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Andrew's Travels
Andrew's Travels

Andrew's Travels

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  • Andrew's TravelsSouthern IndiaViajante
    En route to Alappuzha; Pattumalay - tea plantation / tea flower and tea plant bean
    Pattumalay; tea plantationPattumalay; ChurchView from road en routeAlappuzha; houseboats / View along the waterway of the Kerala BackwatersView along the waterway of the Kerala BackwatersView along the waterway of the Kerala BackwatersA colourful house along the waterwayLake VembanadWaterway on the other side of the lakeWaterway on the other side of the lakeView of a church along the waterwayView back to Lake VembanadViews along the waterway back to AlappuzhaAlappuzha; banana chip vendorLunch / DinnerAfter a night on the houseboat, views on the way back to Alappuzha "harbour"Alappuzha "harbour" / Our Gold River HouseboatViews up and down a small canalOn the bridge over the canal

    Kerala Backwaters Tour from Alappuzha

    31 de janeiro de 2025, Índia ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C

    We set off after breakfast from Thekkady and stop off at a tea plantation in Pattumaly on our way to the town of Alappuzha (aka Alleppey) in the Kerala Backwaters; we are going to an area of low-lying waterways, lagoons, and rivers running parallel to the Arabian Sea.

    We board our Gold River Houseboat, a converted rice barge, just after 1pm and head via waterways to Vembanad Lake; we cross the bottom most tip of this to the other side and circle round more waterways and then double back the other end of the long, narrow Vembanad Lake is at Kochi). We catch glimpses of the local lifestyle, seeing houses that back directly onto the waterways.

    We moor at about 6 pm, and then have a short walk locally, visiting a banana chip manufacturer and a coconut milk supplier. We return to the houseboats (there are two for the group) and eat together on the larger one, enjoying a splendid meal. There has been a lot of sitting around today, which is very tiring, but it's been another good one.

    During and after breakfast on the houseboat, we do another short trip back to the Alappuzha "harbour", visit a tourist shop, and have a short walk before travelling to Kochi.    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsSouthern IndiaViajante
    En route to Kerala; Fruit bats in a Banyan Tree
    Modern Hindu Durga Temple; the man is wearing modern clothingBrick manufacture, first stage; raw materials, shape, leave for one weekBrick manufacture, second and third stages; dry for one week / smoke in kiln for one weekApproaching the Western Ghat Hills, the border between Tamil Nadu and KeralaThekkady Spice Plantation; Pepper / Thalasseri Pepper / Picking PepperNutmeg / Nutmeg and Nut Mace on its surfaceCinnamon / Clove / Allspice / JackfruitCardamom PlantationLord's Flavours Spice Shop; selling the spices we saw on our tourBar-B-Que Thekkady Cookery Class; our hosts homeGrating coconutPreparing the foodPreparing Paratha flatbread1Serving a freshly cooked poppadomThe meal / The beers!

    Kerala; Thekkady

    30 de janeiro de 2025, Índia ⋅ ☁️ 23 °C

    We set off early for Thekkady so that we can stop off at some interesting places en route (see captions on photos for details).

    There are good views as we near the Western Ghats that separate Tamil Nadu and Kerala. It is a steep ascent to the top, where we cross into Kerala; surprisingly, the minibus has to stop for paperwork checks.

    Kerala is known for its coconut groves, paddy fields, hills, backwaters, and rainforests; the religions of Hindu, Christianity, and Islam are all practiced here. It is a very political state and has the highest literacy rate in India.

    At Thekkady, we visit a spice plantation; the tour is very informative and interesting. India is the world's largest exporter and consumer of spices, and the soil composition in Kerala is ideal for cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

    After checking in at the hotel, we go to a house (Bar-B-Que) for an Indian food cookery class. It is a lovely evening, and we prepare and eat;
    Beans Thoran / Pineapple Curry / Alumni Masala / Fish Curry / BBQ Masala (chicken) / Okra Roast / Paratha.

    It was an amazing meal and experience.    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsSouthern IndiaViajante
    Thirumaki Nyaker Palace; the courtyard
    Pillared hallA magnificent ceilingAnother pillared hallCeilingsMadurai; Typical street sceneStreet sceneStreet sceneStreet sceneStreet sceneCine Suvai Restaurant; a Kollywood Cinema Themed Restaurant for lunchMeenakshi Sundareswarer Temple; East GopuraAshta Shakti Mandapa; from the outsideAshta Shakti Mandapa; views of the ceiling and walls inside, from the outsideSouth Gopura / View through the entranceWest GopuraNorth GopuraView into the complex from the roof of a tourist shopView into the complex from the roof of a tourist shopThe Golden Lotus Tank; photo of a poster outside the complex

    Madurai

    29 de janeiro de 2025, Índia ⋅ ☁️ 27 °C

    Madurai is at the heart of the Tamil and Dravidian cultures, as well as being very important to Hindus; it was the Pandyan Dynasty capital from the 7th to 13th centuries, and Nayakan Dynasty capital from the 16th to 17th centuries. Religion and culture remain an important part of city life to this day.

    We visit the Thirumaki Nyakar Palace, where the power and wealth of the Nyakan Dynasty is evident in the remains of this once grand Palace - only the spacious courtyard and a few adjoining buildings remain now (see captions on photos). After a walk in the local area, we have lunch and return to the hotel.

    Later on, we go to the Meenakshi Sundareswarer Temple (aka Minakshi Temple); this is a historic Hindu Temple Complex dedicated to the Goddess Meenakshi, whose consort was Pavarti, a form of Shiva. It was originally built by the Pandyan and extensively added to by succeeding dynasties. It is within a high walled enclosure, and we walk around its perimeter wall, seeing the four main Gopura, which unfortunately for us are undergoing extensive renovation. We also get good views from the roof of a tourist shop, where we have the opportunity to buy Indian carpets (see captions on photos). We go inside for a tour and witness daily ceremonies.

    There is strictly no photography inside the complex. We enter via the North Gopura after dropping off cameras, bags, shoes, etc, and visit the Thousand Pillar Hall (now a museum) and its beautifully decorated columns. We then go to the Kambattadi Mandapa (aka Flagpole Hall) and see an evening ceremony. We are not able to visit Sundareswarer Shrine being non-Hindus, but we did see its gold roof from the tourist shop; nor can we visit the Mibakshi Shrine (also with a gold roof). Next, we go to and sit at the Potramarai Kulam (the Golden Lotus Tank), surrounded by pillared corridors. Finally, we exit via the North Gopura and are very fortunate to see the chariot with an image of Shiva bring transported to join his consort in another part of the temple, a nightly ritual

    Then it's back to the hotel for a late meal.    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsSouthern IndiaViajante
    First Gopura; side and front views
    Second Gopura; front view and close ups of rearThird GopuraStreet scenes outside the Fourth GopuraThe wooden chariot is pulled by devotees through the town during festivalsFourth Gopura; gateway to the sacred enclosure and the the rest of the ComplexStructure inside the inner complexView of the golden roofed sacred enclosure and beyond from the viewing pointView of other GopuraSites where offerings are made to ShivaLocals / Zoom in on the incarnations of ShivaInside one of the Mandapa pillared hallsPriest / Attempting a yoga stretchView over pond / Elephant carvingGopura / Detail of the Gopura / Doorway to healthSeshagiriayar Mandapa; Rearing stone horse / Shiva incarnationMixing with the locals on the way outRiver Ghat at Amma MandapamView of the Rock Fort above Tiruchirapalli

    Srirangam; Ranganatha Temple Complex

    28 de janeiro de 2025, Índia ⋅ ☁️ 30 °C

    After breakfast, we set off on the long drive to Madurai via Srirangam, a river island that is a neighthood of part of the city of Tiruchirapalli. Srirangam is a 2-mile long river island formed by the confluence of the Rivers Kaveri and Kollidam; the Ranganatha Temple here makes the town a Temple Town as the Temple Sanctuary, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, totally dominates it.

    The religious complex of Ranganatha is enclosed by fortress like boundary walls (prakaras) that are entered via ceremonial gateways (gopuras); it is the largest religious complex in the world that is used for active worship. It has a total of 21 gopuras and many pillared halls (mandapa), and it is built in the Dravidian style.

    The outer three boundary walls comprise residences for priests, hostels for pilgrims, and shops selling offerings. The Sacred Precinct begins from the fourth enclosure, and this area contains, amongst others, the most important shrines, including the inner sanctum with its gold plated roof; these can not be visited by non-Hindus, but the outer shrines and enclosures can be.

    We see what we can, led by our tour guide, Jojan, and afterwards, we visit the river ghats at Amma Mandapam, which is a short distance away on the river edge; this is where devotees come to bathe and have their heads shaved for ceremonies.

    We then carry on to Mandurai, arriving at our hotel at about 7:30pm. It's been along, but good, day!    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsSouthern IndiaViajante
    Sri Aurobindo Ashram, entrance
    Sri Aurobindo Ashram; the samadhi (memorial stone) - photograph of postcardManakula Vinayaker Temple; archway to entranceThe archway ceilingEntranceView inside the Temple (taken from outside)View inside the Temple (taken from outside)Side of TempleFrench Quarter; typical buildings4Along the Goubert Salai promenadeThe lighthouseMahatma Gandhi StatueChurch of Our Lady of Amgels (Notre Dame)Dinner; Fish Curry and Kingfisher beer

    Puducherry (formerly Pondicherry)

    27 de janeiro de 2025, Índia ⋅ ⛅ 27 °C

    Pondicherry is now known in the Tamil language as Puducherry and was established as the former capital of the French territories in India in 1674. It is located on the east coast of Tamil Nadu and is now the administrative capital of a union territory founded in 1926.

    After checking into our hotel, we cross the now dry canal (originally the demarcation between the French and Tamil areas) into the French Quarter; Pondicherry remained under French rule until 1954, and the French Quarter is laid out in a grid pattern.

    We visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram; this is Pondicherry"s best known landmark and is a restful retreat - inside, there is strictly no photography, and absolute silence has to be observed. The focal point for disciples and followers of Sri Aurobindo is the flower festooned samadhi (his memorial) in the main courtyard under a frangipani tree.

    Next, we go to the Manakula Vinayaker Temple; this Hindu Temple is dedicated to Ganesha and has walls portraying his 40 different forms. It is very interesting inside, with good music but no photography.

    We walk through the attractive French Quarter, with its colonial buildings and street signs in French, to the Goubert Solai, the main promenade along the Bay of Bengal. We walk along this to the Old Lighthouse; close by is the statue of Mahatma Gandhi. We then see the Church of Our Lady of Angels (Notrre Dame) before going to the Rendezvous Restaurant at the top of a building for food. Another good day.    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsSouthern IndiaViajante
    Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
    Painted Storks1En route to the main roadLunch; Vegetable Thali

    Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary

    27 de janeiro de 2025, Índia ⋅ ⛅ 29 °C

    After breakfast, we drive through Chennai to stop off at the Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary on our way to Puducherry. Based around a freshwater lake, it is the oldest wildlife sanctuary in India (it was established in 1936), but also one of the smallest.

    The Bird Sanctuary is mainly visited by local people and is a protected area because it is an important breeding ground for large migrating birds such as herons, storks, cormorants, etc. Our visit coincides with the breeding season, and there are many birds here.

    The Sanctuary is off the beaten track, and we see some interesting views en route back to the main road to Puducherry and a stop off for lunch.    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsSouthern IndiaViajante
    India National Day Ceremony
    After the unfurling of the flagAn example of a Kolam artwork display on the groundStatue on a small roundaboutPolitical displayTypical shop frontSmall Hindu TempleMylapore; Luz ChurchThe Explore Travel groupThe inside of Luz ChurchOutside Luz ChurchKapaleeshwarer Hindu TempleKapaleeshwarer Hindu TempleKapaleeshwarer Hindu TempleKapaleeshwarer Hindu TempleKapaleeshwarer Hindu TempleKapaleeshwarer Hindu TempleView onto the tank of Kapaleeshwarer Hindu TempleDinner; SPL Paneer Masala Dosai

    Tamil Nadu; Chennai

    26 de janeiro de 2025, Índia ⋅ ⛅ 28 °C

    Helen and I first visited India in Dec 1989 / Jan 1990 when we travelled independently through North India; our next visit was in early 2018 when we visited Central India with Explore Travel. So here we are, 35 years later, to complete our travels here (or have we....).

    Chennai (population 20 million), formerly Madras, is the capital state of Tamil Nadu (population 73 million); Tamil Nadu is 70% Hindu, so there are many Hindu Temples in the region, but there are also examples if many other kinds of religious architecture in the region. Chennai is a large city with lots of traffic, and the tour doesn't spend time here (for some reason 🙂).

    We had a good journey here, arriving at our hotel at about 7:45 am. By coincidence, today, January 26th, is India National Day, marking the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950 and signifying India's status as a democratic Republic. Flags are unfurled in ceremonies throughout the country, and we were in time to witness such a ceremony at our hotel (Grand Chennai by GRT).

    After rest, we have a short walk in the area around the hotel before meeting up with the others; after introductions, etc, we set up off in the minibus to the Mylapore area of Chennai. Here, we visit the Luz Church (built on 1516 by the Portuguese) and then go to the Kapaleeskwarer Temple; this Hindu Temple Complex was built in the 7th century in the Dracidian architectural style, and has a large tank in front of it.

    We finish off Day 1 with a lovely vegetarian meal before crashing out at the hotel.    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    Dong Treu; Ceramic Village
    Dong Treu; Ceramic VillageDong Treu; Ceramic VillageDong Treu; Ceramic VillageDong Treu; Ceramic VillageDong Treu; Ceramic VillageHong Ngoc disabled people charity centreHong Ngoc disabled people charity centreHong Ngoc disabled people charity centreHanoi; A miniature stage of water puppet theatre performed by Phanh Thanh Liem at his houseIt's harder than it looks!Hanoi; Train StreetHanoi; Train StreetHanoi; Train StreetQuang, our tour guide, at our farewell dinner

    En route to Hanoi and Hanoi 3

    26 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ ☁️ 22 °C

    On our journey back to Hanoi, we stop at Dong Treu and visit the Ceramic Village before heading on to visit the Hong Ngoc disabled people charity centre: here, disabled people, including second generation Agent Orange victims, can live, study and learn to make artistic products - some are astonishing, but photography of these is not allowed.

    In Hanoi, we stop off at a pre-arranged and private water puppet show by Phan Thanh Liem, who was born in a family with a long tradition of performing water puppet theatre; his generation is the 7th.

    After a couple of hours at the hotel, we head off to see Train Street, a narrow train bypass in Hanoi which sees a twice-daily train pass close to buildings on either side of the tracks (not while we were there), before going to our farewell dinner in the Old Quarter at the Hanoi Food Culture Restaurant and Cooking; another fabulous meal and the end of our Classic Vietnam tour with Intrepid Travel - we thoroughly recommend Vietnam, and this trip, to anybody reading this photojournal.    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    Halong Bay; at the harbour
    Halong Bay; a typical viewKarst outcropDao Titop, Tito IslandMarshall Tito statueView from the top onto the bayHa Long Pearl FarmHa Long Pearl FarmKayakKayakingLocals selling their waresNight on Halong Bay; view ftom our overnight mooring spotHang Sung Sot (Cave of Surprise) access pointHang Sung Sot; first chamberHang Sung Sot; second chamberHang Sung Sot; third chamber - the illuminated symbol of fertilityHang Sung Sot; third chamber - overviewHang Sung Sot; third chamber - Turtle GodHang Sung Sot; third chamber - pillarHang Sung Sot - view over Halong Bay

    Halong Bay

    25–26 de nov. 2024, Vietnã ⋅ ☁️ 25 °C

    It takes about 4 hours to Halong City from Ninh Binh. Halong City faces onto Halong Bay and is very new, large, and developing rapidly. At the harbour, the Intrepid Group has a private boat (Bien Ngoc Cruise); there are many much larger boats here!

    We set out into Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of outcrops, caves, and coves covering more than 1,500 square km that contains more than 2,000 pinnacle shaped limestone and dolomite karst outcrops; Ninh Binh, which we have just left, is said to be an inland Halong Bay. Halong Bay is considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

    We enjoy an excellent lunch as we sail through this magnificent seascape to Dao Titop; Tito Island is named after Marshall Tito, the Yugoslav communist who helped Vietnam in its time of need. The island has a small beach and a 400 step climb to a viewpoint over the bay.

    We then stop at the Ha Long Pearl Farm; apparently, 1 in 1,000 oysters gives a pearl naturally, but here they are able to stimulate greater production by injection to irritate the shell. There is also the opportunity to go kayaking, which I do (without the mobile); we see some lovely sites close up on the base of karst pinnacles. Then it's back to the boat for beers and another amazing meal at our mooring point for the evening close to Bo Hon Island.

    In the morning, we have an early start to beat the crowd for our visit to Bo Hon Island to Hang Sung Sot (Cave of Surprise). There are three caverns here and a vantage point with a great view over Halong Bay.

    We go back to our boat for breakfast, whilst heading back to the harbour to meet our minibus.    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    Entering the Buddha Cave
    Inside the Buddha CaveInside the Buddha CaveLeaving the Buddha CaveThe Mermaid CaveThe Mermaid CaveThe Mermaid CaveThe Mermaid CaveThe eco-park areaThe eco-park areaThe eco-park areaThe eco-park areaThung Nyam Bird ParkBoat trip to the Bird Watching IslandBird Watching Island; Grey HeronBird Watching Island; Grey HeronBird Watching Island; White FlamingoTam Coc; Old Viet PubThe Intrepid Travel GroupStir fried goat with lemongrass and chili

    Ninh Binh; Thung Nham Eco-tourism Park

    24 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ ☁️ 24 °C

    In the afternoon, we go to the Thung Nham Eco-tourism Area in the Hai Nham valley; this is a major tourist attraction. We go to the Buddhist Cave by row boat; this is a natural cave that is 500m long with a statue of Buddha in the middle, but it is too dark to see anything. Next, we walk, stooping, along the Mermaid Cave with its system of stalactites. We walk through the attractive eco-park and are taken by larger rowing boats to see Bird Watching Island, where there are many Grey Heron and White Flamingo.

    Then it's dinner in Tam Coc after a break; another full-on day.    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    Hang Mua; "The Great Wall of Vietnam"
    The dragon at the start of the 500 steep step ascentTiger cave at the startView up to the tower1The towerView over to the lying stone Dragon of Hang Mua (Negra Long)View down from the ascent to the Dragon of Hang Mua to the tower and lotus pondsGuanyin, the female Buddha overlooked and protected by the dragonNgra Long, the lying dragonThe shrine at the end of the dragon's tailThe lotus ponds at the base of Hang MuaLotus flower and podThe lotus pondsBich Dong Pagoda; entranceBich Dong PagodaBich Dong Pagoda; Ha Pagoda (lower)Bich Dong Pagoda; Trung Pagoda (middle)Bich Dong Pagoda; Thurong Pagoda (upper)Buddha; Lower / Middle/ Upper

    Ninh Binh; Hang Mua and Bich Dong Pagoda

    24 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ ☁️ 22 °C

    This morning we drive to the Hang Mua (aka Dragon's Den Cave) and the associated Mua Mountain viewpoint (aka Lying Dragon Mountain), which is part of the Trang Am Complex in Ninh Binh province; the cave is at the foot of the mountain. It is a climb of 500 steep steps to the two peaks of Mua Mountain, the highlight being a Buddhist statue and a lying stone Dragon (Ngra Long) protecting it. There are excellent 360-degree views at the top. At the base of the mountain are large lotus ponds, which we walk around. See captions on photos for details.

    We return to our hotel, and after a break, I have a walk through our village, Dam Khe, to the local Pagoda. It turns out that this is an important site in Ninh Binh - the Bich Dong Pagoda and Cave. Located on a mountain, it is on three levels - Ha Pagoda, Trung Pagoda, and Thuong Pagoda (lower, middle, upper), with the upper two being partly in caves. Very interesting to see!    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    Van Long Wetlands Nature Reserve; boat trip
    Phat Diem CathedralLimestone karstInside a caveInside a caveLimehouse karstHoa Lu, the first capital of Vietnam; main entrance to the siteDinh Temple; entranceAltar wirh dragon bed in front of itLe Temple; entranceAltar wirh dragon bed in front of itBicycle ride in the local areaTam CocLimestone karst

    Ninh Binh; Van Long Wetlands and Hoa Lu

    23 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ ☁️ 23 °C

    We drive to the Ninh Binh province and the Van Long Wetlands Nature Reserve (almost 2 hours); this is one of the few intact Lowland inland wetlands remaining in the Red River Delta. Here, limestone karst is surrounded by freshwater lakes, marshes, and swamps. We are taken out on row boats to see the area and are fortunate to see the rare Delacour Langur monkey. We enjoy fantastic views.

    It is then a short drive to Hoa Lu; this historic site was the first capital of Vietnam from 968 - 1009. Dinh Bo Linh founded the Dinh Dynasty; this lasted for 12 years and was followed by the Le Dynasty, which lasted for 25 years - the founder of the Ly Dynasty transferred the capital to Thang Long (now Hanoi). The site is mainly ruins now, but Temples remain for the Dinh and Le dynasties.

    After this, we have a home-prepared lunch and transfer to our hotel. Some of us go put for a cycle ride in the local area; a circular route from Dam Khe hamlet where the hotel is located to Tam Coc and back; this is most enjoyable.

    We enjoy a simple meal with beer later.    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    KOTO Van Mien Restaurant
    The startersThe Temple of Literature; entranceFirst courtyardSecond courtyardHue Van Cac, the Constellation of LiteratureThien Quang Tinh, the Well of Heavenly ClarityThien Quang Tinh, the Well of Heavenly ClarityTortoise Steles; these are inscribed with the details of scholars who have passed the trainingHouse of Ceremonies; a crane standing on a tortoiseThe Altar of ConfuciusThe Great Drum housed in traditional Sintic architectureBa Dinh Square; Ho Chi Minh MausoleumHo Chi Minh Mausoleum; the changing of the guardBa Dinh Square; National Assembly HallView backOne Pillar Pagoda; it stands in a lotus pond and has been rebuilt several timesThe altar

    Hanoi 1; Temple of Literature / Ba Dinh

    22 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ ☁️ 26 °C

    We fly to Hanoi from Phu Bai Airport, Hue. Hanoi is a city situated on the Red River and founded in 1010 as a Citadel by Emperor Ly Thai To. The area of guilds around this eventually developed in the Old Quarter. The French destroyed much of the Citadel in the 19th to found the French Quarter. After the Indochina and Vietnam Wars, Hanoi became the capital of Vietnam, and it is now a thriving city with a population of 10 million.

    KOTO is a social enterprise organisation founded by Jimmy Pham to provide an opportunity for at-risk and disadvantaged youth to break the poverty cycle, and we have a large lunch at the KOTO Van Mieu Restaurant; many graduate gone on to become top chefs. It was excellent.

    The Temple of Literature is close-by; this is the oldest and finest architectural complex in Hanoi and dates from 1070. It is modelled on the Temple of Confucius in Qufu, China.

    From there, we travel by minibus to Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh read the proclamation of independence in 1975; the Square is public but managed for security now. Ba Dinh Square had a number of sites of interest, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the National Assembly Hall, and the One Pillar Pagoda.

    We then go to our hotel to check in and have a break.    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    Thuy Xuan Incense Village; inside the shop we visit
    Making an Incense Stick (aka Joss Stick)Success!Outside the shopOutside the shopVegan lunch at a monasteryPart of the monasteryHue; walking alongside the Perfume River downtownAn old templeStatue and flamingos (also statues)View of the Cot Co in the Citadel, directly opposite on the other bank of the Perfume RiverModern buildingTypical build-up after waiting at the traffic lightsMarket opposite the hospitalStreet vendorsAfternoon Coffee; Salt coffee at the Cabin, before and after stirringDinner; Quang's grandparent's shrinePhotographs behind the shrineSome of the pre-prepared foodQuang's aunt preparing the home cooked dinner

    Hue; Incense Village, Walk, Home meal

    21 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ 🌧 27 °C

    After visiting the Royal Tomb of Tu Duc, it is a short drive to the Thuy Xuan Incense Village; this provided incense for the ancient dynasties in the Hue Imperial Palace, and is now a major tourist attraction. There are many shops selling "joss sticks" and showing how they are made, as well as many other items.

    After a delicious vegan lunch at a nearby monastery, our minibus takes us back to the hotel in Hue. We have some time to kill, so Helen and I go for a short walk along the Perfume River and then double back through part of the city to the hotel; the area is interesting as it is the hospital and medical part of Hue.

    During the Covid-19 lockdown, our tour guide, Quang, and his cousin set up a coffee shop close to where his family and relatives live in the western area of the Citadel. His cousin runs it now, and we visit for an afternoon coffee; we had salt coffee, a local speciality - excellent. Then we walked a few houses down to where Quang's aunt and uncle live; it was originally his grandparents's house, and there is a family shrine on entering (this is unusual nowadays in Vietnam, as times change). We had an amazing 5 course home-prepared, market-sourced meal prepared by Quang's aunt on limited cooking facilities, so all courses follow on quickly - we are very a very fortunate group.

    Then, it's back home by minibus in the rain - what a day!    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    Dragon Boats on the Perfume River
    Thien Mu PagodaOne of the guardians on the three entrances to the main shrine areaThe main shrine buildingThe laughing BuddhaBuddhist shrineThe car driven by the monk to his immolation site in Saigon (1963)Helen by a Bonsai tree in the gardenThe Royal Tomb of Tu Duc; Vu Khiem Gate (entrance to the site)Xung Khiem PavilionThe burial mound of the people who built the Tomb and who buried the EmporerStele HouseLife-size figures of people from that time; they were shorterThe Stele; this describes the life of the Emperor in 5 stagesOne of the columns outside the Stele House, soon to be renovatedLong Khiem TempleHuyen Cung, behind the Long Khiem TempleHuyen Cung, behind the Long Khiem TempleView down to the pond from Stele House

    Hue; Thien Mu Pagoda / Royal Tomb Tu Duc

    21 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ 🌧 25 °C

    This morning, we visited a couple of important sites in Hue. See photos for details about them.

    The first is Thien Mu Pagoda, which is situated on the NW bank of the Perfume River. This iconic Pagoda has an octagonal tower and seven floors - 7 is considered a lucky number in Buddhism - and is noted for its laughing Buddha and the car driven by monk Thich Quang Duc to Saigon where he immolated himself in protest against the Dien regime and its discrimination against monks; images were sent around the world, provoking strong reaction.

    The second site we visit is the Royal Tomb of Tu Duc; only 7 out of the 13 Vietnamese emperors who reigned between 1802 and 1945 have their own Mausoleum; we visit that of Tu Duc, who was fourth in the Dynasty. He had it built in his lifetime (it took 3 years) ready for when he "retired"; he died 10 years later and was buried here. Everybody who was involved in the building of the Tomb and with the burial were poisoned at feasts to keep its location secret; they were all from prisons, and their families paid in recompense. The Tomb site, a beautiful location surrounded by ponds and frangipani trees, is UNESCO owned now and is being restored, so some of it could not be visited.    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    Crossing into the Citadel
    Cot Co (Flag Tower), a distinctive Hue landmarkInside the Citadel; Nine Deities lCannon, made from bronze and symbolic onlyNgo Mon Gate, the south entrance to the Imperial Palace within the CitadelOutside the Imperial Palace; entry via the Hien Lam PavilionInside the Imperial Palace; Thai Hoa PalaceHien Lam Pavilion from inside the Imperial PalaceThe To Mieu TempleAltar inside the To Mieu TempleLooking back to the Hien Lam Pavilion, with the Nine Dynastic Urns, before itTree outside the To Mieu TempleInside the Forbidden Purple City; the 1968 Tet Offensive destroyed much of itWalkwayThe restored Kien Trung Palace (finished in 2023)Kien Trung Palace; the frontKien Trung Palace; close upView from inside the Kien Trung Palace down to the Cot CoView from inside the Kien Trung PalaceInside the Kien Trung PalaceThe last Emporer of Vietnam; Bao Dai, reigned from 1926 to 1945

    Hue; Citadel and the Imperial Palace

    20 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ 🌧 27 °C

    Hue is one of the most significant cultural and historic centres in Vietnam, as it was the former imperial city of the country. Built between 1805 and 1832, the vast Hue Citadel formed the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty until 1945. Within the Citadel lies the once magnificent Imperial City, and within this is the Forbidden Purple City, where only the queen, some concubines, and court eunuchs were allowed to enter.

    After the end of the monarchy in 1945, the Imperial City suffered heavy damage and neglect during the Indochina Wars through the 1980s. The Imperial City was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 and is undergoing restoration.

    We walk through the site from one side to the other; see captions on photos for details. Later on, we enjoy more delicious Vietnamese food and Huda beer.    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    Da Nang; Dragon Bridge
    Da Nang; Dragon BridgeView en route to the Hai Van PassHai Van Pass; the summitHai Van Pass; an entranceHai Van Pass; military bunkerHai Van Pass; military bunkerHai Van Pass; view from a military bunkerLang Co LagoonLang Co LagoonLang Co LagoonHue; shared lunch

    En route to Hue via the Hai Van Pass

    20 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ ☁️ 21 °C

    We set off early on our minibus to our next destination; Hue. We drive through Da Nang, Vietnam's third city, and a major hub due to its central location. We drive past and over the spectacular Dragon Bridge and the head north towards the Hai Van Pass over the Truong Son Range.

    There are good views from the summit of the pass, down to Da Nang in the south and up to Lang Co Lagoon in the north. There are many old bunkers at the top of the pass, both French and American (the TV series Top Gear featured it in an episode on Vietnam in 2008). The bunkers were used by American forces during the Vietnam War, as it is an important trade route. There is now a tunnel option to the high pass route for large vehicles, such as lorries and coaches.

    We stop off at the Lang Co Lagoon for coffee before continuing on to Hue, arriving in time for lunch at the Elegant Restaurant; Helen and I share two local Hue traditional meals - fried pancake with shrimp and pork, and Nem Lui, minced pork with a lemon grass skewer. Both are lovely, especially with a local Hude beer.    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    The Green Mango Restaurant...
    .. and it's husband day care centreChef in actionBanana blossom salad with chicken, duck spring rolls / Pho Bo with beef, and noodles1BBQ fish in banana leaf / Mango sticky riceThe Intrepid ChefsOld Town; Trieu Chau Assembly HallOld Town; typical buildingOld Town; marketOld Town; Japanese Covered Bridge by dayView of Old Town from the An Hoi Island on the other side of the riverView of Old Town from the An Hoi Island on the other side of the riverBanh Mi for lunchThe Lune CentreBamboo Circus show (image from official website)Bamboo Circus show (image from official website)Bamboo Circus show (image from official website)Bamboo Circus show (image from official website)After the showThe Hoianian Restaurant

    Hoi An; Cookery, Old Town, Bamboo Circus

    18–19 de nov. 2024, Vietnã ⋅ 🌧 26 °C

    Vietnamese food is well known for being healthy and nutritious and delicious; this evening, we went to the Green Mango restaurant in the Old Town to attend a Cookery Class. This provided the opportunity to see how it was done and then eat it! It was excellent, and so was the food (see captions on photos).

    The next day is a free day, so Helen and I visit the Old Town to explore it and do a little shopping (see captions on photos).

    After a break back at the hotel, the group went to The Lune Centre on An Hoi Island to see the Teh Dar Bamboo Circus show. This was absolutely incredible; amazing gymnastics and great music with singing. It tells the story about the circle of life and death for all living beings on Earth, told through the lens of Vietnamese Tribal Culture - "tel dar" means "travelling the circle". Photography during the show itself is strictly forbidden, so I have captured images from the official website (we saw all these things).

    After the show, we went for dinner at The Hoianian Restaurant on the Riverfront;this coincided with a full moon and high tide..

    An amazing 30 hours.    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    The cycle group at the start
    Cau Cam Kim BridgeCrossing the bridgeCam Nam Isalnd; FieldsHaystackBoats on the riverOne of the processes in rice wine makingSome of the resultsOur cycle tour guide, Hanna, and our rice wine host, Mr DauMat weaving houseMat weavingMat weavingThe result 🙂Cam Kim Island; View of temple en routeFemale BuddhaRice paper making and noodle houseMaking rice paperMaking rice noodlesThe cycle group prior to taking the boat back to Hoi AnBlog prepared by our cycle guide

    Hoi An; Cam Nam and Cam Kim Islands

    18 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ ☁️ 25 °C

    Most of the group are going on an optional guided cycling tour of the local area to see how the local Hoi An people (Hoianese) live in rural areas.

    We cross Cau Cam Kim (Cam Kim Bridge) over the Thu Bon River to Cam Nam Island. Our first stop is near a farm, where we enjoy the views. Next, we cycle on to the traditional rice wine making house of Mr Dau; here, we learn about the process and have the opportunity to sample guava, banana, and mulberry rice wines.

    A short walk to a house nearby, where mats are weaved by a lady and her son; incredible to see, and we all had a quick go - apparently, a small mat sells for the equivalent of 8 USD in the local market.

    We cycle on, crossing another bridge to Cam Kim Island. There are some interesting views as we make our final local culture visit to a local rice paper and noodle making workshop; we learn about the process and have a go a making rice paper before having lunch - freshly made noodles.

    We then cycle to get a local prearranged boat back to Hoi An; our guide Hanna prepared a vlog summary of the morning out (see photos). It's been a fantastic morning and early afternoon with some exercise thrown in (19 km of cycling).    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    Characteristic dark-yellow house in Hoi An's Old Quarter / Market area
    Phuc Kien Assembly HallHouse covered with lanternsBi Bo Caphe Restaurant / FoodTan Ky Old HouseBoats on the Thu Bon River frontSong Hoai Square BridgeSong Hoai Square BridgeI Love Hoi AnJapanese Covered BridgeInside the Japanese Covered BridgeMonument to KazimierzA wet group of people

    Hoi An; Old Quarter (aka Ancient Town)

    17 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ ☁️ 28 °C

    We set off for Saigon Domestic Airport for our flight to Da Nang; unfortunately, the flight ends up being delayed for a total of 3 hours due to operational issues. Once in Da Nang, we transfer by minibus to our hotel in Hoi An. Hoi An is located on the Thu Bon River and was an important trading port in the 16th to 18th centuries with traders from China, Japan, and Europe; it has a rich cultural heritage and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it reflects a blend of both indigenous and foreign influence.

    We visit the small Old Quarter with its cobbled, lantern strewn streets (see captions on photos for details). The Phuc Kien Assembly Hall was built by Chinese merchants who fled China after the fall of the Ming Dynasty. After an excellent home-style group dinner at the Bi Bo Caphe Restaurant, we walk around the river frontage and see the famous Japanese Covered Bridge.

    It poured down after a relaxing beer!    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    Fish farm on the Mekong Delta
    Garden at the coffee stop en route to Ho Chi Minh CityHo Chi Minh City; view of the Saigon River from the minibusCentral Post Office; originally built as a train station but never used as suchCentral Post OfficeCentral Post Office; insideCentral Post Office; insideCentral Post Office; old map of the Mekong Delta regionCentral Post Office; old map of the original Saigon CityThe Fall of Saigon in April 1975; the building where the last evacuees left by helicopterThe same building as it is s todayNotre Dame Cathedral; mid renovationEn route to the Home Saigon RestaurantHome Saigon Restaurant; fish curry / restaurant decor3Home Saigon Restaurant; Vietnamese craft beersBui Vien Walking StreetBui Vien Walking StreetBui Vien Walking StreetBui Vien Walking Street; view with the Britexco Financial Tower in the distance

    Ho Chi Minh City; Central iii

    16 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ ☀️ 34 °C

    After a leisurely start, we leave Ba Danh homestay by tuk tuk to get to our minibus for the journey back to Ho Chi Minh City.

    Once there, we visit the Central Post Office area and gain more insight into local history from our guide. The Central Post Office was originally built as a railway station (hence its size!) bt the French but it was never used as such due to its proximity to the newly built Notre Dame Cathedral and concerns about disturbing the services! There are two interesting maps on the wall inside, one showing the Mekong Delta, the other the extent of the original Saigon; Saigon is still used by local people to describe the District 1 (Central) area of Ho Chi Minh City.

    Very close to the Central Post Office is the building where the last evacuees left Saigon by helicopter during the Fall of Saigon (30 April 1975); the same building looks very different today! The city's name was changed from Saigon to Ho Chi Minh City to celebrate the memory of Ho Chi Minh, who died in 1969.

    Back at the hotel, we enjoy a swim and relax after a busy couple of days.

    We then walk to the Home Saigon Restaurant for an excellent meal and beer before our group leader takes us to the Bui Vien Walking Street; this is a loud, bustling area filled with bars, eateries, clubs, girlie bars, live music and dance - late at night, it becomes a bit of a "red-light" area.

    It's been a day of contrast!    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    Paddy fields en route to the Mekong Delta
    Mekong rest stopLeaving My ThoArrival on Dragon IslandMonkey BridgeOur tour guide, Quang / BeesLeaving Dragon IslandBen Tre, Coconut IslandThe famous Ben Tre coconut candyPreparation areaSnake LiquorBoat transfer along the canalViewsOur boatLunch; Elephant Ear Fish2The Intrepid tour groupArrival at Ba Danh homestay by tuk tukBa Danh homestay; side view / aerial viewViews around the homestayHomestay meal

    Mekong Delta; Ben Tre (Coconut Island)

    15 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ ☀️ 31 °C

    The minibus leaves Ho Chi Minh City, and we drive to My Tho, stopping at the My Tho Rest Stop for a coconut milk coffee; there are interesting walkways to the various coffee houses here. Onwards to My Tho, where we take a boat to Dragon Island, one of four sacred islets in the main Mekong River; it is a short walk across it via one of the famous "monkey bridges" before stopping for honey flavoured tea. The Mekong Delta area in southern Vietnam is a vast maze of rivers, swamps, and islands.

    Our boat then takes on to Coconut Island (Ben Tre) in the delta, which is famous for its coconut candy; coconut milk and flesh are boiled down to a sticky mess, allowed to harden, cut into small pipes and wrapped in edible rice paper - fascinating to watch and delicious to eat. We then transfer by tuk tuk to take another type of boat, this one resembling a punt, to go up the delta a little to a restaurant. We enjoy Elephant Ear fish as part of a large spread of food!

    We then transfer by our minibus to and beyond Ben Tre town, where we transfer by tuk tuk to Ba Danh Homestay in the Mekong Delta; it's an interesting place to stay (see photos). In the evening, we have another large meal.

    It's been a full-on day with lots of modes of transport and lots of food; things could be worse!    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    Pho, a classic Vietnamese dish, served at the Avanti Boutique Hotel Restaurant
    Typical traffic in Ho Chi Minh CityWar Remnants MuseumOutside the War Remnants MuseumOutside the War Remnants MuseumOutside the War Remnants MuseumIndependence PalaceBen Nghe Street Food MarketBanh Xeo, a traditional Vietnamese pancakeView from the top of our hotel

    Ho Chi Minh City; Central ii

    14 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ ☀️ 33 °C

    We drive back to central Ho Chi Minh City in the minibus for lunch at the Avanti Boutique Hotel for the traditional Vietnamese dish of Pho in the restaurant there (Bill Clinton dined here in 2004).

    After that, we continue the war theme and visit the War Remnants Museum; this documents the war atrocities against the Vietnamese made by the US, Chinese, and French soldiers in detail (from a Vietnamese perspective), and relates to the First Indochina War and the Vietnam War - displays are in themed rooms. The photographs and exhibits there are too disturbing for me to photograph for personal use (particularly those relating to the Agent Orange defoliant). Outside the museum are displays of artillery and armour, and an aircraft collection.

    After that, we pass the Independence Palace on our way back to the hotel. Later, we walk to the Ben Nghe Street Market for dinner; there are various themed stalls, and delicious food is enjoyed (see captions on photos).

    Another great day!    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    Secret tunnel entrance
    Tunnel entrance showing the original tunnel sizeMannequins of Viet Cong soldiersAmerican M40 tank1Viet Cong booby trapViet Cong booby trapBamboo treesUnderground tunnelChamber (actual size and height, but represented on the surface)Weapons on display

    Ho Chi Minh City; Cu Chi Tunnels

    14 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ ☁️ 30 °C

    The Cu Chi Tunnels are a historical monument located in the Cu Chi district of Ho Chi Minh City; although 60 km from the centre, they are still part of the city.

    Underground tunnel systems have been used by the Vietnamese for centuries and are on three levels, with connections between various chambers. The Cu Chi system comprises a large network of connecting tunnels and was the location of several military campaigns during the Vietnam War, including being the Viet Cong Base in the 1968 Tet Offensive. There are two tunnel display sites, the Ben Duoc site and the Ben Dinh site - we visit the Ben Dinh site.

    We see a secret tunnel entrance and pass an American M40 tank, which was taken out by a mine, as well as examples of Viet Cong booby traps. We then went into one of the tunnels (widened slightly for tourist access to enable very stooped walking).

    It is an excellent visit that provides an insight into local history and a better understanding of the resourcefulness of the Viet Cong and of the war itself (see captions on photos for more details).    Leia mais

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  • Andrew's TravelsVietnamViajante
    Ben Thanh Market; main entrance
    Ben Thanh MarketBen Thanh MarketBen Thanh MarketBen Thanh MarketSaigon Centre entrance, done up for ChristmasInside the Saigon CentreHo Chi Minh City Hall (aka The People's Committee Building) viewed from Nguyen Hue BoulevardBritexco Financial Tower along Nguyen Hue BoulevardSaigon River; looking backSaigon River; the other sideSaigon River viewStatue of Tran Hung DaoMunicipal TheatreStreet LifeTypical Street View

    Ho Chi Minh City; Central i

    13 de novembro de 2024, Vietnã ⋅ ☀️ 29 °C

    Helen and I arrived in Ho Chi Minh City after flying overnight via Doha on Qatar Airways for our Intrepid Travel Classic Vietnam trip. The transfer to the hotel is good, but it is striking how many motorbikes are on the roads. We are too early to check in, getting there before 9 am.

    Originally part of Cambodia, the city became part of Vietnam in the 18th century and was renamed Saigon; it fell into French hands in the late 19th century, becoming the capital of French Indochina. The war between the US and communist North Vietnam (Vietnam War) ended in 1975, and North Vietnam took over Saigon and renamed it Ho Chi Minh City; it now has a population of over 10 million people (out of the total 100 million) and is a hub of manufacturing and entertainment in Vietnam.

    We set off to explore the area around the hotel using a local map highlighted by reception. Our first port of call is Ben Thanh Market, a huge covered market built by the French in 1924; the rain was incredibly heavy for over an hour whilst we were inside, looping round and round to keep dry! Then it was the rather more upmarket Saigon Centre Shopping Mall before walking down the Nguyen Hue Boulevard, a famous pedestrian street; we had great views of the People's Committee Building and of other stunning modern architecture. We reach the Saigon River, where there are more great views and a visual reminder of when we were in Shanghai 6 years ago. We cross the roundabout where the Tran Hung Dao Statue is situated before weaving our way up past the Mosque, Municipal Theatre. Then it's lunch at the Ben Nghe Street Food Market before heading back to the hotel for a rest.

    Later on, we met with our tour leader and the other 9 people on the tour for a group meeting followed by an excellent "homestay" style group meal at the Pandan Restaurant.    Leia mais

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