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  • 11 Best Restaurants In Hanoi For Every Taste And Budget

    11 Best Restaurants In Hanoi For Every Taste And Budget

    Hanoi is full of culinary traditions with the influence of Chinese, Japanese and French besides the already rich history of Vietnamese gastronomy. It is home to many Vietnamese world famous original dishes such as Pho, Banh My, Banh Cuon, to name a few. Take a look at these eleven restaurants showcasing Hanoi’s reputation as a well-deserved food paradise.

    1. Bun Cha Dac Kim:

    This is a family run restaurant that has over 50 years of tradition. The restaurant offers Bun Cha, a local Hanoi specialty with round noodle (Bun), BBQ pork (cha), garnished with lettuce and served with dipping sauce. The dipping sauce is probably the secret of the dish which is a miraculous blend of fish sauce, vinaigrette, sugar and garlic to a perfect ratio. There can be slices of green papayas and carrot in the sauce to accompany the meat bite as well. The harmony of crunchy fresh herbs, sweet and well spiced grilled pork and round noodle all in the sauce will leave you a hard-to-forget meal.

    Address: 01 Hang Manh, Hoan Kiem. Opening Time: 08:00-21:00

    2. Bun Bo Nam Bo:

    Just like the name of the restaurant, Bun Bo Nam Bo is a dish made of marinated beef with round noodles and a sweetened fish sauce. Vegetables, herbs and peanuts are added to complete the meal. This is one of the best authentic street foods in Hanoi with a little mix from the south. The restaurant has both locals and tourists coming in enjoying the dish, which is worthy of note as it can be considered an accomplishment.

    Address: 67 Hang Dieu, Hoan Kiem, .Tel: +84 02 4 3923 0701. Opening Time: 07:30-10:30.

    3. Cha Ca La Vong:

    Cha Ca La Vong is a 100 year old restaurant and considered a famous fine dining place in Hanoi in the old days. The only food that is served here is grilled river fish together with a plate of fresh rice noodles, herbs and peanuts. The combination of ingredients makes up for an intriguing taste. Normally the dish is served with fermented shrimp paste however if you cannot stand the smell then a fish sauce will do just fine.

    Address: 14 Cha Ca, Hoan Kiem, . Tel: 024 3825 3929. Opening Time: 11:00-22:00

    4. Cau Go:

    Cau Go is a restaurant where you can enjoy authentic Vietnamese food. Dishes are prepared freshly and balanced with special herb flavors. The signature meals include tofu with chili and lemongrass, crabs with tamarind sauce and crispy spare ribs with eggplant. The restaurant has a beautiful view over the Hoan Kiem Lake from the outdoor area. As a result, the rooftop terrace has become one of its selling points.

    Address: 73 Cau Go Tel: 024 3926 0808. Opening Time: 09:30-23:00

    5. Quan An Ngon:

    The best way to experience all of the regional specialties across Vietnam is to have an expansive dinner at Quan An Ngon. This restaurant offers all kinds of appetizing local cuisine in one place. Different food stalls are situated around the restaurant where you can witness the dishes being prepared freshly. Some of the popular traditional meals include Banh Xeo (fried pancake with shrimp and pork), Bun Thang (rice noodle soup with shredded chicken, fried egg and sausage) and Pho Ga (chicken noodle soup).

    Address: 18 Phan Boi Chau, Cua Nam, Hoan Kiem. Opening Time: 07:00-22:00. Tel: 090 212 69 63

    6. Xuan Xuan:

    Xuan Xuan is one of the best Vietnamese barbeque restaurants in town. The menu is rather simple as you get to choose from beef, pork or goat udders which are served with vegetables and noodles. Then everything is brought out on a plate and you barbeque your own meal on a burning stove. It is a nice way of experiencing how to eat like a real local as you are seated on ankle-high stools close to other customers.

    Address: 47 Ma May Tel: 09 3499 9912. Opening Time: 10:00-23:30

    7. KOTO:

    KOTO is an abbreviation which stands for ‘Know One, Teach One’. The restaurant is part of a charitable project which is one of the reasons why it attracts a lot of attention. They give the disadvantage youth an opportunity to earn a living by working in the restaurant. KOTO is an all-day dining place serving Vietnamese meals and strong Vietnamese coffee. The trainees practice their hospitable skills while visitors can enjoy a great meal with warm service.

    Address: 59 Van Mieu Tel: 04 4747 0337. Opening Time: 07:00-22:00

    8. The Hanoi Social Club:

    Hanoi Social Club is a relaxing bohemian hangout with a menu of inspired Western brunch dishes. The place has a rural feeling to it thanks to the light decoration of Vietnamese art. The founders go by the saying: ‘Healthy food for a healthy planet’. Simple food is served, but they are rich in nutrition. It is recommended to try the fresh organic salads and poached egg with avocado during lunchtime. Besides, the coffee and smoothies are also not disappointing.

    Address: 6 Hoi Vu Tel: 04 3938 2117. Opening Time: 08:00-23:00

    9. Green Tangerine:

    This restaurant makes some of the most artistic dishes that can be discovered in Hanoi. In Green Tangerine you can enjoy the French and Vietnamese cuisine where the chef uses both cooking techniques with a touch of art. The menu consists of well-designed meals like roasted pigeon, duck breast carpaccio and caramelized pork. Since it is highly popular among expat and travelers, you should make a reservation in advance.

    Address: 48 Hang Be Tel: 04 3825 1286. Opening Time: 11:00-23:00

    10. La Verticale:

    La Verticale is recognized as the best French restaurant in Hanoi. The dishes feature a combination of French gastronomy with Vietnamese ingredients and spices. You can enjoy a classic tasty meal served from both countries. The restaurant is styled in a colonial mansion with an open kitchen. The popular dishes are duck terrine, ratatouille and Mekong fruit sorbets. Moreover, there is also an excellent wine menu with unlimited choices.

    Address: 19 Ngo Van So Tel: 04 3944 6317. Opening Time: 11:30-22:00

    11. Pizza 4P’s:

    There are many pizza restaurants, but if you want to experience a unique pizza place, check out Pizza 4P’s. The restaurant is set up by Japanese founder Yosuke Masuko and although it serves Italian cuisines, diners are constantly reminded of the owner’s root by the omnipresence of Japanese elements: salmon, gingered pork or teriyaki beef. What makes these pizzas so special is the cheese which the restaurants proudly make themself using dairy cows that are grazing in the highlands of Dalat. Advanced reservation is recommended as the restaurant gets very full during peak hours.

  • Hanoi Day Trips: 9 Ideas To Make The Most Of A Day From Hanoi

    Hanoi Day Trips: 9 Ideas To Make The Most Of A Day From Hanoi

    Whilst one could easily spend an eternity in Vietnam’s crowded capital without getting bored, there are myriad easily-missed day trips to sate your appetite for adventure. As dynamic as Hanoi is, spending a day getting back to nature can be a refreshing change. Hanoi’s situation within the cultural vantage point of Northern Vietnam means that those in the know are positively spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing a day trip. However, for those that aren’t, picking an excursion can be tricky.

    That’s where we come in! Here’s our list of the nine best day trips from Hanoi.

    1. Halong Bay:

    No list regarding ‘the best anything to do in Vietnam’ would be worth its salt without getting Halong Bay in there somewhere. Halong Bay is picture-perfect Vietnam at its most iconic, and sits at around three hours’ drive from the capital. Whilst Halong town is about as beautiful as my big toe, the bay is the one-of-its-kind among the natural gifts the world over, with thousands of green karst peaks erupting from sparkling turquoise surf. There’s no getting around paying the extra for the boat trip, this takes your through the intricate maze of mountains, and usually includes lunch and admission to beaches and caves.

    2. Hoa Lu:

    Hoa Lu was once Vietnam’s capital city, and sits 100 kilometres south of current capital, Hanoi. Between 900-1100 AD, Hoa Lu was the epicentre of government and commerce in the country, and vestiges of its proud history still stand today. Whilst the citadel and building from back then have long-since crumbled, the stunning gate to the city is still visible, as well as several impressive temples such as Le Dai Hanh, Dinh Tien Hoang and Nhat Tru, which are all well worth a visit. Watch out – during public and Buddhist holidays, the whole place can be over-run with domestic tourists, to check the calendar beforehand.

    3. Ba Vi National Park:

    To truly escape the fumes of Hanoi, head two hours west to Ba Vi National Park. Three mountainous peaks comprise the main sights of the park. On the central and second tallest peak which is known in Vietnamese as Tan Vien, you will find a shrine dating back to the 11th century. The shrine is devoted to the Buddhist Mountain God, who will protect you for the rest of your hike! Make sure you’ve done all of the trails you can before you get too tied to return, as all are unique and equally special. A spa awaits you on the way down, so don’t forget to reward yourself.

    4. Trang An:

    Trang An is ostensibly the most popular day trips from Hanoi, a title it deserves due to its beautiful natural scenery. Even the journey to get there is a trip, as you will pass small hamlets and townships in Ninh Binh province, before getting into boats and taking the rest of the journey by on the Sao Khe River. Your guide will entertain you as she rows – occasionally with her feet, and more often than not whilst on the phone/peeling an orange/smoking a cigarette, too! At Trang An, the boat ride continues, and you’ll float peacefully in and out of prehistoric caves, past beautiful limestone mountains and past views that will make you feel like Indiana Jones.

    5. Tam Coc:

    Once you’ve finished your boat trip round Trang An (which usually takes around two hours), you’d be crazy not to pop round the corner to Tam Coc. Tam Coc, only ten minutes from Trang An, boasts another vast array of karst mountains which, tour depending, can be viewed via bike or boat ride. Just book a tour from the Old Quarter, or catch a local bus from Hanoi (or a private one, arranged from any tourism office) and then rent a motorbike for 100,000 VND to explore the town yourself.

    6. Phat Diem Cathedral:

    Built in 1892, Phat Diem Cathedral is still used by Catholics today, despite a brief closing in 1954. Book lovers may remember the church from Graham Greene’s magnum opus, The Quiet American (1955).

    7. Mai Chau Valley:

    Rice paddies and a horizon of jagged mountain ridges make Mai Chau a picturesque day trip from Hanoi. At just over three-hours way, Mai Chau is one of the further-away destinations on this list, but trust us – it’s well worth it. For those interested in the traditional lives of Vietnamese ethnic tribes, this place is a must-see, as homestays are common and make for a great, authentic experience, but day trips are also common. Biking or trekking through the remote villages is extremely rewarding and lucky visitors might also get peek of some rare and exotic wildlife. For unlucky ones, a visit to the Endangered Animal Rescue Centre is well worth a visit.

    8. Bat Trang Village:

    For those looking for a shorter drive, Bat Trang Village is just thirty minutes from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, so it’s a low-commitment excursion. The villages’ distinctive porcelain and ceramic goods have brought fame to the area from throughout Asia. Observing the artisans at work is beautiful and relaxing, and there is the opportunity to pick up an authentic piece for a great price.

    9. Huong Pagoda (Perfume Pagoda):

    Perfume Pagoda is actually an enormous complex of Buddhist pagodas, as well as temples and communal houses. The complex is centred around Huong Son Cave, referred to as Chua Trong (Inner Pagoda), where the central temple is located. At peak times, generally between February to April, Perfume Pagoda is heaving with Vietnamese Buddhists making pilgrimages to the holy site, which is fascinating in itself, if a little crowded.

  • Nightlife In Hanoi – The 5 Best Pubs And Bars In Hanoi

    Nightlife In Hanoi – The 5 Best Pubs And Bars In Hanoi

    Sometimes, we all need a taste of back home. From the more traditional to the downright strange, here’s our list of the five best pubs Hanoi has to offer.

    1. Moose and Roo:

    Located centrally in Hanoi’s buzzing Old Quarter, the Moose and Roo specializes in good, gastro-pub style food, and a decent drinks menu, including imported draft beer. Whilst the menu is slightly on the pricier side for Vietnam, it’s no dearer than you would expect to pay for a meal and a pint in a pub back home, and it’s worth it for the homely atmosphere and friendly western-style service.

    Address: 42 Mã Mây, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm

    2. Spy Bar:

    Whilst not technically a pub by name, Spy Bar is very popular among the expats. The bar is located just outside of Hanoi Old Quarter, standing out with dark, oaky furniture, sports channels, loud western music and raucous regulars. The bar makes a perfect destination for sports lover and for those just craving a pub atmosphere. Come in during a quieter hour to take your chances playing poker with the expert bar staff.

    Address: 12 Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm

    3. Craft Beer Pub:

    Craft Beer Pub’s is centrally located in the busiest night life of Hanoi Old Quarter, near Hang Buom and Ma May intersection. True to its name, the pub is known for its rich collection of quality craft beer, a total joyful place for locals, travelers and expats to meet up and chill after a full scorchingly hot day out.

    Address: 26 Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm

    4. The Snug:

    The Snug sits in the expat quarter, at 19 Dang Thai Mai. This is a perfect place for casual drink, serving the delightful Tay Ho population. Weekly quiz nights, local DJ’s and BBQ’s mean that there’s always something going on at The Snug, but if you’re not sure, grab a pint and have a chat with the friendly Irish, German, or Vietnamese bar staff who will point you in the right direction.

    Address: 19 Dang Thai Mai, Tay Ho

    5. O’Leary’s Sports Bar:

    Any city worth its salt is surely not complete without an Irish bar. With 50 screens airing all the latest sports events, and a huge terrace overlooking the busy street of Ba Trieu. The bar serves imported beer and an extensive food menu for you to enjoy your favourite games.

  • Vietnam’s Five MOST Awestruck

    Vietnam’s Five MOST Awestruck

    Vietnam’s iconic rice terraces, water buffalo, ancient pagodas and magnificent valleys have been immortalized in countless war movies and modern literature. Yet, nothing can quite prepare you for how staggering Vietnam’s natural beauty truly is. Far from the provincial, undeveloped nation that it is often portrayed as, Vietnam is home to some of the best roads in terms of both functionality and scenery in all of Asia, if not the world.

    Truly the best way to get a feel for this unique, beautiful country is by traveling overland. Whilst buses and trains are convenient and relatively cheap here, those with sufficient bravery should consider renting a motorbike. You certainly wouldn’t be alone, the majority of road users in the country are aboard scooters and motorbikes of all kinds, and roads and infrastructure are certainly still geared towards those on two wheels. As well as being able to soak up the scenery, traveling Vietnam via motorbike also allows you added freedom that public transport simply doesn’t; you are free to stop, eat and enjoy remote corners that tourists rarely get to see.

    However, it should be noted that travel by motorcycle is not for everyone and some routes can be challenging. It is not advisable to attempt a challenging route with no or little experience driving a scooter, less so a motorbike. Insurance may not cover you in the case of a crash, unless you have specified in your insurance that you will be riding a motorbike, in which case the exact motorbike should be registered with your company. In any case, if this seems like too big a risk, it is also possible to hire a driver at extra cost.

    1. Ha Giang:

    Image source: missivesfromabroad.com

    Also knows as ‘the Road of Happiness’, the Ha Giang Pass has certainly earned its moniker. Set in Ha Giang province, along Vietnam’s mysterious border with China’s Yunan Province, hundreds of hairpin turns will take you through the staggering mountains and valleys of this still relatively unexplored region. Whilst the entire route is noteworthy, the trip’s highlight is the 20-kilometre portion between Dong Van rock plateau and Meo Vac where you will climb through the Ma Pi Lang Pass with numerous, soaring above several vertical drops. This trip is certainly not for the faint-hearted, and motorcycle experience is absolutely imperative. The trip will take a minimum of three days, and the best time to travel is between either June and July or September and October, but keep an eye on the forecast as these periods can also bring heavy rains.

    2. Hai Van Pass:

    The Hai Van Pass is 19 kilometers of smooth road that meanders across a fortress of mountains which separate Da Nang from Lang Co in Hue province. Popularized by the BBC TV program Top Gear, the Hai Van pass is now one of the most popular passes to travel via motorbike in Vietnam. Not only convenient for those traveling between Hue and Da Nang o neighboring Hoi An, the pass also offers breathtaking views of mountain and coast, including several gasp-inducing twists and turns which unveil completely new and equally beautiful scenery. Until 2005, the pass was the only route that vehicles could take to pass the mountain range, which proved to be often treacherous for buses and industrial vehicles. Since the opening of the Hai Van tunnel (at 6.2 kilometers long, the tunnel is the longest in Southeast Asia), the pass has proved much safer for those choosing to take the mountain route via motorcycle. Driving the pass takes around two hours, and it is advisable to travel during the hot, dry season from around August to October. Although a less common spot for tourists, try and save time to check out the beaches and countryside around Lang Co, as well as to sample some of the regions’ seafood.

    3. O Quy Ho:

    Image source: zing.vn

    O Quy Ho is a true majestic collaborative work of human and nature as the pass spans 50 kilometers across National Highway 4D. Running along the Hoang Lien Song mountain range in North-western Vietnam, the pass’ peak reaches an altitude of 2,000 meters in an area affectionately known as ‘Heaven Gate’. As impressive as the pass may be, its plethora of hairpin turns amongst plunging abysses and rushing waterfalls makes O Quy Ho amongst the more advanced routes listed here. Travel is advised during summer months, but, again, it is important to check the forecast for rain beforehand. It is possible to complete the route in three days, but extending your trip by a day or two to enjoy the local waterfalls and villages is recommended.

    4. Hanoi to Mu Cang Chai:

    Image source: vietnammoi.vn

    For picture book Vietnam, take the route from Vietnam’s capital to Mu Cang, a highland commune in Yen Bai province, around 280 kilometers from Hanoi. Home to the most beautiful rice terraces in Vietnam, the route will take you from the screeching, high-octane streets of Hanoi (home to possibly the best street food on the planet) to otherworldly scenery that could be from centuries foregone. Amongst the many highlights of the route is the Khau Pha Pass. Together with O Quy Ho this makes two of the most awestruck passes in the nothern mountain region. The route should take you no more than three days, and is best avoided during rainy and cold weather, when visibility is at its lowest, and landslides (though not frequent) can occur.

    5. Ho Chi Minh Trail:

    Image source: unsplash.com

    Ah, the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Certainly as epic as it sounds, you will pass coffee plantations, traditional rice fields manned by farmers wearing iconic conical hats, rushing rivers festooned with swaying bamboo and fascinating hill-tribes as you travel between Vietnam’s most iconic cities.

    The Ho Chi Minh Road runs the length of the often-mountainous country, making it hard to underline a specific time to go, as changes in weather can happen quickly and without warning. As always, check the forecast before attempting to drive any mountainous or dangerous stretches. On average, most people spend around two weeks completing the trail, however stopping at towns such as Nha Trang, Mui Ne and Da Lat in the south, and Hoi An, Da Nang and Hue in central Vietnam is strongly recommended.

  • The 6 BEST National Parks In Vietnam

    The 6 BEST National Parks In Vietnam

    Vietnam is a country of tropical lowlands, and densely forested highlands, pristine beaches and rolling hills. The Vietnamese have typically lived very closely with nature, and are understandably proud of their beautiful country. Modern times have seen similar levels of plastic waste and emissions in Vietnam as many of its Asian neighbours, and the full-throttle cities can be overwhelming in their lack of urban parks and green spaces. However, you don’t have to search very hard to find spotless nature, protected by the government. The National Parks of Vietnam are as diverse as the geography itself, and many offer comprehensive guide of local hikes and nature to look out for! Here’s our pick of the best ones.

    1. Cúc Phương National Park:

    Image source: commons.wikimedia.org

    Located about 100 kilometres South of Hanoi in Ninh Binh province, Cuc Phuong is not only the first, but also one of the most impressive national parks in Vietnam. Accessible from Hanoi, many tours offer biking along the scenic lime stone karst mountains and rice paddies. And, it is considered one of the best places for bird watching in Vietnam. It’s comparatively remote location makes it a secluded haven for nature lovers, and those wishing to garner some peace and quiet after a few hectic days in the capital. As with most of the north of the country, the best time to visit is during the dry season (December-April), as the trails are less slippery, and you stand a better chance of the full range of caves on offer being open to tourists.

    2. Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park:

    Image source: lonelyplanet.com

    Phong Nha- Ke Bang is Vietnam’s best kept secret. This lesser-known park contains a huge and staggering lime stone cave complex, which has earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In actual fact, it is one of the world’s largest karst zones and is still partially unexplored. As if this wasn’t enough to warrant a visit, Phong Nha – Ke bang is home to Son Doong, the largest natural cave in the world, only recently discovered in 2009. The national park is also home to a rich diversity of fauna and flora, and boat rides are offered, making a lovely way to enjoy the relaxed countryside and staggering rock formations.

    3. Tam Dao National Park:

    Image source: tamdaonationalpark.com

    Located in Vinh Phuc Province, Tam Dao National Park spans over a large mountainous area in the north of Vietnam. Tam Dao is home to an amazing diversity of fauna and flora, due in no small part to the incredible microclimate – it’s not uncommon for all four seasons to pass through the park in the space of an afternoon. Adding to the unique landscape and bizarre climate is the French colonial hill resort perched to the side of the park, which also makes for a great place to stop and relax after a long day hiking (and dodging downpours).

    4. Cát Tiên National Park:

    Image source: ttxtdldongnai.vn

    Next time you find yourself overwhelmed by the high-octane commerce and cacophony of scoter horns in Ho Chi Minh City, take a break and visit Cat Tien park. Lying around 150 kilometres to the North of the largest city in Vietnam, the park itself is home to a vast number of rare or nearly extinguished species listed in World Red List. As well as observing these almost mystical creatures, there is plenty to do, such as hiking, camping or cycling. Just don’t forget to ask for a map when you buy the entrance ticket.

    5. Bạch Mã National Park:

    Image source: huescooterrental.com

    Bach Ma is one of the most renowned national parks in Vietnam, taking a long stretch from the area bordering Laos to the coast. The nearest city is Hue, which is a 40 km distance or 1 hour drive. Having a cool and humid weather, Bach Ma houses a variety of plants and mammals, some of which are the only of their species in the world such as the giant muntjac. Despite its turbulent past during the war, Bach Ma today is a peaceful place and a lovely piece of the country in which to while away a day.

    6. Cat Ba National Park:

    Image source: vuonquocgiacatba.com.vn

    Cat Ba national park encompasses an entire island and makes for an impressive add-on to your Halong Bay cruise. Constituted of tropical primary rainforest, the park can rival any other with its enviable collection of wildlife, including birds, reptiles and mammals. If you manage to visit during spring and autumn, there are also excellent opportunities for swimming in the glittering turquoise water that bathes the islands, though due to strong currents, it is advisable to check the weather in advance. For other information about Vietnam, or to include a listed national park in your Vietnam itinerary, simply get in touch!

  • Vietnam’s 7 Most Elite Golf Courses

    Vietnam’s 7 Most Elite Golf Courses

    With more than 35 fully operational golf courses, some of which were designed by famed golf course designers such as Greg Norman, Colin Montgomerie and Luke Donald, and around 65 more courses planned for the next 5 years, it’s safe to say that Vietnam should also be up for consideration if one’s intention is to explore the Asian golf tour scenes.

    Below are 7 of the most noteworthy golf courses for avid golfers coming into Vietnam:

    1. Bluffs Ho Tram Strip:

    Image source: happygreen.com.vn

    Greg Norman-designed. Link-style championship-worthy golf course. This award-winning 18-hole courses uses the natural environment as an added challenge and variety to the course, slightly changing depending on the season and weather. Boasting stunning panoramic view of the ocean and large variety of high-end services, The Bluff Ho Tram Strip is definitely a place to visit if you are an avid golfer and happens to stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

    2. Dalat Palace:

    Image source: golfbooking.com.vn

    Originally built in 1920’s by the French, Dalat Palace is one of the oldest gold course in Vietnam. Withstanding the test of times, it remains one of the most famous and worthwhile golf course one should visit. Only a short distance from the center of Dalat, Dalat Palace is the only one in Vietnam that offers Bent Grass green courses, found only in Europe thanks to the similar mild, cool climate unique to Dalat.

    3. The Dunes:

    Image source: dananggolfclub.com

    Another of Greg Normans brilliant link-style golf course, The Dunes is a 7,160-yard, 18-hole course that could easily be one of Asia’s best. The design heavily relies on the naturally arranged sand dunes for it’s uniqueness, elevations and firm fast fairways. Alongside the natural rugged background and extensive facilities and services, it is no doubt the go-to golf course when visiting Da Nang.

    4. Ba Na Hills:

    Image source: hoteljob.vn

    Despite being a newcomer compare to other well-known operating golf courses, Ba Na Hills golf course makes it up by being the first course to be designed by the former number one golfer, Luke Donald. Consisting of a good balance between simple and challenging difficulty throughout, the course appeases all crowds, whether veteran or new and the modern clubhouse and excellent services that IMG provided gives you more reasons to stay for the weekend.

    5. Montgomerie Links:

    Image source: unigolf.vn

    A traditional link-style championship course, Montgomerie Links is located in Quang Nam Province, but only a 20 minute drive from Da Nang. Designed by the golf legend Colin Montgomerie, this 5-star quality course offers challenges suitable for both beginners and avid golfers alike. Not only stopping there, the huge range of options and after-service for customers to choose from makes Montgomerie Links experience worthwhile even pass the golfing sessions.

    6. Vinpearl Phu Quoc:

    Image source: unigolf.vn

    Placed within the unspoiled woodlands, on an island in the gulf of Thailand, the location itself already makes the golf course a must-go destination any golf savvy individuals. Vinpearl Phu Quoc’s golf course allows golfers the pleasure to play under 3 different backdrops: the Forrest, the Sea or the Mountain. The clubhouse, though small, are superb and services are to be expected for a course managed by IMG.

    7. BRG Kings Island Golf Resort:

    Image source: brgkingsislandgolf.vn

    BRG Kings Island Golf course itself is located on Dong Mo River, designed by Robert McFarland. Distance away from civilization, the rugged greens and mountain-view gives off an exotic beauty to the course, even using the natural water hazards as additional and unique challenges for visiting golfers. King Islands golf resort, as to be expected with other high-end golf resort, offers an excellent and huge array of service standard and options.

  • 5 Best Cruises Which Stop In Vietnam

    5 Best Cruises Which Stop In Vietnam

    Cruising is a growing trend for global tourism as travelers guest to experience both the feel of being out at sea while making stops at as many culturally and ethnically diverse destinations as one may imagine. Vietnam is now included in many of these cruise trip, as a highlighted destination. The anchoring place is often in Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Danang or Saigon and guests are free to explore the place on their own during day time, or in an organized group tour. Below we list the best of international lines that make stops in Vietnam.

    Silver Shadow

    Image source: silversea.com

    Run by reputable cruise company Silversea, the Silver Shadow will take guests on a once-in-a-lifetime trip from Hong Kong to Singapore, stopping at several incredible destinations on the way. You’ll get the chance to experience the jaw-dropping beauty of Halong Bay; a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises almost 2,000 limestone karsts jutting out of sparkling turquoise water, home to traditional fishing villages dating back hundreds of years. You will also get the chance to explore the ancient capital of Hanoi, as well as Ho Chi Minh City; Vietnam’s largest, where you will explore the life-affirming Mekong Delta and visit the Cu Chi tunnels; an underground network of tunnels made by the Vietnamese to hide from the Americans during the drastic Vietnam (American) War.

    A 14-day Hong Kong to Singapore cruise on board Silver Shadow costs from $5,239 per person.

    Cruise and Maritime

    For those who can’t quite afford the time to cruise around the world, this Cruise and Maritime journey is a satisfying plan B. The Asian leg of this trip starts in Hong Kong, where you will then be taken to a total of ten ports across the major parts of Southeast Asia (including Vietnam) and South Asia before proceeding to the Middle East. This newly refurbished 150-cabin liner was formerly owned by P&O, but offers a great alternative from the standard cruise fare.

    Single cabins start from $6,140 per person for 46 nights, including a one-way flight.

    Royal Caribbean

    Royal Caribbean is one of the finest luxury vessels on all of the seven seas with outstanding organized activities. You’ll see Chinese acrobatics in the former, a bumboat cruise in the latter, and you will experience the majesty of Vietnam’s southern coast during an overnight stopover in Phu My, about 90 minutes from Ho Chi Minh City. This twelve-night cruise is a great way to experience some of the most iconic destinations in Asia whilst indulging in a bit of luxury on the side.

    The 13-day trip costs from $2,050 per person.

    Celebrity Millennium

    This Celebrity Millennium cruise is positioned around taking guests around iconic Asian destinations during its biggest festival, and the largest mass-migration on planet earth – Lunar New Year. On its leg in Vietnam, you will get to experience Ho Chi Minh City as the region prepares for its most sacred national holiday and Halong Bay in its best shape of weather. This is a truly special time to experience Asian culture, aboard a luxury vessel serving traditional Asian holiday food, as well as excellently prepared Western cuisine.

    Prices start from $1,937 per person.

    P&O Cruises

    For those who can’t quite face the idea of taking a trans-Atlantic flight to Australia and back, and have up to four months to spare, this P&O trip will take you from Sydney to Dubai in 36 days, stopping at some of the planet’s most fascinating and beautiful destinations along the way. You won’t have to worry about crying kids because this cruise is 100% adults only, including a world-class Indian restaurant created by Michelin-starred chef Atul Kochhar.