Phu Quoc Island Attractions

What to See on Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc Island - Best Vietnam's Beachs

 

The island's stunning beaches are a big draw, often picture postcard perfect with powder white sand and turquoise sea.

For those interested in culture there are some interesting fishing villages to see and several temples and pagodas.

The island is famous for growing pepper, you can see it growing all over the northern part. Many farms are happy to show you what they do.

 

Many Beaches

Tours in Phu Quoc Island - Vietnam

 

Anyone who's been to Phu Quoc will tell you it's hard to believe that there are so many beaches that are both stunningly beautiful and deserted in just one place. The triangular-shaped island has many good beaches, like Long Beach on the western side, which is also the biggest and where most of the hotels are located. Bai Sao, on the east coast, is a favourite spot – possibly the best beach on Phu Quoc.

Its fine white sand has many fans and most of the time you can expect crystal clear turquoise water – a postcard-like example of a tropical beach. Some others worth checking out are Ong Lang, Bai Thom and Bai Dai. Many of the island's beaches are not marked on maps very well. Go explore - seek and you shall find.

 

Dinh Cau Rock (Cau Temple)

Dinh Cau Rock (Cau Temple) - Phu Quoc Island - Vietnam

 

This odd shaped rock sits at the mouth of the Duong Dong river. Initially a lighthouse until 1937 when a Buddhist temple dedicated to to Thien Hau (the Goddess of the sea) was built. No visit to Phu Quoc is complete without seeing little oddity.

 

Dogs

Phu Quoc Dog

 

All around the island you can't help but notice the dogs with a Mohawk running down the length of their backs. They are Phu Quoc Ridgebacks a recognised breed that is native to the island. There are only two other breeds of dog in the world that have a similar distinctive Mohawk, they originate from Thailand and southern Africa. Phu Quoc Ridgebacks were originally wild dogs that were, over time, tamed by humans for hunting.

 

Ham Ninh Fishing Village

Ham Ninh Fishing Village on Phu Quoc Island - Vietnam

 

On the island's east coast lies Ham Ninh, a quaint and sleepy fishing village.
The local's will be pleased to see you, especially if you buy some of their pearls.

 

Pagodas and Temples

Sung Hung Pagoda in Phu Quoc Island - Vietnam

 

There are several pagodas and temples around the island that offer insights into Buddhism. In Duong Dong Town there's Sung Hung Pagoda which is surrounded by large trees. A well known monk built Hung Long Tu Pagoda. He chose the site, located 5km from Duong Dong Town, for its peace and tranquillity. There are several other temples dotted around the island which welcome visitors, however you should not have bare shoulders or wear shorts when you visit.

 

Pepper Plantations

Pepper Plantations on Phu Quoc Island - Vietnam

 

Vietnam is the world's leading exporter of black pepper and best quality harvest comes from Phu Quoc. Farms can be seen all over the central and northern parts of the island.

Those with a culinary interest can have a guided tour of a pepper farm to see the whole process in detail.

 

Waterfalls

Suoi Tranh waterfall - Phu Quoc

 

Suoi Tranh waterfall is around 7km east of Duong Dong. Once you've paid the small entry fee it's a 10 – 15 minute walk along a well trodden path through the jungle. There are many rock pools in which to take a dip, at the top there's a 4m waterfall (sometimes from January to May water can be a little lacking), the whole place has a lovely ambience.

If you want to see a more spectacular waterfall then Da Ngon is what you're looking for, the pool at the bottom is famed as a "natural Jacuzzi". It's located deep in the jungle so a guided tour is the best way to see it, tours take half a day. Suoi Da Ban (stoney surface spring) is a natural spring that comes up through granite rocks.The white water cascades down and some of the pools are deep enough for a swim. It's easily accessible from the road./.

Nha Trang Attractions

What to See in Nha Trang

Nha Trang Beach City - Vietnam

 

It's somewhat paradoxical that, with all the historical ancient attractions that Nha Trang has to offer, the most popular should be a relatively recent addition, the Alexandre Yersin Museum which is located within the Pasteur Institute.

Still, Nha Trang has the alluring combination of being pleasant on the eye, inexpensive and culturally interesting so there is a lot to see in this town of 300,000.

 

Po Nagar Cham Towers

Po Nagar Cham Towers in Nha Trang - Vietnam

 

Po Nagar Cham temple complex was built between 8th and 11th centuries by the Cham people who once ruled the central plain of Vietnam. The Cham people, who were Hindu in origin, had their own Sanskrit-based script. They are renowned for their skills in sculpture and architecture and left behind a legacy of artifacts and temple settlements not only in Vietnam, but also Cambodia and Thailand.

In the 14th century, the Kingdom of Champa fell into the hand of the invading Viet, whose descendants are today the Vietnamese people. A small minority of Cham people, now an ethnic minority, still live in the central plain somewhere near Danang. Although most Cham people have converted to Islam, they still worship their gods at Po Nagar Cham Towers during annual religious festival of Thap Ba, which falls around the end of April and the beginning of May.

Po Nagar Cham Towers were built to honour the goddess Po Nagar- literally translated as 'The mother of the Country' -who is said to have taught agricultural and weaving skills to the Cham people. Later, historians have come to identify Po Nagar with the Hindu goddesses Bhagavati, the wife of Shiva, and Durga, the buffalo-demon slayer.

The towers of Po Nagar Cham are square red brick structure with protruding support frames and tapering roofs. There were once ten buildings, each dedicated to a different deity, but now only four remain. The tallest building, at 25 metres, the Po Nagar Kalan, is the most impressive. Here, Po Nagar was worshipped and, according to historical stone inscriptions, animal sacrifices were made in her honour.

To the centre of the complex, stands a tower of Cri Cambhu, goddess of fertility. The other two temples are the shrines of the Hindu gods Shiva and Ganesh respectively.
Po Nagar Cham Towers are situated on the high ground of Mount Cu Lau on the bank of River Cai, a few kilometres north from the city centre.

• Opening Hours: 07:30 – 17:00 daily.
• Location: 2 Thang 4, end of Som Bong Bridge.

 

Vinpearl Amusement Park in Nha Trang

Vinpearl Amusement Park in Nha Trang - Vietnam

 

Vinpearl Amusement Park, situated on an island across the bay from Nha Trang Beach, is a large-scale theme park featuring water slides and games, a large aquarium, a wave pool, and a variety of rides. The Park is reached by cable car that connects Nha Trang City to this island resort. The 3,320-metre long ride offers dazzling views of the bay, a promise of the fun-filled day that is to follow.

Vinpearl Amusement Park’s attractions include a variety of water slides with names like "space hole", "tsunami", "black hole", and "kamikaze". The 900-metre long "lazy river" features gentle floating along while wearing a swimming ring, and the "wave pool" emulates different sea conditions, from choppy to very stormy. The very young have their own kids’ pool with chairs and umbrellas for supervising parents.

An impressive 3,000sqm aquarium, or "underwater world", has a tunnel with a motorised walkway through which visitors can admire no less than 300 species of colourful fish. This modern and beautifully-kept aquarium is claimed to be the biggest of its kind in Vietnam.

The usual theme park rides are featured here too, from the speedy roller coaster to the gentle carousel rides for the young and not-so-young. Some games are housed in the artificial mountain arcade. For meals, Vinh Xanh restaurant serves a variety of fast food including fruit juices and drinks. Nearer to the beach, the Food Village offers a set menu and a-la-carte dishes from its terrace overlooking the sea.

If you want to get away from the bustle, the 400-metre long sandy beach which is part of the amusement park is the place to relax and watch the sunset. There is a shopping mall with an array of boutiques selling anything from brand clothing items to jewelry and local handicrafts and souvenirs. A day pass offers unlimited entry to all rides, games and aquarium and includes a round-trip on the cable-car and the Vinpearl-owned ferry.

• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 21:00 Monday – Thursday, 08:00 – 22:00 Friday to Sunday.
• Address: Vinpearl Resort Island, Nha Trang Bay.
• Tel: +84 58 3 598 188.

 

Alexandre Yersin Museum

Alexandre Yersin Museum in Nha Trang - Vietnam

 

Alexandre Yersin, the French medical pioneer, is well remembered in Vietnam, where he was affectionately called Ông Năm. Surprisingly and as a sign of the deep respect the Vietnamese have for him, following the country's independence, streets named in his honour kept their designation, and his tomb in Suoi Dau was graced by a pagoda where rites are performed. His house in Nha Trang is now the Yersin Museum.

At the museum visitors can get an idea of the work of Yersin. He founded Dalat, discovered a vital plague-causing bacterium, and researched agricultural methods and meteorological forecasting, all to the great benefit of the Vietnamese. Yersin arrived in Nha Trang in 1891 and dedicated the rest of his life to scientific discovery from his laboratory here, until his passing away in 1943. He founded the institute in 1895. On display are his desk, a rich library and his scientific instruments.

• Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 08:00-11:00 and 14:00-16:30.
• Address: Pasteur Institute 10 Tran Phu Street.
• Tel: (058) 822-355

 

Long Son Pagoda

Long Son Pagoda in Nha Trang - Vietnam

 

The main attraction at this pagoda is the huge white Buddha on the hillside behind the main compound; the 24m-high statue is an important symbol of Nha Trang.

Around the base of the Buddha are portraits of monks who set fire to themselves to protest against the corrupt Diem regime; each monk's portrait, carved in relief surrounded by carved flames. Follow the steps up and you'll be rewarded with a bird's-eye view of Nha Trang and its environs.

• Location: At the end of Xom Bong Bridge, two kilometres out of town.

 

The National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam

The National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam

 

Established in 1922 and looking its age, the museum is set in a huge colonial complex of buildings. Signs guide the way through the various exhibits which range from leopard sharks in tanks, to a plaster cast model of a whale skeleton to an entire sea cow or manatee preserved in a huge glass case.

Other fascinating displays show Vietnam's oceanographic history. The institute sponsors ongoing research and community projects, ranging from monitoring aquatic life to developing captive breeding programs and encouraging preservation and regeneration of local coral reefs.

• Opening Hours: daily 07:00-16:30.
• Location: at the southern base of the small hilltop on which Bao Dai's Villa sits.
• Tel: (058) 590 037

 

Tours in Nha Trang

• Vietnam Beach Tour - 14 Days/ 13 Nights
• Vietnam relaxing - 10 days/ 9 nights
• Southern Escape - 9 Days/ 8 Nights
• Vietnam from excursion to highlight in style - 15 Days/ 14 Nights
• Discover Highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia - 21 Days/ 20 Nights

Everything you need to know about Mandalay

Mandalay - Myanmar

Mandalay Palace Moat - Myanmar

Established in 1857, Mandalay is the second largest city in Myanmar. It is found in the upper part of the country, located on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River. Mandalay is where the Royal Palace of the Konbaung Dynasty is located, which was the last monarchy and independent kingdom of Burma. In 1886, present day Myanmar was conquered by British colonial forces. Ratanapunja was the ancient name of the city. It was given the name 'Mandalay' based on the 236-metre high Mandalay Hill, which is currently one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city.

During the reign of the Konbaung Dynasty, the city of Mandalay served as proof of the splendour of the Golden Age in Burma. When the Second World War occurred, the city and the Royal Palace were damaged in the fighting but were soon reconstructed. Today, Mandalay serves as the cultural centre of Myanmar and is home to several Buddhist monasteries and exquisite examples of Myanmar masonry. While the city is historically relevant, it remains fresh and contemporary with modern hotels and establishments.

Mandalay Information

Mandalay’s hot and dry climate makes it an ideal place to visit at certain times of year but it is not always warm in Mandalay. The city also experiences cold months, so there are times when the temperature drops at night.

Travelling within Mandalay is an adventure in itself. The city presents tourists with a number of options with regards to transportation. Those who want to get around with the locals can ride on a bus or on a trishaw. There are also taxis, bicycles and motorcycles to take tourists to their destinations.

Mandalay International Airport

Mandalay International Airport is the largest and most modern airport in Myanmar able to accommodate up to 3 million passengers annually. Located 35km south of Mandalay city project was first devised by the Burmese military government in the mid 1990s as a means to increase levels of foreign investment and spur tourism in Burma. It was hoped that the airport would become a major hub for flights to other Asian capitals including Beijing, bangkok Calcutta and Hanoi.

Sadly the airport has never lived up to its high expectations and is normally a deserted, cavernous shell servicing only a couple of scheduled flights each day to Yangon. Seasonal services are also operated between Mandalay and Chiang Mai, Thailand. Most of the facilities and services built into the airport are unused and unattended due to such low passenger numbers.

Arrival

When you land head straight for the immigration counters. Myanmar immigration officers are said to be very friendly. The visa-on-arrival option was suspended in Myanmar in 2010 until further notice so you should have your visa from a Myanmar embassy before you travel. After immigration head to the baggage claim area. Don’t be surprised if the lights have been turned out - this airport is greatly under-used and power-saving efforts are employed throughout.

Once you enter the arrivals hall you will find a travel agent and tourist help desk to help you with accommodation and sight-seeing options. There is a car rental desk in the arrivals hall as well. There is also a currency exchange located here.

Departure

Once you check in go to the departure tax window show your boarding pass, passport and pay the US$10.00 fee to receive a coupon. Hand this coupon to the guard when you pass through the security checkpoint. Go through to immigration after which you’ll come into the departures lounge. You may find the air conditioning is turned off due to the lack of people. You might also find that the shop, and restaurant are deserted as services are not reliable at this mostly uninhabited airport.

Transport Options

Due to the lack of traffic at the airport it is advised that you should arrange a pick up from your hotel as taxis are not always dependable here. The journey into Mandalay should take approximately one hour by car.

Eating & Drinking

The departures area has one restaurant and a VIP lounge for business and first class passengers. Depending on the number of flights scheduled you may find the restaurant is closed. If you are lucky to be there when it is open you’ll have a choice of some western dishes and local cuisine, coffee, tea and soft drinks.

Entertainment/Activities/Facilities

There is a post office, bank and currency exchange present in the airport. Tourist information is accessible in the arrivals hall. There is very little in the way of entertainment available.

Shopping and duty free

Mandalay International Airport houses a duty free shop which sells the usual items such as cosmetics, perfumes, confectionary and alcohol. The departures area also has a newsagent where you can buy magazines, some books and postcards. The newsagent also sells tobacco and cigarettes.

Mandalay Weather and Climate

Mandalay has a semi-tropical climate. It is in the central dry zone of Myanmar, so it receives less rainfall compared to the more tropical south and most of the time, the weather in Mandalay is hot and dry. However, during the cold months, the weather can be quite chilly during the night.

The weather and climate in Mandalay should be a serious consideration when packing for the trip to the city. Because of the warm and dry season the city experiences for the majority of the year, visitors should pack light and casual clothing. A comfortable fabric such as cotton is suggested. As for footwear, sandals and slip-ons are best. A pair of sunglasses and a large hat may seem like merely accessories, but these are essentials when going around the city. These provide protection from extreme heat (and dust, in the case of the sunglasses). The weather in Mandalay also necessitates tourists to bring sun block with them.

The weather may be hot in Mandalay, but visitors should be modest in dressing. Revealing clothing is considered inappropriate in Myanmar.

Getting Around Mandalay: City Transportation

Travelling by taxi is a common way to get around Mandalay. There are the usual taxis, and then there are "blue taxis", which are small Mazda pick-up trucks which can seat four or so in the covered cab. They are easy to spot downtown, and operate most hours.

One can also get around Mandalay by bus, which are often crowded, especially during the morning and afternoon rush hours (from 07:00-09:00, 16:00-17:00). There is no air-conditioning in local buses, and some of them are only 32-seaters. The routes of the bus are determined by number, so tourists should familiarize themselves with them to avoid getting lost.

Another means of transportation found in Mandalay is the trishaw, which still travels along the back roads of the city. The fares are cheaper compared to buses and taxis. No one in Mandalay knows more about important town and tourist information than trishaw drivers, so tourists are encouraged to chat with those who speak English.

Visitors who want to roam around at their own pace can rent bicycles or motorcycles. There are rental shops, but hotels and guesthouses also offer them at similar rates.

Things Travellers Should Know When In Mandalay

• Footwear, such as shoes and socks, should be removed when walking on sacred grounds. When visiting a person's residence, footwear should also be removed prior to entering.
• Tourists should dress appropriately, especially when visiting pagodas and temples.
• When in a pagoda or temple, visitors should tuck their feet in when sitting. It is considered offensive when the feet are pointed toward a monk or a Buddha image.
• Donations are allowed in pagodas and temples, but tipping in general (even in other establishments) is discouraged.
• Visitors who are on medication should bring enough medicine for the duration of the trip. It is also necessary to bring medicine for diarrhoea.
• Due to the heat in Mandalay, tourists should keep themselves hydrated. However, only drink boiled water, or water from sealed bottles. Drinking water from the tap is strongly discouraged.
• It is not advisable to eat raw vegetables and salads. Before eating fruits, it is best to peel them first.
• Eating from street stalls is discouraged.
• Before booking a tour, visitors should research about the tour operators in the city and choose the most established and experienced tour operator.
• You should travel with protection for electrical items in case of voltage fluctuation.

Mandalay Attractions

Like other cities in Myanmar, Mandalay is home to many pagodas. It is to be expected, as Theravada Buddhism is the predominant religion in the country, with 80% of the population practising it. There are also monasteries to visit in Mandalay, some of which are impressive in their architectural style and construction. Most of the attractions in the city offer tourists a spiritual, if not enlightening, experience.

Mandalay is not only a city of temples and monasteries; it can also be considered as city of royalty. The other attractions in Mandalay are reminders of the time when Burmese kingdoms were still in existence. This is the city where the Royal Palace can be found, as well as other structures built by the kings. However, the best attraction in Mandalay is not made by man. Mandalay Hill is the most famous attraction of the city, a necessary stop for any tourist who arrives in this part of Myanmar.

Amarapura

Amarapura in Mandalay - Myanmar

Some 11km south of Mandalay. It became the capital of the Konbaung Dynasty in 1783 during the reign of King Bodawpaya. Places of interest are Pahtodawgyi Pagoda, U Bein Bridge across the Taungthaman Lake, Kyauktawgyi Pagoda, Nagayon Pagoda, Mahagandayone Monastery and cotton and silkweaving cottage industries.

Atumashi Kyaung

Atumashi Kyaung in Mandalay - Myanmar

Built in 1857, the Atumashi Kyaung was one of the last religious construction projects of King Mindon. The name means 'Incomparable Monastery'. The Atumashi is an example of traditional Burmese monastic construction: it features a masonry base with a wooden building on top. However, instead of a multi-roofed design, it has graduated rectangular terraces.

• Location: Near the base of Mandalay Hill, beside Shwenandaw Kyaung.

Cultural Museum Mandalay

Cultural Museum Mandalay - Myanmar

Those interested in the royal history of Myanmar will enjoy the collections of Mandalay regalia, as well as royally commissioned art. The museum is also home to coins, palm leaf manuscripts and Bagan-period Buddha images.

• Opening Hours: 09:30-16:30.
• Location: On the corner of the 24th and 80th Streets.

Inwa (Ava)

Inwa (Ava) in Mandalay - Myanmar

Known as the Kingdom of Inwa during the Second Myanmar Empire, today it is a small town south of Amarapura. The sights to see in In-wa include Nanmyint Watch Tower, Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery, Bagaya Monastery, the lacquerware factory and Inwa Bridge spanning the Ayeyarwad River.

Kaungmudaw Pagoda

Kaungmudaw Pagoda in Mandalay - Myanmar

It is easy to spot the Kaungmudaw Pagoda because of its imposing structure. The most recognized of all Sagaing stupas, this large dome with a whitewashed edifice was modelled on the Great Stupa in Sri Lanka. The pagoda, which is 46 metres in height, was built to commemorate Inwa's establishment as the royal capital of Myanmar.

• Location: 10 kilometres from Sagaing, Mandalay Division.

Kuthodaw Pagoda

Kuthodaw Pagoda in Mandalay - Myanmar

The Kuthodaw Pagoda is home to what is considered as the world's largest book. The pagoda is surrounded with 729 slabs, with each slab having its own stupa and all 15 books of the Tripitaka are inscribed on the slabs. The building of this pagoda was started by King Mindon in1857, the same time work began on the Royal Palace.

• Location: Base of the south-east stairways to Mandalay Hill.

Kyauktawgyi Pagoda

Kyauktawgyi Pagoda in Mandalay - Myanmar

This pagoda, whose name means ‘Great Marble Buddha Image’ was built by King Mindon in 1853 using the Ananda Temple in Bagan as a model. This is why the pagoda sharply resembles the Ananda's exterior. The fame of this attraction can be attributed solely to the large seated Buddha figure made from a single block of pale green marble. It is said that 10,000 men spent 13 days transporting the image from the Irrawaddy River to its current site.

• Opening Hours: 06:00-20:00.
• Location: Near the southern entry to Mandalay Hill.

Maha Myat Muni Pagoda

Maha Myat Muni Pagoda in Mandalay - Myanmar

The Maha Myat Muni Pagoda, also known as the Mahamuni Pagoda, is the holiest pilgrimage site in Mandalay. This pagoda houses the Maha Myat Muni Pagoda Buddha image, the most ancient and most revered of all Buddha images. The pagoda was built by King Bodawpaya, who took the Buddha image during his invasion of Rakhaing.

• Opening Hours: 06:00-20:00.
• Location: Southwest of Mandalay, three kilometres south of the city centre on the road towards Amarapura.

Mandalay Hill

Mandalay Hill - Myanmar

Almost everyone who visits Mandalay goes to this hill. It is the landmark of Mandalay and also serves as a natural watchtower because it overlooks the city. Visitors often watch the sunrise or sunset over the city plains here because of the stunning views. According to legend, the Lord Buddha visited the hill and made a prophecy that a great city would be established at its foot.

• Location: Northeast corner of the Mandalay Royal Palace.

Mandalay Palace

Mandalay Palace - Myanmar

The Myan Nan San Kyaw, or Royal Palace, was the first palace to be built in Mandalay. Constructed by King Mindon, who moved his capital from Amarapura to Mandalay, the location was chosen because of astronomical calculations and favourable omens. The entire palace complex was destroyed by fire during World War II, but it has been restored.

• Opening Hours: 07:30-17:00.
• Location: Between 12th Street and 26th Street.

Mingun Bell

OxCart Taxi - Mingun

A delightful river trip from Mandalay is required to get to this marvelous unfinished temple. Famous for the 90-ton Mingun Bell, supposedly the largest hung bell in the world, it was cast in 1790 on the orders of King Bodawpaya, who wished for it to be installed at the top of his planned giant 150 metre-high pagoda. Due to the king's death in 1819, however, the pagoda was never completed.

Pyin Oo Lwin

Pyin Oo Lwin Botanical Gardens

The former British hill station of Maymyo, 67 km east of Mandalay, stands about 1,000 meters above sea level. Though the town was damaged during World War II, several of the old English houses were spared. This is also the centre for Myanmar's small but burgeoning new coffee industry.

Sandamuni Pagoda

Sandamuni Pagoda in Mandalay - Myanmar

This Mandalay attraction is most notable for its resemblance to the Kuthodaw Pagoda, because the Sandamuni also has many slender whitewashed ancillary stupas in its grounds. The Sandamuni Pagoda is best known for the Iron Buddha Sandamuni cast by King Bodawpaya of the Konbaung Dynasty in 1802. The cast was brought from Amarapura to its present location in 1874 by King Mindon.

• Location: Southeast of Mandalay Hill.

Sagaing

Sagaing Hill in Mandalay - Myanmar

Once an ancient capital, Sagaing lies 21km south west of the Ayeyarwad River. The Sagaing Hills are dotted with pagodas and there are over 500 monasteries, a retreat for some 6000 monks and nuns. Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda, Kaung Hmudaw Pagoda (a copy of the Mahaceti Pagoda in Sri Lanka), and Ywahtaung village (home of the silversmiths' guild) are places worth visiting.

Shwenandaw Kyaung (Golden Palace Monastery)

This is not only another example of a traditional Burmese monastery, but it is also a piece of the old Mandalay Palace. Part of the royal palace where King Mindon died, the teak structure was moved out of the palace under King Thibaw in 1880 and was converted into a monastery.

• Location: Near 14th Street.

Mandalay Hotels

Mandalay hotels and resorts at the best rates. List of best Hotels and Resorts from five-star in Mandalay, Myanmar recommendations:
• Sedona Hotel Mandalay.
• Mandalay Hill Resort.

Mandalay Restaurants

In Myanmar, there is no shortage of places to eat. This is particularly true in Mandalay with quite a selection of dining options in this city. It is a given that most restaurants and dining destinations in Myanmar serve rice-and-curry dishes however, the eateries in Mandalay go beyond that. Aside from traditional Burmese dishes and local Mandalay specialities, restaurants also offer Chinese, Indian, Thai, even Nepali dishes. Western food can also be enjoyed in Mandalay.

Restaurants in Mandalay come in different kinds and forms. They can come in the form of bamboo structures (BBB) or 20th century colonial establishments (Green Elephant) or even with Shan-inspired interiors (Lashio Lay) or eye-catching exteriors (Oriental House).

A Little Bit of Mandalay

A visit to Mandalay will not be complete without dining at A Little Bit of Mandalay. Tourists in Mandalay should find the time to drop by, as this restaurant serves the best local dishes in the city with a wide range of Myanmar specialities.

Location: No. 413/B, Block 803, 65 Street, between 27-28 Street, Aung Daw Mu Quarter.

Aya Myit Tar Myanmar Restaurant

Visitors to the Mahamuni Paya who find themselves hungry will be thankful for the location of the Aya Myit Tar Myanmar Restaurant. However, tourists are not the only ones who dine in this eatery; locals also frequent the place. The staff members of this two-room restaurant speak minimal English, but there is an English-language menu.

• Opening Hours: 08:30-21:30.
• Location: No. 530, 81st Street.

BBB

Those looking for a taste of Western dishes should visit the BBB, or the Barman Beer Bar. Diners who want a break from rice dishes will enjoy the pastas, burgers, soups served with hot bread, and delicious barbecue chicken. The steak with mushroom sauce is a firm favourite. The two-floor bamboo restaurant has air-conditioning and ESPN on the TV sets.

• Opening Hours: 08:30-23:00.
• Location: No. 292, Block 609, 76th Street, Between 26th and 27th Street.

Green Elephant Restaurant

The Green Elephant Restaurant chain is probably the most popular in Myanmar. It has three branches in the country: Yangon, Bagan and Mandalay. The one in Mandalay is one of the few upscale dining places in the city, and it is housed in a 1920s colonial house. The menu features Burmese and Asian (Chinese and Thai) dishes. The beef curry with soy paste and lime leaves is highly recommended.

• Opening Hours: 10:00-21:00.
• Location: 3 (H), Block 801, 27th Street, between 64th & 65th Street, Aung Daw Mu Quarter.

Ko's Kitchen

Thai food can be enjoyed in almost any country, and this Thai restaurant in Mandalay definitely serves up a different kind of dining experience. The menu of this fancy two-floor restaurant includes knock-out prawn hotpot, eggplant chilli dip and crispy pork skin. The spicy catfish salad with cashews (yam pla duk foo) is a certified favourite.

• Opening Hours: 11:30-14:30; 17:30-22:00.
• Location: No. 282, Block 146, Corner of 19th Street and 80th Street.

Lashio Lay Restaurant

There are a number of Shan restaurants in Mandalay, and this one serves the best food so it should come as no surprise that this two-floor restaurant is always packed. With two dozen Shan dishes on its menu, there’s enough to keep you interested.

• Opening Hours: 08:00-22:00.
• Location: No. 65, 23rd Street, Between 83rd and 84th Street.

Marie-Min Vegetarian Restaurant

This Indian restaurant is rather unique as it serves everything from curries to yoghurt to Western breakfast items, but all dishes are vegetarian. The two-floor restaurant/house is known for its delicious lassis and chapattis and a very impressive aubergine dip with vegetables.

Opening Hours: 08:00-21:00.
Location: 27th Street, Between 74th Street and 75th Street.

Nepali Food

This restaurant is so-named because it is run by a Nepali family. As a vegetarian restaurant, the place does not serve meat or eggs or alcohol. A notable dish in this place is the thali (three types of curry served on either banana leaves or a metal plate).

• Opening Hours: 07:00-21:30.
• Location: 81st Street, Between 26th and 27th Street.

Oriental House

Those in the mood for Chinese food should visit Oriental House. The waterfalls out the front of the restaurant welcome the guests, who will be impressed with the spaciousness of the place. It has a huge ground floor and additional seating upstairs.

• Opening Hours: 06:30-14:00 (dim sum); 17:00-21:00 (dinner).
• Location: No. 8, Block 801, Corner of 27th Street and 64th Street.

Too Too Restaurant

This dining destination offers delicious dishes at low prices. Most locals attest that this hole-in-the-wall with brick flooring is the place to go for the best traditional dishes in Mandalay. Just point at what you like (options include catfish curry, prawn fish balls and fried chicken). All meals come with rice and many condiments.

• Opening Hours: 10:00-21:00.
• Location: 27th Street, Between 74th and 75th Streets.

Shopping in Mandalay - Myanmar

Shopping in Mandalay - Myanmar

Shopping in Mandalay is an entirely different experience compared to shopping in Yangon. Mandalay does not have the malls and major shopping centres that the capital has to offer (with the exception of the Skywalk Mall in Yadanarbon), so shopping can be limited in this city. While the commercial stores may be lacking, the local shops are many and there are several markets to be found offering shoppers a wide array of products to choose from.

Myanmar is known for its gems, jewellery and handicrafts and all these can be purchased in Mandalay. There are countless stores and shops that sell precious stones like jade, ruby and sapphire; gold and silver jewellery are also offered in many establishments. As the country's crafts centre, Mandalay also features an abundance of souvenirs such as sculptures and Buddha images.

Amara Waddy

Myanmar is also known for its woodcraft and other handicrafts. Most tourists often bring home a Buddha sculpture with them as a reminder of their trip. In Mandalay, the Amara Waddy is one of the best souvenir shops selling sculptures.

• Location: 493/25, 81st Street, between 35th Street & 36th Street.

Gem Palace

Myanmar is a popular destination for tourists who are interested in precious stones and jewellery. In the city of Mandalay, one great place to shop for these items is the Gem Palace. The Gem Palace is considered as one of the best sources in the area. The establishment also sells timepieces, eyewear and sterling silver pieces.

• Location: No. 376, Corner of 33rd Street and 83rd Street, Chan Aye Thar San Township.

Kai Tan Market

Like the Yadanarbon Market, the Kai Tan Market also has five floors. This shopping destination, which opened in 1997, has a total of 315 shops. The ground floor is home to vegetable and fruit produce while the second floor sells mainly fish products, such as pounded fish and dried fish.

• Location: 28th Street, between 86th Street & 87th Street, Chan Aye Thar San Township.

Mahar Aung Myay Gems Dealers' Market

The name of this market says it all. Visitors who are fond of gems should stop by and check out the extensive selection of precious stones found in this place. Most of the shops here are wholesalers of gems, and tourists can get enjoy reasonable prices for different kinds of products.

• Location: Between 39th Street & 40th Street, between 87th Street & 88th Street, Mahar Aung Myay Township.

The Man Thiri Market

Among all Mandalay markets, this one benefits most from its location. Because it is close to the Zegyo Market and in line with the Kai-tan Market, the 500-shop Man Thiri is frequently visited by shoppers from the other two markets.

• Location: 86th Street, between 25th Street & 26th Street, Aung Myay Thar San Township.

The Mingalar Market

The Mingalar Market is the ideal shopping destination for those who travel by train because it is situated near the Mandalay Railway Station. It is a four-storey building, but the ground floor and first floor are the only ones with shops.

• Location: 30th Street, between 72nd Street & 73rd Street, Chan Aye Thar San Township.

The Nan-She Market

The Nan-She Market is similar to the Kai Tan because it was also opened in 1997 and the main commodity sold here is also produce. However, this market does not sell anything else. The three-storey market is dedicated to selling fruits and vegetables from the rural areas to the east of Mandalay.

• Location: 19th Street, between 63rd Street & 64th Street, Aung Myay Thar San Township.

The Thiri Mandalar Market

This is the place to go for those interested in shopping for regional products, because the Thiri Mandalar Market is the centre of trading for all goods that come from the rural areas along the Irrawaddy River. The structure of the market itself is interesting: it consists of nine three-storey buildings and an octagon-shaped six-storey building. This market has a total of 2,318 shops.

• Location: Between 22nd and 23rd Roads, East Thiri Mandalar Quarter, Aung Myay Thar San Township.

Yadanarbon Market

The Yadanarbon Market is the largest market and biggest shopping mall in Mandalay. The structure is a five-storey building and the ground floor alone has 1,533 shops, while the first floor houses the Skywalk Shopping Mall that has 1,310 stores. Items such as fabrics, ready-made clothes, cosmetics, kitchenware and electrical goods can be purchased here.

• Location: Between 77th Street & 78th Street and between 33rd Street & 34th Street, Chan Aye Thar San Township.

Zegyo (Zay Cho) Market

This shopping destination is the oldest and main market of the city and is the place for one-stop shopping. You can pretty much find everything here, from practical items like spices, fabrics and home wares, to gems and fine jewellery. Because of the sights (ethnic people in traditional costume) and smells (ripe produce and other edible goods) of the market, you’re sure to have a memorable shopping experience here.

• Location: Between 84th Street & 86th Street and between 26th Street & 28th Street, Chan Aye Thar San Township.

Mandalay Activities

Mandalay preserves the folk art of puppetry, and showcases this art form to foreigners through marionette shows and theatre performances. Much as the artists of Myanmar show their talents through puppetry, visitors can also show their talents by singing... that is in the city’s many karaoke bars.

There are a number of spas and beauty salons in the area for those who wish the ultimate in rest and relaxation. Golf lovers can also relax by playing their favourite sport with the breathtaking views as a backdrop. Lastly, nature lovers can just stroll and unwind in the picturesque garden.

Marionette Shows and Traditional Theatre

A trip to Mandalay will not be complete without watching a traditional marionette play or theatre performance. In the past, Myanmar puppetry was used for purposes of art, education and entertainment. Marionettes were used to educate people about current events, traditions and literature and also served as a mouthpiece of the people. Now it is considered a dying art form that is being preserved by the likes of Mandalay Marionettes Theatre and other groups.

Mandalay Marionettes Theatre

• Opening Hours: Regular Show: 20:30-21:30 • Location: 66th Street between 26th Street & 27th Street, Mandalay.
• Tel: 95-2-34446

Khaing Thistar

• Location: 119/32,41st Street, Between 78th Street & 79th Street, Mandalay.
• Tel: 02- 30175

La Min Tayar

• Location: Corner of 82nd Street & 42nd Street, Shan Pwe Ward, Mandalay.
• Tel: 02- 32351

KARAOKE

Tourists may be surprised to know that this quiet and laid-back city is actually home to this noisy pastime. Visitors can channel their inner rock star and showcase their talent in the many karaoke lounges throughout the city. The only problem is deciding which among the lounges should be chosen for the singing session. Here are three to try out.

9 Star

• Location: No. 8, 66th Street, Between 30th Street & 31st Street, Mandalay.
• Tel: 02- 99060320

King Star

• Location: No. 47, 83rd Street, Between 20th Street & 21st Street, Mandalay.
• Tel: 02- 38513

Light Ace

• Location: 19-20, 30th Street, Between 65th Street & 66th Street, Mandalay.
• Tel: 02- 92003546

Spa/ Beauty Salons in Mandalay

Mandalay is similar to Yangon in the sense that both cities are great destinations for rest, relaxation and a good pampering. The city of Mandalay has its fair share of beauty salons and spas and after days of sightseeing and visiting the beautiful pagodas, tourists can end their journey on a soothing note with massages and aromatherapy.

Aye Aye Than (San Thaw Dar)

• Location: Corner of 26th Street & 86th Street, Near Aye Thu Kha Thinggan Shop, man Thiri Zay, Zegyo, Aung Myay Thar Zi Township, Mandalay.
• Tel: 0920 07438

Aye Mon

• Location: Rm 34-35, Pan Dan, Zegyo, Chan Aye Thar Zan Township, Mandalay.
• Tel: 02 60966 ext:5378

Beauty Angel

• Location: Rm-B4, 71st Street, Between 30th Street & 31th Street.
• Tel: 02 68309

GOLF

Myanmar is a good place for golf lovers with tour packages specially designed for visitors who want to play. The city of Mandalay is included in some of the tour packages, mainly because of the Yetagun Taung Golf Course. The 7,020-yard, 18-hole course provides golfers with a stunning view of the Shan Mountain ranges as they tee off.

• Location: Left side of Mandalay-Maymyo Highway Road.

ECOTOURISM

Myanmar’s rich biodiversity lends the opportunity for ecotourism, and Mandalay is one of the cities with an ecotourism site. The National Kandawgyi Garden or Maymyo Botanical Garden, formerly known as the National Botanical Garden, is a place that visitors should not miss as a venue for study and research regarding botany.

• Opening Hours: 07:00-17:30.
• Location: Pyin Oo Lwin Township.

Mandalay Nightlife

Street Food in Mandalay - Myanmar

Visitors wanting to enjoy the night life in Mandalay may be disappointed with what the city offers. Unlike Yangon, Mandalay has very limited options when it comes to night time entertainment and drinking as the city does not have pubs and bars. However, just because there are no beer stations, it does not mean that the city is not alive at night. The night life in Mandalay is quite unique, especially when compared to other cities.

Instead, Mandalay has satire and puppets. The city has its own version of the 'West End' with the Moustache Brothers, who combine comedy, tradition and political commentary. Theatre arts are also represented at night thanks to the Mandalay Marionettes. The absence of pubs does not mean the absence of beer, which can still be enjoyed in the city with some restaurants serving both local and foreign beer.

Gem Club in Mandalay Hill Resort Hotel

In Mandalay, hotels can also be considered as nightspots and one of them is the Mandalay Hill Resort Hotel, which is home to the Gem Club. The establishment is more for drinking that eating, as the place only serves light snacks.

• Opening Hours: 19:00-23:00.
• Location: No. 9, Kwin (416.B), 10 Street (at the foot of Mandalay Hill).

Kipling's Lounge in Mandalay Hill Resort Hotel

Kipling's Lounge is another place in the Mandalay Hill Resort Hotel that night owls would love. This one is better than the Gem Club in terms of entertainment, mainly because the Lounge offers patrons live music nightly. Like the Gem Club, this hotel bar only serves drinks and light snacks.

• Opening Hours: 15:00-23:30.
• Location: No. 9, Kwin (416.B), 10 Street (at the foot of Mandalay Hill)

Mandalay Marionettes and Culture Show

At night, tourists can expect a different kind of entertainment in Mandalay, specifically a puppet show. The small theatre, which was opened in 1986, holds hour-long shows every day. The shows are mostly recreations of zat pwe (Buddhist Jataka tales) and stories from the Indian epic Ramayana. Traditionally, these cultural shows are used to educate and deliver the news.

• Opening Hours: Regular Show: 20:30-21:30.
• Location: 66th Street, Between 26th and 27th Street, Mandalay.

Mann Restaurant

Like the Shwe Taung Food Centre, this place is a dining spot and known for serving good Chinese cuisine. What makes this place included in the list of night life destinations is the beer, as it is common to see locals enjoying Tiger Beer. There is even a Miss Tiger to represent the brand.

• Opening Hours: 07:00-22:00.
• Location: 83rd Street, Mandalay.

Nylon Ice Cream Bar

Drinking beer is an important part of this city’s night life and in Mandalay one can find beer in an unusual spot: an ice cream bar. At the Nylon Ice Cream Bar one can enjoy a shake, lassi or a scoop of ice cream but when the sun goes down, patrons gather in this popular spot to drink Myanmar Beer.

• Opening Hours: 08:30-21:30.
• Location: No. 173, 83rd Street, Between 25th and 26th Street, Mandalay.

Shwe Taung Food Centre

The Shwe Taung Food Centre is more of a restaurant than a nightspot. However, it gives night owls a nightly music performance that starts at 19:30. This is a rather formal, air-conditioned establishment, which will certainly be enjoyed by people who wants a respite from the heat and dust.

• Opening Hours: 10:00-21:30.
• Location: 35th Street, Mandalay.

The Moustache Brothers

The Moustache Brothers is not the name of a nightlife destination; it’s the name of a troupe famous for their brand of comedy. The performances are held in the troupe's garage, on a mini wooden-crate stage, and the audience sits on plastic chairs about a metre away. The Brothers are well-known because they describe the social and political situation of the country through comedy and traditional dances. The troupe is only allowed to perform in English and for foreigners.

• Opening Hours: Show Starts at 20:30.
• Location: 39th Street, Between 80th and 81st Street./.

Tours in Myanmar recommended

• Essential Myanmar - 16 Days/ 15 Nights
• Beautiful Myanmar - 15 Days/ 14 Nights
• Essential Myanmar - 13 Days/ 12 Nights
• Colorful Myanmar - 13 Days/ 12 Nights
• Essential Myanmar With Boat - 13 Days/ 12 Nights
• Classic & Beautiful Beach - 12 Days/ 11 Nights
• Beautiful Myanmar - 10 Days/ 9 Nights
• Wonderful Myanmar - 10 Days/ 9 Nights
• Beautiful Myanmar - 9 Days/ 8 Nights
• Beautiful Myanmar - 8 Days/ 7 Nights
• Beautiful Myanmar - 8 Days/ 7 Nights
• Discover Myanmar - 6 Days/ 5 Nights
• Amazing Myanmar - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Amazing Myanmar - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Taste Of Myanmar - 4 Days/ 3 Nights

Hue - Everthing to know

Everything you Need to Know about Hue

Vietnamese Conical Hat - Hue

The ancient city of Hue (pronounced 'whey') in central Vietnam was the capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty at the beginning of the 19th Century, and during the Vietnam-US war some of the most intense conflicts occurred in this region.

One of Hue’s main tourist attractions is the spectacular riverside Hue Citadel or Royal Palace of the Imperial City, built according to the practices of ‘feng shui’. Such is Hue’s historical significance that it is recognised today as a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Although Hue is not strictly a coastal city, beach lovers will not be disappointed as there are several good beaches like Thuan An, less than 15 minutes away – you can even cycle there! In short, Hue is a perfect location to explore the cultural heart and soul of the Vietnamese people while still having easy access to the beach.

Under an hour away there are several more beach options. The likes of Lang Co and Canh Duong Beach are perfect for day trips. Just over 650km south of Hanoi and almost 1,100km north of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Hue is well served by all forms of transport – including bus, rail and air.

 

Where to Stay in Hue

Forbidden Purple City - Hue - Vietnam

 

The former Imperial City of Hue, now a World Heritage Site, is one of Vietnam's major tourist attractions. This small city holds the key to Vietnams Royal past with beautiful palaces, royal tombs, pagodas and temples built under the Nguyen dynasty. The Citadel city, the Forbidden Purple City and the Thien Mu Pagoda are just some of the treasures located there.

The province of Thua Thien Hue also has its fair share of natural treasures with miles of sandy beaches, the largest lagoon in Asia , the Ngu Binh mountains and the Bach Ma National Park. It is also known for its folk music, traditional handicrafts and colourful festivals. Located between Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

• List of Hotels & Resorts recommendations:

› Vedana Lagoon Resort & Spa.
› Imperial Hotel Hue.
› Thien An Hotel.
› Thanh Thao Hotel.

 

Hue Restaurants

Restaurants in Hue, Vietnam

 

In the old days, it was said that the emperors were always looking to find the finest chefs in the empire and to move them to Hue. This movement of chefs from the different regions of Vietnam allowed for the fusing of many new and different regional flavors and textures with the more traditional Hue dishes.

There are some nice restaurants southeast of the Perfume River as well as on the Citadel side of the river.

Downtown Hue has some tourist restaurants with typical western food (pizza and pasta), but many visitors prefer to stick to local dishes as they are outstanding and delicious.

 

Cafe on Thu Wheels

Cafe on Thu Wheels Restaurant run by the lovely and energetic Thu and is particularly liked by the backpackers who love to come here and enjoy live satellite English football with plenty of chilled beer. Located on 10/2 Nguyen Tri Phuong, in the alley next to Omar Khayyam's Indian restaurant.

• Tel: +84 (54) 832241

 

Lac Thien Restaurant

The friendly, family-run, Lac Thien Restaurant is one of the best in Hue in which to try the most famous local dishes, banh khoai (a type of stuffed crepe, accompanied by peanut sauce) and nem lui. Tel: +84 (54) 52 7348. Lac Thanh Restaurant is on the corner, next door to Lac Thien Restaurant. It is run by a family of deaf-mutes and offers delicious Vietnamese food.

• Tel: +84 (54) 824674

 

Mandarin Cafe

Mandarin Café on 24 Tran Cao Van, is at the centre of Hue's backpacking community. This friendly, unassuming café serves up cheap, excellent Vietnamese and Western fare, and also hosts Sinh Café's booking desk, where you can book boat trips, car/bike hire, and tour information.

• Tel: +84 (54) 821281

 

Paradise Garden Restaurant

Paradise Garden offers a full menu, allowing one to try out different Hue-style dishes at an affordable price. Paradise Garden serves Vietnamese, Chinese, and Indian dishes in addition to local specialties – but it is those local specialties that make the lunch, snack, or dinner there. Located on the river edge promenade street near the Trang Tien bridge (which changes colour at night), the restaurant has a covered as well as a courtyard dining area.

• Tel: +84 (54) 38 38485

 

The DMZ Bar

The DMZ Bar was named after the demilitarized zone of the 17th parallel that once divided Vietnam.

Located on the main hotel and restaurant street in Hue, and close to two of the major riverfront hotels, the DMZ is a casual place with a pool table that offers a good choice of Vietnamese and some Italian food.

• Tel: +84 (54) 38 23414

 

Tropical Garden Restaurant

Tropical Garden Restaurant is on 27 Chu Van An Street and is a popular tour-bus stopover but it nevertheless has a cozy atmosphere. It serves fine Vietnamese fare from a good English-language menu, and there is live music nightly. Dishes at Tropical Garden include banana flower soup, steamed crab with beer, and grilled minced shrimp with sugarcane wrapped in rice paper and served with peanut sauce.

• Tel: +84 (54) 847143

 

Hue Shopping

Dong Ba Market in Hue - Vietnam

 

A must-buy item in Hue should include the Vietnamese Nón lá, the conical-shaped hat made by woven palm leaves.

The hat has been around almost as long as the country and is worn by men and women everywhere. The lighter the hat is the more elegant the look.

In Hue especially, the hat makers insert poems into the weaves and the poem can only be seen when the hat is held up to the sunlight, making it even more special.

 

Where to Shop and What to Buy in Hue

Dong Ba Market

Dong Ba market is on the north bank of the Perfume River, not far from where the Hue Citadel sits.

It has hundreds of stalls selling almost everything from clothing, house-ware items to souvenirs and all at reasonable prices. You will also find local food, fruit and Vietnamese wine sold here.

 

Posh Boutiques

There are some really cool posh boutiques located near the junction by Trang Tien Bridge. To be exact, they are located between Duy Tan Hotel and Trang Tien Bridge. They are all tastefully decorated and usually accept credit cards.

 

The Gift Shops at the Pilgrimage Hotel

These gift shops are outstanding. Divided into four types of crafts, silk/fabric, woodwork, ceramics and rattan/wicker, they feature an assortment of tasteful, traditional and local crafts. There are also local craftsmen on hand to demonstrate their work. The quality of the merchandise is good and the selection and prices are reasonable.

 

Hue Nightlife

Nightlife in Hue can hardly be described as scintillating. It's been said that the raciest thing about it is when the police show up and the illegal street vendors disappear like dust into thin air.

Still, if your scene is a few quiet drinks hanging out with backpackers and/or locals then there's no reason why nights out in Hue shouldn't be loads of fun.

 

Apocalypse Now

A little out of the way. It isn't anywhere near as atmospheric as its namesakes in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Tel: (54) 820152 Brown Eyes Chillout Bar-Club Brown Eyes features a DJ, free pool table, and a friendly atmosphere. Parties of four persons or more get a free taxi paid for by the bar.

• Opening Hours: Stays open late. Happy hour(s) 17:00-22:00.
• Location: 56 Chu Van An, Hue.
• Tel: +84 (54) 827494

 

Cafe on Thu Wheels

A restaurant run by the lovely and energetic Thu and is particularly liked by the backpackers who love to come here and enjoy live English satellite football with plenty of chilled beer.

• Location: 10/2 Nguyen Tri Phuong, in the alley next to Omar Khayyam's Indian restaurant.
• Tel: +84 (54) 832241

 

Mandarin Cafe

Mandarin Café on 24 Tran Cao Van is at the centre of Hue's backpacking community. This friendly, unassuming cafe serves up cheap, excellent Vietnamese and Western fare, and also hosts a desk, where you can book boat trips, car/bike hire, and tour information.

• Tel: +84 (54) 821281

 

The DMZ Bar

The DMZ Bar was named after the demilitarized zone of the 17th parallel that once divided Vietnam. Located on the main hotel and restaurant street in Hue and close to two of the major riverfront hotels, the DMZ is a casual place with a pool table that offers a good choice of Vietnamese and some Italian food.

• Tel: +84 (54) 38 23414

 

Hue Activities

Boat Cruise on Perfume River - Hue - Vietnam

 

Hue and its people are relaxed and it's easy to unwind here. This makes it one of the most attractive destinations in the country.

Also it is known as a university town as it is home to both Hue College of Fine Art and Hue National school of Music and Dramatic Arts. The two were amalgamated in 1986 to form the Hue College of Arts.

Hue is perfect for nature lovers and those enthusiastic about art and history.

 

Art Galleries in Hue

Art lovers around the world have long been interested in Vietnamese paintings. When in Hue, check out the two main art galleries; New Space Art Gallery on 7 Pham Ngu Lao St. (Tel: +84 (54) 848544) and its second branch on 28 Nguyen Tri Phuong St. (Tel: +84 (54) 849353), both owned by painters and twins Le Ngoc Thanh and Le Duc Hai.

• Another good gallery in Hue is Boi Tran Arts Gallery on 85 Tran Hung Dao St., Hue city (Tel: +84 (54) 523655).

 

Boat Cruise on Perfume River

Travel by Dragon Boat on the romantically named Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda standing on the riverbank with its seven-storey tower. The boat rides also offer lunch prepared and cooked on board, making it a popular excursion among visitors. The dinner cruise and night boat trips usually feature live Hue folk music.

 

Cooking Classes

Another fun and creative way to spend time in Hue is to join a cooking class. Vietnamese food is very delicious and healthy and on top of that Hue is famous for its royal cuisine as the city once served as the capital of Vietnam. There are many dishes that make Hue’s cuisine outstanding.

For cooking classes, try Y Thao Garden House on 3 Thach Han street. (Tel: +84 (54) 523 018), Missy Roo Bar & Restaurant on 62 Nguyen Tri Phuong. (Tel: +84 (54) 228 628), and the Pilgrimage Village Hotel on 130 Minh Mang Street (Tel: +84 (54) 38 85461). The teachers will take you to buy fresh ingredients from nearby local markets before heading back to class.

 

Spas in Hue

Many visitors like to treat themselves after a long walk touring around the old ruins of Hue by going to a local spa and massage. For a good spa try La Résidence Hôtel & Spa 5 Le Loi Street (Tel: +84 (54) 38 37475) and Abalone resort & Spa which is located on picturesque Tam Giang Lagoon, a short 15-minute drive from Hue.

For a foot massage try De Nhat Massage, located opposite the Temple Restaurant on 30 Chu Van An. (Tel: +84 (54) 834646).

 

Hue Attractions

Hue once served as the capital of Vietnam. Even though this is no longer the case many Vietnamese still rate the city highly as a centre of historical and cultural value.

There are many pagodas, tombs and other types of buildings that link the past to present around Hue’s beautiful countryside.

Many of them were ruined (but luckily not totally destroyed) by war but many managed to escape without any damage. Such places include the Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda and Long An Palace Museum.

 

Ho Quyen, Tiger Fighting Arena

Ho Quyen, Tiger Fighting Arena - Hue - Vietnam

 

The tiger fighting arena was built in 1832 under the Minh Mang dynasty to host fights between elephants and tigers. The good news is that the fights have not been held since the early 1900's but amazingly there are still some claw marks left on the walls. The arena is about three kilometers outside of Hue.

 

Royal Tombs

Royal Tombs in Hue - Vietnam

 

Hue has long been recognised as being rich in Vietnamese history. There are many tombs in Hue’s countryside to see. Visitors interested in its history should take a bit of time to admire the emperors’ tombs and most of them are located in large and beautiful grounds. Such important tombs include Tu Duc, Minh Mang, Khai Dinh and Gia Long.

 

Thanh Toan Bridge

Thanh Toan Bridge - Hue - Vietnam

 

Thanh Toan is a tile-roofed bridge built about 200 years ago over the Nhu Y River. It is not big, about 17 metres long and four metres wide and is made of wood. There is a shrine inside the bridge set up for the lady who funded its construction. This beautiful and charming bridge is about 10 kilometers east of Hue.

 

Thien Mu Pagoda

Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue - Vietnam

 

The Thien Mu Pagoda is the most famous pagoda in Hue. Built in 1844 by Emperor Thieu Tri, it features golden Buddha images at the base, along with a big bell cast in 1710, and a stone turtle holding a marble stele inscribed in the 17th century. This pagoda is also famous for being the home monastery of the Buddhist monk Thich Quang Duc who, in 1963, traveled to Saigon and burned himself to death at a busy downtown junction to protest against the then government. The Austin car he used to drive down to Saigon is on display within the pagoda too. Thien Mu Pagoda is 3.5km west of the Phu Xuan Bridge (the railway bridge).

 

Voi Re Temple

Voi Re Temple in Hue - Vietnam

 

Vietnam, like many Asian countries, considers the elephant as the symbol of monarchy. Voi Re Temple is located near the Tiger Fighting Arena./.

 

Tours in Hue

• Ancient towns - Away from busy life - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Relaxing in central of Vietnam - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Central Vietnam Explorer - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Heritage path in middle of Vienam - 6 Days/ 5 Nights

Top 10 Things to Do in Laos

Cambodia Must-see Attractions

Laos is one of the few truly exotic travel destinations left in the world. With a 'back-in-time' feel to it and with a truly friendly population combined with atmospheric Buddhist temples, places of interest and enigmatic heritage sites, you are guaranteed a roller coaster of a cultural ride in exploring this country.

From the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang (yes, that's right - an entire town a heritage site) to the unexplained and mysterious Plain of Jars you'll be fascinated and in awe of this wonderful land.

1. Luang Prabang in Norhtern Laos

Luang Prabang in Norhtern of Laos

The ancient town of Luang Prabang situated in northern Laos, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. Considered by many travellers and writers as being the heart of Laotian culture, the tiny town is encircled by mountains and is 700 metres above sea level at the confluence of the Nam Khan and Mekong Rivers. Here visitors are subjected to an inflamed economic bubble that does not apply to the rest of the country. Being Laos' premier tourist destination and (arguably) Southeast Asia's most beautiful spot, ironically tourists will pay more for the innate pleasures of eating, drinking and sleeping than they would in the country's capital city Vientiane.

Luang Prabang was the ancient royal capital of the Lan Xang Kingdom until King Phothisarat moved the administrative seat to Vientiane in 1545. Regardless, it has continued to overlook Vientiane as the destination of choice with its amalgamation of crumbling French architecture, glistening temples and extensive natural beauty. Even the hardest of hearts would have a struggle not to warm to the place. The town's entire historical section is dedicated to tourism, with everything from former royal palaces to over 33 Wats (temples), on the tourist trail. This former Royal capital still remains the main centre for Buddhist learning in Laos and is the perfect location for spiritual contemplation.

Cascading waterfalls, scaling peaks and the milky-brown waters of the Mekong River provide ample opportunity to swim, climb and sail your way through Luang Prabang. It is only as recent as 1989 that Laos opened up to tourism and the country that had previously been cut off from the rest of Southeast Asia developed a small but steady economy, based on tourism and regional trade. This small and gentle town where most locals are asleep by 22:00 is now one of the richest and most visited provinces in Laos. It's one of the few places where you feel that this is the genuine article and one that retains its unique ambiance.

2. That Luang in Vientiane

That Luang in Vientiane, Laos

That Luang, or the Great Stupa, in Vientiane is a national symbol (its image is on Laos’ official seal) and also the most sacred monument in the country. From the outside That Luang looks more like a fortress surrounded by high walls and it features two temples with the main stupa, the top of which is covered with gold leaf, standing 148 feet tall.

The beautiful architecture is in Lao style, influenced by Buddhist beliefs – these include finely-gilded, red-lacquer doors, pointed lesser stupas, many Buddha images and beautiful flower and animal images.

Locals say that it was originally built as early as the third century to house a breastbone of the Lord Buddha brought to Laos by an Indian missionary. However, the current structure was built by King Setthathirat in 1566 on the site of a 13th century Khmer ruin. He named Vientiane the capital after Luang Prabang in the mid-sixteenth century. An elegantly crafted statue of him stands in front of the main entrance to That Luang.

That Luang was greatly damaged by the Burmese, Chinese and Siamese during invasions in the 18th and 19th centuries then was basically left alone until French colonial times. Restoration work was completed in 1900 by the French and for a second time in 1930, again with the help of the French.

Every November when the Boun That Luang Festival is held in Vientiane, a large crowd of followers and tourists come to town from all over Laos and neighbouring countries. The festival is considered the most important Buddhist celebration in Laos with many activities going on for three days and three nights. The main event is always held at That Luang and thousands of people come to pay respect to the stupa and to enjoy the colourful event that includes parades, live music and religious ceremonies.

• Opening Hours: All year round.
• Location: The impressively gilded structure is situated about four kilometres northeast of Vientiane.

3. Vang Vieng in Northern of Vientiane

Vang Vieng in Northern of Vientiane

Vang Vieng for many travelers is simply a piece of heaven on earth. Surrounded by scenic landscape ranging from mountains to rivers and limestone cliffs to rice fields, this small and scenic town offers a long list of interesting attractions. The Nam Song River is where you will witness the famous tubing – and young travellers sitting in large inner tubes floating downriver is a common sight in Vang Vieng.

Actually it has become a large part of the reason why many young people come here in the first place. The well-known Tham Poukham Cave features the ‘Blue Lagoon’, a nice spot to swim and swing lazily on a rope, while Tham Norn is among one of the biggest caves in Vang Vieng. If time allows, make a stop at the local market to catch a gimpse of everyday life in a typical Lao rural area.

Vang Vieng Dining

Vang Vieng, a favourite destination for backpackers and budget travelers to Southeast Asia, is full of surprises when it comes to food. The more people come, the more new restaurants are opening up but don’t expect any fine dining just yet. Most restaurants are small operations run in a laid-back and easygoing style. Dishes served range from traditional Lao to Asian cuisine such as Thai, Chinese, and Indian food as well as western fare.

Prices are very reasonable for just about everything including grilled river fish, veggies, noodle stir-fries, beef BBQ and sticky rice. The most convenient place to head to when feeling hungry is the town centre where you will find many small eateries to select from. Alternatively, please try the following list.

Kangaroo Sunset Bar

A well-known restaurant and bar and often full with a friendly crowd, Kangaroo Sunset is as the name suggests a great place to view the beautiful sunset in Vang Vieng. You can also do it in style with a cool beer on your hand. Recommended dishes include chicken massaman curry, Thai-style fried rice and spring rolls. The bar also features a pool table, TV and various choice of Western music which customers can select too.

• Opening Hours: Daily.
• Location: On the River Road, south of the town centre located close to the town Buddhist Temple and Nam Song River.
• Tel: +856 (0) 20 – 771 4291.
• Cuisine: Asian and Western food.

Organic Farm Restaurant

The Organic Farm Restaurant is a unique setup located not far from Vang Vieng. It’s a restaurant, bar, organic farm and learning centre for local kids, all in one place. The bar stocks health drinks, beers and liquor and the menu is full of interesting items. Some must-tries are the deep-fried mulberry leaves and fresh spring rolls as well as variety of BBQ dishes. All ingredients are freshly picked from their own farm. Isn’t that cool?

• Opening Hours: All year round.
• Location: Just outside Vang Vieng.
• Tel: +856 (0) 23- 511174.
• Cuisine: Real organic food.

Sala Pha Deng

Sala Pha Deng riverside restaurant has some of the most stunning views in town. Located on the banks of the Nam Song River, the restaurant has a big terrace and plenty of tables to choose from as well as a lovely wooden bar. The views of the unspoiled river and mountains are a major reason why this place is so popular.

• Opening Hours: All year round.
• Location: At a boutique hotel called the Elephant Crossing Hotel.
• Tel: +856 (0) 23-511 232.
• Cuisine: Traditional Lao and some international food.

Vang Vieng Nightlight

Vang Vieng nightlife offers drinking and lots of it. While the infamous ‘shroom special shakes’ can do the job without any help from synthetic stimulants, more experienced travellers tend to chill out with beers or drinks that they are familiar with. Many bars offer the usual extras such as darts and pool. Music is well covered from typical young western tunes to chill-out music. Most bars serve as restaurants as well and stay open until very late to welcome the ‘tubers’ that need to unwind after a long day out on the river. Expect to see many episodes of Friends on TV as, for some strange reason; a lot of bars on the town’s main street have just that on all day long. No one knows why.

Shopping Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng is not the best shopping destination in the country but visitors may find a few places that sell more than postcards to send home. The local market located north of town sells everyday goods such as fresh food and kitchenware but alongside you’ll find beautiful Lao textiles including many different types of traditional phaa sin (sarongs), ropes and hand-woven shirts. Other exotic items on sale are trays and baskets made from local materials, such as bamboo, grass and straw.

Those who have come to Vang Vieng unprepared for water sports don’t worry; you’ll find swimming suits, shorts, caps, hats and flip-flops at many shops scattered throughout town. Most of them are family-run type of businesses therefore they open quite early.

Vang Vieng Activities

Vang Vieng’s popular activities are not just limited to tubing downriver, though. There are many more pursuits to follow out here especially if you are an outdoors person. Choices of fun activities range from river kayaking to forest hiking and sightseeing this lovely area by boat. Those who are looking for more adventure and thrills will be happy to know that Vang Vieng and its surroundings are famous for having the best rock climbing in the region.

While sliding downhill (no Health & Safety regulations here…), mud sports (mud volleyball, anyone?) and rope swings are also popular among the many backpackers here, cave and cavern exploring is a highlight on the must-do list of nature enthusiasts. After a hard day, spoil yourself with a Lao massage and don’t forget to try a Lao-style steam sauna – a unique experience not to be missed.

4. Wat Sisaket in Vientiane

Wat Sisaket in Vientiane, Laos

Wat Si Saket located in Vientiane is famous for its cloister wall housing thousands of tiny Buddha images and rows with hundreds of seated Buddhas. These images mainly date from the 16th and 19th centuries and come in all sizes and are made from wood, stone and bronze – more than 6,800 Buddhas in total.

If visiting the temple early in the morning, visitors will come across the many locals that go to pray and make merit as well as to offer food to the monks. It is a charming daily ceremony to witness. The temple is quite shady as it is surrounded by tropical fruit trees.

Wat Si Saket is not only famous for the interior walls of the cloister but it also has beautiful architecture and layout with history dated back to 1818. Among the many interesting features there are its lovely surrounding verandas, an ornate five-tiered roof, a drum tower, a small library building with a Burmese-style roof and the flowered ceiling of the ordination hall.

Located opposite the Presidential Palace, the temple was built by Chao Anuvong, the last king of the Lan Xang Kingdom in early Bangkok-style architecture mixed with its own unique style. It survived the Siamese-Lao war of 1828 and has become the oldest Buddhist monastery in Laos.

Art enthusiasts will be thrilled to see many figurines and sculptures fashioned by highly skilled craftsmen such as the five-metre long beautiful detailed wooden naga (in Sanskrit, it means serpent deity) as well as a Khmer-style Buddha seated on a coiled naga.

• Opening Hours: Daily from 08:00 – 16:00. • Location: On Lan Xang Road (across the street from the Presidential Palace), Vientiane.

5. Bolaven Plateau and Tad Fane Waterfall

Bolaven Plateau and Tad Fane Waterfall in Southern Laos

Bolaven Plateau in southern Laos is famous for its great scenery, ethnic villages and unexplored corners. It’s probably best known for being home to some of Southeast Asia's most spectacular waterfalls including Tad Fane and Dong Hua Sao (aka Taat Fang). The plateau’s elevation ranges approximately from 1,000 to 1,350 metres above sea level and here the weather in general is milder than the rest of the country, getting cool, especially at night.

Its fertile plains allow farmers to produce some of the best tea and coffee in the country (coffee remains Laos' biggest agricultural export.) Tourism has become another important source of income for locals as the area has almost unlimited trekking and daytrip opportunities.

The impressive Tad Fane twin falls thunder over 100 metres down the steep cliffs into a gorge, located a few kilometres west of Paksong Town, Champasak Province. The scenic rainforest spot is part of a big national park where wild animals live, including leopards, tigers, elephants and monkeys. Hornbills are among the 300 bird species found in this area.

• Opening Hours: All year round. The waterfalls are more impressive in the rainy season between July and October. If visiting between the months of October and February, visitors can observe the harvesting of coffee around the plateau.
• Location: Bolaven Plateau is situated in the northeast of Champasak Province, covering parts of Salavan, Attapeu and Sekong provinces. The main town to use as a base is Pakse in Champasak.
• How to get there: Pakse has a large bus station with regular connections to other parts of Laos. It also has a small airport.

3. Bokeo

Bokeo Province, Laos

Situated in the heart of the golden triangle, Bokeo is just over the border from Chiang Rai province in Thailand and also borders Myanmar while China is less than 100km away. Although Bokeo is the smallest province in Laos, it harbours a large number of interesting minority groups (approximate 30 ethnicities). The province split off from Luang Nam Tha and was created in 1983. The name Bokeo translates as 'gem mine' and the city is known as the 'land of sapphires'. Panning for gold, and digging for precious stones is a major occupation here.

Huay Xai, the capital provincial of Bokeo, sits on the bank of the Mekong River. Like most minor cities in Laos, several temples built in earlier centuries and surrounding villages seem to be the only attractions. However, Bokeo's real economic strength is tourism. A holiday among a network of hunts and shelters built on top of trees in primary monsoon dry deciduous forest is a decidedly appealing one. A perfect spot where one can observe the forest's rare habitants from above. Besides fascinating attractions and delightful activities, Houay Xai is also known as the gateway to explore the rest of Laos, a famous stopover spot for most arrivals before boarding a boat and heading southeast to Pak Beng and Luang Prabang. A trip up north on Bokeo's winding and bumpy roads will lead to Luang Namtha and beyond.

Over the centuries, Bokeo has remained an important stopover for Chinese traders traveling by boats between China and Thailand. Nowadays, the only connection between Bokeo and Chiang Rai is via ferry and speedboat. However, a bridge between Laos and Thailand is scheduled to open in 2012.

7. Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)

Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)

Buddha Park (aka Xieng Khuan) is a famous sculpture park with more than 200 religious statues including a huge 40-metre high reclining Buddha image.

The best spot for photography here is on top of the giant pumpkin structure standing about three stories high. The entrance is crafted to look like a demon’s mouth (about three metres high) with a stone ladder inside leading to a bird's eye view of the entire Xieng Kuan Park.

Buddha Park Highlights

It was built in 1958 by Luang Pu Bunleua Sulilat, a monk who studied both Buddhism and Hinduism. This explains why his park is full not only of Buddha images but also of Hindu gods as well as demons and animals from both beliefs.

The most outstanding ones include Indra, the king of Hindu gods riding the three-headed elephant (aka Erawan and Airavata), a four-armed deity sitting on a horse and an artistic deity with 12 faces and many hands, each holding interesting objects. They are all equally impressive not only because of their enormous size but because they are full of interesting details and interesting motifs.

There is a local eatery and café offering food and drinks to tourists at one end of the park right next to the Mekong River that makes a great spot to chill after all the walking and climbing. Among the popular snacks are papaya salad, fried bananas and cold Lao beer. It also has a souvenir shop and restrooms. There is a small fee for entering the park as well as for photography.

Buddha Park
• Opening Hours: Daily from 08:00 – 18:00.
• Location: About 25 kilometres southeast of Vientiane, along the Mekong River.
• How to get there: The Buddha Park can be reached by public bus or tuk tuk.

8. The Plain Of Jars

The Plain Of Jars, Laos

The Plain of Jars is considered the most distinctive and enigmatic of all Laos attractions. The large area around Phonsavan, the main city of Xieng Khouang Province is dotted with stone jars but no one has a clear idea as to why they are there.

The mysterious jars were carved from both sandstone and granite in various sizes from very small to about 3.5 metres high and are thought to be more than 2,000 years old. Legend has it that they were made to store rice wine while some believe they were for storing the dead. Until today the function of the jars is still disputed.

The Plain Of Jars Highlights

Of all the many jar sites, the three most popular ones to visit are known as Site 1, 2 and 3. The main reason is because they are safe from UXO (unexploded ordinance). Still, visitors are advised to walk only on the known routes as Laos is considered the most heavily bombed/mined country in the world. During the Vietnam War this area got hit hard and some of the bombs did not go off. Site 1 is where the biggest jar is located. While Site 2 and 3 offer picturesque views of farmlands and villages as they sit on top of small hills.

• Opening Hours: All year round.
• Location: Around Phonsavan, the main town of Xieng Khouang Province in Northeast Laos. Site 1 is about 15km southwest of Phonsavan and has about 300 jars. Site 2 is about 25km south of Phonsavan and contains about 90 jars spread over two hills. Site 3 is about 35km southeast of Phonsavan and contains about 150 jars. It’s actually only 10km away from Site 2.
• How to get there: It’s easy to hire taxi (4WD and driver) from Phonsavan to the jar sites or visitors can catch a local bus to Site 3 but not site 1 and 2.

9. Wat Phu in Champasak

Wat Phu Temple in Champasak, Laos

Wat Phu (meaning "mountain temple"), is situated on a hillside and offers stunning views over the surrounding land and Mekong River. Visitors who appreciate art and history will be amazed by the magnificent workmanship in this ruined Khmer temple complex in the form of temple pillars, barays, lintels, pediments, terrace, courtyard, walls, doorways, sanctuary, shrine, library and palaces.

There is also a natural spring that is believed by locals to emit holy water. Older than the great temple complex at Angkor Wat in Cambodia, Wat Phu was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2002.

Wat Phu is considered one of the oldest archaeological sites in Laos. One temple in the site was constructed around the 5th century but most buildings found in the complex are from the 11th to 13th centuries. Like other notable Khmer architecture in Southeast Asia, it was constructed using sandstone, laterite and bricks. Among many of the outstanding carvings there are the Indra, the Hindu god of war, storms, and rainfall, riding a three-headed elephant and Vishnu riding on a garuda, an eagle.

Wat Phu has been an active temple for Buddhist religious practice for quite some time because Buddhism replaced Hinduism in Laos in the mid 13th century. There is an altar at the front section of its sanctuary featuring four big Buddha images with more Buddha images around the ruins.

If you visit Wat Phu on the full moon of the third lunar month (usually in February), you will come across the temple’s biggest annual festival with many impressive ceremonies and fun activities going on during the week-long period. These include monk-blessing ceremonies, elephant racing, buffalo and cock fighting as well as a trade fair. The event is never short of entertainment such as live music and traditional Lao dancing.

• Opening Hours: All year round.
• Location: In Pakse, the main city of Champasack Province in southwestern Laos.
• How to get there: Visitors can travel to Wat Phu from Pakse via land or by boat along the Mekong River.

That Ing Hang Stupa in Savannakhet

That Ing Hang Stupa in Savannakhet, Laos

That Ing Hang Stupa is about nine metres high with beautiful carving and decoration. It’s reported to house a relic of Buddha’s spine. The 16th century stupa is located in Savannakhet, Central Laos.

Savannakhet itself is famous as the birthplace of Laos’ popular former leader, Kaysone Phomvihane. It was also known as a French trading outpost back in colonial times therefore there are a number of vintage French colonial and Sino-Franco buildings in the business districts.

More information

The sacred stupa is an important place of worship not only for Laotian Buddhists but also Thai Buddhists who live in northern Thailand. ‘Dress with respect’ is a must for all visitors. Women may be required to wear traditional pahsin (Lao-style sarong) before entering the temple grounds. There are plenty of them available at the nearby stands and stores.

• Opening Hours: Daily from 08:00 – 18:00.
• Location: In Ban That Village about 15km north of Kaysone Phomvihane District, Savannakhet Province in Central Laos.
• How to get there: To get there from Kaysone Phomvihane, it’s best to take a tuk tuk taxi for the roundtrip or to rent a motorbike. If coming from Thailand, visitors can easily cross the 1.6km-long Friendship Bridge from Mukdahan Province to Laos’ Savannakhet. The border crossing is usually open from 09:00 – 16:30

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