Ha Long Bay -
By rocky | May 26, 2008
Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay is one of the most spectacular bay’s in the world. The bay a UNESCO World Heritage Site features thousands of limestone islands and outcrops covered in thick vegetation. Being only 185 km north of the Vietnamese capital Hanoi it is only a 4-5 hour journey to see this amazing place. The best way to see the islands is on the water, there are plenty of tour operators ranging from traditional junks to luxurious cruisers. Some of the cruise companies will stop at different islands so you can see the grottos and caves up close. Make sure you do your home work as prices and quality of tours can vary. Your hotel should be able to put you on the right track. Local folk laws say that the islands are a result of dragons descending from the heavens and spitting jewels of jade into the sea, its not hard to see why the place is spectacular. Once back on dry land visit the Halong Bay night markets, this is the best place for a cheap meal and some souvenirs, like laquerware, chopsticks and other trinkets - make sure you bargain- start at about 50% of the starting price- it’s all part of the fun. Read the rest of this entry »
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The legendary Rex Hotel
By rocky | May 8, 2008
Starting out as a two story garage complex for the French in the late 1950’s and later being renovated into a trading centre with cinemas, cafeterias and dance halls what is now Ho Chi Minh City’s Rex hotel has seen a lot of changes in this vibrant city. During the Vietnam War the building located in District 1 the hotel’s rooftop bar was a favorite place for the American troops to relax within a magnificent view of the city. It is also beloved the hotel was used by the CIA during the 60’s. Today the hotel is pretty interesting and fairly kitschy although it has had a serious makeover, bamboo detailing and huge crown shape lampshades and plenty of bud lighting to make it feel like Christmas. The location, atmosphere and history its of this hotel makes it worth cent. Even if you are not planning to stay there make sure you visit the upstairs bar, its open around the clock and serves great food and refreshing drinks. Read the rest of this entry »
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The Great Holy See Temple Cao Dai
By rocky | December 31, 2007
A trip to Vietnam is not complete with out visiting one of the world’s most beautiful religious buildings, The Great holy See temple which is the headquarters of Caodaism which is a religion which is made up of a mix of Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism. The temple was built in 1926, the 9 storey high structure is part pagoda and part cathedral. Inside the temple is the most magical the nearly florescent colours of pinks, blues and yellows are amazing. There are four prayer times a day so if you are lucky you will be able to witness this special religious event. The temple is just under 100km from the centre of Ho Chi Minn City or Saigon in the district of Tay Ninh and is usually packaged as a day tour with the close by Cu Chi Tunnels.
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