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Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
  • Matt Treanor
  • Simi Treanor
  • Arushi Treanor
  • Millen Treanor
  • Eashan Treanor

Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia

3 weeks from the South to the North of Vietnam via Siem Reap in Cambodia Read more
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  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Eashan cycling
    Arushi cyclingMillen cyclingAction selfieCycling through Mai ChauThe rice paddiesReady to plant some rice!A local cycling byBeautiful sunset

    Mai Chau- Bike Ride and Swim by Eashan

    July 20, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ 🌧 29 °C

    This morning we awoke early in the morning for our long drive ahead to our homestay. On the way we saw spectacular views overlooking Pom Coong where we then drove down to where our homestay was.

    When we got there we were taken to our room which was upstairs in a building on stilts! Millen and I were both very excited. In Hanoi I had recently bought a type of shuttlecock which was for a game called dacau which is like badminton except which your feet which I was quick to get out given the space. There was also a pool overlooking a hill on which the rest of the village was. You could also see the mountains way off into the distance which was super special, especially when the sun dipped down between the 2 tallest ones.

    In the afternoon, after a delicious platter of loads of food for lunch, we went for a 14km cycle ride in the village and its surroundings We even stopped in some paddy fields to plant some rice with the local farmers and struggled to keeps ours as neat as theirs yet have I just missed it they remained good humoured about our efforts. We weren't very good and got very muddy but it was still a great experience.

    Most of the communities in this area are actually Thai people, an ethnic group with two local branches, White Thai and Black Thai.. this is not skin colour related by the way. The Thai people are highly skilled at wet rice cultivation and their homes are built in a raised stilt style. I sampled my first sticky rice sticks here and am a big fan!

    Once we got back Millen and I went to play football with the local kids whilst the others sat and relaxed for a bit. When we came back from football, we were extremely sweaty so we went for a midnight dip (although it was only 9:30) and the underwater rainbow lights even came on for them. Then we settled down for the night with our bellies full from another delicious dinner.    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Looking at the view
    Arriving at the resortTerraced rice paddiesSelfie time!Family piccyAnother angle of the terraced rice paddiesSwimming pool with a view!

    Leaving Mai Chau for Puluong by Simi

    July 21, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ☁️ 29 °C

    We left our humble home stay for the terraced paddy fields of Puluong.

    We decided to walk the last part of the way as could cut through paddy fields and enjoy the view more whilst the minivan had to take the long winding road round.

    The slow pace in Pu Luong , like Mai Chau is a striking contrast to life in Hanoi just a few hours away. Endless mountains, fertile valleys and pristine jungle and the extremely attractive rice terraces are all very good for the soul as well as being photogenic!

    Everyone we see whether it’s a small cute child, a moped riding teenager, a hard working farmer, a older generation hand loomer.. smile and say big hellos! It’s completely charming and beguiling to see their huge smiles and their gentle friendliness to us all.

    We arrived at our lovely hotel
    And enjoyed a dip in the pool
    And dinner !    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Walking along rice paddies
    View from our room!

    Hikes & Arriving at Puluong by Eashan

    July 21, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ☁️ 30 °C

    This morning, we set off for Mai Chau but not before a hearty breakfast of toast and pastries with coconut and other delicious food.

    We stopped on the way with an incredible view of Pu Luong and we then hiked down the mountain to meet the van at our next hotel. The path was zig-zagging down the side of the mountain. We saw loads of chickens and hens along the path. There were huge rice paddy fields along the side of the mountain which we walked along.

    At first we were going at a good steady pace but within a few minutes, the suns beating, harsh rays proved too much for any of us and we slowed down dramatically until, finally the van was in sight and we marched on until we arrived.

    We put everything away and had a look around. We had a surprisingly busy pool and a beautiful view, as well as a swing and lying area outside. Simi and Matt quickly settled down on the deckchairs by the pool with a beer while Arushi, Millen and Eashan jumped into the pool.

    That night, for dinner, we had loads of noodles and fruit and deep fried vegetables as well as pork and other meat. All of this was accompanied by fresh juice/wine to drown it down and also an army of ants invading our dinner. However we managed to get back without too many bites to settle down with some much needed rest after a long day of hikes and travelling.    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Swing over the rice terraces
    River stopBlankets made by the localsRice field irrigationFist bump!Rice wine mixturesStrolling through the countrysideValley floor villageRefreshing dipCooling down!Rice terrace wave!

    Pu Luong Swing Walk by Matt

    July 22, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ☁️ 29 °C

    We hadn't bothered to shut the curtains so we were woken up by the sun rising over the distant hills to reveal to the breath taking views of rice fields, the stunning panorama visible through the wall to wall windows from our beds! A low cloud hung over peaks but it was otherwise a clear blue sky.

    There was no sign of the giant cockroach in the bathroom, which I'd found last night clinging to the side of my toothbrush. We got ready, roused the children from next door and went out to seek the egg chef. Eashan had discovered a new breakfast favourite consisting of purple sticky rice, rolled up in a palm leaf like a cigar, dipped in chopped peanuts.

    Sunny filled us in on our day's activities, consisting of walking, waterfalls, waterwheels and rafting! We set off directly from the homestay and shortly came to a beautiful swing, decorated with colourful ribbons and perched on a ledge above the rice terraces. We took turns to have a go and, with the rice fields below and jungle in the distance, it felt, as the kids remarked, that you were on top of the world.

    After traversing the mud walls to a rock for a photo, Sunny paid a nearby shop the swing fee and we borrowed her tap to wash our feet, we set off down the winding road, lush green rice terraces either side.

    The road descended into the valley, becoming steeper and steeper, until we reached a shallow river that we needed to cross. It was cooling and a welcome relief from the muggy heat, the boys completely immersing themselves and sliding over the rocks with the current.

    From there we trekked through some villages, passing ladies using basic looms to make scarves, smiling children and old men sleeping in hammocks all underneath their wooden houses on stilts. One little boy was even keen to exchange fist pumps with Arushi and Simi.

    We finished up at a small nondescript village and ate at a very basic place, little more than an open kitchen and a few tables, with either fried noodles or noodle soup on the menu. Opting for chicken and veg fried noodles, we admired and smelled the various containers of rice wine flavoured with fruit, goat legs and even snake!    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Millen and TienWaterfall

    Waterfalls by Millen

    July 22, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ⛅ 33 °C

    After being dropped off by the van we clambered 800 metres up a steep hill, sweating whilst others used the entrepreneurial method of adopting the moped taxi service instead!

    We finally reached the waterfall - it was pretty fast and furious with limited spaces from where we could jump from. However, I found a good spot to jump off from a tree, so we did that a few times until we saw a couple of boys jumping off from the rocks.

    We quickly followed them, a bit sceptical at first but we jumped in and became more confident (or as mum says cocky and even flamboyant) as time went on.

    It became busier as more of us were jumping in and even a few parents were jumping off as well! I made a new friend called Tien and we took a photo together but I quickly had so disappear down the mountain to go back in the van to head bamboo rafting    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Rafting down the river
    Bridge we jumped offWater wheelBamboo raftSwimming alongside the raftMatt and Arushi on the raftWeir where Eashan got trapped!

    Bamboo Raft and Water Wheels by Eashan

    July 22, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ☁️ 31 °C

    After the water fall, we drove off in our trusty van to where we could see waterwheels and go on bamboo rafts.

    We walked over a shaky bamboo bridge which was held up by rope and iron. Then we made our way down to the riverbank passing huge mechanical wheels which were water wheels. They had pipes angled at a degree which would allow them to pick up water at the bottom and then drop it of at a bowl at the top. The bowl had a pipe at the bottom and the water would flow through it all the way to a nearby village.

    We continued past the water wheels and got onto the raft. It was very long and had a small hut in the middle with two platforms either side. On one platform was a man with a tall bamboo stick which he used to move the raft. On our way we could jump off the other platform or even have a go at driving from it.

    Matt could swim from one side to the other with one breath. All too soon we arrived back at the bamboo bridge however we were allowed to jump off the bridge into the water. We kept swimming until Millen and Eashan got pulled by the current over some rocks into a deeper part of the river.

    Millen was pushed by the stream away from the rocks, however my leg got stuck and the current pushed me under the water. I swam up as hard as I could gasping for air until two men from the bank dived in and helped me get unstuck. After that drama, we decided to call it a day and drove back for dinner.    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Fun with Sunny and Haiun
    Hotpot

    Hotpot Night by Matt

    July 22, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ⛅ 28 °C

    For our final night in Pu Luong Sunny had arranged a special Northern Vietnamese dish called a hotpot. A large simmering bowl of broth is placed in the middle of the table then plates of meat, vegetables, noodles, herbs and tofu laid before you. Then you simply add what you like and once it's cooked, scoop it into your bowl and ladle over the broth. Sunny suggested squeezing some lime over salt then dipping the cooked meat into it.

    We shared this meal with Sunny and the driver, sharing a small bottle of rice wine. The driver seemed to take great delight when I downed my shot, vigorously shaking my hand and promptly refilling my glass.

    It was a fun night and a great way to share and socialise over food.    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Embarrasingly matching hats and sandals too
    Slylight in the Galaxy caveSome scary animal!Rowing boats towards rhe cave in the blistering heat"Us- ie" on the boatDisney eat your heart out!Can you spot some familiar faces peering down?StunningHello up there!Walking to the hotelAmongst the bambooHome for the next couple of nightsOn thr milky way riverBat Action

    Leaving Puluong to Tam Coc by Simi

    July 23, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ☀️ 33 °C

    Following breakfast we left the peaceful retreat of Puluong and headed 3 hours towards Tam Coc.
    We motored through and stopped for an early lunch where we were the only people there… which actually hasn’t been that unusual! It meant that we could do the touristy trying on of the farmers hats all by ourselves!

    Following a tasty lunch we headed off on two little rowing boats to some caves.

    Tam Coc is famous for its gorgeous limestone monoliths amid paddy fields . The boats were fun and super peaceful as the first cave (Thien Ha Galaxy Cave )was not discovered until 2007 because it is very small and covered by trees. The total length of the cave has 700 meter include the dry cave is 200 meter long and the wet cave is 500 meter long

    The two caves we were visiting (Thien Ha cave and Thien Thanh cave) are two natural heritages in the Trang An world heritage complex . The cave is hidden in the Tuong mountain range, a mountain in the Trang An mountain range , which is considered as a watchtower to protect the ancient Hoa Lu citadel . Thien Ha cave is a beautiful cave, including both dry and wet caves with a variety of stalactites still built. They were lit with an array of different lights which added to the wonder.. and we were also handed torches when we entered which made it feel even more adventurous!

    We saw that the cave was both a dry and water cave with , skylights and underground rivers … making this place like like you are lost in a vision of some ride at Disney.

    Entering the water cave, we were told this underground river known as the Milky Way is winding with countless beautiful shimmering stalactites and stalactites. Apparently superstition says if you are a newly wed couple and get dripped on three times… there will be a baby soon! Luckily we aren’t newly weds.. and we only got dropped on once!

    The second cave was far busier so that wasn’t quite as good but we were still stupefied by the beauty of the caves.. if a little freaked out occasionally due to the volume of bats! We must have seen approx 1000of these little flying creatures .. they were very hard to film despite them fluttering right in front of our faces!

    After our fun in boats and caves we went to check into our nature resort for the next couple of nights!    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Pretty colours
    TranquilityHellooooooooooooo!So low!Wow where are you going?Wonderful rock formationJust us and the scenery.. and the beating sun!

    More Galaxy Cave Pictures by Eashan

    July 23, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ⛅ 34 °C

    In the morning, we had a huge breakfast buffet to fill our bellies and then we left for ngo dong, the river where we where going to explore some caves in a boat! We arrived and Sunny went with Mum and Dad while me, Arushi, and Millen had another boat to ourselves. In our first cave we were greeted by a cloud of bats flying and swooping above our heads. We all had torches and we all managed to light up sleeping bats which were a joy to spot.Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Cycking back in the dark
    Card gamesThe beautiful location of the restaurant (this was the view looking up)Outside the resortThe swimming poolTesting out the bikesThe goatsMillen's dare-devil bike

    Arrived at Tam Coc by Arushi

    July 23, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ 🌙 30 °C

    After exploring the caves and checking into the resort, we were desperate for a swim to cool off and find relief from the blasting sun and humidity. We splashed around and got ourselves situated in our rooms before getting ready for dinner.

    The resort offered a selection of bikes, however the only available ones seemed to be three rackety squeaky bicycles and two equally rackety and squeaky child bicycles. Millen quickly claimed the small pink one leaving Eashan the blue one, the only two bikes with baskets (when we asked for some baskets the lady produced what could only be described as oversized dog poo bags which we politely declined).

    We set off just before sunset and just after the parade of goats passed by, cycling off in search of some dinner. Around 10 to 15 minutes later, we stopped at a local restaurant and ordered some food and drinks, including sweet and sour chicken, vegetable fried noodles and some lemon grass beef. We played some card games until the meals arrived, however at this point the sky was already darkening and it was apparent that we would be cycling back in the dark.

    After saying good bye to our new friend Emily (a little girl who cycled back and forth to the restaurant) and paying the bill, we set off back home in the pitch black.

    With the aid of phone torches and a lot of communication to each other about the whereabouts of various cracks in the roads, we finally could see the resort where we all clambered into bed exhausted.    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Rowing away
    Look at all those lily- padsThis area was used for the filming of King Kong Skull Island

    Tam Coc Riverboat Ride & Caves by Eashan

    July 24, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ⛅ 31 °C

    In the morning, after a tearful goodbye to Sonny, we saw a cave on the mountain side from the movie King Kong skull island. The second cave was very similar to the first although it was smaller. On the other side we saw an array of water lilies and lotuses. Lotuses are the National flower of this country and water lilies close at night but lotuses don’t. We carried on sailing until we got to a small pond where we doubled back and returned the same way.. Then we got back to the van and headed to the citadel.Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    The entrance
    Over the bridgeWilting in the heatView over the fieldsWe didn't fall in... result!1st Tier

    Hoa Lu Citadel + BichDong Pagoda by Simi

    July 24, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ☁️ 31 °C

    We were feeling pretty jaded due to the blistering heat but then again so were all the other tourists.
    Hoa Lu was the capital of a Vietnam during the Dinh (AD 968-80) and early Le (AD 980–1009) dynasties. The Dinh chose the site to distance themselves from China.
    Most of the ancient citadel is in ruins but there are two surviving temples which we saw.

    We deffo needed an energy boost so headed for some lunch in an AC restaurant and a game of Bananagrams . Satiated we headed to the Tam
    Coc Bich Dong pagoda.
    We were trying to understand the difference between temples and pagodas. .. tricky stuff.
    So we think temples are pretty much referred to any worshipped places for ancestors, gods and kings and where offerings are made whereas pagodas are somewhere you come to pray and are often tiered temples .

    This pagoda is on three tiers with altars at each level.
    The trail cuts through a large cave in the mountain where statues and small bats appeared

    When we reached the top of the stairs we were welcomed to a stunning view out of the valley of the distant mountain peaks and vast rice fields as well as a perfect place for a meditative prayer.

    We headed back to our small
    Nature hotel resort for a swim bike ride and dinner!    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Hat crazy
    From the bridgeSunrise SunnyWalking through the rice terracesBike ride breakWe arent going to be offered a job a rice farmers anytime soon!

    Sunny by Millen

    July 24, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ⛅ 32 °C

    One of the most amazing things about this trip was not just the beautiful scenes, interesting history, delicious foods, spectacular cultures and breathtaking monuments but also the amazing friends we made. One of the most amazing people we met on this trip was Sunny, he always had a massive smile on his face and brought positive energy with him everywhere he went. He really showed his true compassion and love to this country. He was always up for a hike, boat ride, cycle or even a dive into a river, His exceptional knowledge was amazing and he always had an answer for everything we threw at him. He was such an amazing person and we were so grateful for him as our tour guide. We were so sad to see him go and we hope we can see him again.
    Our time with him was curtailed due to the devastating news of his father in law passing.    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Goats outside the resort again at sunset
    Cycling past water buffaloesCycling through the streets

    Bike ride Around Tam Coc by Arushi

    July 24, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ⛅ 30 °C

    As soon as we arrived back at the resort, we dived in the pool to cool off for a few hours, playing a multitude of pool games or practicing handstands.

    We then threw some clothes over our swimming costumes and went to investigate the bike situation. Thankfully there were five available fully functioning bikes (with baskets!) and so off we went, with only a vague memory of route directions from our guide.

    We meandered about through narrow streets, expansive fields and past animals nosing around, all illuminated by the soft sunset.

    When we returned to the resort after about an hour of cycling, we jumped back in the pool for a quick swim before showering off for dinner which we had on-site. Feeling happy and full, we then pottered off to bed.    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Another beautiful view
    First sighting of our home for the nightLunchOur bedroomOur barhroom - what a view!Our balconyMore food on offer!And another.. honestly you cant stop taking pics!We spent a LOT of time simply doing this!

    Arriving in Halong Bay by Simi

    July 25, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ⛅ 30 °C

    We had an earlyish start ( 7.45) and left the tranquil Tam Coc and headed East for about 3 hours towards Halong Bay. The journey was pretty non- eventful but provided us all an excellent opportunity to catch up with our blog!

    We waited at the port where we met our Boat Manager Jimmy. He was very friendly and helpful!

    We took a tender out to our boat V Spirit. Ha Long Bay in Vietnam. translates to Bay of the Descending Dragon and I would deffo say this is one of the new seven natural wonders of the world. How could somewhere we have heard SO much about live up to its reputation especially when we saw all the mass of tourists literally being shipped in and shipped out … but I’m so delighted ( and relieved) to say this piece of heaven was truly as wonderous as I had dared to imagine. It is a mystical landscape where thousands of limestone karsts burst breathtakingly skywards from the depths of the sparkling, emerald-green South China Seas.

    There are a few stories to how this bay of descending dragons got its name… presumably because of the rolling look of the karst mountains undulating out of the sea that make for incredible photos. Further research refers to the legend that. early Vietnam had to fight off invaders so the gods sent a family of dragons as protectors. These dragons spat out jewels and jade which turned into islets that linked together to form a great wall that destroyed the invaders’ ships. After the battle was won, the dragons decided to live in this bay and the place where the mother dragon descended was thus named Ha Long. Who know but I’m sticking with this latter more poetic version !

    The V spirit was very nice – our room had the most phenomenal ceiling to floor windows so we could admire the view as soon as we stepped into our room, from our bed, from the loo, brushing our teeth and even whilst having a bath ! The next floor above our bedrooms was the dining room. The food was plentiful and looked fancy .. truthfully ( and maybe controversially) it tasted ok.. a lot of it didn’t taste of anything to me! Nonetheless the dining room was lovely with the appreciated floor to ceiling windows so the views did not have to be missed for a second. The AC was fully effective and the next floor was the open rooftop for ogling the views, enjoying a cocktail or simply reclining on a sun bed

    The Bay is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and as mentioned already very popular tourist destination. .. a rather large 6-7 million visitors per year!The whole bay has an area of around 1,500km2, which contains approximately 1,969 islands and islets.
    Normal limestone mountains are usually found on the ground, however, the the Bay’s limestones are raised from above the water. It’s taken 5000 million years to form Halong Bay to 2000 limestone islands as today.

    Once we had checked into our rooms, we were served lunch as we sailed off further into the bay. We discovered quickly
    It really is a photo op around every corner under the blazing sun ! Absolutely bowled over by this special place! I am totally captivated by the beauty of this place- a real tonic for the soul
    and a cure for the restlessness- total stillness. Utterly enchanting in my eyes!    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    On our small boat ride
    Through the caveRelaxing on the V SpiritEntrepreneurial sellersStunning

    Afternoon on the cruise by Matt

    July 25, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ☀️ 32 °C

    After lunch, Jimmy filled us in on the itinerary, referred to all of us as the 'Jimmy family ', reminded us a few more times that his name was Jimmy, gleefully reminded us of happy hour and then made us all down our welcome juice. This guy definitely used to work on the booze cruises and his excitement didn't quite seem to be reciprocated by the audience of families and couples.

    The boat moored amongst the stunning limestone cliffs, topped with jungle flora and the occasional soaring bird. Several other cruise ships had also dropped anchor but rather than spoil the view I felt they added perspective to the towering landscape.

    Shortly after lunch we all boarded the tender and headed to a nearby pontoon, along with most of the other ship occupants it seemed. We were quickly and efficiently shepherded into what can best be described as an oversized bath tub. We were joined by an Indian family, the mother working for Travel Counsellers, the same company as Ali!

    The midday sun beat down and our rower started complaining about the heat. I looked at her, covered head to toe, socks under sandals, scarf round her face, a thick pair of gloves, under which it turned out she had another pair of gloves, and wasn't really surprised. We took pity though, offering her water and food, but she refused and took off one layer of gloves. Rather cynically I wondered whether she was putting it on just a little bit. But there was no denying these people work hard in tough conditions to give tourists their experiences.

    She took us through a natural tunnel, called the 'bright cave', into a lagoon, took photos for us then paddled us back, barging through a chaotic flotilla of bath tubs and kayaks, all going in completely opposite directions. Crazy, beautiful, maddening and humbling all at once. We hopped back in the tender to head back for a much anticipated swim.    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Hello from the warm waters of the South China Sea

    Swimming in Ha Long Bay by Eashan

    July 25, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ☀️ 31 °C

    Once back, we could go swimming, so we all got changed into our swimming costumes and went to the back of the tender where only a handful of people were. Before it got too crowded we all jumped in feeling the fresh water on our dry skin. The only thing that we all forgot about was the salt that got in everyone’s mouth. We played around and jumped off the boat for quite a while - the water was the warmest we have ever swim in- it was all going swimmingly ( ha ha) until someone shouted, ‘JELLYFISH’, we all hurried out but fortunately, no one was hurt. It got scooped up by one of the staff and everyone gingerly got back in. Soon, however, another jellyfish was spotted and once again, everyone hurried out but No one got back in and everyone, wisely, headed back inside.Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Unsuccessful Squid fishing
    Yum!So many boats!Ahoy captain.Cookery courseSunsetYup nunchuck practising!Chinese chess

    Evening on the cruise by Matt

    July 25, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ 🌙 30 °C

    We showered and chilled out in our air con rooms with a view. A couple of enterprising ladies circled the ship in a small motor boat offering beers and snacks, but happy hour was round the corner so we politely ignored them. We headed to the top deck to watch the sunset over beers and cocktails, 3 for 2, whilst Millen joined a spring roll making class with his new friend, Yash.

    Utterly relaxed by the serenity of Halong Bay, aided by a few drinks, we admired the view from the top deck as the sun set over the bay. Dinner was a sort of Vietnamese tasting menu, with about 6 courses, including Oysters! The chef then came out of the kitchen carrying a big pan containing shrimps. With great drama he threw in some vodka and set light to the pan, the flames almost touching the ceiling. Then he slammed on the lid, creating clouds of steam that filled the room. Once the culinary performance was over, we each got a shrimp, which was quite nice.

    After dinner some of us tried their luck at squid fishing. Eashan managed to get some of the boatmen to teach him Chinese chess, similar to the Western version but with fewer pieces and an even more restricted king. He was more successful than the squid fishermen but I suspected they let him win 😉    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia

    Morning on the cruise by Arushi

    July 26, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ⛅ 29 °C

    This morning my alarm went off at 5.02 and I opened my eyes to see Millen’s silhouette illuminated by the early morning light filtering through. The three of us opened the curtain to the most spectacular sunrise any of us five have ever seen in our entire lives! It was unreal! The sky was so indescribably beautiful, with streaks of colour painted so delicately against the blue sky. It was breathtaking and could easily be compared to the couples of a campfire with the flaming reds and oranges.

    Millen hurried to wake mum and dad up, as Eashan and I made our way up to the sun deck where we were immersed in the sunrise. We both stayed up there for an hour watching the sky dance around whilst Millen was showering and getting ready (and most likely playing some sort of game).

    It truly was such a magical morning, sharing the beautiful view in our pjs out at sea. A little after 6, the Tai Chi started , where we were joined by Millen, Mum and Dad as well. I’m still not entirely sure what exactly all the motions are (to me they seemed a bit like the sort of moves you might see in interpretive dance), but nevertheless it was still so lovely to stretch our bodies under the first rays of light.

    After a “light breakfast” (more like a full breakfast buffet including pancakes, toast and cereal), we then got to go kayaking at 7.30 around an island next to our boat. We had so much fun racing and splashing each other in the warm water. Millen set off with Yash (they often seemed to find themselves at a close proximity to some rocks), Eashan was with me which left Dad and Mum together. We paddled for about an hour before ditching the kayaks back at the boat for a last dive and swim in the water, still marvelling at the temperature of it.

    We then returned back to the boat to shower and check out before brunch on board as we sailed back towards the port to leave this beautiful bay.    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Snoozing en route to Hanoi
    Buying the clothesEntrance to the coffe placeFood at the cafeThe homemade peanut butterPrints at TiredcityAlways fun playing this with Millen!

    Halong Bay to Hanoi by Arushi

    July 26, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ☀️ 37 °C

    We were picked up from Halong Bay by a smiley Haiun and started the 3 hour journey to Hanoi, giving us plenty of time to catch up on the blog, relax, or in dad’s case, have a little snooze (“I’m having a bit of me time!”)

    On arrival to Hanoi, we checked into a hotel that Sunny had arranged for us for the few hours we would spend in Hanoi, giving us a space to rearrange the packing, shower, or have another snooze. We set off around 2.30 in search of some food, stopping at a market to purchase some “North Face” trousers for Millen and jacket for dad, totalling at around £17 from the funniest sweet old happy lady, who offered the “cheaper, cheaper” prices as she repeated to us on several occasions.

    We arrived at Hanoi Coffee station for a pick me up, a cafe tucked in a small alleyway that was hard to spot from the street as it was located above another shop. We entered the cafe to find a coffee class was just ending (that would have been right up dad’s street!) and found a table for 5. The menu was a very typical western brunch, and we ordered a range of food including avacado toast, banana bread, granola as well as some smoothies and coffees (apparently the egg coffee was delicious - dad even requested the recipe to try at home!). We also purchased some of their yummy homemade peanut butter to bring back home with us (if it isn’t already finished by then…)

    Satisfied, we then walked back to the hotel, stopping at a shop called Tiredcity, a cool place selling various prints on different items, such as postcards, pins and t-shirts. We bought a print as a memory of Hanoi and then set off on our merry way.

    We then had about half an hour to relax and rest before leaving for Hanoi train station.    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Trying to squeeze all our stuff into our cabin
    Time Lapse and went via Train StHome for the nightCoo-ee!Buying a beerClose proximity... and we know each other thankfully!

    Leaving Hanoi by Simi

    July 26, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ 🌙 31 °C

    Excitedly we approached the buzzing train station! We were getting on a 9.5 hour sleeper train… we hadn’t booked any fancy cabin… beginning to wish we had when we saw our little room! 😂 But it was going to be a fun adventure… even if we weren’t going to get any sleep thanks to being very close to everyone’s feet, a few cockroaches and a general shakiness of the train… not quite as smooth a ride as I’d hoped!

    Right going to attempt to bed down now! Wish us luck!    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Blurry sunrise picture from my bunk
    Check out the bathroom in our hotel!

    Arriving in Phong Nha by Arushi

    July 27, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ☁️ 31 °C

    Waking up this morning at 5 am was not the most delightful experience I’ve ever had, the train bumping around, our tiny room crammed with five people drowsily getting ready, although we did see the sunrise, which was a plus.

    Not even bothering to get out of my pjs, I managed to wriggle some trousers on top of them in my bunk and threw a jumper on. Still half-asleep, we made our way to the train doors, five of us and all of our cumbersome bags swaying about as the train rattled on. It stank of cigarettes, something dad struggled to fall asleep with last night and I didn’t even dare look in the toilet, something I had managed to avoid since we boarded. As we were waiting by a sink, I brushed my teeth using a travel toothbrush I picked up from some hotel, just in time before we arrived at Dong Hoi.

    From the station, we were picked up and driven to our hotel, during which I promptly fell back asleep. We arrived at the hotel at 6 and checked into our room for a rest and to get ready for the days adventure.

    We had breakfast, which was as an ‘order from a menu’ system but seemed to not comply with the ‘get what you ordered’ system, as our meal consisted of some things we hadn’t even ordered, mainly being baguettes.

    From breakfast, we were picked up by our friendly guide and escorted into a van with six other people, all couples. Our rowdy group piled in the back of this calm van, and off we drove to our first stop, Paradise cave.    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Tevas ready for actionView climbing upEntering the caveThe floor looks like what I imagine the moon would look likeA stalagmite and stalactite almost touching (or kissing)

    Paradise Cave by Arushi

    July 27, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ☁️ 32 °C

    Our journey into Paradise cave started in a bumpy golf cart ride, with a driver who seemed to believe the cart wasn’t able to crash as we veered around sharp corners and practically flew past other carts.

    Once at the starting point, we started the ascent, which was around 550 m on a gradual, but tough incline in the stifling humidity.

    Out of the 31km, tourists are allowed to visit the first 1km (can also book to go a bit further) , so off we set, down the stairs. The entrance to the cave is tiny and was discovered in 2005. The first sight of the cave’s interior was magical, the humongous ceilings and intricate details were lit up by hidden lights and the wooden boardwalk winding past the colossal stalagmites and stalactites.

    We descended down the stairs, marvelling at this underground wonder. Wondering around aimlessly, we followed the boardwalk through the biggest ‘dry cave’ (although it also has a river deeper in the cave?) in Asia. The hundreds-of-millions-of-years-old cave had once been underwater, before the Ice Age and the stalagmites and stalactites are formed from the remaining water and minerals to evaporate / condense until they ‘kiss’, as Sunny joked in Galaxy cave.

    We spent around an hour and a half in the cave as it was only a 1km walk to the end, where we took a family picture, and the boys and I were asked by a stranger to take a photo together which was slightly strange.

    We then walked the 1km back to the entrance of the cave and said goodbye to the incredible Paradise cave. (Which is called Paradise cave as it’s cool in the Summer and warm in the Winter).    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Mud glorious mud!
    Glowing skin here I come!

    Lunch and Dark Cave by Simi

    July 27, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ☁️ 35 °C

    We left Paradise cave to head to the Dark cave. We had a large lunch platter to share which looked great but in all honesty tasted only ok!

    It was clear from the off set that this cave visit was going to be a different type of adventure.., for a start we had to go just wearing our swimmers and a life jacket they had provided only and no phones. Luckily we had the go pro so could take a few piccies on that.

    At Paradise cave we walked around a boardwalk and simply admired the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites whereas at the Dark Cave, you are on an adventure but the cave time is minimal! But actually it kept our dog tired family ( following the over night train journey and the early sunrise and tai chi session on the boat the day before ) enthralled and less ratty so was good timing for us!

    The Dark Cave incorporates exploring a cave with some water adventure activities, which appeals to a wide audience especially our children but interestingly a load of Vietnamese who could not swim too. There was huge lack of health and safety in the adventure park and whilst I felt confident of what we could do, I was very nervous for the non swimming brigade who seemed very happy that the life jackets were their super hero jackets. I saw so many people catapulted around, flung hard onto parts of bodies that caused pain and a lot of tears and screaming - it just needs to be safer.

    Nevertheless, zip-lining, kayaking, swimming in crystal waters, attempting an over-water adventure course and throwing mud at your family
    in a pitch-black cavern remains a fun way to experience a cave. Dark Cave was not discovered until 1990, but the locals and tourists haven’t wasted any time making it one of the most visited caves within the park and the country. There are no lights within this cave and that is where it got its name.
    The adventure started with the longest zip wire in Vietnam ( even if there is no safety briefing, thankfully there were harnesses!) and then a plunge into the cool Chay River as we swum up to the entrance of the infamous Dark cave.

    We climbed up a ladder and
    donned our hard hats with head lamps and followed our guide bare footed. I have to say the entrance to the cave is pretty awesome. It’s huge and because of the darkness., it’s just hugely
    impressive. We were also the only people in there for a while as we checked out fossils, trudged through the waters and tested our sensitivities of our feet as we stepped over sand and rock. It was eerily quiet too which just added to the atmosphere.

    Our guide led us through tiny crevasses where we had to scramble over sandy rises to where we took a mud bath. It’s meant to be good for the skin so we all lathered it on and hoped to benefit from the claims ! Let’s see if the photos show the new natural glow!

    Unsurprisingly it did get chilly in these waters and after our “spa” treatment we retraced our steps back to the cave entrance to head to the water adventure park.    Read more

  • Family Of 5 Vietnam + Cambodia
    Weeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!
    Here I come!

    Dark Cave Water Park by Eashan

    July 27, 2023 in Vietnam ⋅ ☁️ 35 °C

    After leaving the dark cave we walked to the wooden walkway where we had arrived earlier. Mum and I then swam around the corner for 200 metres while the others kayaked that distance. We all climbed out of the lake to see a dangerous array of climbing or parkour equipment which I marvelled at while mum and dad's eyes grew in disbelief and worry.

    Arushi, Millen and I all climbed up to where a huge zip line was and we waited in turn until only one person was in front of us. They climbed the steps and jumped clinging onto the bar above her. She flew forwards however she held on too long and the top of her rope hit the stopper on the zip line. She was going with so much force that she did a flip before fortunately landing safely in the water!

    Gingerly, Arushi and I reeled in the zip line and climbed up the steps. There were 2 lines and so Millen bravely offered to go after us. We leaned forward and as our weight shifted to our front foot, the steps soon and teetered on the edge. I was about to go when the man operating the machine soon his head and pointed towards, there, ahead of us was the girl as well as a man who was crossing. They were both Vietnamese and also very bad at swimming. I looked around, none of the locals seemed to be strong swimmers. Finally, it was all clear the man gave his thumbs up and we jumped, also clinging on.

    We landed with a splash and an excited look on our faces we quickly got out and then we ran over to a slide we turned the water on so that it would be slippery and I slid down. At first I was very slow but then I leant back and could feel myself going faster until it ended with a splash. I did it again but facing forwards and leaning forwards the whole time . I dived in although it wasn't long before I got out looking for another thing to do.

    I saw a course above the water which had swinging ropes, zip lines and other things too I ran off towards it and got on the zip line. Immediately I noticed that it was a lot higher but I went for it. I made the mistake of waiting too long and I hit the stopper. Like the girl, I did a half flip and hit my head on the mat and rope. It hurt so much, however, I got out of the water and did it again.

    This time, I got past the zip line and, using the swing ropes, I swing myself over the ropes however I couldn't quite get on the platform and I slipped and fell once again. Third time lucky, I thought on final attempt. I got past the zip line and ropes. Then there was a rope grid that I got past before the final hurdle, some rings that you held onto and swing off like monkey bars, however, I was way too short and I fell off very quickly. After this we all left for the hotel for a swim and to relax.    Read more

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