth a trip for snorkelling, kayaking, and hiking up to the viewpoints overlooking the bay.
Cat Ong Beach – is for those seeking peace and solitude on a secluded stretch of coastline surrounded by lush greenery on the eastern side of Cat Ba Island.
Nam Cat Island Beach – is on the southwest of Cat Ba Island and offers a pristine beach with calm waters and stunning views of Lan Ha Bay where you can enjoy swimming, snorkelling, and beach volleyball, as well as overnight stays in beachfront bungalows.
Cat Dua Beach – also known as Coconut Beach – is a remote and undeveloped beach offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of tourist areas. Accessible by boat or challenging hike you will be rewarded with its untouched natural beauty.
Cat Ba Island Beaches7. Enjoy Cat Ba’s local and delicious North Vietnamese food!Cat Ba offers a delicious variety of local dishes that showcase the flavours of the region at affordable prices and given Cat Ba’s coastal location, seafood is abundant and a highlight of the local cuisine.
We enjoyed mantis shrimp and grilled oysters and the island’s famous seafood hotpot (lau hai san) at Yummy Restaurant.
Freshly caught fish, shrimp, crab, squid, and shellfish are commonly featured in dishes such as grilled seafood, seafood noodles (bun hai san) and fried seafood spring rolls (nem hai san).
Cá Sặc Nướng (Grilled Cuttlefish): Cuttlefish is a popular delicacy and grilled cuttlefish marinated with spices and grilled to perfection, resulting in a flavourful and tender seafood treat.
Cá Hồi Nướng (Grilled Salmon): Salmon farming is prevalent in the area and a favourite among locals and visitors. Fresh salmon fillets are marinated and grilled over charcoal to give a smoky flavour to the fish.
Bún Cá (Fish Noodle Soup): A comforting and flavourful dish that features rice noodles in a fragrant fish broth, topped with pieces of fried fish, fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and sometimes shrimp paste. It’s a popular choice for breakfast or lunch.
Bánh Đa Cua (Crab Noodle Soup): This noodle soup features rice noodles in a savoury broth made from crab meat and bones, seasoned with herbs and spices. It’s typically served with fresh crab meat, fried tofu, and various garnishes.
Nem Cua Bể (Fried Crab Spring Rolls): These crispy and savoury spring rolls are filled with a mixture of crab meat, minced pork, vermicelli noodles, and vegetables, then deep-fried until golden brown. They’re often served with dipping sauce and fresh herbs.
Nộm Hải Sản (Seafood Salad): A salad made with a mix of fresh seafood such as shrimp, squid, and fish combined with shredded green papaya, herbs, peanuts, and a tangy dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar.
Gỏi Cá Trích (Mackerel Salad): This fish salad features shredded mackerel mixed with fresh herbs, lime juice, chili, and other seasonings. It’s a zesty and flavourful appetizer or side dish.
Cat Ba Food is delicious nutritious and affordableWHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GO TO CAT BA ISLAND?The best time to visit Cat Ba Island in Vietnam is generally during the dry season, which runs from November to April.
During this time, the weather is typically warm and sunny, with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and beach exploration.
The months of December to February are considered the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds during these months.
However, if you prefer fewer tourists and don’t mind a bit of rain, you might also consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May to October.
Just be aware that this period may experience occasional rainfall due to the monsoon season, particularly from July to September.
The backpacking husband and I visited in November at the very start of the dry season and before the crowds of high season.
When we were there it was overcast most days and occasionally we had a bit of rain but it was still pleasantly warm. It was great for hiking without getting overheated but I could also still walk along the beaches and swim in the sea without feeling cold.
It was also really great to have an uncrowded boat on the day of our boat trip to Lan Ha and Halong Bays.
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Have you ever been to Cat Ba?
Have you ever heard of Cat Ba Island?
Let me know in the comment box!
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April 10, 2024
Vietnam: 6 Royal Reasons To Visit The Imperial City of Hue
In Thua Thien-Hue Province in Central Vietnam, on the banks of the Perfume River, stands the ancient capital and former Imperial City of Hue.
If, like me, you feel passionate about experiencing a country’s culture and you also appreciate heritage and centuries old architecture, then a visit to Hue will certainly be a top destination to add to Your Vietnam Itinerary.
In this post I want to share with you my own fabulous experiences of the Imperial City of Hue.
I travelled to Hue from the south – having first arrived in Vietnam heading for the modern day capital Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – where I explored the city and the Mekong River Delta before travelling to Central Vietnam.
In Central Vietnam, first on my itinerary was a week long stay in the pretty and historic city of Hoi An.
From Hoi An, I boarded a train at Da Nang Station, and arrived in Hue after traversing the Hai Van Pass – known locally as ‘Ocean Cloud Pass’ – which is said to be the most scenic route in Vietnam and is famously considered to be one of the most spectacular train journeys in the whole world!
In Hue, the backpacking husband and I stayed for five nights at (affiliate link) The Scarlett Boutique Hotel.
It was a wonderful small hotel close to the city centre, the river, and walking distance to the Imperial Citadel.
I booked using (affiliate link) Booking Dotcom and at a cost of less than $150 for our five-night stay.
Flag Tower of The Imperial City of HueSIX ROYAL REASONS TO VISIT THE IMPERIAL CITY OF HUEEXPLORE HUE HISTORIC CITADELI was particularly interested to visit Hue Historic Citadel, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site and vast walled palace fortress from the Nguyen Dynasty that was built by the Emperor Gia Long.
Hue has a long history as a feudal capital dating back to 1687 when it was ruled by the Nine Nguyen Lords of the Inner Realm – the last feudal dynasty in Vietnam – until 1945.
The Citadel was modelled on Beijing’s Forbidden City and the tombs of Vietnam’s Royals are interred here which includes the tombs of Emperor Minh Mang: Emperor Tu Duc: Emperor Khai Dinh: Emperor Gia Long: Emperor Dong Khanh.
Other places of interest within the Imperial Citadel include the Hue Museum of Royal Fine Arts, The Hon Chen Temple, The Nam Giao Esplanade, and The An Dinh Palace.
Hue Imperial Citadel
GET DRESSED UP LIKE VIETNAMESE ROYALTY
At the Imperial Citadel in Hue, for a very small fee, you can dress up like an Vietnamese Empress or a Queen and pose in a golden royal carriage for a photograph.
It might sound totally touristy or even a tad dramatic but it’s so much FUN!
You even get your royal make up done by the ladies-in-waiting.
I was so impressed with my new eyebrows that I actually considered keeping them!
Queen of The Citadel!
OMGoodness!! A quick video of Queen of the Citadel!
VISIT DONG BA MARKETSince 1899 the Dong Ba Market has been a hive of activity in the centre of Hue.
Here you’ll find a plethora of things to buy from hats and bags and local crafts and clothes to household items and fresh vegetables.
There are indeed lots of food stalls here too and they smell amazing with freshly prepared local dishes and popular regional foods to try.
Here at the market you can also drink ‘Royal Tea’ made with fragrant local herbs.
A quick look around Dong Ba Market in HueTAKE A CYCLE RICKSHAW RIDE AROUND HUE
Early in the evening, while walking back to our hotel, we were asked by a rickshaw cyclist if we wanted a ride around the city in his rickshaw.
Yes, we did!
I’d noticed these ‘cyclos’ competing with the traffic on the busy roads and soon realised that most of them were running on battery power rather than just peddle power.
So, I didn’t feel quite as guilty in burdening our rickshaw cyclist to take both of us all around the streets and across the Truong Tien Bridge, if he was getting some help.
It truly was a wonderful way to see the Imperial City of Hue!
Watch my fun and fantastic video which I managed to edit down to less than one minute!
A rickshaw ‘cyclo’ ride video around Hue in less than 1 minute!WALK THE TRANG TIEN BRIDGE OVER THE PERFUME RIVER
On the southern bank of the Perfume River is a metal bridge known as the Trang Tien Bridge.
On the river bank there is a pedestrian promenade or ‘walking street’ that is very popular with young and old, locals and tourists, alike. It’s a place for artists and street musicians and family gatherings.
It’s perfect for a stroll in the cool of the evening.
At night, it’s also a perfect place to see the colourful lights projected every night onto the Trang Tien Bridge, take a river cruise, or dine at a riverside or floating restaurant.
The Trang Tien Bridge over the Perfume River in HueHUE – THE FOOD CAPITAL OF VIETNAMIt’s claimed that two-thirds of Vietnamese dishes originated in Hue.
From Banh Uot Thit Nuong and the signature Bun Hen to the Bun Bo Hue and delicious Banh Canh, the Imperial City offers a fabulous array of tasty dishes and fabulous restaurants.
Vietnamese cuisine has long taken to the streets and the street food scene is simply scintillating!
I’m a great fan of the Late Anthony Bourdain and I’ve watched all his shows featuring the food scene in Hue.
He famously says that some of his best meals where in Hue and that Cơm hến, or clam rice, is best served in a bowl on the side of the street. He also stated that Bun Bo Hue, as found in Dong Ba Market, was “the greatest soup in the world”.
I love Vietnamese food and I was in foodie heaven in Hue.
Hue is the food capital of Vietnam!I also found Hue to be a right royal treasure and I hope you’ll enjoy my six royal reasons for adding Hue to your Vietnam travel itinerary!
Is Vietnam on your travel wish list?
Have you been to Hue?
Let me know in the comment box!
THE BACKPACKING HOUSEWIFE RECOMMENDS TRAVEL INSURANCE – GET A NO OBLIGATION QUOTE TODAY
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April 8, 2024
Vietnam: Da Nang to Hue by Train via Hai Van Pass
As part of my travels through Vietnam, I was especially looking forward to taking the northbound train from Da Nang, along the coastal route to the historic city of Hue, via the famous and stunningly beautiful Hai Van Pass.
Traversing the Hai Van Pass – known locally as ‘Ocean Cloud Pass’ by train is a bucket list experience for many and I’m no exception.
The Hai Van Pass is said to be the most scenic route in Vietnam.
It is also considered to be one of the most spectacular train journeys in the whole world and I was really looking forward to it as an epic part of my six month long Grand Tour of Asia!
Boarding the iconic train from Da Nang to Hue via Hai Van Pass
I was boarding the SE1 Reunification Train at Da Nang, having spent a week in Hoi An, but the train actually started its journey in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and ends it in Hanoi.
Depending on the season there are 3-5 trains a day (some are overnight) on this route.
Various classes of travel are offered with an options with/without air con.
Carriages are a mix of sleeper berths and seated only sections.
Ticket prices on the 2-3 hour journey (depending on which train) from Da Nang to Hue start at around $15.
Find out more about best ticket prices from (affiliate link) KLOOK.
It’s worth noting that tickets book up fast so do try to book in advance.
If possible, you should make sure to book a window seat or a berth on the coastal side of the train, and choose to travel in the daytime through the Hai Van Pass section of the journey.
DA NANG TO HUE (OR HUE TO DA NANG) BY ROAD
It is also possible to travel from Da Nang to Hue (or Hue to Da Nang) by road.
The 165km old heritage road (made famous on the Top Gear programme in 2008) is a notoriously windy and mountainous route with hairpin bends.
The old road offers the opportunity to stop off in places and is relatively unused these days as most traffic and all heavy traffic will take the modern Highway One.
It’s worth knowing that the newer road is serviced by a series of modern day tunnels, cut through the Trường Sơn mountains that separate Central Vietnam from North Vietnam.
The longest of these road tunnels on Highway One at 6km (completed in 2005) is actually the longest road tunnel in south east Asia.
So, for the most scenic coastal route, I’d recommended taking the train.
DA NANG TO HUE BY TRAIN VIA HAI VAN PASSTravel with me on this iconic and stunningly scenic train journey with misty mountainous jungle and rivers and waterfalls to see on one side of us and the glistening South China Sea and curved white sand beaches in secluded bays on the other.
Sit back and relax as our train will travel at an unhurried pace along this long-established rail track (established around 100 years ago).
We can press our faces against the window glass to watch the first part of the train curving around bends and crossing bridges ahead of us.
And we can stare out of the window at the natural beauty all around us.
Have you travelled through Vietnam by train?
Is the Hai Van Pass by train on your bucket list?
Let me know in the comment box!
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April 3, 2024
Vietnam: Mekong River Delta Adventure
The Mekong River is a fabulous and easy day trip away from the hustle and bustle of Saigon also called Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC).
The Mekong Delta region or Đồng Bằng Sông Mê Kông includes the city of My Tho in the province of Tien Giang in southwestern Vietnam is renowned for its floating villages and floating markets and one of the longest rivers in the world.
The Mekong River originates in Tibet and flows through many countries in Southeast Asia, including China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.
In the outer delta of Vietnam, the rich agricultural land is one of the most fertile areas in Asia and is known as ‘the rice bowl’ of Vietnam.
Here the majestic river forms into ‘nine dragons’ before emptying into the South China Sea.
MEKONG RIVER DELTA ADVENTURE
Our six person group tour on the Mekong River Delta Adventure!The backpacking husband and I went on a day trip to the Mekong Delta that we’d organised with (affiliate link) KLOOK from HCMC. It was a small tour with only six people including our tour guide, myself, and the backpacking husband.
Click to read more on my Highlights of HCMC
It took around ninety minutes to drive (about 193 km) from HCMC in a minivan and it was a pleasant and scenic journey as each side of the road was flanked by countryside and rice fields.
Our guide was polite and fun and very knowledgeable.
Our full day trip started with an 8am pickup at our hotel and included all transport and bottled drinking water.
We boarded our traditional motorised cruise boat at the pier and we sailed along the wider aspects of the Mekong River.
We saw lots of other boats and admired the Delta landscape as we passed Turtle, Dragon, Phoenix, and Unicorn, islets.
Mekong Delta River Trip – in just a thirty second video!
Next, at the end of our motorised boat trip, we were met by a small flotilla of local women who were rowing traditional ‘Sampan’ canoes, who distributed our Vietnamese hats at we carefully climbed into the canoes
Then, with our paddles at the ready, in our canoes we made our way along the smaller canals lined with coconut palms.
It was an amazing and tranquil experience to be floating along this iconic waterway and I took lots of photos of video.
Sampan Canoe Experience on the Mekong River – in less than one minute!
Lunch was both traditional and sumptuous and was provided in a local village garden covered setting.
The food was really delicious. Our companions were fun.
After lunch, we were treated to music and local songs, performed by villagers and given lots of photo opportunities!
There were lots of photo opportunities during the day!I couldn’t help but to think that the tour was really great value.
It was certainly turning into a day to remember for all the best reasons.
In the afternoon, there was a stop at a Coconut Candy Factory and also a chance to buy and try locally grown fruits.
One of these fruits included the notoriously smelly Durian Fruit.
Have you ever tried Durian?
It’s said to taste something like a medley of garlic and bananas!
I’ve seen it for sale everywhere in Southeast Asia. In so many places the Durian is heralded as the ‘King of Fruits’.
But, until that day on the Mekong, I hadn’t yet tasted it myself.
I can’t say I was impressed by the smell or the flavour!
Durian Fruit – I can’t say I was impressed!We also stopped off Dr Fish – a Fish Spa – where fish peck at your feet!
Even the backpacking husband thought it was a hilarious and unique experience.
Then, we stopped for a delicious cup of complimentary afternoon honey tea at a Bee Farm, where we also got a good look at the busy bees and their hives from a local busy bee handler.
Mekong Delta Honey and Honey Tea at the Bee FarmIn the afternoon, we were also given the option (bikes provided) to take a cycle through the countryside and a local village.
Cycling at the Mekong DeltaOur Mekong River Delta adventure was a fabulous experience. I would absolutely recommend it to you as a quiet respite from all the traffic and hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City and as a fabulous addition to your Southern Vietnam itinerary.
Have you ever been to Vietnam?
Is Vietnam a country that interests you?
Check out the Klook Tours I’ve listed below.
Let me know in the comment box below!
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March 31, 2024
The Ultimate Over 50’s Travel Wish List 2024
Do you have a travel wish list for 2024 and beyond into your retirement years?
I certainly do and I’m ticking off and adding to it all the time!
Creating a travel wish list – or travel bucket list – is a fun and interesting way not only to prioritise your travel goals but to help realise your own personal goals and ambitions too.
Just like you – every person’s travel wish list will be unique!
Your travel wish list will lend itself to your own personal preferences for cold, temperate, or tropical places, for adrenaline-pumping adventures or for stillness and tranquillity.
Are you fascinated by history and architecture natural wonders?
Do you prefer beach destinations or big city adventures?
Are you a foodie who wants to explore culinary hotspots around the world?
Do you enjoy cultural immersion and exploring heritage sites?
Do you love hiking and outdoor adventures?
There is one thing travel wish lists will always have in common and it is that the journey or experience will leave a lasting impression on those who embark on them.
I like to think of my own travel wish lists as two entirely separate lists.
One that’s for travel destinations and one that’s for travel experiences.
TOP PLACES FOR YOUR TRAVEL WISH LIST 2024
1. Japan
2. South Korea
3. Maldives
4. Taiwan
5. Vietnam
6. Caribbean
7. Scotland
8. Europe
9. Canada
10. USA
TOP EXPERIENCES FOR YOUR TRAVEL WISH LIST 20243. Learn to Scuba Dive in The Caribbean
6. Street Art Tour of Georgetown Penang
7. Antiquities Tour of Cairo Egypt
8. Volunteering On Turtle Conservation
10. Drink From A 1200 Year Old Pot of Tea
A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO CREATING YOUR OWN TRAVEL LISTSBrainstorm Destinations: Start by brainstorming destinations that you’ve always wanted to visit.
Do Your Research: Once you have a list of potential destinations, research each one carefully to learn more. Consider in your travel planning such factors as attractions, activities, climate, culture, safety, travel requirements, budget, travel time, seasonality, etc.
Consider Your Interests: Tailor your wish list to include destinations that align with your interests and your passions.
Set Your Priorities: Prioritize your list based on your preferences and priorities.
Include Specific Experiences: Consider specific experiences or activities that you want to have in each destination. Whether it’s swimming with dolphins, visiting ancient ruins, or attending a music festival, adding specific experiences to your wish list will make it more tangible and exciting.
Create a Visual Wishlist: Visual aids can help make your travel wish list more engaging and motivating. Create a vision board or digital collage featuring images of your dream destinations, activities, and experiences. You can also use platforms like Pinterest to create virtual travel boards.
Review and Update: Review your travel wish list regularly and update it as needed. As your interests and priorities change, you may discover new destinations or experiences to add to your list. Keep your list dynamic and flexible to accommodate changes over time.
Take Action: Once you have a travel wish list in place, start taking steps to turn your travel goals and travel dreams into reality. Set goals, create a savings plan, and start planning your first trip.
Remember that your travel wish list is meant to inspire and motivate you to explore the world, so don’t be afraid to dream big and pursue your passions!
TRAVEL WISH LIST RESOURCESPHOTOSPhotos are wonderful for inspiring travel destinations and for travel planning.
I like to look for travel photos in travel magazines, on Instagram, and on Pinterest.
TRAVEL MAPSTravel maps are invaluable for planning your itinerary.
BUCKET LIST PLANNERI love to carry a travel planner for making notes and for journaling.
(Affiliate link) Browse Travel Planners on AmazonLINKS TO BUCKET LIST PLANNING APPSTravel Apps on your phone will show you the way to go!
ACCOMODATION PLANNINGI use and recommend Booking Dotcom
ACTIVITIES PLANNINGFind fabulous activities and the best ticket prices with KLOOK
Klook.com (function (d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = "text/javascript"; s.async = true; s.src = u; p.parentNode.insertBefore(s, p); })( document, "script", "https://affiliate.klook.com/widget/fe..." );TRAVEL INSURANCEGet a no obligation quote – World Nomads
Do YOU have a Travel Wish List?
Do you love or loathe the term ‘bucket list?’
Get in touch or leave a comment!
The post The Ultimate Over 50’s Travel Wish List 2024 appeared first on The Backpacking Housewife.
March 15, 2024
Vietnam: Highlights of Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam is one of my favourite countries in the world and I’d actually visited several times before I finally plucked up the courage to travel to Vietnam’s largest and most populated city – Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) or as locals still like to call it – Saigon.
With a population of almost 10 million people, HCMC has a reputation for extreme hustle and bustle.
It apparently has 25 times more motorbikes than cars (that’s 7.3 million motorbikes!) and I’d heard that a yellow traffic light in HCMC means ‘drive faster’ and that the only way to cross a street is to walk straight out into the traffic and hope for the best.
I’d also heard that bag snatching was a thing and so for a long time I’d assumed HCMC was dangerous for tourists.
And, I suppose, that’s what had put me off exploring this reputedly most chaotic city in Vietnam… until now.
Because now, I consider myself a savvy traveller, who knows better than to dismiss a destination on hearsay alone.
TRAVEL GUIDE TO HO CHI MINH CITY
In planning my recent three-week trip to Vietnam – travelling into Ho Chi Minh in the south then to Danang and the ancient city of Hoi An in the central region and then north onto Haiphong and Cat Ba Island (gateway to Halong Bay) – I decided to put any big city fears aside and to start my Vietnamese journey by exploring Ho Chi Minh City for its culture, history, food, and sightseeing.
Which resulted in a truly amazing stay in HCMC and adventurous start to our tour of Vietnam!
I can now tell you that yes – the city is definitely bustling and noisy and chaotic – but it’s also beautiful, vibrant, and exciting.
Yes, you do have to walk out into the constantly moving traffic to get across the road – but if you do it confidently or with a local person – you’ll likely survive intact and also have a brave tale to tell!
And the bag snatching thing? Well, I was careful and observant, and it didn’t happen to me.
Regarding theft and personal safety – as in any city – normal precautions do apply.
WHAT TO SEE IN Ho Chi Minh CityHo Chi Minh City / Saigon is a city of interesting contrasts with a rich history, a war torn past, a progressive culture and a programme of modern high rise urban development.
Architecture in HCMC is stunning to behold with so many grand buildings that lay witness to the city’s French colonial rule during the 19th to the mid-20th Century.
These include The Hotel Continental Saigon (1880) (where, interestingly, author Graham Greene wrote The Quiet American in Room 214 of the hotel). The Central Post Office (1886), The Opera House (1898), the twin-spired Notre Dame Basilica of Saigon (1880), The Hotel Majestic (1925).
Modern architecture in HCMC shows the changing face of Vietnam’s largest city and is reflected in contemporary buildings like Landmark 81 and The Bitexco Financial Tower – once the tallest building in Vietnam – and if you love a 360 degree view (as I do) then The Bitexco Skydeck is a fabulous way to see the entire city from an elevated perspective.
We must also respectfully note that in HCMC there is the essential element of ‘dark tourism’.
This reflects on the Vietnam War (or American War as it’s known by the Vietnamese) and many visitors (including myself) find the historical sites interesting and emotionally captivating in the same way as Japan’s Hiroshima Peace Park.
In HCMC / Saigon, these exhibits include The War Remnants Museum, Independence Palace (formerly known as the Reunification Palace), the Cu Chi Tunnels, etc.
MY TRAVEL GUIDE TO HO CHI MINH CITYHo Chi Minh SquareA statue of Ho Chi Minh, known affectionately as ‘Uncle Ho’, stands in the centre of this pedestrianised square in the heart of the city in District One.
Placed here in May 2003 to commemorate the former president’s 113th birthday, the statue and the square is surrounded by parkland greenery and great French colonial buildings.
The Central Post OfficeSaigon Central Post Office is a magnificent testament to Old Saigon and to classic French architecture.
The designer was the famous Gustave Eiffel, architect of many iconic buildings including the Eiffel Tower in Paris, The Statue of Liberty in New York and Long Bien Bridge in Hanoi.
Inaugurated in 1863 and located in a prime location on Cong Xa Paris Street, District One.
Notre Dame Basilica of SaigonThe French colonists called this cathedral in Paris Square in downtown Ho Chi Minh City – constructed between 1863 and 1880 – The Church of Saigon.
Today it is known as Notre Dame and is a magnificent icon and also rather novel sight – to me at least – to see so much of Paris right here in Asia and in mostly Buddhist Vietnam.
Unfortunately, when I visited it was closed for renovations and the exterior clad in scaffold.
The War Remnants MuseumThis museum with it’s collection of authentic war memorabilia was an emotionally moving experience.
I’m old enough to remember news of the Vietnam War on TV screens in the UK through the late 1960’s and early 1970’s.
Standing close to these now iconic helicopters (I’m standing next to a 1965 Chinook Helicopter from Cavalry Division One of the United States).
The backpacking husband was interested in seeing the US Bell Huey helicopter.
I couldn’t help but to note how well worn and sweat stained the seats are inside the aircraft on display – like the shadows of those from the past who flew them. I found the torturous bits gruesome.
And, my goodness, I’d forgotten how incredibly hot it is here in Vietnam!
Independence PalaceFormerly known as the Reunification Palace, the Independence Palace was built between 1962 to 1966 and is a historic and symbolic site and a landmark building in HCMC.
It’s interesting to view the palace through the imposing – now iconic – gates through which the North Vietnamese tanks (on display in the grounds) famously stormed on the 30th April 1975 to remove the flag, arrest President Duong Van Minh, and end the war.
Today, the palace is a museum and you can roam around the corridors, through the preserved war rooms and underground tunnels, observe the staterooms in their 70’s décor, which seem to be haunted by the historic events witnessed there.
In my opinion, The Independence Palace is simply a must-see-and-do experience in Ho Chi Minh City.
The Bitexco SkydeckIf you’ve read other city posts on this website you’ll see I’ve enjoyed views over Tokyo from The Tokyo Tower, over Taipei from the 101 Tower, over Kuala Lumpur from the Petronas Towers – you get the picture – I love a city tower!
The Saigon Skydeck on the 49th floor and at a height of 178 metres offers fabulous views over Ho Chi Minh City.
What perhaps makes it unique – as it is no longer the tallest tower in Vietnam – is its helipad that cantilevers from the 52nd floor!
The Bitexco Tower and it’s Skydeck is a fabulous way to get a 360 degree view of the cityscape and to see the Saigon River from an elevated viewpoint.
Hotel Majestic SAIGONSince 1925, situated at the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, the historic art-deco 5-star luxury Hotel Majestic Saigon, has been one of the city’s most familiar landmarks.
You can enquire about and book a stay at The Hotel Majestic Saigon with (affiliate link) Booking Dotcom.
It’s deluxe rooms and spacious suites with full marble bathrooms, private balconies, have hosted many royalty, famous personalities, and renowned writers.
It’s sweeping staircase, vintage elevator, and roof top bar with views over the Saigon River, are all synonymous with rich colonial style and elegance.
The faded grandeur epitomises the Old Saigon.
I simply couldn’t help but to feel impressed.
SAIGON FOOD SCENEHCMC has a fantastic Vietnamese and international food scene and coffee café culture.
If you enjoy street food then I absolutely loved slurping noodles from Cocochin Food Court and also the Ben Thanh Market in District 1 which is a well-known street food hub.
If you enjoy sitting down to dinner in a quaint lantern lit restaurant or a modern fusion ‘homeland’ eatery then you’ll love to dine at Am Thuc Que Nha and Quan An Ngon Saigon.
WHERE TO STAY IN HO CHI MINH CITYThe backpacking husband and I chose to stay at The Orchids Saigon Hotel.
I booked our stay using (affiliate link) Booking Dotcom because the hotel had good reviews, breakfast included, great amenities (including a swimming pool) and a great location for walking to most of the sights, places of interest, and places to eat.
Orchids Saigon Hotel is in District 3 and within 500 metres of the War Remnants Museum.
It’s walking distance if you are reasonably fit to Reunification Palace, Diamond Plaza and Ho Chi Minh City Museum.
The hotel provides an airport shuttle and Tan Son Nhat International Airport is only 6 km away.
TRANSPORTATION
Getting around HCMC is primarily facilitated by a network of buses, taxis, motorbikes, and cyclos (three-wheeled bicycle taxis). The city is currently undergoing rapid development in its public transportation system with plans for a metro system to alleviate traffic congestion.
Klook.com (function (d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = "text/javascript"; s.async = true; s.src = u; p.parentNode.insertBefore(s, p); })( document, "script", "https://affiliate.klook.com/widget/fe..." ); (function (d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = "text/javascript"; s.async = true; s.src = u; p.parentNode.insertBefore(s, p); })( document, "script", "https://affiliate.klook.com/widget/fe..." );INTERESTING FACTS ON HO CHI MINH CITYHo Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is located in the south eastern region of the country, serving as the economic and cultural hub of Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam both in terms of population and economic activity. As the economic centre of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City drives a diverse range of industries including finance, commerce, tourism, technology, and manufacturing.
HCMC has a rich history, with its origins dating back to the Khmer Empire.
It became a significant port city during the 17th century when Vietnamese settlers moved into the area.
In the 19th century, it was colonized by the French to become the capital of French Indochina.
The city played a pivotal role in the Vietnam War until the reunification of the country in 1975.
The city’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport is the busiest airport in Vietnam.
HCMC boasts a vibrant cultural scene with museums, theatres, art galleries, and music venues.
It is known for its dynamic street life, bustling markets, and delicious street food.
The city has a rich architectural heritage and also features beautiful parks and gardens such as Tao Dan Park and the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
The Currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND).
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT HO CHI MINH CITY?
The best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City is typically during the dry season, which runs from December to April.
During this time, the weather is generally warm and dry, making it ideal for exploring the city’s attractions, markets, and outdoor activities.
Avoiding the rainy season, which usually occurs from May to November, is advisable as heavy rainfall can cause flooding and disrupt travel plans.
Additionally, Ho Chi Minh City experiences high humidity throughout the year, but it tends to be more manageable during the dry season.
Overall, December to April offer the most comfortable weather conditions for tourists to enjoy their visit to Ho Chi Minh City. However, it’s essential to check weather forecasts before planning your trip as weather patterns can vary year to year.
Have you ever visited Ho Chi Minh City?
Do you prefer HCMC or Saigon?
Have you visited elsewhere in Vietnam?
Is Vietnam on your travel wish list?
Let me know!
I’d love you to leave a comment below.
The post Vietnam: Highlights of Ho Chi Minh City appeared first on The Backpacking Housewife.
February 15, 2024
My Top 10 Exciting Things To Do In Bahrain
I want to share with you some of the amazing places and authentic experiences I personally experienced while visiting Bahrain on a fantastic ten-day trip.
There are a multitude of travel guides online listing best things to do in Bahrain but I feel these guides all seem to recommend the same touristy spots.
And so – although the top tourist sights of Bahrain are all absolutely worth seeing – I thought you might like to know about my own specially curated and absolute Top 10 Exciting Things To Do In Bahrain.
I hope you find it interesting, informative, inspiring… and exciting!
Exciting Bahrain!TABLE OF CONTENTS
10 DAYS IN BAHRAIN – 10 EXCITING THINGS TO DO IN BAHRAINWHERE IS BAHRAIN?MY TOP 10 EXCITING THINGS TO DO IN BAHRAINADMIRE THE MANAMA CITYSCAPEDRINK A COCKTAIL AND PEOPLE WATCH AT A SUNSET BARGO SHOPPING TO A SOUQ OR A MALLTOUR THE INTERNATIONAL F1 TRACKVISIT AMWAJ ISLANDSSEE THE TREE OF LIFEGO FOR A WALK ON THE BEACHPLAY GOLF AT THE ROYAL GOLF CLUBVISIT THE MARINADON’T MISS A MANAMA SUNSET 10 DAYS IN BAHRAIN – 10 EXCITING THINGS TO DO IN BAHRAINThe backpacking husband and I were staying just outside the cosmopolitan capital city of Manama, on the kind invitation of some dear friends, who we’d met on a trip to Maldives and who’d lived in the Kingdom of Bahrain as ex-pats for many years.
Our generous friends had made it their mission to be our local guides and had planned an immersive ten day itinerary to show us their kingdom and how this small island country is an interesting, vibrant, and booming place to live and to visit.
To give you an idea of size of Bahrain, it is quite similar in size to the Isle of Anglesey in the UK or New York City in the USA.
So Bahrain is a place you can get a great sense of if you are visiting for a few days.
Or explore quite thoroughly if you are visiting for a week or more.
Some days we ventured out far into the hot white sands of the Arabian desert.
Or we strolled over the golden sands at the beach.
We explored the luxury man-made islands at Amwaj and on other days, we immersed ourselves in the Bahraini café culture.
We drank Arabian coffee and ate succulent dates (never in equal numbers – you can have one or three, for example, but never two or four).
In the evenings, we tagged along with our friends and socialised with the ex-pat set at the Bahrain Football and Rugby Club or ventured into the city to hotels like The Sofitel or The Ritz Carlton for sundowner cocktail and a delicious dinner.
WHERE IS BAHRAIN?Bahrain is a small island country located in the Persian Gulf. It is situated off the eastern coast of Saudi Arabia and northwest of Qatar.
Historically, Bahrain was renowned for its pearl diving industry, which was one of the main economic activities in the region for centuries.
In fact, while I was in Bahrain, I was researching an aspect of the plot that is about pearl farming and pearl diving for my novel (affiliated link) Island in the Sun.
Island In The Sun by Janice HortonYou can find out about my books – including my Backpacking Housewife novels – on my Books Page.
These days, Bahrain is still a meld of rich history and diverse culture, with a mix of Arab, Persian, and other influences.
It has also become a major financial centre in the Middle East.
Bahrain is proudly home to the Grand Prix, a Formula One race held annually at the Bahrain International Circuit.
See below – this is one of my Top Picks!
MY TOP 10 EXCITING THINGS TO DO IN BAHRAINSo, this is my Top 10 Special Things To Do In Bahrain, curated by well-connected locals and recommended by me!
1. ADMIRE THE MANAMA CITYSCAPEManama has an incredibly beautiful and recognisable skyline with its World Trade Centre twin-tower complex – featuring three wind turbines bridging two towers – and the prominent features of The Financial Harbour residential and commercial skyscraper buildings.
One of the more prominent structures also known for its modern design in Manama’s skyline is The Almoayyed Tower and also the sleek United Tower, characterised by its unique twisted shape.
So whether its shimmering in the daytime heat or sparkling under the Arabian night sky, there are many iconic buildings to admire that contribute to Manama’s distinctive city silhouette.
2. DRINK A COCKTAIL AND PEOPLE WATCH AT A SUNSET BAR
We had lots of opportunity to dress up in the evenings.
We either socialised with the ex-pat set at the Bahrain Football and Rugby Club or we watched incredible sunsets while sipping sophisticated cocktails on a rooftop bar at one of Manama’s top hotels, like the Ritz Calton.
You might be wondering about the legality of alcohol and it’s interesting to note that in Bahrain (unlike neighbouring Saudi Arabia) although not widely available to buy in shops, alcohol can be purchased by non-Muslims in hotels and some other licensed premises.
I have to admit that was quite fascinated by all the stylishly dressed and beautiful people quaffing only the best Champagnes in our midst during our social outings.
So I found people watching in Bahrain rather compulsive.
I’m normally a very low-maintenance traveller – I am the backpacking housewife after all – but, in Bahrain, I did rather indulge myself in the high life and really enjoyed being invited into a rather chic society and elegant ‘other’ world.
I was also quite eye-popping to see the wealth of cars in the carpark.
There were so many Lamborghinis or Maserati or Porsche!
Do note that it is illegal to drink alcohol in public and there is zero tolerance towards drink driving – even if you drive a Lamborghini.
3. GO SHOPPING TO A SOUQ OR A MALL
There is a certain freedom that exists in Bahrain that attracts many shoppers from neighbouring Gulf States, especially Saudi Arabia, which is connected to Bahrain by the incredible (25 km long) King Fahd Causeway known locally as the Road of Death!
I’m told that the name comes from the fact that the bridge is treated as a speedway between Saudi and Bahrain at weekends with many Saudi’s heading over to enjoy Bahrain’s more tolerant attitudes to social activities and cheaper shopping!
I (mostly) window shopped in many of the wonderful air-conditioned malls which have lots of familiar western outlets like Marks and Spencer.
In the Souks, we browsed in and out of exotic perfume shops amongst rich and heavenly Arabian fragrances with prices that made your eyes water.
I noticed that lots of Bahrain ladies, while dressed in their abaya – some of them hemmed with sparkling gems – seemed to be absolutely drenched in these amazing perfumes and they would smell divine as they wafted past me.
4. TOUR THE INTERNATIONAL F1 TRACK
We drove out to take a look at the Bahrain International Circuit.
The racetrack is famously known as the host for the first ever Formula One event held in the middle east.
Construction started in late 2002 with a challenging sixteen-month deadline to get the facility ready.
The circuit now attracts tens of thousands of visitors to each race event.
Here I am standing in the vast sand car park outside the stadium!
5. VISIT AMWAJ ISLANDS
The Amwaj Islands of Bahrain are really interesting and located near the northeast coast.
They are a beautifully designed man-made archipelago of islands connected by canals and known for their luxury residential properties.
Residents here enjoy waterfront living as well as a range of amenities including shopping malls, restaurants, hotels, and marinas for their boats and yachts.
It’s really interesting to spend a few hours there just to go for a stroll and indulge in the luxury of it all!
6. SEE THE TREE OF LIFE
This is actually my number one of so many wonderful experiences in Bahrain.
Not only do you have to drive through an Arabian desert, when you do find it, it is breathtakingly stunning – and completely unexplainable – how one centuries old tree can survive and indeed thrive in a place where nothing else can!
See my full post for more info on visiting this Tree of Life in Bahrain.
7. GO FOR A WALK ON THE BEACH
There are several public and private beaches in Manama. We spent a lovely evening walking on the golden sands and watching a sunset from Jarada Beach.
We also spent a wonderful day at luxurious Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Resort with its fabulous private beach and huge lagoon style pool which is open for both guests and day visitors.
8. PLAY GOLF AT THE ROYAL GOLF CLUB
If you’re a golfer then you’d absolutely want to play a round at The Royal Golf Club.
Opened in 2010, the stunning eighteen-hole course was designed by Europe’s Ryder Cup captain, Colin Montgomerie’
He also designed the par nine hole “Wee Monty” course.
Both courses are open to the public as is the driving range.
Other amenities include a golf academy, shop, café, lounge and restaurant.
9. VISIT THE MARINA
Bahrain Marina provides berthing facilities for yachts and boats.
The marina development, like the Islands of Amwaj, contribute to the architectural landscape of Manama as a significant development in a prime location.
The Bahrain Marina has landscaped promenades and parks, luxury residential towers, cafes, restaurants, hotels, cinemas, theatres, event spaces, and all in a vibrant waterfront environment.
Again, it is wonderful to observe and to enjoy with a cup of morning coffee.
But what about at sundown? Ah, this leads me nicely to my number ten!
10. DON’T MISS A MANAMA SUNSET
Whether you choose to watch from a beach or a bar the sundown here is intense.
The sun sets early in Bahrain and there are many great spots to watch it sink through the horizon and to celebrate another beautiful day in Bahrain.
The colour is so strong and the glow so vibrant that I’ve stored it in my memory as one of the most stunningly beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen.
Of course, I need you to know that I’m aware not everyone in Bahrain is wealthy, lives in a gated villa with a private swimming pool, owns a yacht in the marina, or parks their sports car outside the Ritz Carlton.
But we were staying with friends and it’s the world I saw and experienced during my visit.
It was a huge privilege and quite an eye-opener to witness ex-pat life in Bahrain and we consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to have friends who are so generous and who welcomed us into their world – another world – albeit for a while.
Have you ever been to Bahrain?
If not, is Bahrain a place you’d like to visit?
Where did you see your most beautiful sunset?
Tell me in the comment box!
The post My Top 10 Exciting Things To Do In Bahrain appeared first on The Backpacking Housewife.
February 13, 2024
Bahrain – The Tree of Life
I love a big ancient old tree, so the legend of the Tree of Life in Bahrain and the amazing story behind it, became a fascination to me during a fabulous ten-day visit to The Kingdom of Bahrain.
This old tree also known as Shajarat-al-Hayat is located in the very heart of the Arabian desert, around 40 kilometres outside of the capital city of Manama, and is hailed as an iconic symbol of the country.
The Kingdom of Bahrain is a small island country in the Persian Gulf just off the coast of Saudi Arabia.
The backpacking husband and I were in Bahrain visiting some good friends who live there.
Bahrain has a rich history dating back to ancient times.
It was once part of the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia and Dilmun.
Local legend has it that Bahrain was actually the biblical location of the Garden of Eden.
And, it is said that the Tree of Life in Bahrain, is all that remains of the Garden of Eden today.
The gnarled old Mesquite – a type of tree not at all native to this part of the world and that would normally found in The Americas – is believed to have been planted here around 1583.
That makes the Tree of Life in Bahrain well over 400 years old.
The tree holds cultural and historical significance for the people of Bahrain, who regard it with reverence and awe, as a remarkable natural wonder as it stands alone on a sandy knoll amidst a dry and barren landscape some two kilometres from Bahrain’s highest point (134 metres) at Jebel Dukhan Hill (Arabic for ‘Mountain of Smoke’) in the desert heat haze.
We travelled on a sand screed road through the desert in search of the tree, where it seemed for many miles the only thing to see other than an endless shimmering visa of sand, was rows of the ‘nodding donkey’ type of oil wells.
Eventually, in great anticipation, we saw it on the horizon.
The sight of this tree standing proud and all alone in the desert took my breath away.
It’s not a particularly tall tree at almost ten meters high but it is wide and its sprawling limbs are covered in healthy looking green foliage.
We parked up and walked over to get a closer look at the tree and I saw its heavy and twisted old branches, some of which were so low they were touching the the sand, and some which were being held up and supported by wooden braces.
WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT THE TREE OF LIFE?I can understand why people might think this tree has biblical associations because it really is an unexplained mystery how it manages to grow and to thrive in an environment where little else can survive.
And, when there is no known freshwater course nearby.
Its resilience has not only puzzled locals for hundreds of years but, more recently, scientists too.
The Tree of Life in Bahrain has been carefully studied by scientists from the Smithsonian Natural History Museum.
There are various theories about how the tree sustains itself, with some speculating that its roots reach deep underground to tap into hidden water reserves perhaps many miles away, while others believe it might draw moisture from the morning dew or absorb moisture from the sand or the air. It has even been suggested that the tree finds its nutrients from oil!
Some hold the belief that the Sumerian God of Water, Enki, had blessed the tree.
Because of its mystery, the Tree of Life in Bahrain has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to marvel at its tenacity and beauty.
Over the years, the Tree of Life has become a symbol of endurance, strength, and the resilience of life in the face of adversity, making it a cherished part of Bahrain’s natural heritage.
It serves as a powerful reminder of the power of nature and the ability of life to adapt and thrive even in the most unforgiving environments.
THE TREE OF LIFE VISITOR CENTREThere is a perimeter wall surrounding the area with plaques and a shaded information area.
WHERE IS THE TREE OF LIFE LOCATED?The Tree of Life in Bahrain is not very easy to find because it is located in swaths of desert and sand.
I’d recommend a 4×4 or similar type of vehicle to travel in the desert and to keep a vigilance for soft sand traps.
HOW TO FIND THE TREE OF LIFEDirections to The Tree of Life in Bahrain: Head East on the Zallaq Highway which will become the Al-Muaskar Highway. There is a Tree of Life sign indicating to take a right at the intersection. Before the steep hill take a right turn.
There should then be more signs directing you to the Tree of Life. You should soon be able to see the large and sprawling ancient tree in the distance.
Then take the dirt path at Gas Well 371. You can drive up to just outside of the tree but keep your vehicle on the path to avoid the issue of getting stuck in soft sand.
GPS COORDINATES: 25°59’38.4″N 50°34’59.2″E
Do you like old trees?
Do you have a theory on how this tree in Bahrain gets its water?
Let me know in the comments!
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