Phong Nha National Park | Tagged Posts
2019
8
June
Looking for Off-the-Beaten-Track Beauty in Vietnam?
8
June
Question:
Humans say...
Linda
I’ve heard good things about DaLat although I haven’t been myself.
Lisa
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Honey
Ninh binh area , Tam Coc is really worth to explore. We loved it.
Lisa
Definitely fly! And even go 1st class! Hoi An for sure!
LaVerne
Mui Ne. Travel by 1st class on train from HCMC. We booked months in advance, so tickets might be unavailable.
Lisa
For natural beauty definitely Ha Long Bay
Jaime
I recommend overnight trains because you don’t lose travel time since you’re asleep. They have rooms with 2 sets of bunk beds
Vicki
Definitely Ha Long Bay, Hoi An & Hue. If I had to only pick one of those I'd chose to return to Hoi An.
Valerie
I would highly recommend joining the Facebook group Vietnam Wonders. It is an amazing resource. Personally I would not bother with Dalat but definitely do Hoi An, perhaps Danang, and Hue.
Christer
Halongbay for sure. But why fly when you can see the whole country by train? Trains are great in Vietnam!
Angela
Dalat for waterfalls, muine for fairy stream and sand dunes, Phong Nha caves, phu Quoc Island for beaches, Ninh Binh for rivers and crazy cool mountains in the middle of flat lands. Obviously halong bay
Heather
We enjoyed Sa pa, Tam Coc (a little smaller than Ninh Binh ), and Hoi An. So many beautiful place in Vietnam. My favourite place to visit.
Ellen
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Sharon
Hoi An for sure
Minh
If you are looking for nature: sapa/ ha giang; ha long bay, ninh binh/ tam coc ( this is "newer" destination so kind of "off beaten path").
Culture: ha noi, hoi an.
Personal favorites: hoi an - if someone says they only have 1 day in VN I'd recommend this place; saigon: it's a city, yes, but it carries with it all layers of different cultures and history conflicts in it, if you have the mind to explore; ninh binh/ tam coc: peaceful beautiful nature with outdoor activities, just booming a couple years so not overly exploited yet.
Minh
Sapa is a good choice, and an easy adventure. If you are more daring and more open to less organized and more "unpredictable " trip, search for "ha giang", "mai chau" "mu cang chai". These are like sapa of 15+ years ago and more difficult to get to.
Phoenix
TRAVELFISH.ORG
Pamela
Hoi An was my favourite for the ancient town and closeby beaches
Heather
My husband and I spent 2 months in Vietnam and always say that Phong Nha National Park is 100% somewhere we want to go back to. So many amazing caving tours and multi-day treks to do. The train ride from Dong Hoi to Da Nang is also really spectacular if you want to choose just one to do (during the day).
A.I. says...
Hidden Gems of Vietnam: Off-the-Beaten-Track Natural Wonders
As you embark on your solo adventure through Vietnam, let us guide you to some hidden gems that will immerse you in breathtaking natural beauty. While Sapa and its surroundings offer a remarkable experience, consider venturing off the beaten path to discover these lesser-known wonders:
1. Ba Be National Park
Nestled in the northeast of Vietnam, Ba Be National Park is a haven of serene lakes, lush forests, and towering mountains. Embark on a boat trip through the idyllic Ba Be Lake, surrounded by karst formations and vibrant vegetation. Trek through the park's dense jungles, where you'll encounter exotic bird species and hidden waterfalls.
2. Cuc Phuong National Park
Just a few hours from Hanoi, Cuc Phuong National Park is Vietnam's oldest protected forest. Its diverse ecosystem boasts ancient trees, cascading waterfalls, and limestone caves. Hike through its verdant trails, spot elusive wildlife, and visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center to learn about conservation efforts.
3. Cat Tien National Park
Located in southern Vietnam, Cat Tien National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Explore its dense forests, home to elephants, leopards, and over 350 bird species. Embark on a wildlife safari, marvel at the park's cascading waterfalls, and unwind in a bamboo raft along the Dong Nai River.
4. Phu Quoc National Park
Escape to the idyllic Phu Quoc National Park on Phu Quoc Island. Its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and ancient rainforests offer a sanctuary for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. Dive or snorkel in the turquoise waters, trek through the park's lush trails, and relax on the secluded beaches.
5. Son Doong Cave
If you're up for an unforgettable adventure, venture into Son Doong Cave, the world's largest cave. Located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, this colossal subterranean world features towering stalagmites, hidden rivers, and giant calcite crystals. Embark on a multi-day expedition to explore this awe-inspiring natural wonder.
As you journey through Vietnam, embrace the opportunity to discover these hidden gems. They offer a glimpse into the country's incredible natural beauty and will create memories that will last a lifetime.
Ryan
I'm heading to Vietnam solo next week with an open itinerary flying into HCM and flying out of Hanoi. I was debating taking the train across the country but may forgo that idea as flights are so cheap. Any suggestions on places to visit that are off the beaten track and exude natural beauty? I plan to visit Sapa and the surrounding area.