Quang Binh travel guide| How to travel, What to explore & Ticks & Tricks in Quang Binh Vietnam

Known as “The king of cave”, Quang Binh attracts visitors with the diversity of complex of caves in Phong Nha Ke Bang national park, a World Natural Heritage by UNESCO and Son Doong Cave, the new and biggest cave in the world. Nhat Le beach and various activities in Song Chay – Hang Toi will definitely amaze you as well. Read on to see what is the best time, how to arrive, what to explore, to eat and how to live your Quang Binh trip up. All-in-one-guide for Quang Binh this time. 

I. What is the best time to Quang Binh?

Located in the Middle of Vietnam, like other provinces like Nghe An, Hue or Ha Tinh, Quang Binh experiences the monsoon-tropical climate with two different seasons: the rainy and dry season. The wet season occurs in September and lasts till March, while September to November experiences the most rain with a lot of storms. The dry season falls from April to August with an average temperature of 24 – 25*C and the hottest temperatures from June to August. The best time to visit Quang Binh is any time during the dry months, especially April & May (dry & not too hot). As the most attractive destinations of Quang Binh are natural attractions including caves and beaches, and the long-distance from Dong Hoi city to Phong Nha – Ke Bang complex, the weather during April and May will be ideal for tourists to enjoy the sunlight and clear blue water in Nhat Le beach or explore the diversity of Phong Nha National Park and crystal water of Mooc Spring and various amazing water activities at Hang Toi – Chay river. You don’t need to bring raincoats or umbrellas to avoid getting wet from the rain during this time, too.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

II. How to travel to Quang Binh?

Different means of transport are available, which is suitable for different customers at various prices and experiences.

1. By train

There are 8 trains from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh to Dong Hoi every day.
Hanoi – Dong Hoi: 600km (375 miles) – 10 hours.
Sai Gon – Dong Hoi: 1250km (750 miles) – about 20 hours.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

2. By high-quality bus (Open sleeper bus)

Because Quang Binh has become of the most favorable destinations for locals, especially adventure-lovers, there are a lot of buses available. Here are some bus companies to book a ticket from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh to Dong Hoi city.

From Hanoi:

• Hoang Long bus. Add: 3 Nguyen Khoai – Hai Ba Trung district, Hanoi (Luong Yen bus station). Tel: +844.3987.7225
• Sinh Cafe (open tour): 38 Ly Nam De – Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi. Tel:+8498.8757.689
• Dong Hien bus: 281 Doi Can – Ba Dinh district. Tel: +844.3832.7330
• Hung Long bus: 338 Tran Khat Chan – Cau Giay District, Hanoi. Tel: +844.3972.4505 or +84914.077.779

From Ho Chi Minh city:

• Hoang Long bus: +84.28.22438989 (Mien Dong bus station – Dong Hoi city – Quang Binh)
• Thuan Thao bus: +84.914642526 (Mien Dong bus station – Dong Hoi city – Quang Binh)
• Sy Quan bus: +84.975240827 (Sai Gon – Ba Don – Quang Binh

3. By plane

Dong Hoi has a domestic airport. There are some flights of Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo to Dong Hoi. You can travel from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh to Dong Hoi by flight and then travel to other destinations around Quang Binh by bus or private transport.
Hanoi/ Ho Chi Minh – Dong Hoi: 45 minutes – 1 hour (by plane)
Dong Hoi – Phong Nha Ke Bang: 60 – 70km → 45 minutes (by private transport).

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

III. Top attractions in Quang Binh

1. Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park

Recognized as the world’s natural heritage by UNESCO since 2003, Phong Nha Ke Bang national park and grotto complex remains intact with many outstandingly gorgeous caves on majestic limestone mountains, and with its abundant fauna & flora. 

Phong Nha has achieved a lot of records such as the cave with the longest underground river, the most beautiful sandbank and reef, the most beautiful underground lake, the highest and widest entrance, the widest and most beautiful dry cave, the most spectacular stalactites, as well as the longest water grotto.

About 50 km to the northwest from Dong Hoi city, Quang Binh, Phong Nha cave is considered as “Thien Nam De Nhat Dong” of Vietnam covered by tropical forests.
From Son River, you will drive for more than 30 minutes to reach Phong Nha cave. Phong Nha cave is 7729 meters in length, 83 meters in-depth, and 50 meters in height with water flowing underground with typical stalactites.
The legends said the stalagmites in the cave entrance contributed to the poetic name of the cave “Phong Nha” reflecting the ideal reconciliation of the primeval forest and Son River, filled with dry caves and an ink painting of water in caves captivating people. 

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

Phong Nha Ke Bang covering an area of more than 200,000 hectares is regarded as one of the oldest and most extensive tropical limestone areas in the world with over 300 large and small caves as well as hidden wonders and tourist attractions.

Book now!

2. Thien Duong Cave (Heaven Cave)

Together with Phong Nha cave, Thien Duong Cave or Paradise Cave dating back from 350 to 400 million years ago is even considered to be one of the most magnificent and magical wonders of the world as an “underground palace”. It is even more beautiful and mystic than Phong Nha cave. The cave nestles deep in the World Natural Heritage,the National Park Phong Nha Ke Bang.

It is famous for its breathtaking beauty of stalagmites & stalactites  as the magical wonder of the world. Thien Duong cave is 31 km long and limitedly opened 900 meters with longest wooden ways to the public since 2011 to enjoy its magical beauty.
The ticket: 250,000 VND.

3. Jumping Rocks (Da Nhay beach)

Coming to Bo Trach District, Quang Binh province, apart from the scenic Phong Nha Ke Bang complex, Da Nhay beach (Jumping Rocks) is also an tourist attraction with pristine beach, stones and strange-shaped caves.

Source: hoanmy1 – Flickr

Following the Highway 1A from Dong Hoi city north backward over 20 km, you will arrive in Da Nhay beach, and admire the mountains adjacent to the beach at the foot of Ly Hoa pass. The beach remains completely its original beauty with the gentle blend from the immense sea to abrasive rocks. 

4. Dark cave & zipline (Hang Toi)

About 70km away from Dong Hoi City and near Phong Nha Ke Bang national park, Chay River is regarded as the heaven right on earth with clear crystal emerald water together with fresh air and spectacular nature, which makes you feel really relaxing.
Especially visitors can enjoy a lot of water sports and jump down from the zipline (a form of swinging) into the cool water, or go kayaking to admire the scenic vistas. At the end of the zipline, you should remember to pose for photographers to take some photos – that’s cool, right?

Besides, you can take a boat along Chay River for 5 km or so to reach Toi Cave (Dark Cave) and enjoy magic stalactites covered with a large amount of moss, creating a subtle green and hanging up the side of the cave. Entering the cave, the darkness covers every single corner which makes movements inside the cave more exciting, and especially reach a place where you get to swim in mud pools.

5. Son Doong cave

Recently discovered in Phong Nha Ke Bang national park, Son Doong is recognized as the biggest grotto with its thrilling landscapes in the world that can ambrace a 40 floor building cab.Not only be impressive for its enormous size, the cavern is also unique for its internally abundant flora & fauna diversity. 

Son Doong cave has not widely opened to the public for safety & conservation reasons, but limited for 500 people every year. If you wish to explore this world natural wonder, you must book this cave adventure far in advance (maybe one or two years) with requirement of really good physical health and impressive trekking experience.
The cost is no less than 3000 USD/person and good health. If you are a adventure travel lover, let one time in life try this adventure expedition to Son Doong to explore this nature’s masterpiece to admire how stunning it is.

6. Nhat Le beach

About 2 km to the Northeast from Dong Hoi city center, Nhat Le beach is an ideal place to relax and wander to admire the sunrise or sunset for couples. It likes a picture with airy natural landscape, vast white sand and crystal sea. After immersing yourself into the clear blue water, you could enjoy local seafood right on the beach like BBQ in local food stalls – which are both delicious and cheap.
You can visit Dong Hoi port nearby to admire the romantic sunset with a lot of local fishing boats.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

7. Quang Phu Dunes

If you wish to visit Sahara desert or Mui Ne, but don’t have much money, Quang Phu Dunes should be great, right? You could rent a skateboard, comfortably play on the vast white sand dunes and take amazing vintage or retro photos with endless golden sand dunes. Particularly, when visiting here, you should prepare sunglasses, long sleeves in order to avoid sandy wind and sun.

IV. What to eat in Quang Binh?

1. “Gieo” potatoes (Khoai Gieo)

This specialty is made of red-skinned sweet potatoes. It  is sweet and eat like marshmallow taste. As it is popular in Quang Binh so you can easily find and try in Quang Binh’s market. Don’t worry it is quite cheap, but tasty.

Where to eat? – Dong Hoi market.

2. Filtered cakes (Banh bot loc)

The Central of Vietnam is regarded as the heaven of cake, and Quang Binh is not the exception. When talking about Quang Binh, visitors think about Banh Bot Loc (filtered cake).
The main ingredients are shrimp, pork, wood ear, shoots, mushrooms and tapioca with Quang Binh sauce. It is simple but nutritious. Banh Loc is wrapped in banana leaves, and then steamed or even fried.

Source: Sir. Vượng – Flickr

Hop on a cab and you will experience this signature dish in a glance. You’ll pay only 1 USD for a dish of 10 pieces, quite cheap, right?
Where to eat? – Me Xuan Hai Thanh and Ga market.

3. Noodle soup (Chao canh)

Unlike Pho, Chao Canh is a bowl of noodle soup porridge from rolled wheat or rice noodles, with snakehead seafood including fish, shrimp, and crab. Its savoury thick broth, soft noodles, and fresh green from chopped vegetables with some spicy flavor will be tasty.
This dish is better served it with ‘ram’ (small fried spring rolls) or Vietnamese grilled sausage and sour meatball. 

Price: 15,000 VND to 20,000 VND, and  2,000 VND/ each “ram”
Where to eat? –  Son Thu food stall on Phan Boi Chau Street, Dong Hoi city/ Quan Suong Hong stall on Nguyen Huu Canh Street, Dong Hoi city.

V. Quang Binh nearby attractions

1. Hue

It is no surprise when Hue is one of the top must-see destinations in Vietnam as its peaceful, outstanding natural landscapes together with friendly and helpful people. Located along the banks of the Huong River, Hue, the regional economic, cultural, touristic, scientific, specialized health, education, and training hub of central Viet Nam is an attractive destination. 

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

It is famous for its temples, bastions, mausoleums, architecture, and natural landscapes mostly covered by a layer of green moss, which creates a relaxing sensation. And spending time visiting Hue is considered as one of the top things to do in Vietnam.

2. Laos

Another destination near Quang Binh is Laos, the only country without the sea in Southeast Asia. When coming to Laos, visitors will feel the ancient tradition and tranquility of a friendly country giving the impression as if time has stood still. Laos is less crowded than Thailand or Vietnam, but its mystery and unique architecture as well as culture are what make it appealing to tourists. 

VI. Top most popular Quang Binh tours 

Luxury Travel provides “wow” services to the most sophisticated luxury travelers. We offer privately guided and fully bespoke holidays coupled with personalized customer service. Our luxury experiences are shaped by your tastes, budget, and reason for traveling and we will be delighted to help you organize your trip around Southeast Asia. For more authentic experience in Quang Binh, visit here or check it out.

Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park 2 Days
The Mixing of Adventure & Heritage Sites Visit in Central Vietnam 10 days

Contact Us:

Address: No.456, Lac Long Quan Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Phone: (+84) 4 3927 4120
Email: sales@luxurytravelvietnam.com
Hotline: (+84) 1234 68 69 96
Website: https://luxurytravelvietnam.com

Plan Your Trip Here!

 

The post Quang Binh travel guide| How to travel, What to explore & Ticks & Tricks in Quang Binh Vietnam appeared first on Luxury Travel's Blog.

Quang Binh travel guide| How to travel, What to explore & Ticks & Tricks in Quang Binh Vietnam

Known as “The king of cave”, Quang Binh attracts visitors with the diversity of complex of caves in Phong Nha Ke Bang national park, a World Natural Heritage by UNESCO and Son Doong Cave, the new and biggest cave in the world. Nhat Le beach and various activities in Song Chay – Hang Toi will definitely amaze you as well. Read on to see what is the best time, how to arrive, what to explore, to eat and how to live your Quang Binh trip up. All-in-one-guide for Quang Binh this time. 

I. What is the best time to Quang Binh?

Located in the Middle of Vietnam, like other provinces like Nghe An, Hue or Ha Tinh, Quang Binh experiences the monsoon-tropical climate with two different seasons: the rainy and dry season. The wet season occurs in September and lasts till March, while September to November experiences the most rain with a lot of storms. The dry season falls from April to August with an average temperature of 24 – 25*C and the hottest temperatures from June to August. The best time to visit Quang Binh is any time during the dry months, especially April & May (dry & not too hot). As the most attractive destinations of Quang Binh are natural attractions including caves and beaches, and the long-distance from Dong Hoi city to Phong Nha – Ke Bang complex, the weather during April and May will be ideal for tourists to enjoy the sunlight and clear blue water in Nhat Le beach or explore the diversity of Phong Nha National Park and crystal water of Mooc Spring and various amazing water activities at Hang Toi – Chay river. You don’t need to bring raincoats or umbrellas to avoid getting wet from the rain during this time, too.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

II. How to travel to Quang Binh?

Different means of transport are available, which is suitable for different customers at various prices and experiences.

1. By train

There are 8 trains from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh to Dong Hoi every day.
Hanoi – Dong Hoi: 600km (375 miles) – 10 hours.
Sai Gon – Dong Hoi: 1250km (750 miles) – about 20 hours.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

2. By high-quality bus (Open sleeper bus)

Because Quang Binh has become of the most favorable destinations for locals, especially adventure-lovers, there are a lot of buses available. Here are some bus companies to book a ticket from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh to Dong Hoi city.

From Hanoi:

• Hoang Long bus. Add: 3 Nguyen Khoai – Hai Ba Trung district, Hanoi (Luong Yen bus station). Tel: +844.3987.7225
• Sinh Cafe (open tour): 38 Ly Nam De – Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi. Tel:+8498.8757.689
• Dong Hien bus: 281 Doi Can – Ba Dinh district. Tel: +844.3832.7330
• Hung Long bus: 338 Tran Khat Chan – Cau Giay District, Hanoi. Tel: +844.3972.4505 or +84914.077.779

From Ho Chi Minh city:

• Hoang Long bus: +84.28.22438989 (Mien Dong bus station – Dong Hoi city – Quang Binh)
• Thuan Thao bus: +84.914642526 (Mien Dong bus station – Dong Hoi city – Quang Binh)
• Sy Quan bus: +84.975240827 (Sai Gon – Ba Don – Quang Binh

3. By plane

Dong Hoi has a domestic airport. There are some flights of Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo to Dong Hoi. You can travel from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh to Dong Hoi by flight and then travel to other destinations around Quang Binh by bus or private transport.
Hanoi/ Ho Chi Minh – Dong Hoi: 45 minutes – 1 hour (by plane)
Dong Hoi – Phong Nha Ke Bang: 60 – 70km → 45 minutes (by private transport).

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

III. Top attractions in Quang Binh

1. Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park

Recognized as the world’s natural heritage by UNESCO since 2003, Phong Nha Ke Bang national park and grotto complex remains intact with many outstandingly gorgeous caves on majestic limestone mountains, and with its abundant fauna & flora. 

Phong Nha has achieved a lot of records such as the cave with the longest underground river, the most beautiful sandbank and reef, the most beautiful underground lake, the highest and widest entrance, the widest and most beautiful dry cave, the most spectacular stalactites, as well as the longest water grotto.

About 50 km to the northwest from Dong Hoi city, Quang Binh, Phong Nha cave is considered as “Thien Nam De Nhat Dong” of Vietnam covered by tropical forests.
From Son River, you will drive for more than 30 minutes to reach Phong Nha cave. Phong Nha cave is 7729 meters in length, 83 meters in-depth, and 50 meters in height with water flowing underground with typical stalactites.
The legends said the stalagmites in the cave entrance contributed to the poetic name of the cave “Phong Nha” reflecting the ideal reconciliation of the primeval forest and Son River, filled with dry caves and an ink painting of water in caves captivating people. 

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

Phong Nha Ke Bang covering an area of more than 200,000 hectares is regarded as one of the oldest and most extensive tropical limestone areas in the world with over 300 large and small caves as well as hidden wonders and tourist attractions.

Book now!

2. Thien Duong Cave (Heaven Cave)

Together with Phong Nha cave, Thien Duong Cave or Paradise Cave dating back from 350 to 400 million years ago is even considered to be one of the most magnificent and magical wonders of the world as an “underground palace”. It is even more beautiful and mystic than Phong Nha cave. The cave nestles deep in the World Natural Heritage,the National Park Phong Nha Ke Bang.

It is famous for its breathtaking beauty of stalagmites & stalactites  as the magical wonder of the world. Thien Duong cave is 31 km long and limitedly opened 900 meters with longest wooden ways to the public since 2011 to enjoy its magical beauty.
The ticket: 250,000 VND.

3. Jumping Rocks (Da Nhay beach)

Coming to Bo Trach District, Quang Binh province, apart from the scenic Phong Nha Ke Bang complex, Da Nhay beach (Jumping Rocks) is also an tourist attraction with pristine beach, stones and strange-shaped caves.

Source: hoanmy1 – Flickr

Following the Highway 1A from Dong Hoi city north backward over 20 km, you will arrive in Da Nhay beach, and admire the mountains adjacent to the beach at the foot of Ly Hoa pass. The beach remains completely its original beauty with the gentle blend from the immense sea to abrasive rocks. 

4. Dark cave & zipline (Hang Toi)

About 70km away from Dong Hoi City and near Phong Nha Ke Bang national park, Chay River is regarded as the heaven right on earth with clear crystal emerald water together with fresh air and spectacular nature, which makes you feel really relaxing.
Especially visitors can enjoy a lot of water sports and jump down from the zipline (a form of swinging) into the cool water, or go kayaking to admire the scenic vistas. At the end of the zipline, you should remember to pose for photographers to take some photos – that’s cool, right?

Besides, you can take a boat along Chay River for 5 km or so to reach Toi Cave (Dark Cave) and enjoy magic stalactites covered with a large amount of moss, creating a subtle green and hanging up the side of the cave. Entering the cave, the darkness covers every single corner which makes movements inside the cave more exciting, and especially reach a place where you get to swim in mud pools.

5. Son Doong cave

Recently discovered in Phong Nha Ke Bang national park, Son Doong is recognized as the biggest grotto with its thrilling landscapes in the world that can ambrace a 40 floor building cab.Not only be impressive for its enormous size, the cavern is also unique for its internally abundant flora & fauna diversity. 

Son Doong cave has not widely opened to the public for safety & conservation reasons, but limited for 500 people every year. If you wish to explore this world natural wonder, you must book this cave adventure far in advance (maybe one or two years) with requirement of really good physical health and impressive trekking experience.
The cost is no less than 3000 USD/person and good health. If you are a adventure travel lover, let one time in life try this adventure expedition to Son Doong to explore this nature’s masterpiece to admire how stunning it is.

6. Nhat Le beach

About 2 km to the Northeast from Dong Hoi city center, Nhat Le beach is an ideal place to relax and wander to admire the sunrise or sunset for couples. It likes a picture with airy natural landscape, vast white sand and crystal sea. After immersing yourself into the clear blue water, you could enjoy local seafood right on the beach like BBQ in local food stalls – which are both delicious and cheap.
You can visit Dong Hoi port nearby to admire the romantic sunset with a lot of local fishing boats.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

7. Quang Phu Dunes

If you wish to visit Sahara desert or Mui Ne, but don’t have much money, Quang Phu Dunes should be great, right? You could rent a skateboard, comfortably play on the vast white sand dunes and take amazing vintage or retro photos with endless golden sand dunes. Particularly, when visiting here, you should prepare sunglasses, long sleeves in order to avoid sandy wind and sun.

IV. What to eat in Quang Binh?

1. “Gieo” potatoes (Khoai Gieo)

This specialty is made of red-skinned sweet potatoes. It  is sweet and eat like marshmallow taste. As it is popular in Quang Binh so you can easily find and try in Quang Binh’s market. Don’t worry it is quite cheap, but tasty.

Where to eat? – Dong Hoi market.

2. Filtered cakes (Banh bot loc)

The Central of Vietnam is regarded as the heaven of cake, and Quang Binh is not the exception. When talking about Quang Binh, visitors think about Banh Bot Loc (filtered cake).
The main ingredients are shrimp, pork, wood ear, shoots, mushrooms and tapioca with Quang Binh sauce. It is simple but nutritious. Banh Loc is wrapped in banana leaves, and then steamed or even fried.

Source: Sir. Vượng – Flickr

Hop on a cab and you will experience this signature dish in a glance. You’ll pay only 1 USD for a dish of 10 pieces, quite cheap, right?
Where to eat? – Me Xuan Hai Thanh and Ga market.

3. Noodle soup (Chao canh)

Unlike Pho, Chao Canh is a bowl of noodle soup porridge from rolled wheat or rice noodles, with snakehead seafood including fish, shrimp, and crab. Its savoury thick broth, soft noodles, and fresh green from chopped vegetables with some spicy flavor will be tasty.
This dish is better served it with ‘ram’ (small fried spring rolls) or Vietnamese grilled sausage and sour meatball. 

Price: 15,000 VND to 20,000 VND, and  2,000 VND/ each “ram”
Where to eat? –  Son Thu food stall on Phan Boi Chau Street, Dong Hoi city/ Quan Suong Hong stall on Nguyen Huu Canh Street, Dong Hoi city.

V. Quang Binh nearby attractions

1. Hue

It is no surprise when Hue is one of the top must-see destinations in Vietnam as its peaceful, outstanding natural landscapes together with friendly and helpful people. Located along the banks of the Huong River, Hue, the regional economic, cultural, touristic, scientific, specialized health, education, and training hub of central Viet Nam is an attractive destination. 

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

It is famous for its temples, bastions, mausoleums, architecture, and natural landscapes mostly covered by a layer of green moss, which creates a relaxing sensation. And spending time visiting Hue is considered as one of the top things to do in Vietnam.

2. Laos

Another destination near Quang Binh is Laos, the only country without the sea in Southeast Asia. When coming to Laos, visitors will feel the ancient tradition and tranquility of a friendly country giving the impression as if time has stood still. Laos is less crowded than Thailand or Vietnam, but its mystery and unique architecture as well as culture are what make it appealing to tourists. 

VI. Top most popular Quang Binh tours 

Luxury Travel provides “wow” services to the most sophisticated luxury travelers. We offer privately guided and fully bespoke holidays coupled with personalized customer service. Our luxury experiences are shaped by your tastes, budget, and reason for traveling and we will be delighted to help you organize your trip around Southeast Asia. For more authentic experience in Quang Binh, visit here or check it out.

Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park 2 Days
The Mixing of Adventure & Heritage Sites Visit in Central Vietnam 10 days

Contact Us:

Address: No.456, Lac Long Quan Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Phone: (+84) 4 3927 4120
Email: sales@luxurytravelvietnam.com
Hotline: (+84) 1234 68 69 96
Website: https://luxurytravelvietnam.com

Plan Your Trip Here!

 

The post Quang Binh travel guide| How to travel, What to explore & Ticks & Tricks in Quang Binh Vietnam appeared first on Luxury Travel's Blog.

Coconut Island Hoi An – Vietnam

To anyone coming to Hoi An for a visit, Cam Thanh Coconut Island – a private mangrove waterway is an emerging destination that you should not miss. Coming here, tourists will be warmly welcome and support to experience the normal lifestyle of a farmer in the countryside of Vietnam, as well as enjoy the true beauty of nature with many interesting activities like riding the basket boats, crab fishing or watching rowing basket boat performances done by the local rowers.

I. Where is the Hoi An Coconut island?

Located in Cam Thanh commune, the water coconut wood accounts for around 7 hectares, which is a relic of a film revolutionary base in time of the Vietnam War between the U.S Army and Hoi An residents. Traveling there will take a very short amount of time because the island is just 5 kilometers away from the Hoi An Ancient Town, which makes Cam Thanh Coconut island a perfect day trip for any tourists visiting Hoi An.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

This is truly a wonderful place for any tourists, either domestic or foreign to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of nature and experience a typical lifestyle of the rural area in Vietnam.

II. What makes Hoi An coconut island so special?

Those who visit Cam Thanh for the first time, the first impression is hard to fade most certainly the forest of hundreds of hectares of coconut. It stretches near Cua Dai and gives an impression as Mekong Delta in South Vietnam. The only difference between them is perhaps the means of transport used. In the Mekong delta, people travel on wooden boats, while visitors use basket boats (Thung chai) to go to the coconut forest in the Bay Mau forest. It is exciting while sitting in a basket boat weaving under coconut trees. You will also see the beautiful scenery of a rural water region that makes visitors feel interested in this place.

The huge number of coconut trees was the result of South-Western immigrants. Thankfully, the natural condition of soil and water in Cam Thanh, Hoi An completely match the foreign tree, thus from just a small area of a few hectares, the area slowly grows into a dense and huge forest with space up to over 100 hectares. From generation to generation, the forest has been protected people in Cam Thanh villages from sea waves and become home to several kinds of aquatic species on this small island.

Because of the very specific location of Cam Thanh Coconut Forest, it became the best option for developing guerrilla warfare in times of the Vietnam War. During several fights with French colonials and Americans, the committee of Hoi An had chosen this place to be the revolutionary base, but today, Cam Thanh Coconut Village is getting its fame as an emerging, eco-tourism option besides the ancient town of Hoi An.
Cam Thanh has been a big seafood provider in the Central Vietnam area, where tourists can witness and learn some Vietnamese traditional fishing techniques and how to ride the unique bamboo basket boats while riding alongside the now peaceful and coconut-palm waterways of a past war relic. 

III. Best time to travel

The best time to travel to Coconut Island of Hoi An is from February to April, May to July or you can visit this lovely place in August in the coconut ripening season
From February to April, the weather in Hoi An is perfect for most outdoor activities because the springtime is cool and not-too-humid.

From May to July, the summertime is perfect for tourists to visit all the beautiful beaches in Hoi An and the Cam Thanh Coconut island as well.
August is a good time to spend a day trip in Cam Thanh, too because the scenery of a huge coconut tree in ripen color is something you rarely see. Tourists should avoid traveling to Cam Thanh between September and November since it is the rainy season with a high rate of typhoons, storms, and floods with the high water level.

IV. How to travel to Coconut Island

There are many means of transportation that you can use to travel to Cam Thanh Coconut Island, namely

• Taxi or private van: If you travel with kids or with a group of friends, this is the best way
• Bike or motorbike: You can easily rent bikes or motorbikes to travel to Cam Thanh on your own because this place is not so far from the center of Hoi An. The local living alongside your road is very friendly so nevermind asking them for directions.
• Boat: You can travel alongside the Thu Bon river by boat and you will reach the village from bach Dang Wharf or Hoai River Wharf

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

The best way for tourists to explore this lovely land is to use the basket boat, generally known as “Thung Chai”. This is originally used by fishermen in Central Vietnam to carry fish, oil, wood, food and other necessities on a boat trip for fishing. Because most basket boats are very mobile and convenient, it can easily transport people from big boats to the narrow riverside or to lands. The shape of Basket Boat can be maintained up to 6 months, depending on how much it is used and cared for. The safe capacity for foreign tourists is normally 5 adults per boat, including the local rider.

V. Must-try activities in Cam Thanh Coconut Island

Visiting here, tourists will have the chance to explore the ecosystem of this specific wetland, learn about the daily rural life in the Center of Vietnam, how a fisherman and his family earn money and live. You will be guided through the whole tour and have the first-hand experience of how a round net or cast network, how to ride a basket boat and rowing the boat themselves to visit the beautiful channel, aesthetic scenery of a thick coconut forest and the tranquility of a typical rural village in Vietnam.

There is a wide range of activities that tourists should not miss:

1. Go sight-seeing

After many ups and downs in history, the coconut forest of Hoi An can still remain its beauty and peace, contributing to Quang Nam eco and cultural tourism. The scenery of nature in Cam Thanh is really beautiful, with some mysterious vibe from its coconut waterways of the past war, the tranquility under the coconut palm forest and drink some cool fresh coconut water.

2. Learn to use the iconic basket boat

Tourists can learn from the local farmer how to paddle the bamboo basket boat or join a basket boat race as part of the tour to Cma Thanh Coconut Island. You can go fishing or catching crabs or coconut mussels in these boats – an activity that many foreign tourists enjoy.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

3. Have a cooking class conducted by a famous local chef

The green “lung” of Hoi An – Cam Thanh coconut forest is also the home to many marine species namely shrimp, crab, and mollusks. You can enjoy these meals cooked by the locals, or learn to cook them yourself. One of the most popular things in Cam Thanh is cooking class, offered by many restaurants. You can bring your whole family here and everyone can find the activity that best suits them.

4. Experience how to be a farmer in rural Vietnam for one day

This very interesting activity in Cam Thanh eco-village can give you the most realistic impression of rural life in a developing country. You can set foot into the field to pick vegetables and grow water rice – one of the main export products in Vietnam. You can also catch fish, learn to make funny figures from coconut leaves. You will also have the chance to ride the water buffalo in the field like an authentic Vietnamese farmer! 

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

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5. Souvenirs

Besides, your local guide or rider of the basket boat will give you many souvenirs to bring home with, all of which is a handcrafted gift made of coconut leaves such as ring, watches, glasses or small animal figures, etc.
Although most trips to Cam Thanh coconut forest is mostly day trip with a short amount of time, you can try all these activities in just one day, or stay in one of many lovely villas or hotels in Cam Thanh village. 

VI. Tips for your trip

There are some tips you should take serious notice if you want to have a nice, safe and enjoyable trip to Cam Thanh coconut forest:

• Visiting the water coconut forest before 4 pm is not recommended because it is too hot. Thus, after 4pm, you will have the chance to see the sunset down the river, which is a stunning and breathtaking view.
• The best time to have a boat trip is after 4pm – the last shift in the day. Your local rider will not be rushed, thus giving you more time to explore this lovely scenery than the standard 30 minutes.
• You should order lunch from houses in the villages to try authentic food from rural areas. You just need to inform them of the number of guests and diets if any. 

Visiting Cam Thanh is truly an unforgettable and exciting experience for those who love traveling and exploring new lands and cultures. All you need to do is putting it on your to-do list while visiting Hoi An and prepare to pack your bag!
For more information about your trip to Cam Thanh forest, visit: https://luxurytravelvietnam.com/tour-item/fisherman-in-hoi-an-town

VII. Nearby tourist attractions that worths visiting

• My Son Holy Land Tour from Hoi An

Located 75km from Hoi An, My Son Holy land used to be the capital of the Cham civilization, who ruled Central Vietnam in the 13s century. This place is one of the best-preserved Cham structures in Vietnam with complexes and holy sites built according to Hinduism – the primary religion of Cham people. With 70 ancient Hindu-like temples, this place is one in five UNESCO World Heritage sites in Vietnam – a big MUST for travelers who are truly into architecture and ancient civilizations.  

 

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

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• Farmer to Fisherman in Hoi An town

This tour will take you to the most beautiful scenery in the countryside of Hoi An so you can have the chance to explore the road, see typical sights of the rural area in Vietnam like water buffalo, rice paddy fields, organic vegetables, and local farming people. However, the main purpose of this tour is helping foreign tourists explore and understand the local fishing life of Vietnamese fishermen. Tourists can learn to use the fishing nets, ride the buffalo or learn how to use the round basket boats to visit a water palm coconut paradise while learning about the history of the region

Luxury Travel’s Farmer to Fisherman tour is a special and unique way to help foreigners understand Vietnam through a realistic and unique cultural window. You will experience no touristy crowd, no scammer but only friendly Vietnamese along the country roads that you cycle and discover all manner of photo opportunities because in this aesthetically beautiful place, your photo opportunities are endless.

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• Hoi An Ancient Town

You can not miss visiting the ancient town of Hoi An once you are here. In the 18th century, this small and lovely town was an international port for traders all over the world including Chinese, Dutch, French, Japanese, Portuguese and Arab. The most popular products at that time are high-end silk and ceramic, which are still very favorable in Hoi An today.

But now, Hoi An is more famous for its unique and cultural architecture of the Ancient Town – the center area. It is a riverside complex, including hundreds of ancient houses, tailor and coffee shops. There is absolutely no modern site or building to be seen in this area so your day trip can be a trip back in time with many old, historic sites, such as Ancient Quarter, Chua Ong Pagoda, the Chinese Assembly Halls, the 200-year-old Tam Ky Ancestral House, and the Japanese Bridge.
Hoi An is now one in five UNESCO’s World Heritage designated sites in Vietnam.

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• My Khe – Danang 

Da Nang is just 30 minutes away from Hoi An, and it will be such a shame if you visit Hoi An but miss this dynamic getaway for a beach vacation.
In this beach city, you can experience all kinds of watersport, from  water-skiing, snorkeling, trim ran sailing, to golf-driving and even fitness classes on the beautiful shore of My Khe beach. Named among the most livable cities in Viet Nam, Da Nang is a tourist destination that no one should miss when coming to Vietnam.

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Address: No.456, Lac Long Quan Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Phone: (+84) 4 3927 4120
Email: sales@luxurytravelvietnam.com
Hotline: (+84) 1234 68 69 96
Website: https://luxurytravelvietnam.com

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Con Dao, Vietnam

During the time of the Vietnam war, Con Dao was the place that many Vietnamese political prisoners were kept and killed. You can say that Con Dao is somehow the Lord Voldermort, a “You-Know-Who He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named” kind of place where terrors and bloody torture happened daily that people shudder just by hearing its name. Even after the bloody war had ended, this place is still the symbol of cruelty and death to many Vietnamese, making them uncomfortable living on this island.

Times goes by, wiping out the ghosts of the past and giving Con Dao its beautiful nature back. Nowadays, the paradise-lookalike archipelago is a quiet and breathtaking group of islands with the endless blue ocean and evergreen forest. Praised as “One among ten most charming and mysterious islands on the planet”, Con Dao is definitely an unmissable destination for those who love the untouched beauty of nature and history myths from many unique structures and remnants of French colonial in the mainland. 

I. Con Dao’s location 

Con Dao archipelago is the combination of 16 different mountainous islands and islets, stretching on a 76-kilometer square land and home to nearly 5,000 habitats. Most of Con Dao’s residents are fishermen or part of the Peoples’ Army of Vietnam. You will hear people call Con Dao as “Con Son” and vice versa. Con Son is the largest island of 16 ones making up this historic archipelago. About 80 kilometers away from the Mekong Delta region, Con Son is the main destination for tourists when they travel to Con Dao.

II. Best time to travel to Con Dao

Con Dao is, not an exaggeration, paradise on earth. During the summertime, it has occasional monsoon rains with a calm sea. You can enjoy the best of the beautiful bays and crystal clear water sea at this time of the year. This kind of tranquility remains throughout the year to winter times, when the air is much drier and the wind is stronger. Everything here is perfectly still and quiet. So, the best time to visit Con Dao can be varied, depending on your main intention. 

• If you are into historical trips, you can visit anytime except for the storm season, starting from September to October.
• If you want to have an adventure in this tropical heaven on earth, you should consider visiting Con Dao during the dry season, from November to February or between June and September – this is a specific time you can witness turtles nesting on Hon Bay Canh Island. 
• And finally, for sporty tourists, February till July is a perfectly ideal time for diving excursions since the waters around Con Dao Island is between 20 and 30 meters. 

III. How to travel to Con Dao

• Getting to Con Dao by plane: Con Dao island is only a short flight (45 minutes) from Ho Chi Minh Airport. Bookings can be made offline through Luxury Travel or online. You can also flight from Can Tho, a small and lovely city near Ho Chi Minh city to get to Con Dao.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

• Getting to Con Dao by high-speed boat from Can Tho or Vung Tau city: If you want a brand new thrilling experience, you should give the high-speed boat a try. This is a new experience for tourists to travel to Con Dao. You will depart from Can Tho or Vung Tau city and your boat trip will last from two hours and a half to four hours, enough time for you to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the sea and fresh air.

• Getting around on Con Dao island: Many vehicles are helping you travel around this small island. Thanks to the flat and laid out roads in Con Son town, tourists can get around on foot or by bike pleasantly. Most tourists attraction like historic prisons, museums, Van Son pagoda or the beaches can be reached by bike, but if you want to travel out of town, taxi or private van is the best option due to the steep and hilly road along the coast.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

IV. Tourist attraction in Con Son that you can’t miss

1. Con Dao Prison – the biggest and most infamous tourist attraction

Con Son has a total population of around 5,000. Visiting Con Son, there is no way you can miss its biggest, most populated and famous island: Con Dao.

From 1862 to 1975, more than tens of thousands of political prisoners were kept, tortured and killed in this small and quiet island. The people who were imprisoned can be anyone: students, Buddhists, writers, protestors or the ones who refused to salute the flag, but most of them are Viet Cong, communists and political dissidents. Ironically called ‘university for Vietnamese independence activists’, this prison was built and owned by the colonial French later, the South Vietnamese and Americans. Many people who were neutral in times of war were tortured to change their mind, thus leaving as a member of one party or another, especially the Indochinese Communist Party, predecessor of the current Communist Party of Vietnam. The ‘Schools of Bolshevism’ on this island also trained many famous independence advocates when these people were released. However, a large number of prisoners could never leave this place: they die from mistreatment, hard labor, malnourishment or worse, were executed. There were around 22,000 prisoners were buried or dumped on various mountains on Con Dao. It was not until 1975 that the prison was closed and people collected their remains and buried in Hang Duong Cemetery, which becomes a famous tourist attraction today.

Today, Vietnamese people not only come to Con Dao for its untouched beauty of nature but also to remember their passed away national heroes who were imprisoned and lost their life here. If international reporters who have been here called the prison “hell on earth”, the ‘tiger cages’ section can be considered the scariest, bloodies and deepest part of that hell. It is a huge site with 400 to 500 prisoners held captive like animals there. They were starved, diseased, doused and tortured underground by turnkeys who stood on the roof with weapons in their hands to hurt anyone who dared to stand upon them.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

The most famous prisoner of Con Dao prison is a young girl whose name is Vo Thi Sau. She was an anti-colonial activist at the age of 14 and imprisoned in Con Son by the French. When she was 19, she became the very first female prisoner to be executed on the island because of her rebellious acts. Today, her grave is a famous historic site where Vietnamese come to pay their respects with offerings at night to pray for protection and bravery. Most of her offerings are combs, mirrors and the iconic white flowers (Hoa Le Ki Ma) to represent her sacrificed youth.

You can also visit the Phu Tuong Prison (Trai Phu Tuong) – one of the most prominent sites on the island. It was built by the French then owned by the American-backed South Vietnamese government after the French backing out. The new rulers built 60 more chambers, and today, you can see scary skeletal mannequins in many cages to partly get the real experience of a cruel, bloody chapter of history. This used to be a female jail in times of war because, in Con Dao, women or children were not spared from tortured or death. In 1969, there was a bloody protest of women who disemboweled themselves in front of prison wardens. 

Source: exh – Flickr

Another terrifying prison that is worth visiting is the Cow Shed, built by the French in 1930. The whole sites spread on a 4,000 square meter area, with a total of 35 chambers where prisoners were kept like cattle behind locked bars. Across the road from that prison, you will see a memorial shrine for a mass grave – one way or another, this is the first cemetery of Con Dao prison. Due to the uprising in prisoner numbers, prisoners were forced to dig a huge grave for their people, then buried alive. You should also spend time visiting Ma Thien Lanh Bridge – a French colonial construction using prisoners’ labor, or So Ray, a plantation they were forced to work on until they lost their lives.

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2. Visiting several historic temples and pagodas on Con Dao

As called ‘the land of history and myths’, Con Dao has many temples and pagodas of different periods for tourists to take their time traveling. And a very special thing about Con Dao is that, here, the locals worship not one but women as saints who sacred themselves for the sake of loyalty and eidolon, namely Lady Phi Yen and Ms. Vo Thi Sau. These are, not an exaggeration, the most famous temples and there are some who travel to Con Dao just to visit these two places..

3. The Legend of Phi Yen and Phi Yen Temple

Phi Yen means flying swallow in English. She is one of the wives of Prince Nguyen Anh, the very last heir of Nguyen Lord who ruled half of the country. After escaping from his enemy – Tay Son brothers in 1783, he went to Con Dao Island to ask for shelter. He and Phi Yen refuge in a small boat to get to Hon Ba island. The prince then sought help from a French missionary and agree to offer the whole area of Con Dao Island as well as Danang port to the French in exchange for their military support so that he could defeat political river – Tay Son brothers to regain his power and status. He left Phi Yen on the island, and not long after that, all his attempts failed.

Source: Binh Bui – Flickr

Phi Yen was left on the Con Dao Islands, until one day another man courted her, making Phi Yen do an extreme action. In Vietnam, traditionally a wife can never betray her spouse no matter what he has done to her, so in an attempt to refuse all her suitors, Phi Yen threw herself into the sea. Her loyalty making her a legend on the island and people her built not one, but two temples to worship her. You can come and pray for her protection at Miếu Bà Phi Yến (Phi Yen’s Shrine, also called An Son temple) or you can visit Phi Yen Temple II, which is located near Con Dao Airport and her son’s temple: Prince Cai.

4. Prince Cai Temple and Grave

Located near the Dam Trau beach, Prince Cai’s temple and grave can be easily spotted. He is the only son of Phi Yen. If you come to Con Dao, sooner or later, you will hear a local myth about Prince Cai: his mother, Phi Yen was held captive by her husband Nguyen Anh when she stopped him from sending his oldest son, Prince Canh to the French Colony looking for military support. Feeling insulted and betrayed, he kept her captive in a small cave on the mountain. He forgot his wife on the run when Tay Son brothers attacked the island, and when Prince Cai – he was 4 years old at that time, asked for his mom, Nguyen Anh angrily threw him into the sea in the belief that he was no better than his mother.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

His small body reaches the shore and the locals buried him while Phi Yen escaped the cave thanks to the help of a tiger and a chimpanzee. She was heartbroken seeing her son’s grave and guarding it until one man courted her, indirectly causing the death of a royal wife. Today, some locals still believe the spirits of Phi Yen and her son still haunt Con Dao Archipelago.
*Note: These two temples are very holy, therefore appropriate dress is strictly required. This means that all men and women need to have their shoulders and knees covered. These two are active temples, so you may come across monks or praying worshippers, so respect is a crucial thing.

5. Vo Thi Sau’s grave in Con Dao

Almost every Vietnamese knows about the brave story of Vo Thi Sau – the very first female prisoner in Con Dao to be executed. She spits into the guard’s face and sang the country’s anthem in her last moment. People have been saying that because Vo Thi Sau died at such a young age and with a spirit so strong, her ghost is still wandering somewhere on this island and if you pray hard enough, she may deliver your wish.

So if you come to Con Dao, you will witness the world’s strangest custom: visit a grave after 11pm. People on the island pray for protection when they land their boat to the sea, young couples pray for love and loyalty or fortune. Many Vietnamese travelers come all the way to Con Dao just to visit Vo Thi Sau’s grave to pray. So at midnight, you will see many people surrounding her grave with offerings in their hands. No matter what they buy, there are always white flowers – her most favorite.

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6. Nui Chua Mot

This is the only Buddhist temple on the island. According to Chinese geomancy, the location of this temple is ideal because the temple is in front of a huge mountain and facing the sea. The atmosphere here is so quiet you can enjoy yourself in the green scenery with the salty sea wind. This small and ancient temple is also home to a huge number of monkeys, so be aware if you bring along any food or fruits – you may have more than one little thief supervised!

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

7. Con Dao National Park

Since this park is government-protected, you will need to buy tickets for the entrance. This is also a military base, you may come across some off-limit areas but the good thing is, there are no threats and you should be relieved knowing that you are protected by the Vietnamese military while visiting this breathtaking forest. So, remember to bring your entrance tickets with you everywhere because you may get stopped and asked for it by soldiers. You should contact the office to check the weather, trail conditions or any possible threats before pack your packages. You need to get out before nightfall, so remember to keep track of your time.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

V. Beaches and bay tourists should not miss on Con Dao

1. Nhat Beach 

Bai Nhat is actually a bunch of small beaches broken up by dark boulders, which were dynamited to build the road. The interesting thing here is that the beach only appears at a specific time during the day when the tide is low that water recedes. You can visit here from 2pm to 7pm every day. Bai Nhat is a picturesque beach, with white sand, wonderful natural scenery with water calm and clear enough to see your toes while standing in it. And Bai Nhat is considered the best place to watch the sunset in not only Con Son but in Vietnam generally. Many couples come to this beach to take their wedding photoshoots because of the view and the stories about its backdrop mountains, which resembles two people embracing each other dearly.

If you just in for the sunset watching part, Bai Nhat beach is where you can have the best view in Con Dao. Just walk to the very end of Southern Con Dao named Mui Ca Map (Shark Cape) where you can have the whole view.

2. Dam Trau Beach 

Located 15 kilometers to the North of Con Son Town Center, Dam Trau Beach somehow has the softest and deepest sand in Vietnam. Even though tourists may need to trek to get here, we guarantee that your journey is totally worth it when you see how breathtaking and pristine the beach is. Calm and peaceful, this is a perfect place for you to watch the sunset with a drink in your hand and enjoy some freshly caught seafood in the soothing sound of the calm waves.
Dam Trau Beach is just 500 meters away from Prince Cai’s shrine.

3. Lo Voi Beach 

Located in the Northern part of Con Son Town center and extremely close to the infamous Con Dao prison complexes, Lo Voi is one of the most pristine beaches in Vietnam. Since its tourism is barely developing, there are almost no hotels here so there is no exaggeration to say that this beach is protected and sheltered by a hilly headland. The best time for you to visit this place is in the morning when the tide recedes, you can see the very first light shining on this island while slowly walking around the wet, soft sand and collect some stunning shells on the shore. The view here is gorgeous with constant winds with the smell of the ocean and salt and wooden bodies of old fishing vessels lied randomly on the sand. The water here is quite shallow so tourists can swim in this beach, too our recommendation is when the sunsets.

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4. Con Son (An Hai) Beach 

Overlooked by the evergreen mountains and palm tree shadow, An Hai beach is the main beach in Con Son Island, where most resorts, hotels, and tourism agencies are located. The beach here is very crowded and popular so if you want a quieter place, you can head further South. The water here is quite clear, but the sandflies have always been a problem for people with sensitive skin and since a new boat pier is being constructed, you can see that the water is not so clear like it used to be with more trash in the water.
The most crowded time in An Hai beach is an hour or two before sunset, when people play in the surf, watch the sunset behind Shark Cape and enjoy some drinks and snacks at the local food stalls with friends.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

5. Dat Doc Beach 

This is the beach that brings fame to Con Dao with its ultra-luxurious Six Sense Resort, where Brad Pitt and Angelina Jollie spent their vacation several years ago. The sand here is a little bit darker and inundated with seaweed, but you will be surprised that this lovely beach is totally trash free. The vast majority of the sand is owned and guarded by the resort, but you can use the wider bay to have some fun with water sports like snorkeling, swimming, fishing, camping under a palm tree or taking a nap.

Since the beach here is exposed to the prevailing winds, the strong current under the sea can take you away so remember not to swim too far.

6. Dam Tre Bay 

You can only visit the bay via a gorgeous hiking trail crossing a thick jungle since Dam Tre Bay is located at the Northern tip of Con Son. You don’t have to worry about the hadazous trails as it is cleared and widen to served tourism several years ago. Despite that, your trekking will last for a couple of hours, but it will be worth it when you reach Dam Tre in the early time of the day when the tide is out, leaving the water low enough so you can get down to the lagoon to bathe. What can be better than a fresh swim after a long, arduous walk through the jungle? This is also a great spot for snorkeling and sunset watching.

7. Ong Dung, Bang & Dat Tham Beaches

Surrounded by lush rainforest and wildlife on Con Dao’s remote and undeveloped western coast, these three beaches (Ong Dung, Bang, and Dat Tham) is something not many tourists know about thus, can only be reached on foot. Since they are all isolated and peaceful, these three beaches make a good base for fishing trips, scuba diving or snorkeling, kayaking and coral watching. From there, you will also have the chance to visit nearby islands like Tre Lon island and Tre Nho island. The insignificant evidence of human interference here makes these three a perfect destination for a city-getaway trip.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

You can also visit fishing and boat ports and Ben Dam Bay 

All the port in Con Dao is very scenic and Instagrammable, especially the Ben Dam. Situated in a beautiful lagoon sheltered by Hon Ba island, the port is the most prosaic you can hope to find with the beautiful setting and drank fisherman with faces so red staggering around the pier. If you want to swim, you can rent a small boat to ride to Hon Ba Island to swim in the beautiful beach there.

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VI. Things to do on your trip to Con Dao

Apart from visiting historic sites and beautiful beaches, here is a list of popular activities in Con Dao for you to try:

1. Watching turtle nesting on the island

Con Dao is famous for this activity since 14 out of its 16 islands are observed to be turtle nesting sites. The turtle nesting season in Con Dao starts from May and ends in October with peaks between June and September. This is the largest turtle sanctuary and this activity is one of the most important ones on the island.

Visiting this, people will need to be patient and a little good luck because the turtle is very sensitive and easily frightened. Every year, a huge number of turtle, around 400 female ones come to the beaches of Con Dao to lay eggs. They will dig a hole, lay eggs there then cover them up and disappear in the ocean to come back to their male partners at sea.

2. Boat Trips and Water sports

If you need a break from all the bustling lifestyle in the city, booking a boat to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the sea and nature in Con Dao is a great choice. And if you are more of a sporty person, then congratulations, Con Dao is one of the best destinations for water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling in Vietnam! This is a great chance for you to immerse yourself in the marine world with turtles, batfish, cobia, whale sharks, and a school of tropical reef fish. The price of a sea tour is very reasonable and you won’t be disappointed!

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

4. Fishing

Many professionals choose Con Dao as an ideal place for fishing since it brings out a totally different feeling from fishing in Nha Trang or Phu Quoc. Based on the weather condition and temperature that you have a different experience of fishing in Con Dao, and while professionals fishing maybe all the rages here, there is a lot of normal fishing for tourists who are just here for the hands-on experience and excitement.

Source: Çağatay Demir – Unsplash

5.Visit the local markets to go shopping

In Asia, if you want to understand the lifestyle and culture of a region, you have to visit its local markets – the same applies to Con Dao. Con Dao market is one of the most crowded places since many tourists are attracted here for the local food and specialties for souvenirs. You can also choose to visit the night market, an open-air seafood stall and restaurant complex located on Tran Huy Lieu Street. Apart from fresh seafood, you can buy many lovely street foods as well as fruits and snacks that you can bring home to your family and friends.

VII. Best food and drink to try while you are in Con Dao

1. Street food

Of course, no trip to Con Dao is completed with a chance to enjoy the tastiest and freshest seafood. You can eat many famous Vietnam food here with an authentic taste like Com Tam, Bun Rieu, Pho or Spring Rolls at a famous restaurant like Pho Nam Dinh, Quan Ngoc Minh, or Diem Tam. When it comes to seafood, remember not to miss out on the Thu Ba restaurant on Vo Thi Sau street with daily treats depending on the freshest catch and season. Vegetarian restaurants in Con Dao is equally famous since there are a lot of tourists coming to the island every year.

Source: Luxury Travel Vietnam

Con Dao has many excellent Western Food restaurants like the Bar200 or the Six Sense Con Dao resort Dining restaurants. And if you are looking for some bars or lounge, head to Dam Trau beach with several beach low-key bars with delicious drinks like fresh fruit shakes or cold beer and a cool view.

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Address: No.456, Lac Long Quan Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Phone: (+84) 4 3927 4120
Email: sales@luxurytravelvietnam.com
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Website: https://luxurytravelvietnam.com

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