Vietnam - Danang Easyrider Tour Part 3

Continued from Part 1 and Part 2. Unfortunately, some photos of mine during the last 2 days were unavailable due to the fact that somehow, those files were corrupted and there were no back up. A waste, really.

We finally reached Hue after a long, long journey. My guide, Chien, brought me to the hotel where I'll be staying for the night and left me there on my own. This is one part of the tour that I don't really like. I knew little to nothing about Hue and I was under the impression that he would be bringing me around his hometown. I didn't realize the tour will only begin the next day.

The room at Huyen Trang 2 Hotel

The room I was given was beautiful and big. In fact, too big for one person. This is another aspect that I don't like, that he didn't customize the trip accordingly. I freshened up myself before heading out to explore the city. Equipped with a map I obtained at the lobby, I went for a walk around the city. The famous Perfume River is part of the attraction, along with its UNESCO Heritage Site inscribed Complex of Hue Monuments. I was just having a glimpse of the city before slowing heading back to hotel for a good night rest.

Delicious breakfast, bun bo Hue

Into the Imperial City of Hue

The next morning, Chien came to the hotel to pick me up and we left to have breakfast. After that, we began a brief tour of Hue. The first stop was the Imperial City of Hue. It is a walled fortress and palace of the former capital of Vietnam. Much like the Forbidden City in Beijing, the ruling emperor of Vietnam resided within the Imperial City, with a moat separating the royals from the commoners. It would have been a magnificent sight had it not been heavily bombed during the Vietnam War, leaving most of the palaces and structures in the Imperial City in total destruction. 

Look at the vastness of the Forbidden City

War had left many buildings damaged

I spent about an hour exploring the ruins of the Imperial City before heading to the next destination, Thien Mu Pagoda. Chien told me of a local legend of how the name Perfume River came by. According to him, the people of the North came down to the city and built the temple. The scent of the incenses being lit in the pagoda flowed through the river, giving off a fragrant smell. Thus, the name Perfume River. Whether this is for real or not is up for you to decide.

Thien Mu Pagoda

The famous Perfume River

The gods 

The garden in the temple

It was about 10 something by the time I finished exploring Thien Mu Pagoda and it was time for us to go to the Danang International Airport in time for my flight back KL. Before leaving the city, we made another stop at the Cao Dai Temple. It was a colourful temple where elements of five religions all merged beautifully together. 

Cao Dai Temple

The colourful praying ground

Look at the many familiar religious figures

The journey back was the same as the one we took to reach Hue. We made a stop at Lang Co Island for lunch and continued our journey. Only one difference was that instead of taking the twisty road uphill of Hai Van Pass, we took the Hai Van Pass tunnel. The motorbike was placed on a lorry while the passengers were seated in a bus to go through the tunnel. It was a long and dark ride, about 5 to 10 minutes. 

My lunch with six juicy prawns

To take the Hai Van Pass tunnel, motorcycles are placed on a lorry...

...while its passengers took seats in the bus

Hai Van Pass tunnel entrance

Inside the tunnel

By around 2.45 pm, we reached the airport, just in time for my flight, marking the end of my Vietnam trip.

My guide, Chien

*THE END*

Vietnam - Danang Easyrider Tour Part 2

Part 1 talks about the start of my Danang Easyrider tour from Hoi An, stopping by Son Tra and Hai Van Pass.

Once we finished our coffee and tea, we continued along with our journey heading to Hue. As I had emphasized too often in Part 1, the views here are to die for. Lush green mountain, clear blue sky, luminescent ocean, what is there not to love about here?

Look at this picture and tell me, don't you agree?

Halfway descending Hai Van Pass, I spotted a fishing village of sort. He pointed it to me and told me that's where we'll stop for lunch. Lang Co Island is the place and here, you can have fresh seafood meals at a low price. At least, that was what I was told.

Lang Co beach, where my lunch will be

When it comes to food, I definitely not the one to tell you if it's fresh or not. But, I can definitely share with you that it was indeed delicious. The clam that I had was juicy and tasty. Superb and it costed my wallet a decent VND 111,000 (about RM 17.00).

Trays of fresh seafood to choose from

Simple fried noodle with seafood

Clams! I have no idea what's called but damn it, it's super good!

A plate of noodle still not enough, have to have another bowl of rice for the clams

When the stomach was satisfied, we continued to move forward. This is a long journey ride which typically shouldn't be associated to the Danang - Hue distance. Normally, you can reach Hue from Danang between 2 to 4 hours, depending your mode of transportation. Plus, with so many pit stops we made along the way, it was a much longer journey. Not that I'm complaining, mind you.

Christian cemetery, something I saw while on the road

Another stop we did before reaching Hue was Suoi Voi, an off-track recreation area about 15 km from Lang Co beach. Hidden deep into the jungle, this natural retreat is not high on everyone's to visit list and only appreciated by the locals. If not for my guide here, I won't even come across such a place and it will be my loss.

Suoi Voi Park

Clear water, lush greenery, fresh air...I want to live here

The adorable local kids

Suoi Voi is well known for its waterfall and when we were there, families were relaxing and playing by the water. It was a rather quiet day, with not that many people hoarding by the waterfall. As I wasn't in the mood for a swim (not that I know how), I just relaxed by the edge of the rock, taking photos. Entrance fee to Suoi Voi is VND 12,000 (RM 2.00, more or less).

Can it be anymore prettier?

This is the last main stop for the trip before reaching Hue. More to come soon.

Last stop of the journey, some small fishing ground

Part 3: The Imperial City of Hue

*TO BE CONTINUED*

Vietnam - Danang Easyrider Tour Part 1

After spending 2 nights in Hoi An, it was time for me to continue with my journey further deep into Central Vietnam to reach the forbidden city of Hue. I really loved this quaint little town of Hoi An, what with its charming yellow houses and shops, beautifully lanterns-lit by nightfall, and its relaxing vibe the town somehow emitted. Leaving this once-vibrant trading port cannot be done without a heavy heart.

Exploring the streets of Hoi An for the last time

My favourite, Cau Lao

Originally, my plan was to enjoy myself in Hoi An until the end of my trip where I will take my flight back to KL from Danang International Airport. However, a chance encounter with a Danang Easyrider when I arrived in the train station introduced me to another city in Central Vietnam, the Imperial City of Hue. At first reluctant (I very much wanted to spend as much time in Hoi An as I can), I was somewhat converted with promises of scenic views along the ride on the cool, Harley-like motorbike to take the 2 days, 1 night tour. Well, I wasn't disappointed.

That morning of my second last day in Vietnam, Chien, my guide for the trip, came by my hotel and off we began our journey. On our way to Hue, we first have to pass by Danang, and boys, aren't the beaches there pristine white. While I didn't get down and have some fun time in the beach (it was freaking hot and the heat was unbearable even around 9 am), from afar, the beach is clean and serene, with umbrellas and coconut trees decorating the stripe of sands. In my opinion, Danang will soon be the to-go-to destination for beaches.

The pristine beach of Danang

This is merely posing only as I can't ride...

In less than an hour drive, we made our first stop of the day at Monkey Island. Known as Son Tra locally, there is one pagoda that offers stunning views of the sea. The ride up to the Linh Ung Pagoda is just an easy motorbike ride up and worth all the efforts for you get to experience magnificent scenery up there. Plus, there is a 67-meter tall statue of Guan Yin made of marble overlooking the sea.

The view of Danang as we're leaving

Son Tra is very famous with the locals as on the day I was there, it was crowded with Vietnamese on tour. They were taking photos of the sea views as well as the grand statue. Vietnamese are really into domestic tourism.

Linh Ung Pagoda

Guan Yin overlooking...

...such a scenery day in, day out

After spending around 20 to 30 minutes in the pagoda, it was time for us to continue with our journey. The saying, it is not the destination but the journey that matters, holds ground here for along the ride, you get to see nothing short of picturesque landscapes.

It must be getting repetitive, but, aren't these views amazing???

Next stop, Hai Van Pass. Well, technically, it is more like a stretch of mountain road that connects Danang with Hue. If you are wondering what so special about this mountain pass, it is its beauty that really captures your heart. As with every scenery along the ride, the views here are simply beautiful. Standing on top of the trail overlooking the South China Sea is a fulfillment itself. And the temperature at the top of the road is much cooler rather than the sweaty heat when in Danang.

Damn, how I wish I'm there now...

We stopped for a cup of coffee and tea while enjoying ourselves with the chilling weather. Something I should probably mention here is that there are a lot of war bunkers along Hai Van Pass left by the Americans during the Vietnam War. Everywhere in Vietnam is a constant reminder of the terrible tragedy of war.

Hai Van Pass

The leftovers of the Vietnam War

Part 2: Lang Co Island for seafood, Suoi Voi Park, and reaching Hue

*TO BE CONTINUED*

Reviewing 2012

Happy 2013! 2012 had ended its run (that was fast!) and now we are in the brand new year, which means, all new travelling to be done. But, before we rush ahead, let's me count back to my extensive travelling that I had done since the commencement of this travel blog of mine (April 2011).

So, here goes:

Countries I've Visited (number of times):

Thailand (3), Cambodia, Macau (S.A.R. of China), Hong Kong (S.A.R. of China), Singapore (2), Indonesia, Vietnam, Brunei, Myanmar

Cities/Islands I've Been To:

Hat Yai (Thailand); Phnom Penh & Siem Reap (Cambodia); Bangkok (Thailand); Macau; Hong Kong; Kuching (Malaysia); Singapore; Langkawi (Malaysia); Semarang (Indonesia); Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An & Hue (Vietnam); Bandar Seri Begawan (Brunei); Labuan (Malaysia); Johor Bharu (Malaysia); Malacca (Malaysia); Yangon, Bagan & Inle Lake (Myanmar)

Cities/Islands that I've Visited Countless Times that it's Almost Like My Home:

Penang & Genting Highland

Numbers of Airports (excluding LCCT and KLIA): 7

Phnom Penh International Airport (Phnom Penh), Suvarnabhumi International Airport (Bangkok), Macau International Airport (Macau), Achmad Yani International Airport (Semarang), Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City), Da Nang International Airport (Da Nang), Brunei International Airport (Brunei), Yangon International Airport (Yangon)

Numbers of Ferry Terminals: 6

Taipa Ferry Terminal - Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Pier, Kuala Kedah Ferry Terminal - Langkawi Jetty Point, Serasa Ferry Terminal - Labuan International Ferry Terminal

Numbers of UNESCO World Heritage Sites I've Been To: 7

Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca (Malaysia), Angkor (Cambodia), Historic Centre of Macau (Macau, SAR of China), Borobudur Temple Compounds (Indonesia), Hoi An Ancient Town (Vietnam), My Son Sanctuary (Vietnam) & Complex of Hue Monument (Vietnam)

Top 5 Most Memorable Trips:

5. Wicked in Singapore

My first live musical and it was amazing! Wicked is simply great. Worth every single pennies. Read about it here.

4. Hong Kong (Ocean Park, The Peak, etc)

Growing up with TVB series on regular staples, Hong Kong feels very familiar yet strange to me. It is like you can't believe you are actually in the island for real. Ocean Park, The Peak, Symposium of Light; all these Hong Kong attractions are must-do activities. All I can say is 4 days in Hong Kong is NOT enough. See for yourself what I have to say about Hong Kong.

3. Cycling to My Son Sanctuary from Hoi An

As I had blogged about recently, this adventure of mine is seriously mind blowing for me. 40 - 50 km in distance and I actually cycled to the place itself? In a foreign land with no knowledge of the language itself? Damn, I now know my limit is pretty non-existence.

2. Going to Cambodia with my University coursemates

4D/3N trip with late arrival and morning departure flights, and still manage to cover both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap? That's a feat that can't be defeated. No doubt it was all in a rush (we spent less than 4 hours in Angkor Wat!) but it was nothing but fun, fun, fun! A worthy farewell to our university years. Click here for my entries on Cambodia.

1. Bagan Archaeological Zone, Myanmar

Maybe it was my last trip of the year, hence, making it more memorable, but the vast landscape of Bagan is stunning. I spent 2D/2N there and still wasn't enough. Definitely not to be missed, sunrise and sunset in Bagan. You won't regret waking up super early for the view. More on Myanmar soon.

2012 has been a wonderful year for me with my travel resolution of visiting all ASEAN countries about to be realized comes this July 2013 (last on the list, Laos). For 2013, I'm expanding my Asia coverage to include either North Asia or South Asia into the itinerary. Plus, there will be one epic 2013 trip that I'm planning right now. Details are still fuzzy but one thing for sure, it will be LEGENDARY!

My Son Sanctuary - An UNESCO Heritage Site

Since I was already here in central Vietnam, why not explore other places within close vicinity? I have every intention of going to My Son Sanctuary during my stay in Hoi An. Located about 40 to 50 km away from the quaint town, there are many ways for you to go from one UNESCO Heritage Site to another UNESCO Heritage Site and I chose one of the least common mode of transportation: cycling.

Mi Quang for breakfast to fuel my day

The idiotic and egoistic side of me thought that 40-50 km was a manageable distance, and I did reach the temple ruins, with times and my body being the only casualties. I cycled for almost 4 hours to reach my destination and my legs were sore, to say the least. Imagine my horror when I realized I have to do another 4 hours of cycling to go back to Hoi An. (I 'hitchhiked' back to Hoi An with a Malaysian couple in their rented van. Their driver was not very friendly to me.) I now understood why the owner of the hotel gave me a smile when I said I wanted to cycle from Hoi An to My Son.

Beautiful paddy field while cycling

This is NOT the sign you want to see for it means you're lost

Even though it was a strenuous work, I have no regret in doing so (at least when I finally reached the location. I had tempted to turn back to Hoi An throughout the journey). This cycling expedition was an eye-opening to the kind-hearted and friendly peoples of Vietnam.

It's not that unusual to have the whole road to yourself

The Vietnamese were very willing in helping me whenever I got lost or detoured on my way heading there. Even though there was language barrier, we managed to understand each other perfectly well, with a lot of hand gestures and body languages. Asking for direction with all sorts of hand movements can be fun and entertaining.

Thanks to the locals, I was getting nearer

As for the reason of this adventure of mine, the temples in My Son Sanctuary were built by the Cham people for religious and spiritual purposes. Hindu influences were significant in its architectural designs and most of the temples were dedicated to Hindu deities. However, after the end of the Champa kingdom, most of these structures were reclaimed by the jungle and left unattended. Wars during the tiring times were of no help with damages being done on these temples.

The designation of the UNESCO Heritage Site title to the ancient ruins of My Son introduced the world to these temples. While not as magnificent in term of magnitude and scales when compared to other ancient ruins in the region such as Angkor Wat in Cambodia, the Bagan Archaeological Zone in Myanmar, Borobudur in Indonesia, et cetera, it worth making a day trip to the site if you happened to be in Danang or Hoi An. Here's the pictures of My Son Sanctuary.

Some of the temples are in better shape

Some artifacts inside one of the ancient temples on display

Not all ruins are in good conditions...

Definitely worth a visit when you are in central Vietnam.

*TO BE CONTINUED*

Sharing is caring. A word of advice and a piece of information.

As My Son Sanctuary is about 40 to 50 km away from Hoi An, you can follow bus tour to the ruins. Most hotels offer bus trips to the site and if they do not have it, they can help arrange one for you. For the more adventurous one, you can consider renting a motorbike and ride to the sanctuary. For the extreme, do what I did and cycle your ways to My Son. As for the entrance fee to the site, it is VND 60,000 (about RM 9.60).