Standing L-R: Ching Neng Bin, Lim Kee Moon, Wan Lan, Betty Ching, Philip Tinkler, Alistair McCulloch, KC Loke, Ching Bee Geok, Caroline Ling, Veronica Wan, Rosalind Wan, Catherine Oon, Pauline Toh, Wong Tai Meng, Val Allan, Ho Har Mooi. (Squatting) Ching Leng Chu, Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Jeannie and David Wan Leng Whatt at Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty at Cat Ba Island.
Day 1 (18.11.2008) Kuala Lumpur to Hanoi by AirAsia
The adventure began in the morning with 10pax traveling by van from Sitiawan led by Val Allan, Catherine and Ching Neng Bin from Ipoh by bus and 8pax led by Lim Kee Moon from KL. We all met at LCCT at about 1pm to catch the AirAsia 3.15pm Flight AK762 to Hanoi. We were quickly introduced to one another whom we have not met and getting to know each other for the first time. This was the first time I am taking 19pax for a backpacking travel.
All in all we have 20pax. Mr. Philip Tinkler and wife KC Loke from Australia, and Alistair from Scotland. After a short briefing by Ching Neng Bin and Lim Kee Moon, we all boarded ourselves; however, there was a flight delay of 1hr. We touchdown at Hanoi Noi Bai airport at 6.30pm local time.
All of us got through the immigration checkpoint except for Philip Tinkler and wife KC Loke who did not have their Visa. KC said “It was hell for both of us as were treated like criminal and had to pay US135 each for the Visa notwithstanding the delay of 2hrs. Normal fee is US25”. The rest of us were very worried when we had to leave for Hanoi without Philip, KC Loke & Mike Khaw to sort out their documents.
We took the airport bus to Hanoi for D25k each. At the bus stand, a tout guided us to this Hanoi Spirit House for US6 a room along Hang Be Street. It was a tremendous relief when the three joined us at the hotel at about 11pm. *N.B. Always get your Visa before entering Vietnam.
Transport: Air Asia – LCCT to Hanoi, one way RM509 per person
Bus fare – Hanoi Airport to town is D25k per person
Sleeping: Hanoi Spirit House – US6 a room for 2paxNo.50 Hang Be Street, Hanoi Old Quarter
The adventure began in the morning with 10pax traveling by van from Sitiawan led by Val Allan, Catherine and Ching Neng Bin from Ipoh by bus and 8pax led by Lim Kee Moon from KL.
We all met at LCCT at about 1pm to catch the AirAsia 3.15pm Flight AK762 to Hanoi. We were quickly introduced to one another whom we have not met and getting to know each other for the first time.
We all met at LCCT at about 1pm to catch the AirAsia 3.15pm Flight AK762 to Hanoi.
We all met at LCCT at about 1pm to catch the AirAsia 3.15pm Flight AK762 to Hanoi.
We all met at LCCT at about 1pm to catch the AirAsia 3.15pm Flight AK762 to Hanoi.
Ching Neng Bin and Catherine Oon at LCCT at about 1pm to catch the AirAsia 3.15pm Flight AK762 to Hanoi.
After a short briefing by Ching Neng Bin and Lim Kee Moon, we all boarded ourselves; however, there was a flight delay of 1hr. We touchdown at Hanoi Noi Bai airport at 6.30pm local time.
On board the AirAsia 3.15pm Flight AK762 to Hanoi.
On board the AirAsia 3.15pm Flight AK762 to Hanoi.
Ching Neng Bin and Catherine Oon on board the AirAsia 3.15pm Flight AK762 to Hanoi. We touchdown at Hanoi Noi Bai airport at 6.30pm local time.
Our very first day dinner in Hanoi was Vietnamese Pho pork noodle.
Sleeping at Hanoi Spirit House – US6 a room for 2paxNo.50 Hang Be Street, Hanoi Old Quarter
Day 2 (19.11.2008) Hanoi by night train to Lao Cai then by van to Sapa
This morning after breakfast we all walked to the famous Hoan Kiem Lake. At the southern end of the lake we went to a supermarket to look for Dalat Mulberry Wine. Unfortunately we were not able to get that. So I bought 2 bottles of local wine to drink in Sapa. We had very expensive coffee at Highlands Coffee – D22k a cup. Morning and afternoon was window shopping and exploring the old quarter until 7.30pm. We later took 2 vans from the Hotel to the train station. The SP8 Ratraco Express train moved at 9.15pm from Hanoi to Lao Cai.
It was a very difficult night in the train for Alistair as he had to sleep with four smelly Chinese nationals from Mainland China who were smoking dirty tobacco. Alistair said “It is horrible and disgusting. I hardly slept an hour even though Mike Khaw is with me”.
Van – Hotel to train station is D40k per van for 7 peopleThis morning after breakfast we all walked to the famous Hoan Kiem Lake. At the southern end of the lake we went to a supermarket to look for Dalat Mulberry Wine. Unfortunately we were not able to get that. So I bought 2 bottles of local wine to drink in Sapa. We had very expensive coffee at Highlands Coffee – D22k a cup. Morning and afternoon was window shopping and exploring the old quarter until 7.30pm. We later took 2 vans from the Hotel to the train station. The SP8 Ratraco Express train moved at 9.15pm from Hanoi to Lao Cai.
It was a very difficult night in the train for Alistair as he had to sleep with four smelly Chinese nationals from Mainland China who were smoking dirty tobacco. Alistair said “It is horrible and disgusting. I hardly slept an hour even though Mike Khaw is with me”.
SP8 Ratraco Express Train to Laocai is US19 p.p. one way
Sleeping in overnight train
Breakfast at a cafe beside our hotel Hanoi Spirit House.
Breakfast at a cafe beside our hotel Hanoi Spirit House.
Betty Ching at the flower market beside our hotel Hanoi Spirit House.
Mike Khaw and Val Allan at the flower market beside our hotel Hanoi Spirit House.
At the flower market beside our hotel Hanoi Spirit House.
Pauline Toh, Ho Har Mooi, Ching Bee Geok, Caroline Ling and KC Loke at the flower market beside our hotel Hanoi Spirit.
Hanoi Spirit House – US6 a room for 2pax, No.50 Hang Be Street, Hanoi Old Quarter
Fruits vendor on Hang Be Street, Hanoi Old Quarter.
Vietnamese Pho pork noodle seller by the road side in Hanoi Old Quarter.
A typical Vietnamese old man walking in Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam.
KC Loke pointing to the Vietnamese coffee filter stainless steel drip cup for sale here.
A typical Hanoi street and traditional tricycle in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, Vietnam.
A group photo at statue depicting peace on the banks of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Another group photo at statue depicting peace on the banks of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Another group photo at statue depicting peace on the banks of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Alistair McCulloch, Philip Tinkler and KC Loke at the statue on the banks of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Wong Tai Meng and Ho Har Mooi at the statue on the banks of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Monument to patriotic soldiers of Vietnam Army the statue depicting peace on the banks of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Lim Kee Moon and Val Allan on the road at Hoan Kiem Lake Hanoi.
The main entrance to Ngoc Son temple at Hoan Kiem lake in Hanoi.
The main entrance to Ngoc Son temple at Hoan Kiem lake in Hanoi.
Betty Ching, Pauline Toh, Ho Har Mooi and Catherine at Hoan Kiem lake in Hanoi.
The famous garden park and Hoan Kiem lake in Hanoi.
The famous garden park and Hoan Kiem lake in Hanoi.
The Huc Bridge is a symbol of the charm of Hoan Kiem lake in Hanoi.
The national flag and the Ngoc Son temple flag poles at Hoan Kiem lake in Hanoi.
Ching Bee Geok and Caroline Ling at the famous Hoan Kiem Lake.
A very large unique tree trunk at Hoan Kiem Lake.
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Alistair McCulloch, Philip Tinkler and KC Loke at the famous Hoan Kiem Lake.
Traditional tricycle in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, Vietnam
A stone sculpture at Hoan Kiem lake garden.
Jeannie and David Wan at garden park Hoan Kiem lake in Hanoi.
A typical Hanoi street and traditional tricycle in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, Vietnam.
Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin, stands near the Vietnamese Army Museum in Dien Bien Phu Street on the banks of Hoan Kiem Lake.
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Our very first day lunch in Hanoi was Vietnamese economy rice.
Jeannie and David Wan enhoying Vietnamese economy rice.
Window shopping and walking on the streets in Hanoi.
Window shopping and walking on the streets in Hanoi.
Window shopping and walking on the streets in Hanoi.
Window shopping and walking on the streets in Hanoi.
Along Hang Ma Street you will see those of memorial stone and tombstone manufacturers.
Coffee break at Highlands Coffee which occupies the third floor of a building in downtown Hanoi. It’s known for its open-air terrace that overlooks the busy Hanoi fountain roundabout with bustling traffic.
We had very expensive coffee at Highlands Coffee at D22k a cup. It’s known for its open-air terrace that overlooks the busy Hanoi fountain roundabout with bustling traffic.
We had very expensive coffee at Highlands Coffee at D22k a cup.
Coffee break at Legend Beer Hanoi which occupies the third floor of a building in downtown Hanoi. It’s known for its open-air terrace that overlooks the busy Hanoi fountain roundabout with bustling traffic.
Coffee break at Legend Beer Hanoi which occupies the third floor of a building in downtown Hanoi. It’s known for its open-air terrace that overlooks the bustling traffic.
Coffee break at Legend Beer Hanoi which occupies the third floor of a building in downtown Hanoi. It’s known for its open-air terrace that overlooks the bustling traffic.
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Philip Tinkler taking photos of the sea worm for sale in Hanoi market.
Philip Tinkler taking photos of the sea worm for sale in Old Quarter market Hanoi.
Ching Neng Bin took photos of the crabs for sale in Old Quarter market Hanoi.
The model sailing boats in miniature are one of the traditional fine art products of Vietnam which are in great demand.
We later took 2 vans from the Hotel to the train station. The SP8 Ratraco Express train moved at 9.15pm.
We later took 2 vans from the Hotel to the train station. The SP8 Ratraco Express train moved at 9.15pm.
The SP8 Ratraco Express train moved at 9.15pm from Hanoi to Laocai and the duration is 8hours.
The SP8 Ratraco Express train moved at 9.15pm from Hanoi to Laocai and the duration is 8hours.
Val Allan sleeping on the SP8 Ratraco Express train from Hanoi to Laocai and the duration is 8hours.
Day 3 (20.11.2008) Laocai to Sapa by van
Arrived 5.30am at Lao Cai and took a 10pax van for D30k each up to Sapa. After an hour’s drive up the winding road, we arrived at Mountain View Hotel for breakfast. It was freezing cold at about 10ºC in the morning. The 8pax were in Pinocchio Hotel at US5 per room for 2 and the other 12pax were at Mountain View Hotel at US7 per room.
All of us slept through the whole morning as we did not have enough sleep in the train. After lunch, we walked around the town (15ºC) and did not go trekking as the mist and fog was very thick and visibility was only 30m. However, we had great fellowship: candle-light dinner at Gerbera Restaurant for D60k per person. Lim Kee Moon brought 2 bottles and Ching brought one bottle of wine for dinner.
Sapa is an old French hill station nestled among the Hoang Lien Son Mountains near the Chinese border. Because of its situation near the tallest mountain range in Vietnam, it is possibly the most scenic mountain location in Vietnam. The members of the Black Hmong ethnic minority are very present in town, and other ethnic minorities come for the weekly market.
Arrived 5.30am at Lao Cai and took a 10pax van for D30k each up to Sapa. After an hour’s drive up the winding road, we arrived at Mountain View Hotel for breakfast. It was freezing cold at about 10ºC in the morning. The 8pax were in Pinocchio Hotel at US5 per room for 2 and the other 12pax were at Mountain View Hotel at US7 per room.
All of us slept through the whole morning as we did not have enough sleep in the train. After lunch, we walked around the town (15ºC) and did not go trekking as the mist and fog was very thick and visibility was only 30m. However, we had great fellowship: candle-light dinner at Gerbera Restaurant for D60k per person. Lim Kee Moon brought 2 bottles and Ching brought one bottle of wine for dinner.
Sapa is an old French hill station nestled among the Hoang Lien Son Mountains near the Chinese border. Because of its situation near the tallest mountain range in Vietnam, it is possibly the most scenic mountain location in Vietnam. The members of the Black Hmong ethnic minority are very present in town, and other ethnic minorities come for the weekly market.
Lao Cai by van to Sapa is D30k per person
Pinochio Hotel – US5 a room for 2pax
Mountain View – US7 a room for 2pax
Pinochio Hotel – US5 a room for 2pax
Mountain View – US7 a room for 2pax
Arrived 5.30am at Lao Cai train station and took a 10pax van for D30k each up to Sapa.
Behind L-R: Ching Leng Chu, Catherine Oon, Veronica Wan, Philip Tinkler (behind), David Wan, Jeannie, Alistair McCulloch, Ho Har Mooi, Wong Tai Meng, Ching Neng Bin, (Front) KC Loke, Wan Lan, Betty Ching, Rosalind Wan, Ching Bee Geok, Val Allan, Pauline Toh, Caroline Ling at Lao Cai train station.
On the road up to Sapa, we stopped at a moutain view station for some photo shoot.
On the road up to Sapa, we stopped at the view-station for some photo shoot.
Pauline and Val Allan at the view-station for some photo shoot.
Philip Tinkler and KC Loke at the view-station for some photo shoot.
The famous lush rice terrace Muong Hao valley in Sapa.
After an hour’s drive up the winding road, we arrived at Sapa Mountain View Hotel for breakfast. It was freezing cold at about 10ºC in the morning.
Catherine Oon and Ching Neng Bin at Sapa Mountain View Hotel for breakfast.
Philip Tinkler and KC Loke at Sapa Mountain View Hotel for breakfast.
Mike Khaw Eng Aun and Alistair McCulloch at Mountain View Hotel for breakfast. After breakfast we continued to sleep in our hotel as we did not have enough sleep in the train. After lunch, we walked around the town (15ºC) and did not go trekking as the mist and fog was very thick and visibility was only 30m.
The beautiful banana flower blossom for sale at a shop in Sapa.
Playing with the children in Sapa.
The children in Sapa.
Sapa markets is the easiest way to learn more about the way of life of the native people here.
Walking around in Sapa and did not go trekking as the mist and fog was very thick and visibility was only 30m.
Walking around in Sapa you see vegetable vendors by the road side.
Walking around in Sapa you see vegetable vendors by the road side.
Dog meat for sale by the road side in Sapa.
Walking around in Sapa.
Walking around in Sapa.
Walking around in Sapa we visited the Sapa Museum.
Walking around in Sapa we visited the Sapa Museum.
Walking around in Sapa we visited the Sapa Museum.
Walking around in Sapa we visited the Sapa Museum.
Walking around in Sapa.
Walking around in Sapa.
Walking around in Sapa.
Walking around in Sapa.
Walking around in Sapa.
Walking around in Sapa.
Notre Dame Cathedral is the symbol of the French architecture in Sapa.
Notre Dame Cathedral is the symbol of the French architecture in Sapa.
Ho Chi Minh Friendship Monument in Sapa.
All looking very hungry and waiting anxiously for dinner time in Sapa.
All looking very hungry and waiting anxiously for dinner time in Sapa.
Finally, we had great fellowship candle-light dinner at Gerbera Restaurant for D60k per person. Lim Kee Moon brought 3 bottles and Ching brought 2 bottles of wine for dinner.
Finally, we had great fellowship candle-light dinner at Gerbera Restaurant for D60k per person. Lim Kee Moon brought 3 bottles and Ching brought 2 bottles of wine for dinner.
Happiness in waiting for dinner to be served at Gerbera Restaurant Sapa.
Happiness in waiting for dinner to be served at Gerbera Restaurant Sapa.
Happiness in waiting for dinner to be served at Gerbera Restaurant Sapa.
Happiness in waiting for dinner to be served at Gerbera Restaurant Sapa.
Happiness in waiting for dinner to be served at Gerbera Restaurant Sapa.
Dinner is a great date - Lim Kee Moon and Betty Ching sharing a romantic meal at Gerbera Restaurant Sapa.
Dinner is a great date - Philip Tinkler and K.C.Loke sharing a romantic meal at Gerbera Restaurant Sapa.
Caroline Ling and Ching Bee Geok at Gerbera Restaurant Sapa.
Dinner is a great date - Pauline Toh and Val Allan sharing a romantic meal at Gerbera Restaurant Sapa.
Ching Neng Bin slowly poured the red wine into the center of the glass until it's half full at Gerbera Restaurant Sapa. Cheapest wine in the world, Mulberry Wine at US1-00 a bottle.
Dinner is a great first date - don't believe that stuff about girl not wanting to eat on a first date sharing a romantic meal is so sexy at Gerbera Restaurant Sapa.
At dinner table, if you can't think of anything to say, sit quietly. Don't throw rolls or your napkin at Gerbera Restaurant Sapa.
With such a good dinner one can forgive anybody, even one's own relations at Gerbera Restaurant Sapa.
Alistair McCulloch stayed with Mike Khaw Eng Aun at Pinochio Hotel for US5 a room for 2pax in Sapa.
Day 4 (21.11.2008) Sapa trekking to CatCat Village
It was a fellowship breakfast in Ching Neng Bin's room for 8 people. We then walked to the Sapa Market to pack our lunch for the half-day trekking to Cat Cat national park. The entrance fee was D15 per person. We walked down the valley until we reached the spectacular waterfall. Along the treks we could see the Black H’Mong people doing their daily work and children playing around. We ate our packed lunch by the mountain river bank before continuing the trek back on another river trek.
We had another great dinner fellowship better than the night before with set dinner at Mimosa Restaurant for D60k per person. Again Lim Kee Moon brought 3 bottles and Ching Neng Bin brought two more bottles of wine for dinner. We all would never forget the night when Wan Lan got drunk.
Cat Cat VillageLocation: Cat Cat Village is 2km from Sapa Townlet, Sapa District. Characteristics: This is an age-old village of H'Mong ethnic group remaining unique customs and practices that are lost in other villages. Visitors to Cat Cat have an opportunity to admire lively and colorful images of young women sitting by looms with colorful pieces of brocade decorated with designs of flowers and birds. When these pieces of brocade are finished, they are dyed and embroidered with beautiful designs. H’Mong women use plants and leaves to dye these brocade fabrics and then they roll them around smooth sections of wood covered with wax to polish them, making their colors durable.
Sleeping:
Pinochio Hotel – US5 a room for 2pax
Mountain View – US7 a room for 2pax
It was a fellowship breakfast in Ching Neng Bin's room for 8 people.
Street view below from Pinochio Hotel – US5 a room for 2pax
Ching Neng Bin and Catherine at Pinochio Hotel – US5 a room for 2pax. Noticed the mist and thick fog.
Alistair McCulloch at Pinochio Hotel – US5 a room for 2pax. Noticed the mist and thick fog.
We then walked to the Sapa Market to pack our lunch for the half-day trekking to Cat Cat national park.
We then walked to the Sapa Market to pack our lunch for the half-day trekking to Cat Cat national park.
We then walked to the Sapa Market to pack our lunch for the half-day trekking to Cat Cat national park.
We walked around Sapa Market to pack our lunch for the half-day trekking to Cat Cat national park.
We walked around Sapa Market to pack our lunch for the half-day trekking to Cat Cat national park.
We walked around Sapa Market to pack our lunch for the half-day trekking to Cat Cat national park.
At Sapa Market we were surprised to meet this trekking guide Mr Son on our first visit to Sapa in 2006. He could recognised us and he did ask for Mohanadas and Balan, the two Indians in our group.
The 2.7km trek from Pinocchio Hotel to Cat Cat Village.
After getting our lunch-pack, we proceed to the village of CatCat in Sapa.
On the road we met many various ethnic H’Mong and Dzao families selling homemade products.
On the dirt road down the valley and noticed the mist and thick fog. Heading down to Cat Cat Village requires following one of the main Sapa roads until the trail begins. If you continue following this Cat Cat trail, you will start heading towards Mount Fansipan on the most difficult of the three famous trails.
On the dirt road down the valley and noticed the mist and thick fog. Heading down to Cat Cat Village requires following one of the main Sapa roads until the trail begins. If you continue following this Cat Cat trail, you will start heading towards Mount Fansipan on the most difficult of the three famous trails.
On the road we met many various ethnic H’Mong and Dzao families selling homemade products.
Pauline Toh, Wan Lan and Catherine on the trail to Cat Cat Village.
A special looking farm house on the trail to Cat Cat Village.
On the road and trekking to Cat Cat Village in Sapa. Cat Cat Village is 2km from Sapa Town. This is an age-old village of black Hmong ethnic group remaining unique customs and practices that are lots in other villages.
Val Allan reading the Cat Cat tourism area regulation.
David Wan reading the Cat Cat tourism area regulation.
The black Hmong ethnic group started cultivating rice in the region as well as weaving fabric and creating handicrafts.
The black Hmong ethnic group started cultivating rice in the region as well as weaving fabric and creating handicrafts.
The black Hmong ethnic group started cultivating rice in the region as well as weaving fabric and creating handicrafts.
The entrance fee was D15 per person. The money you pay for your ticket to get into Cat Cat Village goes towards local families who have opened their homes so you can explore and get to know their culture.
A particularly famous village is called Cat Cat, attracting tourists from all over the world for its distinctive customs and practices that have remained in the area, despite international influence.
The local pigs roaming around in Cat Cat village.
Cat Cat Village is nestled at the bottom of Muong Hoa Valley. This village was formed in the 19th century, after various ethnic H’Mong and Dzao families came together from other mountainous areas in northern Vietnam.
You will mostly come across paved paths and steps to get to the village.
The local pigs roaming around on the paved paths and steps in Cat Cat village.
The children playing on the paved paths and steps in Cat Cat village.
The children playing on the paved paths and steps in Cat Cat village.
The children playing on the paved paths and steps in Cat Cat village.
You can get a glimpse of the residents’ traditional lifestyle by walking into any of the houses that are open for display. These are called exhibition houses and the aim is to collect and display materials of cultural significance.
You will mostly come across paved paths and steps to get to the village.
The paved paths and steps to get to Cat Cat village is picturesque and stunning.
The paved paths and steps to get to Cat Cat village is picturesque and stunning.
The paved paths and steps to get to Cat Cat village is picturesque and stunning.
You can get a glimpse of the residents’ traditional lifestyle by walking into any of the houses that are open for display. These are called exhibition houses and the aim is to collect and display materials of cultural significance.
You can get a glimpse of the residents’ traditional lifestyle by walking into any of the houses that are open for display. These are called exhibition houses and the aim is to collect and display materials of cultural significance.
You can get a glimpse of the residents’ traditional lifestyle by walking into any of the houses that are open for display. These are called exhibition houses and the aim is to collect and display materials of cultural significance.
You can get a glimpse of the residents’ traditional lifestyle by walking into any of the houses that are open for display. These are called exhibition houses and the aim is to collect and display materials of cultural significance.
Walking through the village gives tourists a chance to glimpse into the daily lives of the local people and take part in traditional activities. You can also purchase some traditional souvenirs and handicrafts right from the craftsmen.
You can get a glimpse of the residents’ traditional lifestyle by walking into any of the houses that are open for display. These are called exhibition houses and the aim is to collect and display materials of cultural significance.
Many residents of Cat Cat Village are also skilled at creating gold and silver jewelry.
The paved paths and steps to get to Cat Cat village is picturesque and stunning.
You can get a glimpse of the residents’ traditional lifestyle by walking into any of the houses that are open for display.
You will see women stitching colorful pieces of brocade in Cat Cat village.
Shops dot both sides of the Cat Cat trail. These shops sell a range of items, from packaged and fresh food, to handicrafts and clothes. You will see women stitching colorful pieces of brocade while children play around with pets or even livestock that are temporary pets.
Shops dot both sides of the Cat Cat trail. These shops sell a range of items, from packaged and fresh food, to handicrafts and clothes. You will see women stitching colorful pieces of brocade while children play around with pets or even livestock that are temporary pets.
Cat Cat village is picturesque and stunning.
When these pieces of brocade are finished, they are dyed and embroidered with beautiful designs. H’Mong women use plants and leaves to dye these brocade fabrics and then they roll them around smooth sections of wood covered with wax to polish them making their colors durable.
Cat Cat village is picturesque and stunning.
The local pigs roaming around on the paved paths and steps in Cat Cat village.
The local pigs roaming around in Cat Cat village.
Walking down the paved paths and steps to a river below.
H’Mong women use plants and leaves to dye these brocade fabrics.
Walking down the paved paths and steps to a river below.
Walking down the paved paths and steps to a river below.
Walking over the bridge to visit the Tien Sa waterfall and the stream below.
As you continue on the trail, you will see a number of mills on the side of the road. These mills are powered by flowing water. Throughout the trail, you will see how people have used the flowing water to their advantage.
Walking over the bridge to visit the Tien Sa waterfall and the river below.
Cat Cat waterfall is one of the main attractions. You can dip your feet in the cool water if you are able to jump over the boulders.
Walking down the steep path to a river below.
We all took a break for lunch by the Cat Cat river.
We all took a break for lunch by the Cat Cat river.
We all took a break for lunch by the Cat Cat river.
We all took a break for lunch by the Cat Cat river.
You can cool off your feet in the Cat Cat river as well, there are plenty little rocky ledges leading into the chilled water.
We all took a break for lunch by the Cat Cat river.
You can cool off your feet in the Cat Cat river as well, there are plenty little rocky ledges leading into the chilled water.
After lunch we trekked back to visit the famous Tien Sa Waterfall.
After lunch we trekked back to visit the famous Tien Sa Waterfall.
Walking down the hill to visit the Tien Sa Waterfall area.
Walking down the hill to visit the Tien Sa Waterfall area.
A beautiful Dzao tribe lady in Cat Cat.
Walking down the hill to visit the Tien Sa Waterfall area.
The beauty of Tien Sa waterfall is made up of Hoang Lien Son and Suoi Tien ranges. Water flows from the Hoang Lien Son range down to create beautiful Tien Sa waterfall, the water will continue to flow along the stream to the Red River.
The beauty of Tien Sa waterfall is made up of Hoang Lien Son and Suoi Tien ranges. Water flows from the Hoang Lien Son range down to create beautiful Tien Sa waterfall, the water will continue to flow along the stream to the Red River.
A group photo at Tien Sa waterfall one of the most popular attractions in Cat Cat village.
Ching Neng Bin and Catherine taking a photo with tourists at Tien Sa waterfall.
Ching Neng Bin and Catherine taking a photo with tourists at Tien Sa waterfall. Standing near the falls, you can hear the water pouring down while watching the romantic natural scenery.
Catherine, Jeannie and Caroline Ling taking a photo at Tien Sa waterfall.
Lim Kee Moon and Betty Ching taking a photo at Tien Sa waterfall.
Ching Leng Chu and Wan Lan taking a photo at Tien Sa waterfall.
Philip Tinkler and K.C.Loke taking a photo at Tien Sa waterfall.
Tien Sa Waterfall is large and powerful and sends a fine cooling mist throughout the village. You can’t miss the falls as you can hear it from quite a distance away.
An old building in Tien Sa Waterfall area. There are plenty of lookouts over the lush green scenery.
From the bridge on the right side, we walked straight along the stream to go back to the second gate.
From the bridge on the right side, we walked straight along the stream to go back to the second gate towards Sapa.
Ascending the steep Cat Cat Trail, we were greeted to beautiful views over the mountains surrounding area.
The Cat Cat pig on the loose. There are plenty of lookouts over the lush green scenery.
The Cat Cat buffalos on the loose. There are plenty of lookouts over the lush green scenery.
The long walk back from Tien Sa Waterfall to Sapa town. There are plenty of lookouts over the lush green scenery.
The long walk back from Tien Sa Waterfall to Sapa town.
The Cat Cat children selling local produce on the road.
After a good rest in our hotels, we walked to Mimosa Family Restaurant for dinner.
After a good rest in our hotels, we walked to Mimosa Family Restaurant for dinner.
We had another great dinner fellowship better than the night before with set dinner at Mimosa Restaurant for D60k per person. Again Lim Kee Moon brought 3 bottles and Ching Neng Bin brought two more bottles of wine for dinner. We all would never forget the night when Wan Lan got drunk. Cheers! 干杯 . Cheapest wine in the world, Mulberry Wine at US1-00 a bottle.
We had another great dinner fellowship better than the night before with set dinner at Mimosa Restaurant for D60k per person. Again Lim Kee Moon brought 3 bottles and Ching Neng Bin brought two more bottle of wine for dinner. Cheers! 干杯
We had another great dinner fellowship better than the night before with set dinner at Mimosa Restaurant for D60k per person. Again Lim Kee Moon brought 3 bottles and Ching Neng Bin brought two more bottle of wine for dinner. Cheers! 干杯
We had another great dinner fellowship better than the night before with set dinner at Mimosa Restaurant for D60k per person. Again Lim Kee Moon brought 3 bottles and Ching Neng Bin brought two more bottles of wine for dinner. We all would never forget the night when Wan Lan got drunk. Cheers! Wan Lan!
Catherine, Ching Bee Geok and Caroline Ling cheers! 干杯 to all for a very good trek to Tien Sa Waterfall in Cat Cat.
Philip Tinkler and Mike Khaw looking very hungry and waiting anxiously for dinner at Mimosa Restaurant Sapa.
K.C.Loke and Alistair McCulloch at Mimosa Restaurant Sapa.
Ching Leng Chu and Wan Lan sharing a romantic meal at Mimosa Restaurant Sapa.
Jeannie and David Wan sharing a romantic meal at Mimosa Restaurant Sapa.
Ho Har Mooi and Wong Tai Meng sharing a romantic meal at Mimosa Restaurant Sapa.
Pauline Toh and Val Allan sharing a romantic meal at Mimosa Restaurant Sapa.
Lim Kee Moon and Betty Ching sharing a romantic meal at Mimosa Restaurant Sapa.
Day 5 (22.11.2008) Sapa Dragon Jaw Mountain to Hanoi
After breakfast at the Sapa market, it was discovery time. We walked around the town centre and visited the tourism centre, a newly-renovated church and the stadium area. After lunch, we checked out. However, we paid for a day room to keep our baggage. Afternoon was shopping and more shopping – fruits, peanuts and souvenirs. Kee Moon took 10 people up the Dragon Jaw Mountain. We had early dinner at the Sapa Market – chicken and beef noodle, very good and cheap.
The van picked us up at 5pm at the hotel to take us back to Laocai train station for D30k each. The train moved at 8.15pm. It was a coincidence that I met a guy in the same carriage who was our guide in 2006 in Sapa.
The train back to Hanoi was much better than the one we took earlier. We also wish to salute Betty Ching for sleeping in the upper bunk of the train sleeper for the first time in her life.
Sapa by van to Laocai is D30k per person
Sleeping in overnight train SP8 Ratraco Express from Laocai to Hanoi is US19 pp. one way.
The van picked us up at 5pm at the hotel to take us back to Laocai train station for D30k each. The train moved at 8.15pm. It was a coincidence that I met a guy in the same carriage who was our guide in 2006 in Sapa.
The train back to Hanoi was much better than the one we took earlier. We also wish to salute Betty Ching for sleeping in the upper bunk of the train sleeper for the first time in her life.
Sapa by van to Laocai is D30k per person
Sleeping in overnight train SP8 Ratraco Express from Laocai to Hanoi is US19 pp. one way.
It was a very cold night indeed in Pinochio Hotel. The temperature was just about 5°c.
The hotel provided us with the burning coal for heating as shown here.
Street view below from Pinochio Hotel Sapa and noticed the mist and thick fog.
Noticed the mist and thick fog.
Street view below from Pinochio Hotel Sapa and noticed the mist and thick fog.
Street view below from Pinochio Hotel Sapa and noticed the mist and thick fog.
Street view below from Pinochio Hotel Sapa and noticed the mist and thick fog.
Street view below from Pinochio Hotel Sapa and noticed the mist and thick fog.
The proprietor and child of Pinochio Hotel Sapa – US5 a room for 2pax. Noticed the mist and thick fog.
The proprietor and child of Pinochio Hotel Sapa – US5 a room for 2pax. Noticed the mist and thick fog.
Mike Khaw Eng Aun and child at Pinochio Hotel Sapa – US5 a room for 2pax. Noticed the mist and thick fog.
Waiting for the rest of the team member for breakfast in Sapa.
After breakfast at the Sapa market, it was discovery time. We walked around the town centre and visited the tourism centre, a newly-renovated church and the stadium area.
The Red Hmong women selling local produce in Sapa to tourist.
The Flower Hmong girl selling local produce in Sapa to tourist.
We walked around the main road of Sapa towards Sapa Market.
After breakfast at the Sapa market, it was discovery time. Plenty of food stalls in Sapa Market such as fruits, vegetables, and spices.
Plenty of food stalls in Sapa Market such as fruits, vegetables, and spices.
Plenty of food stalls in Sapa Market such as fruits, vegetables, and spices.
Plenty of food stalls in Sapa Market such as fruits, vegetables, and spices.
The most impressive feature of Sapa Market is its unique brocade products in vibrant colors, and subtle patterns of the H’Mong, Dao Do, and Giay.
The most impressive feature of Sapa Market is its unique brocade products in vibrant colors, and subtle patterns of the H’Mong, Dao Do, and Giay.
The most impressive feature of Sapa Market is its unique brocade products in vibrant colors, and subtle patterns of the H’Mong, Dao Do, and Giay.
The most impressive feature of Sapa Market is its unique brocade products in vibrant colors, and subtle patterns of the H’Mong, Dao Do, and Giay.
The most impressive feature of Sapa Market is its unique brocade products in vibrant colors, and subtle patterns of the H’Mong, Dao Do, and Giay.
The feature of Sapa is its unique brocade products in vibrant colors by the tribes of the H’Mong, Dao Do and Giay.
The feature of Sapa is its unique brocade products in vibrant colors by the tribes of the H’Mong, Dao Do and Giay.
The feature of Sapa is its unique brocade products in vibrant colors by the tribes of the H’Mong, Dao Do and Giay.
The feature of Sapa is its unique brocade products in vibrant colors by the tribes of the H’Mong, Dao Do and Giay.
The feature of Sapa is its unique brocade products in vibrant colors by the tribes of the H’Mong, Dao Do and Giay.
The feature of Sapa is its unique brocade products in vibrant colors by the tribes of the H’Mong, Dao Do and Giay.
The feature of Sapa is its unique brocade products in vibrant colors by the tribes of the H’Mong, Dao Do and Giay.
Enjoying some local delicacies bought in Sapa Market.
The Black Hmong children selling local produce in Sapa to tourist.
We visited the Sapa Notre Dame Cathedral, the symbol of the French architecture in Sapa.
Built by French in 1895, this stone Sapa Notre Dame Cathedral church features a belltower & Roman Gothic architecture.
Built by French in 1895, this stone Sapa Notre Dame Cathedral church features a belltower & Roman Gothic architecture.
Built by French in 1895, this stone Sapa Notre Dame Cathedral church features a belltower & Roman Gothic architecture.
Built by French in 1895, this stone Sapa Notre Dame Cathedral church features a belltower & Roman Gothic architecture.
Built by French in 1895, this stone Sapa Notre Dame Cathedral church features a belltower & Roman Gothic architecture.
Built by French in 1895, this stone Sapa Notre Dame Cathedral church features a belltower & Roman Gothic architecture.
Built by French in 1895, this stone Sapa Notre Dame Cathedral church features a belltower & Roman Gothic architecture.
Built by French in 1895, this stone Sapa Notre Dame Cathedral church features a belltower & Roman Gothic architecture.
Built by French in 1895, this stone Sapa Notre Dame Cathedral church features a belltower & Roman Gothic architecture.
The back of Sapa Notre Dame Cathedral church features a belltower & Roman Gothic architecture.
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Kee Moon took 10 people up the Dragon Jaw Mountain in Sapa. Photo taken at the entrance of Jaw Mountain. Many stone steps and little paths on the way up, along with many kinds of native and exotic plants and flowers.
Ham Rong, English for Dragon Jaw, with its gardens and mystic boulders shaped like dragonheads is an experience.
Dragon Jaw Mountain in Sapa.
Dragon Jaw Mountain in Sapa with its gardens and mystic boulders.
Dragon Jaw Mountain in Sapa with its gardens and mystic boulders.
Dragon Jaw Mountain in Sapa with its gardens and mystic boulders.
Dragon Jaw Mountain in Sapa with its gardens and mystic boulders.
Dragon Jaw Mountain in Sapa with its gardens and mystic boulders.
A great view across Sapa and Mount Fansipan in thick fog cover from Dragon Jaw Mountain.
A great view across Sapa and Mount Fansipan in thick fog cover from Dragon Jaw Mountain.
A great view across Sapa and Mount Fansipan in thick fog cover from Dragon Jaw Mountain.
A great view down the Dragon Jaw Mountain garden in thick fog cover.
A great view down the Dragon Jaw Mountain garden in thick fog cover.
A great view down the Dragon Jaw Mountain garden in thick fog cover.
Back to the street of Sapa town.
Back to the street of Sapa town.
Back to the street of Sapa town in thick fog cover.
Back to the street of Sapa town in thick fog cover.
A typical Flower Hmong girl in Sapa.
Back to the street of Sapa town in thick fog cover.
Back to the street of Sapa town in thick fog cover.
Back to the street of Sapa town in thick fog cover.
Back to the street of Sapa town in thick fog cover.
We had early dinner at the Sapa Market – chicken and beef noodle, very good and cheap. The van picked us up at 5pm at the hotel to take us back to Laocai train station for D30k each. The train moved at 8.15pm.
The train moved at 8.15pm from Laocai to Hanoi.
The train moved at 8.15pm from Laocai to Hanoi. Saying goodbye to Sapa and tạm biệt in Vietnamese.
The train moved at 8.15pm from Laocai to Hanoi. Saying goodbye to Sapa and tạm biệt in Vietnamese.
The train moved at 8.15pm from Laocai to Hanoi. Saying goodbye to Sapa and tạm biệt in Vietnamese.
The train moved at 8.15pm from Laocai to Hanoi. Saying goodbye to Sapa and tạm biệt in Vietnamese.
The train moved at 8.15pm from Laocai to Hanoi. Saying goodbye to Sapa and tạm biệt in Vietnamese.
The train moved at 8.15pm from Laocai to Hanoi. Saying goodbye to Sapa and tạm biệt in Vietnamese.
The train moved at 8.15pm from Laocai to Hanoi. Saying goodbye to Sapa and tạm biệt in Vietnamese.
It was a coincidence that Ching Neng Bin met a guy in the same carriage who was our Sapa guide in 2006.
Sleeping in overnight train SP8 Ratraco Express from Laocai to Hanoi is US19 pp. one way.
Sleeping in overnight train SP8 Ratraco Express from Laocai to Hanoi is US19 pp. one way.
Sleeping in overnight train SP8 Ratraco Express from Laocai to Hanoi is US19 pp. one way.
Day 6 (23.11.2008) Hanoi to Hao Lu and Tam Coc River tour
Arrived Hanoi in the early morning at 5.30am. Taxis and van were too expensive so we all decided to walk back to our Hotel. This was what Alistair had to say, “That was a wonderful night train, I got the opportunity to sleep with 4 women and I slept very well indeed”. We were all very happy for him. At the hotel, we had free breakfast that come with the one day tour to Tam Coc.
The van picked us up at 8am for a 3hour ride to Tam Coc. Along the way the van stopped at a souvenir shop for toilet break and at another to stretch our legs. We visited an ancient temple at Hoa Lu where two kings once lived. We had our lunch in town (provided in the tour) before going on the rowing boats.
Hoa Lu was the ancient capital of Vietnam during the Ding Dynasty (968-80) and Early Le dynasty (980-1009). Hoa Lu consists of three areas: Than Ngoai, Thanh Noi and Thanh Nam. Thanh Ngoai Palace was where King Dinh Tien Hoang erected a flag. Thanh Noi was the residence of the children and servants of the Royal. Thanh Nam is surrounded by high mountains like the ramparts at the south of the ancient city. Ma Yen Mountain is in front of the Palace. It provides a scenic backdrop for Hoa Lu’s two remaining temples of the Dinh and Le Kings built during the 17th century. The tombs of the two Kings can be seen in the Ma Yen Mountain.
Tam Coc means three caves. A rowboat trip on Ngo Dong River will take you through three caves of Hang Ca (the first cave with 127m long), Hang Giua (the second cave with 70m long) and Hang Cuoi (the third cave with 40m long). You can enjoy very peaceful surroundings during the three-hour boat trip. Tam Coc is also called "Halong Bay on the rice paddies”. About 2km past Tam Coc is Bich Dong cave, which has a built-in temple. Bich Dong is easily assessable either by river or road. Tam Coc is about more than 100km south of Hanoi.
The tour ended with our arrival at Hanoi at about 5.30pm. We had a good rest in our room, before we all got together and window shopping again.
Transport: One day tour to Tam Coc – US15 per person
Sleeping: Hanoi Spirit House – US6 a room for 2pax, Prince 57 – US8 a room for 2pax
Arrived Hanoi in the early morning at 5.30am. Taxis and van were too expensive so we all decided to walk back to our Hotel. This was what Alistair had to say, “That was a wonderful night train, I got the opportunity to sleep with 4 women and I slept very well indeed”. We were all very happy for him.
At the hotel, we had free breakfast that come with the one day tour to Tam Coc.
At the hotel, we had free breakfast that come with the one day tour to Tam Coc.
The van picked us up at 8am for a 3hour ride to Tam Coc. Along the way the van stopped at a souvenir shop for toilet break and at another to stretch our legs. We visited an ancient temple at Hoa Lu where two kings once lived. We had our lunch in town (provided in the tour) before going on the rowing boats.
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Along the way the van stopped at a souvenir shop for toilet break and beside is a typical house under construction.
Lim Kee Moon and Val Allan wondering why they used this pots as foundation to support the pillars.
The funny roofing wood structure for the buildings.
Stopped at a souvenir shop for toilet
break on the way to Tam Cock.
We visited an ancient temple at Hoa Lu where two kings once lived. We had our lunch in town (provided in the tour) before going on the rowing boats.
L-R: Ching Neng Bin, Ching Leng Chu, Philip Tinkler, Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Lim Kee Moon, Val Allan, tour guide, Alistair McCulloch, Wong Tai Meng and David Wan at Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel.
L-R: Ching Bee Geok, Jeannie, Catherine Oon, Betty Ching, Pauline Toh, Ho Har Mooi, Veronica Wan, Caroline Ling, Rosalind Wan at Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel.
At the first entrance gate wall of an ancient temple at Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel where two kings once lived. This former capital of Vietnam lies 90 km south of Hanoi, protected by high limestone mountains and earthen walls.
At the second entrance gate house of an ancient temple at Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel where two kings once lived.
At the garden of an ancient temple at Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel where two kings once lived.
At the third entrance gate of an ancient King Dinh Tien Hoang’s Temple in Ninh Binh.
The King Dinh Tien Hoang’s Temple was built in the 17th century, with a special architecture, the interior of which had an “I letter” shape, surrounded by a square land. Now you are standing at the 3-class mid-noon gate. You can go on to the next one, seeing a dragon bed and getting the second gate. Passing through one more gate and walking along the holy way will lead to the main house. In the middle of the house is one more stone dragon-bed, which is 1.8m long and 1.4m wide. Looking at the bed surface you can easily find sculptured dragon, shrimps, fishes, rats images which are of deep delicateness and skill.
King Dinh Tien Hoang’s Temple in Ninh Binh. This main house has 3 parts. The first one is the worshipping place with 5 rooms. The second is an incense burning room where they worshiped 4 important mandarins under Dinh dynasty. The third main part, the most important one, is separated to the second by a high door. Here you can witness there worshipping King Dinh Tien Hoang and his three sons.
Nearby you can find the Tomb of King Dinh Tien Hoang, which was situated on Ma Yen Mount, in front of his Temple. “Ma yen” means “back of a horse”, as seen from a far distance, it has the shape of a back of a horse.
Nearby you can find the Tomb of King Dinh Tien Hoang, which was situated on Ma Yen Mount, in front of his Temple. “Ma yen” means “back of a horse”, as seen from a far distance, it has the shape of a back of a horse.
A bunch of hundred bananas.
A man playing a Vietnamese two-chord fiddle.
The temple is divided into three shrines: the outer one is Ngo Mon Gate, the middle is called Thien Huong and the inner one worships King Dinh Tien Hoang
The temple is divided into three shrines: the outer one is Ngo Mon Gate, the middle is called Thien Huong and the inner one worships King Dinh Tien Hoang
The temple is divided into three shrines: the outer one is Ngo Mon Gate, the middle is called Thien Huong and the inner one worships King Dinh Tien Hoang
The temple is divided into three shrines: the outer one is Ngo Mon Gate, the middle is called Thien Huong and the inner one worships King Dinh Tien Hoang
The temple is divided into three shrines: the outer one is Ngo Mon Gate, the middle is called Thien Huong and the inner one worships King Dinh Tien Hoang
The temple inner one worships King Dinh Tien Hoang.
The temple inner one worships King Dinh Tien Hoang.
A Vietnamese farmer sitting on a water buffalo at Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel.
A Vietnamese farmer sitting on a water buffalo at Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel.
A Vietnamese farmer sitting on a water buffalo at Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel.
A scenic backdrop for Hoa Lu’s two remaining temples of the Dinh and Le Kings built during the 17th century.
A scenic backdrop for Hoa Lu’s two remaining temples of the Dinh and Le Kings built during the 17th century.
We had our lunch in town (provided in the tour) before going on the Tam Coc rowing boats.
Tam Coc (Ninh Binh) means ‘three grottoes named after the three renowned caves. You can do the Tam Coc boat ride through the three Tam Coc caves that are on the Ngo Dong river, which is situated in the heart of North-Central Vietnam in the province of Ning Binh.
A rowboat trip on Ngo Dong River will take you through three caves of Hang Ca (the first cave with 127m long), Hang Giua (the second cave with 70m long) and Hang Cuoi (the third cave with 40m long). You can enjoy very peaceful surroundings during the three-hour boat trip. Tam Coc is also called "Halong Bay on the rice paddies”. About 2km past Tam Coc is Bich Dong cave, which has a built-in temple. Bich Dong is easily assessable either by river or road. Tam Coc is about more than 100km south of Hanoi.
The boat ride in Tam Coc is one of the coolest things to do in Ninh Binh. The locals actually row with there feet.
A rowboat trip on Ngo Dong River will take you through three caves of Hang Ca (the first cave with 127m long), Hang Giua (the second cave with 70m long) and Hang Cuoi (the third cave with 40m long).
A rowboat trip on Ngo Dong River will take you through three caves of Hang Ca, Hang Giua and Hang Cuoi.
Catherine and Ching Neng Bin on the rowboat trip along Ngo Dong River enjoying the exotic view. We enjoyed an eventful boat ride that brings you up close and personal to the locals and flora and fauna of the beautiful place. The boat tour is on the traditional Vietnamese Sampans, that includes a 1.5 to 2-hour ride that takes you across all three caves.
Betty Ching and Lim Kee Moon on the rowboat trip along Ngo Dong River enjoying the exotic view.
Philip Tinkler and K.C.Loke on the rowboat trip along Ngo Dong River in Nam Coc.
Wong Tai Meng and Ho Har Mooi on the rowboat trip along Ngo Dong River in Nam Coc.
A rowboat trip on Ngo Dong River will take you through three caves of Hang Ca, Hang Giua and Hang Cuoi.
A rowboat trip on Ngo Dong River will take you through three caves of Hang Ca, Hang Giua and Hang Cuoi.
A rowboat trip on Ngo Dong River will take you through three caves of Hang Ca, Hang Giua and Hang Cuoi.
A rowboat trip on Ngo Dong River will take you through three caves of Hang Ca, Hang Giua and Hang Cuoi.
A rowboat trip on Ngo Dong River will take you through three caves of Hang Ca, Hang Giua and Hang Cuoi.
A rowboat trip on Ngo Dong River will take you through three caves of Hang Ca, Hang Giua and Hang Cuoi.
A rowboat trip on Ngo Dong River will take you through three caves of Hang Ca, Hang Giua and Hang Cuoi.
A rowboat trip on Ngo Dong River will take you through three caves of Hang Ca, Hang Giua and Hang Cuoi.
Tam Coc limestone mountains surrounding the area are great to observe.
Tam Coc limestone mountains surrounding the area are great to observe.
Tam Coc limestone mountains surrounding the area are great to observe.
Tam Coc means three caves. A rowboat trip on Ngo Dong River will take you through three caves of Hang Ca (the first cave with 127m long), Hang Giua (the second cave with 70m long) and Hang Cuoi (the third cave with 40m long). You can enjoy very peaceful surroundings during the three-hour boat trip. Tam Coc is also called "Halong Bay on the rice paddies”. About 2km past Tam Coc is Bich Dong cave, which has a built-in temple. Bich Dong is easily assessable either by river or road. Tam Coc is about more than 100km south of Hanoi.
Tam Coc limestone mountains surrounding the area are great to observe.
Tam Coc limestone mountains surrounding the area are great to observe.
Tam Coc limestone mountains surrounding the area are great to observe.
Tam Coc limestone mountains surrounding the area are great to observe.
Tam Coc limestone mountains surrounding the area are great to observe.
Tam Coc limestone mountains surrounding the area are great to observe.
The surreal scenic views of the three caves are a mesmerising sight. The river itself is surrounded by a lush green landscape, which is a relaxing and enchanting sight to see. You can keep your eyes open to see goats on the mountain tops and stunning blue Kingfishers in the skies.
The surreal scenic views of the three caves are a mesmerising sight. The river itself is surrounded by a lush green landscape, which is a relaxing and enchanting sight to see. You can keep your eyes open to see goats on the mountain tops and stunning blue Kingfishers in the skies.
A good torch will come in handy when visiting these caves. There are carvings on the roofs of the cave that are interesting to explore. The limestone caves have these unique formations.
A good torch will come in handy when visiting these caves. There are carvings on the roofs of the cave that are interesting to explore. The limestone caves have these unique formations.
There are carvings on the roofs of the cave that are interesting to explore its unique formations.
There are carvings on the roofs of the cave that are interesting to explore its unique formations.
There are carvings on the roofs of the cave that are interesting to explore its unique formations.
There are carvings on the roofs of the cave that are interesting to explore its unique formations.
There are carvings on the roofs of the cave that are interesting to explore its unique formations.
There are carvings on the roofs of the cave that are interesting to explore its unique formations.
Tam Coc limestone mountains surrounding the area are great to observe.
Tam Coc limestone mountains surrounding the area are great to observe.
Tam Coc limestone mountains surrounding the area are great to observe.
Catherine and Ching Neng Bin on Tam Coc rowing boat tour.
Tam Coc limestone mountains surrounding the area are great to observe.
Tam Coc limestone mountains surrounding the area are great to observe.
Ching Leng Chu and Wan Lan on Tam Coc rowing boat tour.
Ching Bee Geok and Caroline Ling on Tam Coc rowing boat tour.
Alistair McCulloch and Mike Khaw Eng Aun on Tam Coc rowing boat tour.
At the end of the river the local vendors will try to sell overpriced water and food, if you want to avoid extra costs, you can prepare by taking your beverages for the travel. Haggling is a common thing for vendors to do with newer travelers, so don’t be too intimidated.
Alistair McCulloch and Mike Khaw Eng Aun on Tam Coc rowing boat tour.
Our return trip on Tam Coc rowing boat tour.
Val Allan helped to row back on our Tam Coc boat tour.
Ching Leng Chu helped to row back on our Tam Coc boat tour.
Our return trip on Tam Coc rowing boat tour.
Our return trip on Tam Coc rowing boat tour.
Our return trip on Tam Coc rowing boat tour.
Our return trip on Tam Coc rowing boat tour.
Our return trip on Tam Coc rowing boat tour.
Our return trip on Tam Coc rowing boat tour.
Our return trip on Tam Coc rowing boat tour.
Our return trip on Tam Coc rowing boat tour.
Our return trip on Tam Coc rowing boat tour.
Tam Coc boat man has developed the ability to row using their feet over time. This is to avoid their arms from getting tired and is also an impressive sight to see. They have mastered the art of rowing with their feet, that allows them to not only be faster at rowing but also run longer shifts.
Tam Coc boat man has their arms free to do other activities like eating or drinking. This technique has caught on with most of the locals and is a popular attraction to witness in the Ninh Binh province.
Philip Tinkler helped to row back on our Tam Coc boat tour.
Sea shells for sale at the boat jetty.
Baby crabs for sale at the boat jetty.
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The best part of the day in Hanoi is the night drinking Bia-Hoi. Cheapest beer in the world is the draft Beer Hoi at RM0-70 a glass or D3000 a glass.
Happiness is Ching Neng Bin meeting his brother Ching Neng Shyan and sister-in-law Judith Khoo and friends in the Heart Hotel, Hanoi. L-R: Ching Neng Bin, Francis Khoo, Saw Yin Sin, Judith Khoo, Ching Neng Shyan, Lim Kee Moon.
Happiness is Ching Neng Bin meeting his brother Ching Neng Shyan and sister-in-law Judith Khoo and friends in the Heart Hotel, Hanoi. L-R: Ching Neng Shyan, Lim Kee Moon, Ching Neng Bin, Francis Khoo and Mike Khaw Eng Aun in Hanoi.
Day 7 (24.11.2008) - Halong Bay to Cat Ba Island (2 day tour)
The 2day and 1night package tour is US30 per person. Two vans came to pick us up at 8am for the 2 days 1 night package tour to Halong Bay Cat Ba Island. It was another 3 hours ride with a stop at a souvenir shop before reaching the Halong Bay boat jetty. Lunch was served on board the junk immediately after sailing out of the harbor. It was a spectacular sight sailing in between the islands and islets, forming a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars. On board the junk, a lady was selling pearl to our ladies.
We later stopped on one of the islands to visit a very large cave which was beautifully lighted. We then continued to Cat Ba Island jetty. Here we boarded a bus that drove us across the island to the Cat Ba town where we stayed in An Tam Hotel. After dinner at the hotel, we all walked along the esplanade and as usual the ladies continued with their shopping for pearls.
L-R: Wong Tai Meng, Ho Har Mooi, Ching Neng Bin, Val Allan, Pauline Toh on the road to Ha Long Bay.
It was another 3 hours ride with a stop at this souvenir shop for toilet before reaching the Halong Bay boat jetty.
Getting ready to board the boat for Cat Ba Island Bai Chay tourist wharf in Halong Bay.
Getting ready to board the boat for Cat Ba Island Bai Chay tourist wharf in Halong Bay.
The Bai Chay tourist wharf in Halong Bay. Vietnamese Junk Boats lined up at the wharf.
The Bai Chay tourist wharf in Halong Bay. Vietnamese Junk Boats lined up at the wharf.
Boarding out junk boat at Bai Chay tourist wharf in Halong Bay for the famous UNESCO world heritage site.
Vietnamese Junk Boats on the way for the famous UNESCO world heritage site.
Vietnamese Junk Boats on the way for the famous UNESCO world heritage site.
Junk Boats are still regarded as one of the most successful shipping designs in history.
Junk Boats have been sailing on the world’s waters from as far back as 2nd century AD.
Junk Boats have been sailing on the world’s waters from as far back as 2nd century AD.
Junk Boats are still regarded as one of the most successful shipping designs in history.
After a brief introduction to the boat, lunch was served as we made our way towards the islets of Ha Long Bay.
Ching Neng Bin, Ching Bee Geok, Caroline Ling and Catherine waiting hungrily for lunch to be served on board Junk Boat.
Ho Har Mooi, Pauline Toh and Alistair McCulloch waiting hungrily for lunch to be served on board Junk Boat.
Val Allan, Wong Tai Meng and Alistair McCulloch waiting hungrily for lunch to be served on board Junk Boat.
Ho Har Mooi, Pauline Toh and Betty Ching looking good after lunch on board Junk Boat.
We were served a cucumber salad, spring rolls, shrimp, fried pork with sesame, squid, rice and a whole fish.
The unique beauty of the bay, with its towering limestone karsts, make this a UNESCO World heritage listing.
The unique beauty of the bay, with its towering limestone karsts, make this a UNESCO World heritage listing.
A brief stopped at a fish farm in Halong Bay for people to buy seafood.
A brief stopped at a fish farm in Halong Bay for people to buy seafood.
A brief stopped at a fish farm in Halong Bay for people to buy seafood.
After enjoying lunch and a brief stopped at fish farm, we climbed to the spacious top deck and relaxed on a lounge chair to marvel at Ha Long Bay, a name that means ‘bay of the descending dragons’.
After enjoying lunch and a brief stopped at fish farm, we climbed to the spacious top deck and relaxed on a lounge chair to marvel at Ha Long Bay, a name that means ‘bay of the descending dragons’.
Enjoying the spacious junk boat top deck and relaxed on a lounge chair, Catherine posed for the camera.
Enjoying the spacious junk boat top deck and relaxed on a lounge chair, we posed for the camera.
Before finishing this jaw-dropping tour of Ha Long Bay the boat stopped at Hang Sung Sot Grotto (Cave of the Surprises). It's one of the 3 most popular caves in Halong Bay discovered by French on 1901, and is on the same Bo Hon island with Trinh Nu Grotto (Virgin Cave).
To reach the cave’s mouth, we climbed up hundred of stone steps. The grotto is divided into two partitions; the first looks like a wide theater, with numerous stalactites dangling from the high roof. A narrow and short stair connects to second chamber, where a stream of sun light through a natural skylight showers the surfaces. The chamber is massive enough to hold a thousand of people at one time. The lighting system with elegant styles adds more charm to the beauty of the grotto. Here it was right after the entrance to the cave.
The cave covers around 10,000 m2 with a huge number of stalactites and stalagmites along the 500-meter entry. The cave is a perfect picture for the amazing formation of the rocks. Light is arranged along the entry and enlighten the stunning landscape.
Colorful spotlights are set in such an appropriately subtle way and add to the charm of the Hang Sung Sot Grotto cave.
The Hang Sung Sot Grotto cave has 30-meter height with numerous innumerable cracks and crevices which are persuadable proof of natural creation throughout millions of years.
The Hang Sung Sot Grotto cave has 30-meter height containing imposing displays of stalactites and stalagmites.
The Hang Sung Sot Grotto cave has 30-meter height containing imposing displays of stalactites and stalagmites.
The Hang Sung Sot Grotto cave has 30-meter height containing imposing displays of stalactites and stalagmites.
The Hang Sung Sot Grotto cave has several water pools close to the entrance, so when light reflected from the moving water, the formations inside the first chamber seemingly came alive. The first chamber is square or similar to wide theater hall and is often referred to as the waiting room. Many stalactites hang from the high ceiling, with numerous possible forms and shapes.
The Hang Sung Sot Grotto cave has 30-meter height containing imposing displays of stalactites and stalagmites.
The Hang Sung Sot Grotto cave has 30-meter height containing imposing displays of stalactites and stalagmites.
The Hang Sung Sot Grotto cave has 30-meter height containing imposing displays of stalactites and stalagmites.
The Hang Sung Sot Grotto cave has 30-meter height containing imposing displays of stalactites and stalagmites.
Out of the cave, the view of Halong Bay from Hang Sung Sot was spectacular with so many junk boats.
Out of the cave, the view of Halong Bay from Hang Sung Sot was spectacular with so many junk boats.
We were dropped at another wharf and exited via another cave opening. This bridge leaded us to return to our junk.
We were onboard the junk boat after exploring Hang Sung Sot cave.
Val Allan and Pauline Toh were onboard the junk boat after exploring Hang Sung Sot cave.
Alistair McCulloch and Ching Neng Bin onboard the junk boat after exploring Hang Sung Sot cave.
Catherine and Ching Neng Bin climbed to the spacious top deck to relax on lounge chair to marvel at Halong bay.
Ching Neng Bin and Ching Bee Geok onboard the junk boat after exploring Hang Sung Sot cave.
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Alistair McCulloch, Ching Neng Bin and Philip Tinkler on top deck to relax on lounge chair to marvel at Halong bay.
Alistair McCulloch and Ching Neng Bin on top deck to relax on lounge chair to marvel at Halong bay.
All enjoying the view of Halong Bay on top deck lounge chair.
There are more than 1,600 islets in the Halong bay and their limestone worn down years of tropical downpours.
Some of the islands are hollow, and visitors can take guided tours inside to explore majestic caves.
There are more than 1,600 islets in the Halong bay and their limestone worn down years of tropical downpours.
There are more than 1,600 islets in the Halong bay and their limestone worn down years of tropical downpours.
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There are more than 1,600 islets in the Halong bay and their limestone worn down years of tropical downpours.
There are more than 1,600 islets in the Halong bay and their limestone worn down years of tropical downpours.
There are more than 1,600 islets in the Halong bay and their limestone worn down years of tropical downpours.
There are more than 1,600 islets in the Halong bay and their limestone worn down years of tropical downpours.
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The sunset view of Halong Bay.
The sunset view of Halong Bay.
We finally arrived at Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty to take the bus to Cat Ba town on the southern island.
The floating fruits vendor at Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty.
The floating fruits vendor at Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty.
The floating fruits vendor at Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty.
The floating fruits vendor at Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty.
We arrived at Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty to take the bus to Cat Ba town on the south-eastern island.
We arrived at Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty to take the bus to Cat Ba town on the south-eastern island.
Ching Neng Bin took some photos of fishermen at Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty. Here we boarded a bus that drove us across the island to the Cat Ba town where we stayed in An Tam Hotel.
After dinner at the hotel, we all walked along the esplanade and as usual the ladies continued with their shopping for pearls.
After dinner at the hotel, we all walked along the esplanade and as usual the ladies continued with their shopping for pearls.
After dinner at the hotel, we all walked along the esplanade and as usual the ladies continued with their shopping for pearls.
After dinner at the hotel, we all walked along the esplanade and as usual the ladies continued with their shopping for pearls.
The night view of Lan Ha Bay from our An Tam Hotel in Cat Ba island.
Day 8 (25.11.2008) Cat Ba Island back to Hanoi
At 5.30 am early next morning, we all walked to the sea front to see the fishermen coming back with their load of fishes. We then walked to the market nearby and then back to the hotel for breakfast. The bus picked us up at 8am and took us to the jetty. We then sailed back to Halong Bay for lunch before going back to Hanoi.
Ha Long Bay is located in Quáng Ninh province, Vietnam, in the Gulf of Tonkin. The bay features thousands of limestone karsts and isles of various sizes and shapes. The bay has a 120 kilometer long coastline and is approximately 1,553 square kilometers in size with 1969 islets. Several of the islands are hollow, with enormous caves, other support floating villages of fishermen, who ply the shallow waters for 200 species of fish and 450 different kinds of mollusks.
Another specific feature of Halong Bay is the abundance of lakes inside the limestone islands. For example, Dau Be Island has six enclosed lakes. All these island lakes occupy drowned dolines within fengcong karsts. Because of their precipitous nature, most of the islands are uninhabited and unaffected by human presence. The site's outstanding scenic beauty is complemented by its great biological interest.
Sleeping:
Hanoi Spirit House – US6 a room for 2pax
Prince 57 – US8 a room for 2pax
At 5.30 am early next morning, we all walked to the sea front to see the fishermen coming back with their load of fishes. We then walked to the market nearby and then back to the hotel for breakfast. The bus picked us up at 8am and took us to the jetty. We then sailed back to Halong Bay for lunch before going back to Hanoi.
Ha Long Bay is located in Quáng Ninh province, Vietnam, in the Gulf of Tonkin. The bay features thousands of limestone karsts and isles of various sizes and shapes. The bay has a 120 kilometer long coastline and is approximately 1,553 square kilometers in size with 1969 islets. Several of the islands are hollow, with enormous caves, other support floating villages of fishermen, who ply the shallow waters for 200 species of fish and 450 different kinds of mollusks.
Another specific feature of Halong Bay is the abundance of lakes inside the limestone islands. For example, Dau Be Island has six enclosed lakes. All these island lakes occupy drowned dolines within fengcong karsts. Because of their precipitous nature, most of the islands are uninhabited and unaffected by human presence. The site's outstanding scenic beauty is complemented by its great biological interest.
Sleeping:
Hanoi Spirit House – US6 a room for 2pax
Prince 57 – US8 a room for 2pax
Cát Bà Island is the largest of the 367 islands spanning 260 km² that comprise the Cat Ba Archipelago, which makes up the southeastern edge of Lan Ha Bay.
The morning view of Lan Ha Bay from our An Tam Hotel in Cat Ba island.
The morning view of fishermen coming back to Cat Ba town with its catch.
The morning view of fishermen coming back to Cat Ba town with its catch.
The morning view of fishermen coming back to Cat Ba town with its catch.
Ching Neng Bin holding up one of the biggest fish caught by the fisherman in Cat Ba Island.
Ching Neng Bin holding up one of the biggest fish caught by the fisherman in Cat Ba Island.
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Panoramic view of Cat Ba town.
Panoramic view of Cat Ba town.
Panoramic view of Cat Ba town.
Photo taken in front of our An Tam Hotel in Cat Ba island.
On the road back to Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty.
On the road back to Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty.
On the road back to Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty.
Standing L-R: Ching Neng Bin, Lim Kee Moon, Wan Lan, Betty Ching, Philip Tinkler, Alistair McCulloch, KC Loke, Ching Bee Geok, Caroline Ling, Veronica Wan, Rosalind Wan, Catherine Oon, Pauline Toh, Wong Tai Meng, Val Allan, Ho Har Mooi. (Squatting) Ching Leng Chu, Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Jeannie and David Wan at Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty at Cat Ba Island.
Group photo at Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty at Cat Ba Island.
Boarding our junk boat at Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty at Cat Ba Island.
Boarding our junk boat at Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty at Cat Ba Island.
Boarding our junk boat at Ben Tau Du Lich boat jetty at Cat Ba Island.
Philip Tinkler and K.C.Loke on the deck of the junk boat.
Ching Neng Bin, Val Allan and Lim Kee Moon on the deck of the junk boat.
Everybody is on the deck of the junk boat.
Everybody is on the deck of the junk boat.
Everybody is on the deck of the junk boat.
Everybody is on the deck of the junk boat.
The stunning scenery and the lure of spending a magical few days sailing through the mysterious mountains, it’s no wonder it’s on everybody’s bucket list!
The stunning scenery and the lure of spending a magical few days sailing through the mysterious mountains, it’s no wonder it’s on everybody’s bucket list!
The stunning Halong Bay scenery view sailing through the mysterious mountain islands.
The stunning Halong Bay scenery view sailing through the mysterious mountain islands.
The stunning Halong Bay scenery view sailing through the mysterious mountain islands.
The stunning Halong Bay scenery view sailing through the mysterious mountain islands.
The stunning Halong Bay scenery view sailing through the mysterious mountain islands.
The stunning Halong Bay scenery view sailing through the mysterious mountain islands.
The stunning Halong Bay scenery view sailing through the mysterious mountain islands.
The stunning Halong Bay scenery view sailing through the mysterious mountain islands.
The stunning Halong Bay scenery view sailing through the mysterious mountain islands.
The stunning Halong Bay scenery view sailing through the mysterious mountain islands.
Mike Khaw Eng Aun taking a nap on the mast of the junk boat.
Alistair McCulloch and Mike Khaw Eng Aun.
Alistair McCulloch
Wow! Veronica Wan is so strong to carry Ho Har Mooi onboard the junk boat.
Everbody is looking at Ching Neng Bin on what he is doing to Val Allan.
Ching Neng Bin became a male nurse by dressing a wound on Val Allan's arm.
Ching Neng Bin became a male nurse by dressing a wound on Val Allan's arm.
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Back at Bai Chay tourist wharf in Halong Bay. Vietnamese Junk Boats lined up at the wharf.
Back at Bai Chay tourist wharf in Halong Bay. Vietnamese Junk Boats lined up at the wharf.
Back at Bai Chay tourist wharf in Halong Bay. Vietnamese Junk Boats lined up at the wharf.
Back at Bai Chay tourist wharf in Halong Bay.
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Thang Long Restaurant for lunch before going back to Hanoi.
Thang Long Restaurant for lunch before going back to Hanoi.
Thang Long Restaurant for lunch before going back to Hanoi.
K.C.Loke in Hanoi.
Hanoi by night.
We had very good food for dinner at this restaurant - Xôi Yến on road 35b Nguyễn Hữu Huân 39.
We had very good food for dinner at this restaurant - Xôi Yến on road 35b Nguyễn Hữu Huân 39.
We had very good food for dinner at this restaurant - Xôi Yến on road 35b Nguyễn Hữu Huân 39.
We had very good food for dinner at this restaurant - Xôi Yến on road 35b Nguyễn Hữu Huân 39.
There are only two choices of food and ordering is by showing of hand.
There are only two choices of food and ordering is by showing of hand.
There are only two choices of food and ordering is by showing of hand.
Tasty grilled pork & rice vermicelli noodles for dinner at Xôi Yến on road 35b Nguyễn Hữu Huân 39.
Tasty grilled pork & rice vermicelli noodles for dinner at Xôi Yến on road 35b Nguyễn Hữu Huân 39.
Tasty grilled pork & rice vermicelli noodles for dinner at Xôi Yến on road 35b Nguyễn Hữu Huân 39.
Tasty local Vietnamese grilled pork & rice vermicelli noodles (Bún Thịt Nướng) for dinner.
The best part of the day in Hanoi is the night drinking Bia-Hoi. Cheapest beer in the world is the draft Beer Hoi at RM0-70 a glass or D3000 a glass.
The best part of the day in Hanoi is the night drinking Bia-Hoi. Cheapest beer in the world is the draft Beer Hoi at RM0-70 a glass or D3000 a glass.
The best part of the day in Hanoi is the night drinking Bia-Hoi. Cheapest beer in the world is the draft Beer Hoi at RM0-70 a glass or D3000 a glass.
Hanoi Spirit House dormitory at US2 a bed.
Hanoi Spirit House dormitory at US2 a bed.
Day 09 (26.11.08) Hanoi
This is the second last day of our adventure, so it was the ladies day and night – guess what? – shopping and more shopping. We venture through the old quarter looking for souvenirs and sleeping bags made of pure silk. I was told that the more shop they visited, the more they discovered that things get cheaper and cheaper.
Afternoon was the Water Puppet show for those who have not seen it while Lim Kee Moon and Ching Neng Bin went for happy hour of Beer Hoi at D3k a glass, that’s cool. Evening after dinner was our last visit to this water hole with more members joining in.
The evening dinner was at Quan An Ngon (Quán Ăn Ngon) a popular restaurant in Hanoi, Vietnam, which offers a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes and street food. The place was quite cozy, and the food quite decent. Not really my favourite restaurant in Hanoi, but if you can only have one meal in the city… this is probably the place you want to be because of the great varieties. Quan An Ngon is located at 18, Phan Boi Chau Street, Hanoi.
This is the second last day of our adventure, so it was the ladies day and night – guess what? – shopping and more shopping. We venture through the old quarter looking for souvenirs and sleeping bags made of pure silk. I was told that the more shop they visited, the more they discovered that things get cheaper and cheaper.
Afternoon was the Water Puppet show for those who have not seen it while Lim Kee Moon and Ching Neng Bin went for happy hour of Beer Hoi at D3k a glass, that’s cool. Evening after dinner was our last visit to this water hole with more members joining in.
The evening dinner was at Quan An Ngon (Quán Ăn Ngon) a popular restaurant in Hanoi, Vietnam, which offers a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes and street food. The place was quite cozy, and the food quite decent. Not really my favourite restaurant in Hanoi, but if you can only have one meal in the city… this is probably the place you want to be because of the great varieties. Quan An Ngon is located at 18, Phan Boi Chau Street, Hanoi.
The best part of the day in Hanoi is the night drinking Bia-Hoi. Cheapest beer in the world is the draft Beer Hoi at RM0-70 a glass or D3000 a glass.
Sleeping:
Sleeping:
Hanoi Spirit House dormitory at US2 a bed.
Hanoi Spirit House – US6 a room for 2pax
Prince 57 – US8 a room for 2pax
Hanoi Spirit House – US6 a room for 2pax
Prince 57 – US8 a room for 2pax
'Old' in Old Quarter is a bit confusing, as only small proportion of the buildings here are more than a hundreds years old. So the 'old' in Old Quarter more reflected the activities that are carried on it since ancient times. However, the buildings in Old Quarter have interesting architecture too.
French baguette for breakfast in Hanoi.
Hanoi traffic.
Old Quarter market beside our hotel.
Old Quarter market beside our hotel.
Old Quarter market beside our hotel.
You get the best Vietnamese coffee here. Ching Neng Bin and friends have been here many times.
Turtle Tower is a small architectural work but has historical and cultural significance for thousands of years.
Turtle tower is a significant landmark in the center of Hoan Kiem lake. Standing for almost 150 years, it used to be a resting place when the King went fishing and now the pride of the people of Hanoi.
Ben Ngoc Son Temple with the beautiful Huc Bridge (Sunbeam Bridge) stands majestically on Hoan Kiem Lake
The Huc Bridge is a beautiful construction which was built to connect the Ngoc Son Temple and the lake bank. It was constructed by fine wood and stand out by its bright red color.
The Huc Bridge is a symbol of the Buddhist architecture and well-known as “the bridge where light is absorbed.” Visitors can feel its different elegant beauty and sophisticated architecture at any time of the day.
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Hoan Kiem Lake is an ideal spot to enjoy snag food while breathing in the fresh air.
Pauline Toh and Val Allan at the Huc Bridge.
At the Huc Bridge.
At the Huc Bridge.
Hoan Kiem Lake is an ideal spot to enjoy dancing while breathing in the fresh air. Also, you can enjoy the bustling atmosphere here with some types of music using for the exercises.
Hoan Kiem Lake is an ideal spot to enjoy dancing while breathing in the fresh air. Also, you can enjoy the bustling atmosphere here with some types of music using for the exercises.
Ngoc Son temple located in the center of the lake. The name of the temple means “Temple of the Jade Mountain.” Built in 18th century in the Jade Island, it is dedicated to Tran Hung Dao, a war hero who defeated 300,000 Mongolian soldiers invading Vietnam in the 13th century. In the temple, you can find the alters, some artifacts and a 250 kg preserved specimen of a giant turtle.
Ngoc Son temple located in the center of the lake. The name of the temple means “Temple of the Jade Mountain.”
Ngoc Son temple located in the center of the lake. The name of the temple means “Temple of the Jade Mountain.”
Ngoc Son temple located in the center of the lake. The name of the temple means “Temple of the Jade Mountain.”
Ngoc Son temple located in the center of the lake. The name of the temple means “Temple of the Jade Mountain.”
Hoan Kiem Lake is an ideal spot to enjoy snag food while breathing in the fresh air.
This is the second last day of our adventure, so it was the ladies day and night – guess what? – shopping and more shopping. We venture through the old quarter looking for souvenirs and sleeping bags made of pure silk. I was told that the more shop they visited, the more they discovered that things get cheaper and cheaper.
Thang Long water puppet theatre in Hanoi.
Queuing up for ticket at Thang Long water puppet theatre in Hanoi.
Afternoon was the Water Puppet show for those who have not seen it while Lim Kee Moon and Ching Neng Bin went for happy hour of Beer Hoi at D3k a glass, that’s cool.
Afternoon was the Water Puppet show for those who have not seen it while Lim Kee Moon and Ching Neng Bin went for happy hour of Beer Hoi at D3k a glass, that’s cool.
The world-famous Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi has its roots in an art form that dates back to the 11th century. The tradition of water puppet theatre stems from a time when rice paddy fields were flooded and villagers would make entertainment by standing in the waist-deep water with the puppets performing over the water. Using large rods to support the puppets it appeared as if they were moving across the water with the puppeteers hidden behind a screen.
The 1-hour show is taken place in Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre which comprises 17 short sketches with the use of traditional puppets. Shows are played by a Vietnamese orchestra who accompanies stories, and musicians playing songs using wooden bells, drums, bamboo flutes, cymbals, and horns.
The world-famous Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi.
The evening dinner was at Quan An Ngon (Quán Ăn Ngon) a popular restaurant in Hanoi, Vietnam, which offers a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes and street food. The place was quite cozy, and the food quite decent. Not really my favourite restaurant in Hanoi, but if you can only have one meal in the city… this is probably the place you want to be because of the great varieties. Quan An Ngon is located at 18, Phan Boi Chau Street, Hanoi.
Hanoi by night.
Hanoi by night.
The best part of the day in Hanoi is the night drinking Bia-Hoi. Cheapest beer in the world is the draft Beer Hoi at RM0-70 a glass or D3000 a glass.
Hanoi Spirit House dormitory at US2 a bed.
'Old' in Hanoi Old Quarter is a bit confusing, as only small proportion of the
buildings here are more than a hundreds years old. So the 'old' in Old
Quarter more reflected the activities that are carried on it since
ancient times. However, the buildings in Old Quarter have interesting
architecture too.
Because shops were taxed by the width of frontage on the market, storage and living space moved to the rear. They developed into the long and narrow houses, called tube houses, where small frontage hides very long rooms. Typical measurement for such a tube house is 3m x 60m.
Shopping at Old Quarter Hanoi Old Quarter is located at Hoan Kiem district, and known as Pho Co in Vietnamese. Enclosed by Ha Noi Citadel, Hoan Kiem Lake and the Red River, the Old quarter is also famously known as the 36 Pho Puong (36 streets), and its history spans 2000 years. In the 13th century, 36 guilds established themselves here with each taking a different street. Street names reflect the type of merchandise being made/sold.
Nowadays, some of the streets have taken up new commodities, but still cluster together along a single street - Hang Can (once scales, now stationary), Hang Dau (once oil, now shoes), Hang Buom (once sailcloth, now confectioneryy and wine) and Thuoc Bac (once medicine, now tools), for example. While some still retain the names as of the original trades – Hang Ma (Votive Paper Decorations Street), Hang Gai (Silk Street), Hang Thiec (Tin Street), and Hang Dong (Bronze Street).
Actually there is now more than 70 streets in Old Quarter. Some researchers believe that the number 36 came from the 15th century when there might have been 36 guild locations, which were workshop areas, not streets. When streets were later developed, the guild names were applied to the streets.
Others attribute the 36 to a more abstract concept. The number nine in Asia represents the concept of "plenty". Nine times the four directions makes 36, which simply means "many". Most street name starts with "Hang", which means merchandise or shop.
Because shops were taxed by the width of frontage on the market, storage and living space moved to the rear. They developed into the long and narrow houses, called tube houses, where small frontage hides very long rooms. Typical measurement for such a tube house is 3m x 60m.
Shopping at Old Quarter Hanoi Old Quarter is located at Hoan Kiem district, and known as Pho Co in Vietnamese. Enclosed by Ha Noi Citadel, Hoan Kiem Lake and the Red River, the Old quarter is also famously known as the 36 Pho Puong (36 streets), and its history spans 2000 years. In the 13th century, 36 guilds established themselves here with each taking a different street. Street names reflect the type of merchandise being made/sold.
Nowadays, some of the streets have taken up new commodities, but still cluster together along a single street - Hang Can (once scales, now stationary), Hang Dau (once oil, now shoes), Hang Buom (once sailcloth, now confectioneryy and wine) and Thuoc Bac (once medicine, now tools), for example. While some still retain the names as of the original trades – Hang Ma (Votive Paper Decorations Street), Hang Gai (Silk Street), Hang Thiec (Tin Street), and Hang Dong (Bronze Street).
Actually there is now more than 70 streets in Old Quarter. Some researchers believe that the number 36 came from the 15th century when there might have been 36 guild locations, which were workshop areas, not streets. When streets were later developed, the guild names were applied to the streets.
Others attribute the 36 to a more abstract concept. The number nine in Asia represents the concept of "plenty". Nine times the four directions makes 36, which simply means "many". Most street name starts with "Hang", which means merchandise or shop.
Good Bye Hanoi, we will always remember you as:
Cheapest wine in the world, Mulberry Wine at US1-00 a bottle.
Cheapest hotel in the world. Pinocchio Hotel Sapa at US5 a room for 2 person.
Cheapest beer in the world is the draft Beer Hoi at RM0-70 a glass or D3000 a glass.
Cheapest 10 days trip expenses inclusive of return air-fares is about RM1,200 per person.
Cheapest hotel in the world. Pinocchio Hotel Sapa at US5 a room for 2 person.
Cheapest beer in the world is the draft Beer Hoi at RM0-70 a glass or D3000 a glass.
Cheapest 10 days trip expenses inclusive of return air-fares is about RM1,200 per person.
Total 10 days trip expenses inclusive of return air-fares is about RM1,200 per person.
Getting ready to take the taxi to Noi Bai airport.
Getting ready to take the taxi to Noi Bai airport.
Getting ready to take the taxi to Noi Bai airport.
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Getting ready to take the van to Noi Bai airport.
In the van to Noi Bai airport.
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We arrived at Noi Bai airport at around 7.30 am, pretty early as our departure time was at 9am. This enabled us to walk around the small Noi Bai airport in Hanoi.
Inside the Noi Bai airport departure / arrival waiting area, it was pretty empty without much passengers. And, amazingly, the chairs are all hard steel seat. Inside this area, which was after checked-in and immigration checked, there didn't seem to have any restaurant available. However, there are 2 restaurant at the highest floor of the public area in the airport, albeit the price is expensive.
We arrived at Noi Bai airport at around 7.30 am for breakfast.
We arrived at Noi Bai airport at around 7.30 am for breakfast.
We arrived at Noi Bai airport at around 7.30 am for breakfast.
By AirAsia AK761 at 1015hr
By AirAsia AK761 at 1015hr departing Hanoi.
By AirAsia AK761 at 1015hr departing Hanoi.
The sky is the limit.
By AirAsia AK761 at 1015hr arriving at Kuala Lumpur KLIA.
By AirAsia AK761 at 1015hr arriving at Kuala Lumpur KLIA.
By AirAsia AK761 at 1015hr arriving at Kuala Lumpur KLIA.
By AirAsia AK761 at 1015hr arriving at Kuala Lumpur KLIA.
By AirAsia AK761 at 1015hr arriving at Kuala Lumpur KLIA.
By AirAsia AK761 at 1015hr arriving at Kuala Lumpur KLIA.
By AirAsia AK761 at 1015hr arriving at Kuala Lumpur KLIA.
By AirAsia AK761 at 1015hr arriving at Kuala Lumpur KLIA.
By AirAsia AK761 arriving at Kuala Lumpur KLIA.
At Kuala Lumpur KLIA a short briefing by Ching Neng Bin and Lim Kee Moon to thank all members for the safe and enjoyable adventurous travel. Looking forward for next year travel to Saigon City.
Good Bye Hanoi, we will always remember you as:
Cheapest wine in the world, Mulberry Wine at US1-00 a bottle.
Cheapest hotel in the world. Pinocchio Hotel Sapa at US5 a room for 2 person.
Cheapest beer in the world is the draft Beer Hoi at RM0-70 a glass or D3000 a glass.
Cheapest 10 days trip expenses inclusive of return air-fares is about RM1,200 per person.
Cheapest hotel in the world. Pinocchio Hotel Sapa at US5 a room for 2 person.
Cheapest beer in the world is the draft Beer Hoi at RM0-70 a glass or D3000 a glass.
Cheapest 10 days trip expenses inclusive of return air-fares is about RM1,200 per person.
Total 10 days trip expenses inclusive of return air-fares is about RM1,200 per person.
Katie LA <Katievu2000@yahoo.com>,
Sapa Guide <Nghuyendung82@yahoo.com>,
Philip & KC <PJTINKLER@gmail.com>,
Pinochio Hotel <quysapa1978@yahoo.com>,
Holiday snapshot <travel3sixty@airasia.com>,
Air Asia <blog@airasia.com>,
///
Dear Ching,
ReplyDeleteI have played the CD of the Vietnam Trip and am amazed at what you have done. What a huge amount of patience, skill and know-how was involved. It is super the way you split it into days and added the music. i am thrilled.
Thanks again for all your patience and help during the trip. It was such a wonderful experience for me and there is no way I could have gone on my own. It will be super if I can entertain you and Catherine here and try to repay you for all you did for me. You will like it here I think if the weather is kind.
Keep in touch.
Regards to Catherine.
Alistair
Great information about Hanoi, Vietnam. Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and the largest city in the country. It is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 7 million people. It is known for its culture, cuisine, and architecture. Popular attractions include the Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison, and the Old Quarter. The city is home to a large number of museums, galleries, and parks. It also has a lively nightlife scene with a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Check out this site, if you want to get more info on where to stay in Hanoi, Vietnam.
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